Some of the capital's best spots for a glass (or two) of wine, from cult natural wine bars to laidback neighbourhood joints
Looking for the best London wine bars? I've spent the past eight years writing about London's drinks scene for olive, and one of the things I'm most excited about is the explosion in new-wave wine bars across the capital. From trendy natural wine spots in Shoreditch to Gallic boltholes in Covent Garden and vermuterias in King's Cross, there's something to cater for every taste. So whether you're in the mood for a glass of funky orange wine, a fizzy pét nat or a big, bold Italian red, we've got you covered. Make sure you keep coming back here for updates, as I'll be refreshing this guide with the latest openings and discoveries. Next discover the best new restaurants in London, best dining experiences in London and best food and drink festivals to visit. Also discover some of our London food guides, including the best restaurants in Covent Garden, best restaurants in Kings Cross and best restaurants in Shoreditch. If you're partial to a cocktail served with stellar sound systems, discover our favourite listening bars in London. Best wine bars in London Godet, Islington A good pub is a glorious thing but typically not a place for wine drinkers. Yes, there might be a plethora of tropical IPAs and amber cask ales on offer, but we’ve had our fair share of rickety – sometimes grim – pub wine, and even when the quality is good the choice is usually much more limited compared to what’s on tap. Godet is an Essex Road denizen with the spaciously proportioned bones of an old Victorian boozer (it was formerly The Seveney in another life) but with a decidedly more chic peach and sage palette. It calls itself a ‘wine pub’ and we can see why – the vibe inside feels decidedly laid back, bustling and akin to the neighbourhood local it once was. We were impressed by the equal importance given to grape and grain here, with a pithy rotating list of low-intervention wines chalked up on blackboards and a roster of nine beers on tap. The former draws heavily from France (as befits Parisian owner Sylvain’s heritage) while the latter showcases classic and experimental brews from London and across the UK. You could stop by for a pint here as easily as you could a date-night glass of gamay. Godet has hosted several kitchen residencies – previous ones have included Nordic pop-up Jomfru by Anna Søgaard and Perk’d Up Burger – and its latest, modern Chinese outfit Ling Ling’s, delivers flavour-packed pan-Asian hits. Our crispy pork and water chestnut wontons and zingy pomegranate radish cakes made for deliciously umami bar snacks and winning matches with our glasses of textured, floral orange wine and delicate chilled red. Other highlights to keep an eye out for include regular wine tastings and meet the winemaker events, and vinyl DJ sets on Fridays and Saturdays. Or just swing by for a beer – that’s what we’re planning to do next. godetlondon.com Stable Wines, Islington Stable Wines makes a good case for being one of London’s most beautiful wine bars. Arrive in a glass-walled space on Essex Road which functions as a wine shop – complete with a striking oak and volcanic stone counter, and head downstairs where a former bank vault has been turned into a magical candlelit, labyrinthian cave: dimly lit with bare brick and stone walls, full of arches, alcoves and cosy nooks. It feels like you’ve descended into an ancient pagan temple but in a sexy, sultry way – a date-night spot par excellence. Owners Alex Young and George de Vos are also the brains behind the much-adored Goodbye Horses and The Dreamery, and Stable Wines has similar decorative touches – like the sculptural painted paper lanterns dotted throughout, including a beautiful rice paper shade in the ground-floor shop illustrated with whimsical folkloric scenes by artist Lucy Stein, who also lent her touch to the other venues (such as the Chagall-esque ceiling at The Dreamery). Wines channel a ‘zero zero’ ethos, meaning natural and low-intervention bottles: just tell the server what you’d like and they’ll bring something out for you. A highlight on our visit included a textured, honey-floral pét nat. Next-level snacks and small plates include uber-umami Guinness rarebit oysters, crunchy fingers of layered potato topped with beef tartare, grilled squash with a crisp pastry filled with hazelnut cream, and an unmissable silky whipped chocolate mousse doused in olive oil. @stablewines Bar Levan, Peckham Peckham's answer to the Parisian wine bar comes in the form of Bar Levan, where bottles line deep red walls, candles flicker alongside vintage Ricard vessels and co-owner Mark curates the list of regularly rotating European natural wines chalked up on the board. Staff wind through the handful of tables to make recommendations - a chilled, crunchy Austrian red perhaps as a progression from a rosé on a warm summer's evening, a honeyed Georgian orange (find out where to eat and drink in Tbilisi here) with nutty finish to warm up on a colder night or a fresh, salty, appley Bavarian pinot blanc to accompany the succinct food menu. Smoked sausage embedded into a slice of brown butter brioche is a rich uplift on a hotdog. Beautiful orange peaches with creamy burrata and glistening crispy sage sit alongside Vesuvio tomatoes as fantastic vehicles for warm, crusty baguettes delivered at 2am each morning. An eclectic rotation of DJs on a Friday night add an extra je ne sais quoi to the already buzzy vibes of Peckham punters that spill out onto the pavement in the warmer months. There's also a short aperitif list including refreshing Lillet and soda or the floral negroni made with Suze, Lillet rouge and ELLC gin. barlevan.co.uk Sager + Wilde, Hackney With its many wines by-the-glass, its adventurousness (bottles from the Balkans and beyond), and its legendary cheese toasties, this East End venue was the first of the capital’s new-wave wine bars, and it's still one of our favourites. sagerandwilde.com Dynamic Vines, East Dulwich Dynamic Vines, the UK’s leading importer of premium biodynamic and organic wine, has opened its first wine bar, offering European wines alongside charcuterie, cheese and bread to Dulwich denizens. The candle-lit space can be found on upper Lordship Lane – one of London’s best independent shopping streets – harbouring a cornucopia of much loved suppliers including neighbouring Mons Cheesemonger (which supplies the snacks), Moxon’s fishmonger and Bora & Sons greengrocer. A pithy, seasonal menu showcases independent winemakers, with wines sourced from minimal intervention, sustainable vineyards. When we visited we enjoyed a glass of IGT Venezia Giulia Slatnik, a chardonnay-dominant Italian orange with notes of stone fruits and baking spices with a touch of paprika. We also loved the gently sweet Jurançon Marie Kattalin, a French dessert wine with a rich nose of stone fruit, caramel popcorn and a hint of coconut. With a few individual tables as well as a large, eight-seater communal table and an outdoor terrace for sunnier days, this is a space which can be enjoyed all year round, with wines to take home or enjoy in the bar without any corkage fee. dynamicvines.com Marjorie's, Soho Though slap bang in the middle of Soho, its locals rather than tourists who frequent this Parisian-inspired wine bar, tucked away on a side street. Perch at the large counter table on the ground floor while owner Michael and team pour wines. A wooden dresser showcases the 100% French wine line-up, covering a diverse mixture of regions and styles. New bottles are opened each day to keep the ‘by the glass’ list interesting, with a sparkling, a couple of skin contacts, three reds and three whites on rotation – that might be a pétillant, oak-aged chenin blanc from the Loire, a chilled beaujolais or a robust Crozes-Hermitage. To pair alongside the wines, there's baguette with French butter and La Fromagerie cheese plates as well as Morello cherry rolled in chicken liver parfait and hazelnuts for a savoury Ferrero Rocher twist. Other highlights include lamb tartare studded with summer vegetables – sliced radishes, peas, broad beans and edible flowers – and comforting poached chicken and nutty rice bathing in a rich, frothy brown butter emulsion, with radicchio and leaves doused in floral orange blossom dressing to pair. For dessert, a towering slice of puff pastry mille-feuille comes layered with silky crème diplomat and strawberries, while cocoa nib and hazelnut-flecked warm chocolate mousse is spoonable comfort. marjorieslondon.co.uk La Compagnie Neal’s Yard, Covent Garden This stylish little wine bar hidden away in Neal’s Yard is the perfect cosy bolthole for a glass or two in this tourist-thronged patch of central London. La Compagnie has been a fixture on London’s new-wave wine bar scene since 2014 – it has sister bars in Paris and New York – and is set over two floors and a terrace, the latter a particularly lovely spot for drinking in warmer weather. The focus is very much on smaller producers and hard-to-find bottles, with friendly staff on hand to make suggestions. Those looking for a bottle have a hefty slab of a menu to investigate but there’s also an impressively lengthy list of wines by the glass – perfect for trying lots of different things. Spot-on recommendations from our server come paired with seasonal European small plates from new head chef Ranieri Raimondi. Highlights include a delicious Jura chardonnay, zesty and minerally, with plump, buttery drunken scallops in a rich foie gras sauce; and torched mackerel with breadcrumbs and endive paired with a light and velvety Corsican red full of juicy red fruits. compagniewinebar.com/london Farm Shop Wine Bar, Mayfair True hidden gems are hard to come by in London but Farm Shop’s underground wine bar truly feels like one. By day it’s a fancy Mayfair deli on South Audley Street, supplied by the company farm in Bruton, among other artisan producers. There are piles of fresh fruit and veg, stacks of chutneys and jams, and loaves of sourdough and pastries laid out in the window. From the afternoon, the basement space comes into its own. There’s no signage from outside, so it’s just the arrows inside the deli that guide you downstairs to a warm, cosy room, speckled by candlelight with a relaxed, welcoming vibe where you can sit along the windows to people-watch. The menu includes classic treats like rotisserie chicken and cheese toasties, alongside sharing boards of charcuterie and cheese from Somerset, near the company farm, as well as a selection of Swiss offerings. Clearly experts in cheese, with temperature-controlled rooms to store it, this is a great place to try Yarlington, Montgomery cheddar and a creamy Bath Blue. Most importantly, the wine list is 150-strong with some varieties from the company’s vineyard. Prices for a glass of house of red start at just £4.50, so it’s a surprisingly reasonable option for such a high-end area. A particular highlight is the Maid of Bruton sparkling rosé, which is ideal for a celebratory drink. farmshop.co.uk/london/wine-bar/ Carousel Wine Bar, Fitzrovia Carousel reimagines the wine bar format, doing away with cheese and charcuterie in favour of flavour-packed small plates, like Cornish tuna crudo in a lemon vinaigrette with crispy leeks; rye and Westcombe cheddar toast kimchi; fried chicken with pickled cucumber and scotch bonnet honey; and ceps tagliatelle with butter emulsion and parmesan, wiped clean with lofty sourdough spread with cultured butter. Make sure to finish with the large scoop of chocolate mousse, elevated with crunchy hazelnuts, sea salt flakes and olive oil. A list of minimal-intervention wines focusses on small, independent producers, with a concise list available by the glass or carafe, as well as an impressive bottle offering. carousel-london.com/winebar Trullo Wine Bar, Islington Feted Italian restaurant Trullo has opened a small but perfectly formed wine bar next door with punchy, moreish antipasti and intriguing left-field bottles. It’s a small space, and interiors are kept clean and simple – white and grey walls, black-and-white photographs of past and current Trullo staff and a long counter lined with wine bottles. It feels suitably cosy compared to the traffic rush of St Paul’s road outside. The seasonally changing wine menu, chalked up on a blackboard, flits everywhere from Catalonia to Cyprus, with plenty to entice. There’s lots available by the glass and pours are pleasingly generous. Adventurous wine drinkers will find much to explore on the list. We tried Georgian Okro’s Wines Rkatsiteli, a supercharged orange wine with cider-like funkiness and spicy, savoury intensity, but more crowd-pleasing, accessible natural wines are also available, like the tangily fresh Can Sumoi Xarel-lo from northern Spain. Equally appealing is the short and sweet antipasti menu: pillowy, salt-flecked focaccia; luscious whipped cod’s roe with salted crisps for scooping; crisp arancini and flavour-packed crostini – try the whipped ricotta and confit garlic. trullorestaurant.com Sol's, Bayswater Sol’s sees the team behind Margate’s Fort Road Hotel serving Iberian-inspired dishes in a sleek, wood-decked delicatessen and wine bar in flourishing foodie neighbourhood Bayswater. Highlights include tinned sardine pâté on sourdough; roast pumpkin, braised coco beans and taleggio; half a roast chicken with peppers and aïoli; and perfectly plump jamón croquettas. Don’t miss the chocolate mousse: rich, glossy, studded with sea salt and topped with a cluster of toasted hazelnuts. The drinks list includes low-intervention, European-focussed wine curated by food writer Mina Holland. Perch at the window-side counter with a glass of chilled Côtes du Rhône for a cosy date night spot (and if you really enjoy it, you can pick up a bottle from the fridge to go). instagram.com/solslondon/ Half Cut Market, Holloway Positioned halfway between Camden and Islington (hence its name) on York Way, Half Cut Market redefines the dining experience with its unique restaurant, wine bar and bottle shop blend. This charming venue, vibrant with a lively atmosphere, boasts an impressive selection of low-intervention and natural wines curated by the expert Holly Willcocks, inviting you to sip in style. Enhance your tasting experience with small plates thoughtfully crafted by the talented Aidan Richardson, a chef celebrated for his outstanding experience at Brat. The menu evolves with the seasons, ensuring that even the most devoted regulars – affectionately dubbed 'cutlets' – always have something new to enjoy. Among the standout dishes, the mackerel with lovage and dandelion deserves special mention – it’s so exquisitely tender that it melts in your mouth. halfcut.world Oranj, Shoreditch Oranj started as an online bottle shop and wine delivery service in 2020, specialising in natural wines. At its first bar, off Brick Lane near Shoreditch, unmarked double doors lead into a warehouse space that ticks all the trendy east London boxes – dim lighting, concrete and stark industrial fittings galore – enlivened by splashes of orange, bottles dripping with wax on the tables and high ceilings. The mood is relaxed (founder Jasper Delamothe describes the bar as a “pub for wine drinkers”), and staff are friendly. While there’s a lengthy bottle list for natural wine nerds to plough through, a pithier list of wines by the glass (as well as cocktails including dry gin martinis and spicy margaritas) is a good place to start. Highlights include Domaine Pierre Frick Pinot Gris Fischbach Maceration, an incredible skin contact wine with notes of tangerine, apricot and raspberry; and Magna Carta Wines Uthando Syrah, fresh and zippy with crunchy red fruit. Oranj also has rotating kitchen residencies. Our visit saw Nigerian-Colombian fusion cooking from Ayo Collective (highlights include zingy prawn tartare with lime apple and tropical lulo fruit; and lamb cutlets with incredible crispy sweetbreads), while previous residencies have included New Orleans-inspired outfit Decatur, and cult Vietnamese pop up Ha's Đặc Biệt from New York City. Check out @oranjwine for what’s up next. oranj.co.uk Bottle + Rye, Brixton This intimate wine bar and restaurant from Robin and Sarah Gill brings a slice of European café culture to Market Row in Brixton Village. The team behind Sorella, Bermondsey Larder, Darby’s and Rye by the Water took the classic Parisian bistro as their starting point for the interiors, dominated by an elegant marble, brass and walnut bar. Nab a seat here to watch the kitchen and bar team whip up cocktails and plate dishes. A menu of simple, deftly executed Gallic classics delivers. Succulent, well-seasoned pig’s head brawn terrine comes with cornichons, delicate rings of pickled onion and hunks of sourdough, and a luscious dollop of creamy smoked eel brandade is served with Pink Fir crisps for scooping. Veggie dishes also shine – especially summery pea and broad bean ragu and a salad of green beans and leeks with crunchy hazelnut praline. Don’t miss out on dessert – a beautifully made blackcurrant and fig leaf choux éclair on our visit. A mostly European list of minimal intervention wines includes plenty by the glass (try Judith Beck’s delicious Zweigelt and Blaufrankisch rosé) as well as natural ciders from the likes of Little Pomona, Brixton Brewery beers and a succinct cocktail list including a peach and jasmine americano. bottleandrye.com Bedales of Borough, Borough Located in the middle of Borough Market, Bedales of Borough is the labour of love of three childhood friends – Rob Dann, Jamie Watts and Mario Sposito – who took on a failing wine shop in 2012 and transformed it into one of London’s best-loved wine bars, with delicious food to match. With a wine list focussed on celebrating and supporting the diverse and colourful world of small, independent winemakers, and a menu where much of the produce is sourced from neighbouring shops within Borough Market itself, it’s little wonder that Bedales of Borough – affectionately known as ‘BoB’ to regulars – is still going strong a decade on. bedaleswines.com Bar Crispin, Soho With its stylish continental vibes, this poised bar on Soho’s Kingly Street serves lavish small plates ranging from native oysters, Neal’s Yard cheeses and Trealy Farm charcuterie, and elegant sharing dishes from head chef Brendan Lee. Make a beeline for the anchovy and potato focaccia; a decadent double-carb affair of bread topped with golden piped swirls of mashed potato, whole anchovies and salsa verde. We also loved the day-boat fish – sole on our visit – which arrived, soft and flaking, in a luscious pool of brown butter, topped with briny capers. Alongside this, a natural wine list focusses on indigenous, rare and old-world grapes, featuring smaller producers who use biodynamic, organic and sustainable practices. Expect to see wines from French regions such as the Loire, Jura, Savoie and Burgundy, as well as further afield, from Slovenian orange wine to Greek assyrtiko. The menu is ever-changing, with some wines only available in finite qualities so novelty is guaranteed. Staff are imaginative and generous with their recommendations, rustling up for us their last-ever bottle of Kiss Kiss Maddie’s Lips; a juicy yet elegant German pink fizz with creamy red fruit notes. barcrispin.com The Mulwray, Soho This plushily intimate, grown-up wine bar is hidden away above the Blue Posts pub on the edge of Chinatown, a setting that inspired its name (that of Evelyn Mulwray, Faye Dunaway’s character in the classic 1970s noir film). In contrast to the bustling surrounds of the pub downstairs,The Mulwray exudes a sense of lush calm, with a pin-sharp décor that includes high ceilings garlanded by foliage, dusty pink stools and sweeping midnight blue banquettes framing a panoramic window. The seasonally changing natural wine list – created by sommeliers Honey Spencer (previously Noma Mexico) and Sarah Wright – is playfully divided into sections such as ‘Firm Favourites’, ‘The Path Less Trodden’ and ‘Wild + Free’ and accordingly there’s a wealth of interesting wines to try if you’re in the mood to explore, from crisp and crunchy Austrian rosé to funky Portuguese co-ferments. Adventurous wine drinkers should make a beeline for the Sortevera Taganana Blanco, a gorgeously smoky, stony Tenerife white. theblueposts.co.uk/the-mulwray Noble Rot, Holborn Noble Rot is unique in that it started out as a cult wine and food magazine, which then grew into a wine bar and restaurant in Lamb’s Conduit Street. Since it opened in 2015 it has won numerous awards for its wine but also its food, which is overseen by executive chef Stephen Harris (of the acclaimed Sportsman in Whitstable) who backed owners Dan Keeling and Mark Andrew. The self-styled ‘Franglaise’ menu includes the likes of beef bourguignon with kale and mash; and braised turbot with fennel and saffron velouté, which can be matched with wines ranging in price from a £24 bottle of Portuguese vinho verde to a 1985 bottle of red burgundy at £6,750. Do visit their other – equally excellent – sites: in Soho's Greek Street and Mayfair's Shepherd Market. noblerot.co.uk The Nook Deli & Wine Bar, Highbury This cosy venue on St Paul's Road in Highbury delivers quietly impressive small plates and a vibrant wine list in intimate, friendly surroundings spread over two compact floors. It's a joint effort from husband-and-wife team Angus and Lale Oztek-Pook, who both worked at the likes of The Mash Inn and Arthur Hooper's before opening their own place. The wine list – Angus's baby – is ever-changing and skips from exciting English wineries such as Renegade and Tillingham to wines from Austria, Turkey and Hungary, plus plenty in between, with a focus on organic, minimum intervention and biodynamic bottles. Highlights for us include Weninger Rozsa Petsovits, a deliciously funky Hungarian rosé, and La Fea Tambe, a tangy, floral orange wine. The petite cocktail list also impresses: try a lemony, herbaceous martini made with mastiha liqueur. The food is Lale's domain and seriously impresses, with masses of precise, vibrant flavours. Described as European with a Turkish twist, the menu, like the wine list, skips gaily across the continent. Try super-sized, golden, crisp pork schnitzel with fruity plum sauce; impeccably crisp, dainty seasonal salads; pillowy burrata with an umami garland of samphire, chilli and almonds; and hummus punchily spiked with naga chilli oil. Even the sides deliver, such as properly crispy potatoes with dips of piquant walnut ketchup and a ferocious yet moreish hot sauce made with Carolina Reaper chillies. Leave room for dessert: hazelnut parfait with miso caramel and cocoa nibs was as exactly as good as it sounds. There's also a chance to do some shopping before you leave, thanks to the restaurant's little deli and small selection of records from indie labels. thenooklondon.co.uk Passione Vino, Shoreditch Wine importers Luca Dusi and Federico Bruschetta have run this Shoreditch shop since 2013, supplying Italian wines from 75 different producers to top restaurants including Hélène Darroze at The Connaught and The River Café. Behind the shop itself is a ‘secret bar’ which also spills downstairs to the basement with small tables which can be booked. There’s no wine list or menu as customers are encouraged to discuss their tastes so the team can recommend something just a little out of their comfort zone. passionevino.co.uk Top Cuvée, Highbury This friendly, understated neighbourhood wine bar and restaurant on Blackstock Road is a relaxed affair but there’s some serious drinks talent behind it, from owner Brodie Meah (ex-Heston Blumenthal drinks expert) to business partners Max and Noel Venning, owners of acclaimed cocktail bar Three Sheets in Dalston. Their wine list changes regularly but focusses on interesting low-intervention bottles, with mostly light reds and textured whites on offer. The menu lists only a few options by the glass but this is deceptive – staff are happy to let you try most wines, depending on what’s open. Winners on our visit included Lucy M 3 Colours Red: a juicy, gluggable red made, unusually, with pinot noir and two white wine grapes – pinot gris and sauvignon blanc. Another hit, Podere Pradarolo Vej 210, was a lovely malvasia with bold stone fruit notes. They also have a cocktail list courtesy of Three Sheets, featuring an elegantly tropical take on a G&T as well as a deliciously tannic margarita made with an orange wine reduction. Drinks are accompanied by an affordable, seasonal small-plates menu – try the likes of beef dripping potatoes with aïoli, charred leeks and smoked cream, and Blythburgh pork chop with burnt apple purée. Do check out their online shop – Shop Cuvée – launched in 2020 to roaring success – for everything from natural subscriptions to superlative bottled cocktails. topcuvee.com The 10 Cases, Covent Garden The name stems from the fact that this buzzy little Covent Garden bar and bistro only ever buys 10 cases of the wines on the concise list in a quest to offer customers new experiences each time they visit. It was opened in 2011 by Ian Campbell and Will Palmer, who were bored of overpriced wine lists that never changed. Will says: “I think part of the success of 10 Cases is the constantly changing wine list and having more than 300 wines with very small cash mark-ups and small corkage charges. I think the ability to be able to drink really good and interesting wine in an unpretentious setting strikes a chord with many people.” 10cases.co.uk <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/2/2018/10/Interiors-at-The-10-Cases-London-0f6afdd.jpg" width="3976" height="2652" alt="A restaurant has white walls with wine bottles painted onto them. There is a distressed wooden bar with blue leather high stools dotted around it. The bar is laid with napkins, cutlery and wine glasses" title="Interiors at The 10 Cases Wine Bar, Covent Garden" /> 40 Maltby Street, Bermondsey Located under the railway arches where the weekly Maltby Street food market takes place, this bar is owned by nearby Gergovie Wines, an importer of natural wines free from pesticides and fertilisers. The wines from the shop can be enjoyed in the bar with seasonal dishes such as crab quiche and lamb sweetbreads with creamed broad beans. 40maltbystreetcom Quality Wines, Clerkenwell There are around 200 bins at any one time and, since it opened in June 2018, almost 2,000 different wines have graced the shelves. Gus says: “We try to keep things interesting and ever-changing, with around 18 wines by the glass. Many of our customers end up talking to each other and sharing wine – that is a particular source of pride.” qualitywinesfarringdon.com Peckham Cellars, Peckham Elegant floor-to-ceiling Crittal windows frame this breezy, laidback wine bar on Queen's Road in Peckham. Start with a glass of lemony Gusbourne fizz from Kent before delving into a wine list defined by sustainably minded, small-scale producers, with plenty of affordable options by the glass. We try another Kentish stunner – Westwell's Ortega Amphora 2019, fermented in terracotta jars – with fragrant apricot and honey suckle notes before moving onto summery, cherry-tinged chilled gamay, available on tap at the bar. A quietly industrious open kitchen amiably sends out plates of unfussy yet deceptively indulgent food. Highlights include springy sourdough with whipped lemon and rosemary butter, porchetta layered with crispy, salty shards of crackling and filo-wrapped asparagus with a soft-boiled duck egg for dipping. Save space for pudding – a decadent lemon meringue pie sundae is the childhood dessert of dreams. South-East Londoners looking for interesting wines to drink at home should also check out PC's Club Del Vino, which delivers curated cases of wine, as well as discounts and offers on the bar's online wine shop. peckhamcellars.co.uk Vermuteria, King's Cross Vermuteria opened at Coal Drops Yard, King’s Cross, in October 2018 and it’s the first café and bar created by chef Anthony Demetre and designer Michael Sodeau. As well as charcuterie and dishes combining European and British influences (think rabbit in mustard sauce, potato and kale; Galician octopus and chickpeas; or venison ragu and gnocchi), there are more than 70 vermouths on the list. The vermouth takes centre stage in the form of simple aperitifs and a base for cocktails such as the sbagliato (Cinzano Rosso, Campari and prosecco). vermuteria.cc The Winemakers Club, Holborn A shop and wine bar in the Victorian arches beneath the Holborn Viaduct, the site of this bar was a wine cellar for more than 150 years, including a spell as the Oddbins’ fine wine store. The bar offers wines from small organic and biodynamic producers from around the world, all them working with the same philosophy of focussing on the region and the grape varietal, and not using chemicals. The short weekly-changing seasonal menu includes root vegetables with farro and yogurt, and pigeon, bread sauce and hazelnuts. thewinemakersclub.co.uk Elliot’s, Borough Market Since opening in 2011 in the buzzing surroundings of Borough Market, Elliot’s has focussed on working with small-scale producers for both its drinks and produce, much of it sourced from the market itself. The bar adopted an all-natural or low-intervention wine list early on and has worked with Master of Wine Isabelle Legeron on its wine list. All the wine producers share the same mindful approach to wine-making as chef-owner Brett Redman does to cooking simple dishes such as grilled sweet and sour squash with chicory and Tunworth cheese, or cauliflower caponata and flaked almonds. Elliot’s also makes its own soft drinks and seasonal infused spirits. elliotscafe.com Le Bar a Vin, Blackheath Parisian Jean-Philippe Tessier has created his own corner of France in this Blackheath wine bar, where cheese and meat platters are served alongside Gallic classics such as quiche lorraine, chicken chasseur and duck leg confit. What was once a neighbourhood Indian restaurant has been given the full French makeover, right down to the vintage belle époque posters. Jean-Philippe runs his intimate, minimalist and relaxed bar almost single-handedly and is always willing to share his wine knowledge, whether it’s about his beloved natural and biodynamic wines or which French cheeses work best with them. lebaravin.co.uk Photography credits: Aleksandra Boruch (Carousel Wine Bar) Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Check out our favourite restaurants, bars and foodie spots in this buzzing area of south-east London. Try Persian meze, low-intervention wines, Indian street food nibbles and more
Looking for restaurants in Peckham? Check out our favourite restaurants, bars and foodie spots in the SE area, from French-style bistros to Persian meze and plant-based Indian street food. After, read about our favourite new restaurants in London. Best places to eat and drink in Peckham Levan, Blenheim Grove This Peckham mainstay has undertaken a few refreshes as it enters its eighth year, with ex-Planque and The Clove Club chef Rani Raimondi in the kitchen. His appointment is accompanied by a thoughtful update of the restaurant’s interior, with big Parisian charm via a rich burgundy palate, softened lighting and carefully curated art. Inspired by the ‘bistronomy’ movement and a longstanding love affair with French cuisine, Levan’s à la carte menu is split into four sections – snacks, starters, larger mains and sides. Start with a few snacks and starters: tuck into the must-have beef tartare, a rich, tender morsel perched atop a deeply golden Parisienne-style rösti. The highlight of the starters is the scallop crudo – delicate slices of scallop are balanced by sweet-tart blood orange, accompanied by dabs of crème fraîche and trout roe for a fresh, mildly salty finish. For mains, the pork neck is tender and deeply succulent, crowned with slithers of buttery Cantabrian anchovies and charred sprouts which elevate its savouriness to heavenly new heights. Finish with the chocolate pudding, uniquely fused with plums, hazelnut praline and sesame ice cream to create a mouthwatering experience. The carefully curated wine list focuses on low-intervention and biodynamic wines. Dafni white is wonderfully herbaceous with a refreshing citrus finish – a native variety saved from extinction by the Lyrarakis family in Greece. There is also a snappy list of modish aperitifs: the Red Velvet Margarita, mixing mezcal verde with Lillet Rouge, plum brine, almond orgeat, cranberry and rosemary, will be what we order next time. levanlondon.co.uk Connie's, Station Passage Find this smart and cosy pizzeria set under the arches of Queen’s Road Peckham, taking over the site formerly occupied by South African restaurant Little Kudu. It is the latest project from Andrea Asciuti, founder of acclaimed Neapolitan hot spot 081 Pizzeria. Named after his wife, the focus is on Britalian style pizzas, injecting London-style pizza (light, crispy, premium toppings) with Italian soul, all while using seasonal, local ingredients. Andrea leaves his background in Neapolitan-style pizza behind for pies which are crisp and airy, with dough fermented for 36-48 hours and baked at 370C using American flour (you won't find floppy slices here). Expect up to eight different pizzas on the menu, from a classic margherita to a double pepperoni with hot honey, as well as 'nduja and British stracciatella. There is a quartet of starters to choose from: cheesy dough balls, deep-fried mac ’n’ cheese, mozzarella sticks and meatballs. The mozzarella fingers easily make it into the cheese-pull hall of fame, while the mac 'n' cheese bites make crunchy morsels which taste even better liberally dunked into a pot of tangy blue cheese sauce. There is one dessert, presented in three forms: fiocco di neve mini brioche filled with either pistachio, Nutella or ricotta whipped cream. conniespizzeria.com Maiz, Peckham Rye Maiz is London's first dedicated 'pozoleria' and the latest addition to London's advancing Mexican food scene. This relaxed spot is the vision of two Mexican chefs: Dany Vázquez, who previously worked at Eleven Madison Park as well as under José Andrés, and London-based chef Erick, who ran the Los Ilegales food truck in Greenwich. Maiz has a cantina atmosphere comparable to Mexico City’s buzzy taquerias, where you can spot the chefs loading up tacos while you sip on a Michelada. Expect a punchy menu offering two authentic Mexican dishes: pozole and street food-style tacos. Deep bowls of red pozole – a traditional Mexican stew made with hominy, pork and a red broth that’s simmered with spices and chillies for hours – offers soothing comfort and offsets the fresh, tongue-tingling tacos which disappear in minutes. Taco highlights include the 24-hour beef birria, served with melted cheese and its own consommé, plus the 12-hour cochinita pibil (pork), sprinkled with pickled red onion and habanero sauce. The strong cocktail list straddles mezcal and tequila-based creations with classic tipples – make a beeline for the 'Chelada' for a fresh and lighter take on the spicy classic. instagram.com/maizgroup Kokum, East Dulwich Road This smart neighbourhood restaurant on the East Dulwich/Peckham border serves some of the highest quality Indian cooking this side of the river. It should be no surprise, given the restaurant is the vision of Sanjay Gour (ex-head chef at Gymkhana) and Simeron Lily Patel – co-founders of the Michelin-rated Dastaan and Black Salt Sheen. Far from Michelin prices, Kokum offers a competitively priced menu that bridges delicate starters with bowls of gravy-laden curries and flaky lachha paratha. Dahi puri saw dainty layers of potato, chickpea and moong sprout submerged in deceptively fiery layers of tang, sweet and spice. Pickled and charred tandoori roast cauliflower sat in a pool of hot makhani sauce, jewelled with pockets of mint and coriander chutney. The curries that followed accommodate to the neighbourhood clientele, with deep bowls of lamb rogan josh and lemongrass-infused makrut lime prawns. A side of dal makhani – eight-hour slow-cooked black lentils – countered the mains with its dark sultriness. There’s plenty of choice to drink too – the sharp cocktail list includes an espresso martini spiced with chai liqueur, and a punchy strawberry blush, pepped with tamarind spicy vodka and lengthened with basil tonic. Desserts include a rich kulfi made with Iranian pistachio and rum-flambéed gulab jamun, tempered with vanilla ice cream. kokumlondon.com Lai Rai, Rye Lane Meet friends for fuss-free snacks and cold beers at this dinky new-school Vietnamese on Rye Lane. With the name Lai Rai meaning ‘little by little’, the space is a homage to Vietnamese canteens, with a buttery colour palette, neon lighting and slick red stools. By day it serves bánh mì and Vietnamese coffee, by evening the menu mutates into playful twists on familiar Vietnamese flavours – you won't find any bowls of pho here. Small plates include crunchy prawn lollies on sugarcane stalks and a light, multicoloured papaya jellyfish salad with lumps of pineapple, charred tomatoes, fresh Viet herbs and peanuts, wiped clean with charred bánh mì chunks. Larger dishes include a twice-cooked chicken leg atop a herby dressing and grilled betel leaf beef, swimming in a smoky pool of house-made coffee barbecue jus. Vietnamese-inspired cocktails include the Xoài Kick, a bracing mix of tequila, mango, red chillies and fruit salt, and a Viet coffee-laced vodka martini. Finish with a scoop of freshly churned ice cream made by small south London manufacturer Clingy Wrap, with funky flavours including fish sauce vanilla caramel and kumquat cucumber sorbet. If you're looking for something altogether unexpected, you’ll find it here. lairai.london Hausu, Station Way Housed inside a Victorian Grade II listed train station, Hausu makes a cool and cosy date night spot run by head chef Holly Middleton Joseph. Luckily, the backdrop of clattering trains is cleverly masked by a vintage high-fidelity sound system that plays funk and soul. The menu's modern sharing plates promise bold flavours such as its signature spin on prawn toast, piled high with a mountainous helping of prawn and scallop mousse coated in black sesame seeds and deep fried until crisp. To finish, it’s plated with a fermented chilli ketchup and dusted with dehydrated scallop roe. The menu changes with the seasons, along with the DJs, so every time you swing by it feels like a new experience. Plus, when you're ready to go home you’re handily already at the station. hausulondon.co.uk Dough Hands, Nunhead Green Dough Hands has garnered a cult following due to its crisp dough and feather-light crust, made possible by baking its pizzas low and slow at 350 degrees. Led by pizzaiolo Hannah Drye, this trendy pizza joint is co-pioneering the emerging London pizza, a style which mashes up various influences including a New York inspired thin crust and light base. Dough Hands is currently doing a permanent kitchen residency at fun-loving south London pub The Old Nun's Head, as well as Hackney-based The Spurstowe Arms. The menu features a handful of 12-inch pizzas. The Jode – arguably the most popular and delicious – sees spicy sausage and stracciatella drizzled with hot honey, finished with a sprinkle of fresh basil and parmesan. Veggies have a cause to celebrate thanks to the Shroomy 2.0, one of the freshest vegetarian offerings we’ve tried. Expect mushrooms roasted in soy sauce, topped with soft taleggio cheese, tarragon, garlic and grana padano. The soy provides a rich umami kick which isn’t typically seen atop mushroom pizzas. Sides are kept simple, with just the garlic bread available, covered in a herby garlic butter. Dips includes everyone’s favourite garlic and herb, as well as Dough Hands’ signature hot honey and very own fermented hot sauce. Happy Endings ice cream sandwiches are also available at the bar. We washed down our pizzas with a cold beer – we opted for a pint of Lucky Saint lager and a Lazer Crush by Beavertown, a razor-sharp alcohol-free IPA. instagram.com/doughhandspizza/ Taquiza, Rye Lane Mexican-inspired eatery, Taquiza, is a fun, laid-back spot, perfect for dinner with friends. It's an open and buzzy space, situated under a Peckham archway, with a menu of eat-with-your-hands dishes: grilled elote showered in chipotle aïoli, chilli and queso añejo (Mexican cheese), 12-hour beef tacos with salsa roja, onion and coriander, chiles toreados (blistered chilli peppers) and smoked tofu chorizo tacos with xcatik cream (a spicy chilli pepper cream), guacamole and jalapeños. There’s an impressively sized pasilla chocolate mousse for dessert, topped with vanilla cremate and sprinkled with pumpkin seeds and pistachio. Wash it all down with margarita picantes or, if the evening calls for it, a shot of smoky mezcal. instagram.com/taquizaldn/ Peckham Arches, Blenheim Grove Find this trendy south-east London haunt underneath the railway arches of Peckham Rye station, complete with a botanical garden terrace, two cocktail bars and art gallery. Watch chefs as they sling pizza from a wood-fired oven, laden with toppings such as Italian spicy sausage, mozzarella and Frank’s hot honey or – our favourite – ’nduja with mozzarella, pickled red chilli and red onion, finished with lashings of creamy garlic sauce. Choose from a selection of hot, crunchy morsels on the ‘nibbles’ menu – the mushroom and truffle arancini and the crispy courgette fries are not to be missed. Cocktails are given equal attention, offering refreshing mezcal and tequila numbers like a picante, a grapefruit margarita and a passion fruit mezcalita. Natural wines, ‘regular’ wines, draught and local beers are also available. peckhamarches.com En Root, Peckham Rye Brothers Nish and Harsh have come a long way since selling hot sauce at markets in 2016, expanding to a bricks-and-mortar in Clapham and, more recently, a plant-based restaurant in Peckham decked with plants, draped mandala tapestries and decorative cushions. Sip on the watermelon juice with beetroot, apple, ginger and mint during summer evenings, or ask for the modestly priced cocktail menu, where juices are livened with rum. Nourishing vegan fare lies at the heart of En Root, offering Indian classics and street food nibbles infused with Gujarati spices. Start with sharing bites: puri is filled with beetroot, onions and chickpeas, and submerged in date tamarind masala water, while the plantain chaat – seasoned plantain on a bed of beetroot, onions, chickpeas, ‘spice krispies’ and chutney – is an explosion of sweet crunch. For mains, saag aloo-filled dosas come with lentil soup and coconut chutney. Or, for optimum health, try the buddha bowl, generously filled with rainbow salad, baba ghanoush, sprouted lentils, curried chickpeas, plantain and avocado. To finish, the mango lassi cheesecake on an oaty coconut base offers a healthier twist on the original – best served with creamy chai. enrootldn.co.uk Peckham Cellars, Queen's Road Elegant floor-to-ceiling Crittal windows frame this breezy, laid-back wine bar on Queen's Road in Peckham. Start with a glass of lemony Gusbourne fizz from Kent before delving into a wine list defined by sustainably minded, small-scale producers, with plenty of affordable options by the glass. We try another Kentish stunner – Westwell's Ortega Amphora 2019, fermented in terracotta jars – with fragrant apricot and honey suckle notes, before moving onto summery, cherry-tinged chilled gamay, available on tap at the bar. A quietly industrious open kitchen, led by chef Henry Freestone – garlanded with a Bib Gourmand in 2020 – amiably sends out plates of unfussy yet deceptively luxurious food. Highlights include springy sourdough with whipped lemon and rosemary butter, porchetta layered with crispy, salty shards of crackling, and filo-wrapped asparagus with a soft-boiled duck egg for dipping. Save space for pudding – a decadent lemon meringue pie sundae is the childhood dessert of dreams. peckhamcellars.co.uk Frank’s Café, Rye Lane This is about as trendy and hipster as you get, but in the best possible way. On top of a multi-storey car park in Peckham, there's a pithy list of on-trend drinks, from negronis, margaritas and cucumber gimlets to jug cocktails such as white port and tonic, and fruity rum punch. Snacks include brown sugar hot wings, deep-fried mackerel in a bun, and lamb breast kebab with burnt chilli yogurt. It closes for winter and opens in the spring each year. boldtendencies.com/franks-cafe Persepolis, Peckham High Street Pay a visit to Persepolis for a taste of Persia in the heart of Peckham. Beyond the deli’s impressive selection of tins, spices, Persian yogurts and display of shisha pipes, you’ll find a cosy hideout where diners feast on freshly made meze platters and veggie and vegan delights such as eggs scrambled with dates and fragrant spices, and dairy-free knickerbocker glories. This popular café is a favourite among locals for its no-nonsense, avocado-free breakfasts (think mango and tamarind smoothies and pots of Persian tea with cardamom); however, the £20 tasting menu is the real standout: a colourful carousel of food spanning meze, soup, mains and a dessert platter filled with ice cream, paklava and fruit. foratasteofpersia.co.uk Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Discover our favourite restaurants in Canary Wharf, from a top-quality French brasserie to Eastern Mediterranean all-day dining and more
Looking for Canary Wharf restaurants? These are the spots worth knowing, from irresistible Taiwanese dumpling at Din Tai Fung to modern Anglo-Indian delights at Kricket. For more restaurant guides, check out our picks of the best restaurants in Soho, best restaurants near Oxford Street and best restaurants in Covent Garden. Best places to eat and drink in Canary Wharf Nora, West Lane Opened by brothers Ozgur and Sidar Akyuz, Nora is bringing Turkish dining to Canary Wharf. Drawing inspiration from the streets and kitchens of Istanbul, the restaurant serves up a menu of small and large plates all designed for sharing in a communal dining experience. If you’re new to Turkish cuisine and looking for a leisurely start to your weekend, I’d highly recommend booking a spot for the weekend Serpme feasting breakfast, served between 11am-3pm. Inspired by Turkish serpme kahvalti, a traditional breakfast spread, the set menu is a showcase of the region’s cultural diversity with a breadth of dishes to try. Our favourites included aubergine and pepper kizartma, fried cauliflower, hummus with pulled lamb, and the tahini with pekmez which I couldn’t get enough of dipped with the warm breads. For an extra £10 each you can add on a choice of two skewers – coffee rub chicken shish, beef fillet lokum shish, adana (lamb), bream fillet and prawns. To finish, kunefe is served to share – a traditional dessert made with kadayif layered with cheese and soaked in a sugar-based syrup. Don’t worry if you have leftovers, the team will happily box this up for you to finish later. The breakfast is also served with unlimited Turkish tea. The cocktail menu offers Turkish twists on some classics, like a black tea martini and a baklava old fashioned. nora.london CRATE Brewery, Wood Wharf Known for its experimental and expansive array of craft beers, as well as thin and crispy stone-baked pizzas, Crate is bringing its signature cool to Canary Wharf with its second site opening. Think industrial chic created with upcycled materials and handcrafted furniture situated by the water’s edge with laid-back vibes. Crate is perfect for anyone who wants the traditional pizza and beer experience but elevated: eclectic pizzas with a global influence ranging from Middle Eastern lamb to Malaysian chicken laksa. My personal recommendation? The sweet potato, stilton and walnut pizza – tangy, sweet, with a little bit of crunch, a perfect hearty, comfort food go-to. Furthermore, sustainability is always at the forefront with all dough bases being mixed using Wildfarmed renegerative flour. However, Crate’s crowning glory has to be its extensive range of craft beers, perfect for both aficionados and laymen alike. Once again, sustainability is key, the brewery’s own core range is brewed in partnership with Purity Brewing on a farm with one of the world’s most sustainable brewing kits. Punters can also expect new world Hazy Pales, a rotating line of guest beers, a range of limited-edition seasonal sours (triple fruited mango sour was a firm favourite for me), as well as its new gin, lemon and koji, and vodka, raspberry and yuzu soda cocktails. cratebrewery.com Mallow, Park Drive From the same team behind Mildreds, Mallow Canary Wharf offers a fully plant-based menu. Seasonal and sustainable ingredients are the threads that brings the menu together, which draws from a diversity of influences across the globe. Think earthy mushroom ravioli topped with fried basil, a coconutty Kashmiri gobi and fluffy basmati rice or fattoush salad packed with juicy tomatoes paired with a creamy garlic labneh. To finish, indulgent desserts include passion fruit tart topped with the bitter crunch of sesame tuile. The extensive drinks menu includes cocktails made with Mallow’s own gin, such as the dry apricot negroni, as well as beers made in collaboration with UnBarred Brewery and Harbour Brewing Co. You won’t miss the booze with a non-alcoholic and utterly delightful lychee jasmine martini. mallowlondon.com Note that Mallow is currently operating as a takeover by Mildreds on the Wharf, including a bold pre-theatre menu for those visiting the Troubadour Canary Wharf Theatre. Roe, Park Drive From the team behind Fallow comes another restaurant with sustainability at the core. Set on the Canary Wharf waterfront in the beating heart of the financial world, Roe is buzzing despite its large size spread over multiple levels. Start proceedings with the mushroom parfait – a mixture of smoked shiitake and oyster mushrooms on lightly griddled toast. It’s well balanced with a creamy nuttiness and delicate sweetness. If you choose to continue with the fungi theme, the deep-fried hen of the woods burger in a Roe-branded brioche bun is a crowd-pleasing option, while juicy skewers include spiced lamb shoulder with a smoked onion yogurt and honey to enjoy with pillowy flatbreads. Desserts are hard to resist for those with a sweet tooth. The zero-waste caramelised banana parfait uses the entirety of the fruit, while lemon meringue pie is transformed into a creamy soft serve with crunchy pieces of Wildfarmed shortbread. Pair your dessert with a glass from Renegade Urban Winery or pick from the extensive wine list which includes English sparkling wine. Cocktails are classic, creative and refreshing. roerestaurant.co.uk Din Tai Fung, Crossrail Place Taiwanese dumpling phenomenon Din Tai Fung has more than 170 restaurants in 14 different countries. Its fourth UK location has set up shop in Canary Wharf’s Crossrail Place – making it the perfect place for hungry commuters. The 112-seater restaurant is attentively staffed, with servers briskly delivering bamboo baskets of handmade steamed dumplings to tables. Din Tai Fung’s calling card is xiao long bao, steamed soup dumplings where a delicate dough encases a meaty filling and a pocketful of hot, savoury broth. We ordered the classic made with minced pork – satisfyingly slurpy – alongside succulent, bouncy prawn and pork shao mai. The surprise hit of our visit, however, were the delicately made prawn and pork wontons bathed in a poky chilli sauce. dintaifung-uk.com Brother Marcus, Reuters Plaza In the heart of Canary Wharf, Brother Marcus has unveiled its biggest opening yet – a vibrant all-day restaurant with a sun-soaked south-facing terrace seating up to 80. Exclusive to this location is the souvla and skewers menu, where dishes are flame-grilled over an open fire. Highlights include Greek smoked feta sausage with Louvi beans, grated plum tomatoes and herb salad, or lamb saddle souvla served with skordalia, spinach, ouzo and anchovy jus. Brunch is a must, with classics like eggs benedict alongside bolder plates such as kefir-fried chicken with crispy potato rösti and perfectly poached eggs. For a sweet-savoury hit the halloumi with watermelon and mint is a refreshing side worth ordering. Pair it all with the brunch cocktails deal – two for £20 – and sip on a balanced honey and grapefruit bellini while soaking up the Docklands buzz. brothermarcus.co.uk Kricket, Frobisher Passage The hot seats at Kricket are along the vivid red counter which stretches the length of the modern Anglo-Indian restaurant group newbie. Bhel puri, that colourful Mumbai street food, is sweet, tart and crunchy; Keralan fried chicken with pickled mooli is a Kricket classic; pickled cucumber is a good foil to a glossy poussin ghee roast; and grilled squash with paneer and puffed rice is served in a rich sauce to be scooped up with chilli cheese naan. Aromatic cocktails include no-booze versions like Kashmiri Adrift, a refreshing blend of lime and agave spiked with chilli salt and served over ice, while adjacent late-night Soma bar serves the harder stuff. kricket.co.uk Marceline, Water Street London’s love affair with France continues with chef Rob Aikens’ brasserie at the increasingly foodie destination of Wood Wharf. From breakfast to dinner, expect well-executed classics like warm cheese soufflé, French onion soup; rotisserie chicken with a rich, glossy jus and the standout, sweet-meets-savoury dish, sugar-pit bacon chop with charcuterie sauce. All desserts are Instagram-worthy, from a shiny crème caramel to cookie crust and banana profiteroles. Cocktails feature a classic French martini no 5 to a punchy absinthe sour. marceline.london Hawksmoor, Wood Wharf Hawksmoor Wood Wharf combines its signature British steakhouse flair with a unique waterside location. Situated on a floating pavilion, this restaurant offers stunning views of the City alongside its renowned menu of perfectly cooked steaks, fresh seafood, and hearty sides. The outdoor terrace is ideal for sipping on classic cocktails while enjoying the serene waterfront atmosphere. Hawksmoor’s dedication to quality and sustainability ensures a memorable dining experience. thehawksmoor.com/locations/wood-wharf/ Thecha, Lansbury Heritage Hotel Tucked inside Poplar’s Lansbury Heritage Hotel, Thecha delivers a knockout tour of Maharashtra with some of the boldest Indian flavours in the capital. The soft pink-grey interior whispers boutique hotel brunch but what lands on the table is straight from the streets of Mumbai. Thecha takes its name from a green chilli chutney – here paired with blisteringly grilled paneer. Sabudana vada (crisp sago and peanut fritters) and kothimbir vadi (crisp coriander and gram fritters) set the tone: regional snacks with punch. Chilli-laden Chicken 65 – so called because of the year it was created – is a must. Try it in the biryani for a complete meal, while the dabi dal fry (slow-cooked creamy lentils) soothes with buttery warmth. From the mains, Kolhapuri mutton rasa (tender chunks in curry broth) and prawn gassi (coastal coconut prawn curry) are full-throttle flavour bombs. But the star? The butter chicken chops. Cooked in the tandoor and drenched in velvety makhani sauce, it’s worth a visit for this alone. To drink, choose cooling solkadhi, made with kokum and coconut milk – refreshing with a hint of saltiness. Make sure you have room for mango shrikhand, a creamy sweet yogurt dessert that’s a perfect balance to the heat of this dining experience. instagram.com/its_thecha Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Chelsea Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Check out our favourite places to eat in the capital's city hub. Try crisp piri-piri chicken, hispi cabbage with pork fat and an XO crumb, and some of the best pasta and cocktails in town
Looking for Shoreditch restaurants? Here are some of our favourite restaurants in east London's buzzing borough around Old Street and Shoreditch High Street stations. Check out our ideas for eating and drinking in Shoreditch, from Brick Lane to Redchurch Street and beyond… For more London recommendations, check our guides to the best restaurants in Soho, best restaurants in London Bridge, best restaurants in Paddington and best restaurants in Camden. Best places to eat and drink in Shoreditch Vincenzo's Shoreditch– for NYC-style slices Vincenzo's in Shoreditch is the second location from Tom Vincent, who opened his first location in Bushey in 2022 and watched it become a cult favourite. You can now find his signature crispy, thin-crust whole pies and pizza by the slice in the capital, bringing New York’s late-night energy and providing Londoners with a new way to enjoy pizza: fresh, hot, generous slices to grab and go. It's made such a mark that it's already a buzzing London institution. Order by the slice or indulge in a 16-inch pie if you're hungry. NYC fold is served on grease-stained paper plates, with simple toppings alongside the likes of spicy vodka sauce, plus a fun take on a Greek-inspired spanakopita. NY slices are the emphasis, however our favourite has to be the focaccia, served by the square: it's tangy, chewy and loaded with premium toppings like burrata and pepperoni (drizzled in hot honey, no less). Super heavenly, though be warned: you may never look at pizza the same way again. It's primarily a grab and go situation, with just a few stools to perch, so the only thing left to order are the quietly formidable dips: a hot and sweet roquito ranch (our favourite), truffle mayo, garlic and herb, and hot honey. There's also a range of soft drinks. vincenzospizzas.com/vincenzos-shoreditch som saa, Commercial Street – for Thai food som saa has reopened with its same regional Thai authenticity and buzzy vibes but with a few new angles and a bit more bar-snack energy – recalibrations the team introduced after months to reflect and refresh. We began where the menu now gently prompts you to start: the nibbly bits. Tua phrik krob — deep-fried cashews with makrut lime leaf and dried chilli — are toasty, fragrant and entice you to keep reaching back into the bowl. Nang gai thort, crisp chicken skin with sriracha, makes you yearn to recreate it at home from the family roast. From there, the table builds itself. Gai yaang (BBQ chicken) comes off the grill juicy and lightly charred, with a tamarind jaew dip that keeps the sweet-sour heat tidy. Yum sanat, a warm northern salad of grilled pork, aubergine and herbs, has that lovely Thai balancing act: smoky meat, soft veg, bright herbs, a little roasted rice nuttiness. Dtom juet — clear soup of shiitake, samphire, kajon flowers and tofu skin — is the reset button in the middle of all that spice. Curries and braises keep the meal anchored. Mu parlow (five-spice soy-braised pork with fermented chilli sauce and a soy-cured egg) is glossy, savoury comfort, while gaeng gari yort mapraow orn — tofu with heart of coconut palm — brings an aromatic, gently sweet warmth. A side of sticky rice feels less like an option and more like the point. Olive tip: Start with four or five small dishes, then add a curry and rice. If the daily som dtam is on, order it — it sharpens everything around it. somsaa.com Noisy Oyster, Nicholls Clarke Yard – for modern bistro dishes Noisy Oyster is a sleek modern bistro with a focus on sustainable seafood and killer martinis. The room is an airy, industrial space with shiny, steel-topped tables and huge open windows leading onto a large buzzy terrace. Kick things off with one of the cult icy-cold mini martinis – the Oyster, made with Sapling gin, Otto’s vermouth and an oyster leaf garnish is great paired with a smoked tomato water and oyster dressed with crème fraîche. Small plate wins include a raw scallop crudo topped with zingy pickled raspberries and basil oil, and a dish of rich, creamy stracciatella topped with anchovies and almond pesto (don’t forget to order the light, puffy focaccia to spoon this onto). Standout larger plates include a crunchy breaded hake with a seasonal peach panzanella, and monkfish skewers with XO sauce, topped with a melting, paper-thin slice of lardo. We tried a twist on rum baba for dessert soaked in fig leaf bourbon and served with crème anglaise and strawberries but the soft-serve Jersey ice cream topped with caviar is intriguing enough for a repeat visit. noisyoysterlondon.co.uk Tatar Bunar, Curtain Road – for Ukrainian cuisine Southern Ukrainian cuisine is in the spotlight at this likeable new restaurant from Ukrainian restaurateurs Alex Cooper and Anna Andriienko. Named after Alex’s hometown of Tatarbunary, the menu is inspired by old family traditions and his grandmother’s recipes, as well as the richness of Bessarabian produce. There’s also a wine list packed with Ukrainian producers. Interiors are a soothing lush blend of creamy neutrals and natural textures with materials sourced from Eastern Europe such as reclaimed Carpathian wood and Bessarabian stone, with ceramics from Kyiv artist Svetlana Sholomitska. We start with forshmak: chunky dollops of finely chopped herring pâté on onion bread, the oily richness balanced by a disc of pink pickled onion and smoked soured cream. Bryndza, a crumbly, tangy, feta-like sheep’s milk cheese is topped with luscious slices of sweet tomato and sprat fillets for a caprese-like dish with an Eastern Europe spin. On the heartier side, banush – cornmeal and cream porridge – is velvety, cheesy and comforting, topped with meaty wild mushrooms. Mains come from the grill: we tried charred, juicy lamb chop served with yogurt, flavoursome pickled tomatoes and a bright and spicy sauce made with red peppers, the latter of which also accompanies tender, delicate grilled rabbit. Desserts are robust and rib-sticking. Crème brûlée comes with a secret surprise inside – a sturdy steamed varenyk dumpling filled with soft cheese – while crêpes come with three individual fillings: poppy seed sauce, blackcurrant jam and cottage cheese, all swimming in creamy custard. Tatar Bunar is generous to a fault – portions are sizeable, the glasses of wine are large and the flavours are bold and unapologetic. A refreshing addition to London's restaurant scene. @tatarbunar.london Chiave, Redchurch Street – for bespoke cocktails Chiave, meaning ‘key’ in Italian, cuts a subtle exterior on Redchurch Street bar the large, polished brass-effect key on the door. At sundown, the bar to transform into a cosy drinking den with dark mahogany tables and palo santo incense swirling up towards the alluring red ceiling. Street Spirit (named after Radiohead’s 1995 track) is a vibrant twist on a Moscow mule with aniseed notes from raki – Turkey’s national spirit – effortlessly blended with a subtle salted caramel vodka. Margarita fans will not be disappointed with a Tommy margarita mixing equal quantities of Ojo de Dios mezcal and Don Julio tequila, with chilli liqueur and a spicy sumac rim. For crisp and aromatic herbal refreshment don’t miss Sunbeams with Tanqueray No Ten gin, chinotto nero and a blend of clarified sea buckthorn and basil. The team’s Turkish heritage is carried into the small but thoughtful snack selection. Nibble on dainty, rice-stuffed vine leaves with pomegranate molasses for dipping, or hummus-filled cucumber bites. If you want to carry on the night, pop downstairs to the small but compact dance floor with custom-made speakers and a stylish HiFi mixer. chiaveshoreditch.com Osteria Angelina, Nicholas Clarke Yard – for Italian-Japanese small plates Angelina in Dalston offers a unique fusion of Italian and Japanese cooking. This new offshoot caters to a more casual set-up, with tasting menus swapped out for a pick-and-mix of Italian-Japanese dishes and an open kitchen and pasta studio to be viewed from marble-topped tables. Small plates are split into pane (hello nori-flecked focaccia), insalate including Usman's magic mirin and star anise tricolore tomato salad, crudos, such as tuna belly with citrussy ponzu and wasabi, and fritti featuring courgette flowers stuffed with creamy miso and caramelised onion ricotta, topped with hazelnut furikake for extra crunch. Pastas are a highlight – the menu advises to order a couple and we agree. Kombu and truffle laced tortellini contrasts slow-cooked duck ragu and crunchy lotus flower pieces on folds of fazzoletti. Larger grill dishes include umami-rich grilled chicken in taro sauce slathered in miso butter, best paired with okonomiyaki-style shoestring fries. Finish with bruléed black sesame cheesecake or cheese panna cotta topped with caviar for a savoury burst. Playful combinations continue on the drinks list – Riso and Rosmarino pairs cynar and rosemary with sake and cucumber, while smoked pineapple and Sicilian smoked cactus distillate create a zippy Shinjuku Albatross. Lesser spotlighted regional Italian wines sit alongside sakes and a selection of digestifs including grappas and Japanese whiskies. angelina.london/osteria Kricket, Charlotte Road – for modern Indian cooking Housed in a former printing press, the fourth and largest Kricket is arguably its most ambitious. A natural evolution of the brand’s modern Indian ethos, the Shoreditch location is all brick, brass and soft pinks, inspired by Jaipur, delivering greatest hits alongside seasonal newcomers, all designed to share and all packing punch. From the starters, go for recheado butter prawns, meaty and plump, slathered in spiced Goan butter. Or the Keralan fried chicken, a dish so popular it’s become a Kricket signature, its craggy, spice-flecked crust giving way to juicy thigh meat, with a slick of curry leaf mayo and crisp mooli for contrast. Vegetables are treated with ingenuity. Grilled squash, dressed in makhani sauce with shards of paneer and puffed wild rice, is a creamy, crunchy triumph. And Tamil leek and potato hariyali – a vibrant green curry enriched with coconut – is a masterclass in coaxing richness and depth from humble ingredients. From the Grills & Curries section comes the Karnatakan pork neck, roasted with tamarind, dried chilli and ginger, while seafood fans should head straight for the claypot baked cod, nestling in a coconut cream sauce. This isn’t just a lunch or dinner spot, either. Brunch service includes masala fried eggs, smoked haddock kedgeree and a bacon naan. Pair it with a mango lassi or a spiced chai. kricket.co.uk Blacklock, Rivington Street – for great steaks While Blacklock’s famous ‘All In’ – a pile-up of seared pork, lamb and beef chops served atop charcoal-grilled flatbread – remains a carnivore’s rite of passage, another must-order is the magnificent beef prime rib chop (choose the size to suit you). Charred and glossy, blushing pink within, it’s a true showstopper, elevated to even greater heights of umami meatiness with house gravy. It’s a dish that feels perfectly in keeping with the dark wood and exposed brick of Blacklock’s Shoreditch branch, tucked inside a Victorian warehouse, buzzing with office workers. Start with bite-size canapés then choose succulent pig’s head on toast, lifted by sweet, pickled chilli slices. Sides compete for stardom: 10-hour ash-roasted sweet potato, smoky and creamy; sharp kale with parmesan; loudly crunchy beef dripping chips; and silky bone marrow. To finish, white chocolate cheesecake is like no other you’ve had before, served at your table in great scoops for everyone to grab a spoon and dive into. theblacklock.com Mad Cats, Redchurch Street – listening bar and cocktails Another listening bar has landed in Shoreditch – and this one is more than worth a visit. With a compact cocktail selection that chooses quality over quantity, Asian-inspired flavours sing with Muyu Jasmine Verte Liqueur, junmai sake and lemongrass, while there’s a dash of Lebanese inspiration with the Zaza cocktail, a spin on a classic tequila martini with infused za’atar oil. Red, white, rosé, orange and sparkling wines are available from traditional and new world regions, as well as five varieties of sake. East Asian flavours are carried across to the menu. The yellowtail carpaccio with jalapeño sauce and ponzu dressing is beautifully presented and citrussy without being too sharp. Towering brioche toast with crab and gochujang aïoli was a highlight, although there truly were no misses: charred Hispi cabbage is accompanied by an umami-rich wafu sauce, and the miso hake with chilli oil and samphire is buttery and delicate. Attention to detail goes beyond the menu, with chopsticks resting on hand-painted model cats, DJs spinning vinyl only and an abundance of high-fidelity speakers to keep audiophiles content. Don’t miss a trip to the bathroom through the blue velvet curtain where The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy is played on a speaker directly in your cubicle. madcats.uk The Knave of Clubs, Bethnal Green Road – modern pub with rotisserie kitchen The Knave of Clubs is back on the East End pub scene with a proper old-school flourish. Originally serving the bird market traders on Club Row in the 1880s, this local continued life as an East End boozer until the 1990s when it underwent a full transformation into French restaurant Les Trois Garçons for a decade or so. The pub has been lovingly restored on the ground floor, huge wall mirrors have been unearthed and polished, the bar revamped and a toastie, oyster, snack and rotisserie chicken menu installed. The driving force behind this redo are Benjy Leibowitz (ex NYC’s NoMad), James Dye (The Camberwell Arms) and Patrick Powell (ex Allegra) all of whom are committed to the local feel of the pub – it’s one big room with the rotisserie kitchen at the end open. The upper floors will open from April with a clubby (members, not disco) NY dining feel and menu, keeping pub and restaurant vibes on different levels. You can book for lunch (advised, it’s popular) and evenings are walk-in, dogs are welcome and the vibe is buzzy. Try the prawn scotch eggs and venison sausage rolls to start. There's only one dessert, a very good chocolate mousse. theknaveofclubs.co.uk Kolamba East, Spitalfields – for modern Sri Lankan sharing dishes There is one dish on Kolamba East's menu that alone is worth a visit. Moor king prawn string hopper biryani is a version of the classic like no other: delicate threads of rice noodles cushioning plump prawns, over which you pour a fiery aromatic gravy. It’s made to share but you’ll be fighting over the last nugget. But it’s far from the only star. The menu is different to its Soho sister, showcasing a more refined, modern take on Sri Lankan cuisine, with an emphasis on small plates and sharing dishes. Set in a Grade II listed warehouse, the design is inspired by Colombo culture, integrating handmade dining chairs, lotus table lamps and prints of water buffalo on the exposed brick walls. Try a cocktail – the Pol Mezcalita is delicious coconut twist on the original – then start with black pork 'mas paan', a bun stuffed with slow-cooked black pork curry, served with pineapple chutney, and melt-in-the-mouth hot butter soft shell crab. From the mains, whole rib jaggery beef, sweet and spicy, flakes off the bone in juicy strands. And, as you’d expect, there is a variety of sides and sambols to accompany. Complete the feast with a Sri Lankan classic CBP – Colombo biscuit pudding. kolamba.co.uk/kolamba-east Shoreditch &Soul, Cheshire Street – for a social wellness space Hidden behind Brick Lane in a former Victorian textile warehouse, Shoreditch &Soul is a new third space and wellness hub for Londoners. Copper boiler canopies, handwoven wall art and a repurposed bowling alley flooring create a unique feel. During the day, the café is run by Palm Greens, serving hearty plant-based dishes including tostada bowls, savoury toast and changing specials such as spring broth with wild garlic plus smoothies and juices. Come evening, the venue hosts supper clubs and dinners with guest chefs and food artists. &Soul bar offers alcohol-free drinks by Karmaceuticals, designed by a medical herbalist to subtly boost mood and relaxation without the side effects alcohol brings. Stick around to enjoy the Sanctuary, a multi-sensory space complete with 40-person circular sauna (complete with sound system to host raves), cold plunge and a roster of yoga, breathwork and meditation workshops. andsoul.com Bistro Freddie, Luke Street – for a neighbourhood bistro feel Tucked in the quiet back streets between Shoreditch High Street and Old Street stations, almost another world from the hustle of east London that surrounds it, Bistro Freddie has a distinct classic neighbourhood bistro feel, offering generous, down-to-earth hospitality and a menu featuring the best produce of the British Isles. There’s an intimate 45-cover open-plan dining room and plenty of top-quality tipples focussing on small and predominantly independent producers and growers. Highlights of head chef Alexandre Laforce Reynolds' menu include caper-jewelled tartare with fried bread, shaved celeriac salad with pear, Roquefort and caramelised walnut salad and an epic pie, its golden shell cracked open to reveal a saucy steak, Guinness and roast shallot filling. Finish with caramelised sticky toffee pudding served with a generous gravy boat of cream. bistrofreddie.com Shoreditch&Soul – for holistic wellness Hidden behind Brick Lane in a former Victorian textile warehouse, Shoreditch &Soul is a new third space and wellness hub for Londoners. Copper boiler canopies, handwoven wall art and a repurposed bowling alley flooring create a unique feel. During the day, the café is run by Palm Greens, serving hearty plant-based dishes such as tostada bowls, savoury toast and changing specials such as their current spring broth with wild garlic plus smoothies and juices. Come evening, the venue hosts supper clubs and dinners with guest chefs and food artists. &Soul bar offers alcohol-free drinks by Karmaceuticals, designed by a medical herbalist to subtly boost mood and relaxation without the side effects alcohol brings. Stick around to enjoy the Sanctuary, a multi-sensory space complete with 40-person circular sauna (complete with sound system to host raves), cold plunge and a roster of yoga, breathwork and meditation workshops. andsoul.com Bar Valette – for buzzing neighbourhood vibes There’s a warm neighbourhood feel at this opening from The Clove Club team – mustard banquettes, white tablecloths, bright modernist art that pops against white brickwork and stools at the semi-open kitchen/bar. Kick off with a sherry-laced martini and a pick and mix of the “fried, salty, crunchy” snack section including deep-fried ravioli-like barbajuan parcels, Scottish-style clapshot croquettes and buttermilk-fried pine chicken. Fish mains are strong – aged cold smoked trout with crackling-style skin is served on seasonal citrus hollandaise. Cuts of the day’s catch (turbot, skate, flounder) are dressed with the likes of zippy wild garlic sauce vierge. Finish with chicory root crème brûlée, the roots adding an earthy caramel flavour to the silky cream, or 70% Peruvian chocolate vanilla cream mousse. There's also the option to visit for Pintxos hour (actually two hours, 5-7pm, Tuesday to Friday) for tasty snacky bites of all shapes and sizes. barvalette.com Fazenda – for limitless sharing steaks This might just be the ultimate sharing extravaganza for steak lovers. Fazenda’s Churrasco Experience brings the theatre of the traditional gaucho grill to your table, offering a limitless selection (you can eat as much as you like) of 15 grilled meats, carved from giant skewers by expert passadores. Highlights include picanha (beef rump), sirloin, ribeye, pork belly and fillet, all cooked to medium-rare perfection. This premium south Brazilian restaurant spans two floors in the sleek 100 Bishopsgate Tower and boasts three private dining rooms, an elegant mezzanine lounge and the standalone Fino bar. Start your experience with the Market Table’s fresh salads and sides or opt for Brazilian small plates, such as seafood moqueca (a tomato and coconut stew) or yellowfin tuna with beef cream emulsion. For something extra special, Fazenda’s ‘Share an indulgent cut’ menu features sharing dishes like roasted bone marrow with chimichurri, a one-kilo tomahawk steak dry-aged for 21 days, grilled giant king prawns and a 500g grade 9 wagyu sirloin. To drink, Fazenda specialises in Argentinian, Brazilian, Chilean and Uruguayan wines, as well as innovative cocktails from South America. If you still have room, try dulce de leche filled churros or crème caramel layered with chantilly cream and madeira cake. fazenda.co.uk/location/bishopsgate Leydi, Holborn Viaduct – for Istanbul sharing plates Leydi sees the return of the talented Selin Kiazim (previously Oklava) to London and brings with it the spirit of Istanbul, serving an all-day menu oozing with Turkish favourites but with Selin’s unique modern twist. Launched opposite the Old Bailey in an area in Farringdon with an abundance of history, the restaurant pays tribute to the vibrancy of Istanbul’s eating culture, featuring generous, celebratory Turkish food meant to be shared and savoured. The drinks menu boasts bespoke creations from Kevin Patnode, two-time winner of the best bartender in Turkey, in addition to a transcontinental wine list with a distinctive Turkish influence. With décor featuring plush banquettes, warm lighting and understated references to Istanbul’s architecture and interiors that can only be described as elegant, this intimate 90-cover dining room sets its sights on charming the capital. leydilondon.com William IV, Old Street – for a cosy pub dining room This 200-year-old pub has recently had a makeover with the addition of a first-floor dining room but thankfully the ‘pubby’ elements (open fire, solid wooden tables and decent beer selection) have been left intact. Downstairs is buzzy (and packed) with a focus more on bar snacks but the cosy, candlelit dining room is where you want to be on a chilly winters evening. Start with the Guinness soda bread served with a dish of soft butter spiked with just the right amount of Marmite, or a dish of creamy burrata with sweet-sharp pickled figs and olive jam. Guinness appears again in a deep, umami glaze for a fall-apart beef rib, served with creamy mash and braised baby carrots. The cooking is assured and simple, letting ingredients like Scottish lemon sole with samphire, a buttery tarragon shallot sauce and new potatoes, shine. Puddings are generous and classic – the sticky toffee pudding is easily enough for two to share. For beer fans there’s plenty on draught from Verdant, Lost and Grounded, and Siren, or there’s a quirky cocktail list – try the 2:1 Coastal Martini with Boatyard gin and Vault Coastal vermouth. You can also order it as a mini shot accompanied by an oyster as a fun appetiser. william-iv.com Zapote, Leonard Street – for contemporary Mexican While you won’t find a burrito on the menu, you will find classic punchy Mexican flavours and plenty of spiked citrus, alongside handmade tortillas made from heritage corn. The house cocktail, Zapote 70, is a margarita twist combination of tequila, mescal and lemon juice. Choose from around 20 dishes, some serving one and others to share – a couple per person work well. Make sure someone orders the kaleidoscopic red prawn ceviche, pistachio, jícama and kumquat – a visually stunning plate. Servers will bring the dishes in the order that works best. For dessert, the raspberry doughnut is a lurid pink astonishment, an incredible amount of intense raspberry flavour and that signature zing packed into a beignet unlike any you’ve tried before. Imaginative use of ingredients, a focus on flavour and delicate presentation combine to create food that’s a cut above. zapote.co.uk Bar Lina, Shoreditch High Street – for hidden cocktails Bar Lina is the offshoot of Lina Stores, the Italian deli turned restaurant franchise that has been in Soho since 1944 and now has locations across the capital. Nestled beneath the branch of Lina Stores on Shoreditch High Street, Bar Lina offers a dark and cosy retreat to settle in for a cocktail or two. Everything from the ceilings to the sofas are colour drenched in burgundy, while single candles flickers on every table. Find a modern twist on the classics like the Pera, a combination of vodka, pear, extra dry vermouth and orange liqueur topped with prosecco. There’s also a range of negronis to choose from, including the classic Mamma Mia with gin, Campari and Antica Formula, and the unusual Bosco which features truffle vodka and porcini butter. Nibbles are Italian with green Cerignola olives on offer, or you can venture upstairs for a plate of handmade pasta. barlina.co.uk/shoreditch BAO City, Bloomberg Arcade – for bao buns in slick surroundings The newest offering from the BAO chain is a slick, smart affair. The interiors are sophisticated without being cold, matched with warm and friendly service from the staff. The classic hallmarks of BAO are there, with the Taiwanese fried chicken, dan dan noodles and crispy daikon bao buns all being as excellent as in its other locations. What switches this one up is the specials on the chalkboard, from grilled Taiwanese pork neck with pickled garlic and daikon, to whole grilled fish with yu-shiang sauce. The drinks menu is inventive and enticing – we loved the sweet potato sour. Save room for a sad face bao for dessert, it’ll have you feeling exactly the opposite by the end. baolondon.com/restaurant/bao-city/ The Brush Grand Café, Great Eastern Street – for all-day dining over European classics Hoxton’s new art’otel’s hub is this bright, airy restaurant, knocking out the kind of uncomplicated food we fancy eating everyday: salads nicoise and caesar; crisp flatbreads topped with ’nduja, basil and mozzarella; schnitzels made with veal or aubergine; decent burgers, meatballs and moules frites. Lots of skill in the pastry section, too: Basque cheesecake and a strawberry éclair show a lightness of touch. Cocktails include 50 Shades of Champagne with an intriguing champagne ‘air’ garnish (a delicate foam). Graffiti-style murals by British artist D*Face are another compelling reason to visit. thebrushhoxton.co.uk The Buxton, Brick Lane – for a slicked up boozer This is a former Brick Lane boozer turned polished pub-with-rooms, reimagined by the team behind Commercial Street’s The Culpeper. The heart of the action occurs in the slickly refurbished Victorian pub on the ground floor (there are bedrooms and a roof terrace above), which is now a reimagined bistro and wine bar. Tall, graceful arched windows introduce plenty of light, while a sweeping rosso levanto marble counter is a stylish focal point. Food has an emphasis on prime produce (including from The Culpeper Family Group’s own urban farm in Deptford) and seasonality, and will change weekly to use the best of what's available. Simple dishes combine British produce with French and Mediterranean influences, to build a carefully curated selection of small plates to share. Our spring visit included creamy shredded duck on toast, asparagus in a decadent brown butter sauce, and Denver steak with sticky, umami-rich glazed hen of the wood mushrooms. Don't miss the cheese croquettes to start: crisp on the inside and melting within. Finish with the generously sized chocolate bavarois. The all-natural wine list is joined by a short cocktail list with seasonal serves, currently including a delicate rhubarb sour for spring and seasonal bellini. thebuxton.co.uk With an impressively modest flat rate (including breakfast and a welcome drink) for every room, this a great option for solo travellers who have outgrown hostels, or those looking for a comfortable yet affordable base in this fashionable and often pricey part of London. Doubles from £135 – check availability at booking.com. Nest, Old Street – for great-value seasonal tasting menus The trio behind Hackney’s much-loved neighbourhood spot pulls off the same levels of intimacy in its larger Shoreditch restaurant, with various nooks carved out in the horseshoe layout. Pop into the cosy wine bar area before picking between gnarled wooden booths, a fireside table for six or a counter seat with a view of chefs adding their finishing touches. The eight-course seasonal tasting menu, presented in a tiny wax-sealed envelope, focuses on one hero ingredient at a time, allowing for superb sourcing – think Yorkshire’s Otterburn Mangalitza pork or Welsh Wagyu beef. Seafood season kicks off with a snack plate of tiny trout tarts, cod’s roe with seaweed tapioca crackers and oysters in pickled jalapeño foam, followed by treacly soda bread that hasn’t left the menu since it first featured. Other highlights include crab salad with sea buckthorn emulsion, silky squid noodles in a spicy, XO-laced broth and BBQ monkfish with roast carrot and ginger purée. Each menu is accompanied by an optional ‘one-region’ wine pairing; on our visit a showcase of the diversity of Loire wines, from sparkling pet-nat to a citrusy natural Pouilly Fumé and sweet chenin blanc to complement a delightfully surprising Jerusalem artichoke and chestnut dessert and made-to-order seaweed doughnuts to finish. nestfood.co.uk Sohaila, Shoreditch High Street – for Modern Middle Eastern cuisine Sohaila is a restaurant and natural wine bar created by social enterprise Fat Macy’s (which supports people in temporary accommodation via culinary training), serving modern Middle Eastern food. It’s named after founder Nathalie Moukarzel’s grandmother and a lot of the recipes are inspired by her. Dishes use local and sustainable ingredients, and the menu changes often to minimise food waste. Plates often include labneh and chilli butter, deep-fried mussels, and halloumi and figs. Cocktails use similar flavours, such as the martini overleaf. sohailarestaurant.com BAO Noodle shop, Redchurch Street — for Taiwanese noodle bowls The Taiwanese trio behind this mini pillowy bun empire have applied their signature style to this Shoreditch outpost — ruby red leather stools around blonde wood tables, soft globe wall lights and a white tiled bar, where staff in bespoke lab coats mix clever cocktails. An unusual sweet potato sour is creamy and silky with a sweet, earthy depth, and the old fashioned is given extra body from milk-washed whisky and Taiwanese tea. Small plates include crunchy Taiwanese fried chicken pieces, boiled cull yaw dumplings and crispy spring rolls filled with stretchy cheese and soy-cured jalapeños. Pillowy steamed buns are filled with the likes of prawn croquette with black garlic glaze and slow-cooked pork with a peanut crumb. Three noodle dishes join the regulars — the richer Taipei-style broth is topped with slow-cooked beef cheek and short rib, plus a dollop of spiced beef butter to melt through the silky homemade noodles. A lighter Tainan broth features rare sliced beef with melting edges of frilly fat, while sesame fried aubergine sits atop an umami-rich vegan kelp soup. Downstairs, there’s a karaoke den adorned with bespoke wallpaper for those who want to book for a bao-fuelled sing-along. baolondon.com Padella, Phipp Street – for homemade pasta From the brains behind Borough Market's buzzing, booking-free pasta spot comes Padella 2.0, an industrial-style space that makes up for its cool interiors with a showstopping selection of antipasti and, you guessed it, pasta. A spacious open kitchen accommodates bar stools, or there are red wooden tables further away from the action. Wherever you sit, the larger space feels like you can linger over your linguine for longer. Start with a bitter, dark-berry blackcurrant americano (Campari, Hereford blackcurrant liqueur, fig leaf and soda) or sip a punchy gorgonzola-stuffed olive martini. Every plate impresses, from sourdough with a crunch to the crust and satisfying chew to wobbly burrata in a pool of fruity Fiorano olive oil. You’d be missing a trick if you didn’t order at least half the pasta menu (there’s eight that change on the regular). Dexter beef shin ragu cooks for eight hours, clinging to the slippery sheets of pappardelle before being covered in frilly parmesan, while a Westcombe ricotta ravioli zings with lemon, sage and butter. Come for the pasta, stay for the puds. A sliver of seasonal tart (be it lemon, rhubarb and almond or salted caramel) will end things nicely – a buttery, short crust, light filling and dollop of cooling crème fraiche. padella.co Llama Inn, The Hoxton – for modern Peruvian cuisine Huge potted ficus plants and a retractable ceiling create an outdoors vibe to this style-conscious rooftop restaurant on the top floor on The Hoxton hotel. But despite its lofty location there is substance over style: the food is high-end, modern Peruvian, echoing the ethos at its NYC sister restaurant. Chef Marcin Maliczowski regularly updates the menu to ensure regulars find something exciting and new, and a helpful glossary on the back of the menu explains each ingredient. Ceviches include beetroot with pickled cucumber, dill and horseradish cream; and stone bass, lemongrass tiger's milk, coconut and huacatay (black mint). Smoked cauliflower, aji panca romesco and cauliflower vinaigrette works as a main or side, with a punchy sudado fish and seafood stew laced piled high with cod, cockles and prawns with sugar snap peas and rice. Mandarin, chicha morada (a mildly sweet drink made from purple corn) and verbena is a refreshing dessert. Classic and flavoured pisco sours are the perfect livener pre- or post-dinner. thehoxton.com/llama-inn-restaurant Daffodil Mulligan, Old Street – for Irish food Chef Richard Corrigan’s partnership with fellow Irishmen John Nugent and Tony Gibney is an unapologetic tribute to Irish craic. The industrial Shoreditch space is modestly decorated with moody portraits of Irish legends – Sinéad O’Connor guides you down the stairs to the basement drinking den; while upstairs is where you’ll find the main restaurant, open kitchen, complete with a wood oven and grill, and oyster bar. Let chef be your guide with six sharing courses and a Gibney’s stout, or work your way around the snacks, small plates, oysters and grill. Dishes include fiery beef tartare served in an oyster shell with oyster cream and vongole, chicken and tarragon best mopped up with homemade soda bread, and cured collar of bacon with creamy mash and fresh pickled shallot rings. Many ingredients are sourced from Richard’s own estate in Ireland, Virginia Park Lodge – including smoky, wood-roasted carrots that punch way above their weight. Biscuity champagne and a light, very gluggable muscadet are winners on the wine list – but drinks nerds should explore the cocktails with infused spirits, from jalapeño-infused tequila in a blood orange margarita to chilli Aperol with mezcal, chocolate and orange bitters. daffodilmulligan.com Manteca, Curtain Road – for nose-to-tail Italian cooking Chefs Chris Leach and David Carter opened Manteca’s first permanent home on Curtain Road, Shoreditch, in November 2021 to rave reviews. Inspired by Chris’s travels through Italy, the focus is on nose-to-tail Italian cooking, with hand-rolled pasta, house-made salami, seasonal vegetables and wood-fired breads at the forefront. Expect hearty, knockout dishes including puffy clam flatbreads, a rich pig skin ragu, and rigatoni with a silky kale sauce served in a light, airy setting. There’s a carefully honed wine menu with classic bottles and bolder ‘down the rabbit hole’ wines, and an amari-focussed cocktail list making the most of the Italian herbal liqueur, featuring not-to-be-missed house-made amaro. mantecarestaurant.co.uk Plates, Hoxton – for high-end vegan Siblings Kirk and Keeley Haworth have created a one of a kind menu and vibe at this entirely plant-based Hoxton restaurant. Each dish combines highly seasonal, sustainable, occasionally unfamiliar ingredients which makes a fun journey of discovery. A tasting menu kicks off with – depending on the season – hibiscus and white tea granita with a beetroot and buckwheat truffle, savoury but surprisingly the exact texture of a rich chocolate treat. Laminated sourdough has both crunch and flakiness, served with a vibrant spirulina butter. You might recognise ‘lasagne’ from Kirk’s win on Great British Menu – his deconstructed version combines an umami-packed ragu with a miso and chive sauce. There’s no refined sugar but plenty of flavour in cacao gateaux with sour cherry, coconut blossom ice cream and caramel sauce. Low-intervention wines and cocktails are equally inspiring. Book a seat at the counter for a ringside view. plates-london.com Gloria, Great Eastern Street – for a fun group dinner A Paris export bringing top-quality Italian food to the streets of east London in its own quirky, seriously OTT and raucous way. Gloria might call itself a “pure and traditional Italian trattoria” but this is signature Shoreditch (by way of Paris) – expect long queues, one-way-glass in the loos and overflowing plants, everywhere. In a nod to 50s Capri, the dining room mixes Carrara marble with colourful antique Italian ceramics, mirrored ceilings and velour banquettes. All produce is sourced from Italy and it shows. Order smoked stracciatella (if you can resist burrata from Puglia), accurately described on the playful menu as “bloody godsent”. If Instagrammable dishes are your bag then look no further than the La Gran Carbonara, for two to share, served in a giant wheel of pecorino, and the “incomparable” lemon pie with a promised 5.9-inch meringue layer. Neapolitan-style pizza is as it should be; big, blistered crust; a sloppy, well-seasoned San Marzano tomato sauce heart – and the spicy “Robert de Nitro” toppings of mozzarella, ricotta, candied onions and salame piccante. There are plenty of classic cocktails to choose from but Gloria’s trophy negroni is unlike anything you’ll see elsewhere in London, with unusual additions of porcini mushroom wine and a truffle foam. Wines are all Italian, naturally. bigmammagroup.com BRAT, Redchurch Street – for sharing plates Brat, slang for turbot – the much ordered and much Instagrammed star dish on the menu at this former Shoreditch strip bar – is grilled over an open wood fire grill to much dramatic effect, along with more prime ingredients.Order the Cornish moorland beef chop – slices of ruby red meat with a darkly charred bark, come lined up like dominos, their border of gamey yellow fat almost better than the meat itself. Italian tomatoes, on the side, are simply quartered, seasoned and drenched in an olive oil so peppery it catches in your throat. The rest of the menu follows the trend for sharing plates – small snacks up to giant platters. Chopped egg salad with bottarga, and bouncy, blistered, pillow-soft grilled flatbread, topped with curls of salty anchovy fillets. Sweet langoustines with earthy spikes of roasted rosemary are barely licked by the flames – still daringly see through. Spider crab, cabbage and fennel salad is refreshingly different – a careful dance between the sweet shellfish, brassica pepperiness and aniseed hit, lemon zest and chervil. For dessert try a Tomos Parry classic, brown bread ice cream marbled with marmalade. The wine list lives up to its promise, too – curated with the help of the cool gang at Noble Rot – there’s plenty for the chipper team to recommend, from supremely sippable sherries, to the grown-up Koehler-Ruprecht riesling trocken. bratrestaurant.com Seed Library, Shoreditch High Street – for sophisticated cocktails Ryan Chetiyawardana’s latest venture is a slinky drinking den in the basement of the One Hundred Shoreditch hotel. Whereas his flagship bar – Lyaness at Sea Containers in Southbank – showcases a high-concept approach to mixology, Seed Library is deliberately more casual and low key. Walk-ins are encouraged and the space, with its sultry lighting, wood-panelled walls, red velvet chairs and warm palette, feels retro and slightly louche, yet very welcoming. Expect elevated riffs on cocktail classics. Sansho Leaf Martini with Belvedere vodka, Cocchi dry vermouth and green sansho oil is clean and delicate, and subtly savoury. A Coriander Seed Gimlet is gorgeously executed, clean and citrussy with a backbone of gentle, warming spice. Galangal Pencillin swaps the traditional peated whisky for tequila and mezcal, and adds aromatic galangal for a vibrant, smoky cocktail. Bar snacks are winningly hearty, and moreish – expect the likes of deep-fried chicken hearts, beef short rib croquettes and potato smileys. seedlibraryshoreditch.com Voodoo Ray’s, Kingsland High Street – for pizza slices For some of the best slice of pizza in London, head to Voodoo Ray’s for a New York style slice. With four locations across London, this joint bakes 22-inch pizzas topped with everything from wild mushroom, squash and red onion; salt beef, sauerkraut and emmental and a vegan option, piled high with artichoke hearts and green olives. If you fancy a pizza pie for brunch, Voodoo Ray’s serve 10” pizzas on the weekend topped with classic eggs and bacon or a veggie spinach and ricotta version. With a selection of craft beers (think Beavertown, Red Hook and Kona) and frozen margaritas on offer, Voodoo Ray’s is the place to go for a late-night munch. voodoorays.com Crispin, Spitalfields – for brunch This all-day and night café can be found on a quiet corner just off Spitalfields and Liverpool Street Station. In a quirky, purpose-built zinc and glass pavilion, designed to look like an origami-folded bird, light pours into the back onto the cool polished concrete bars, and terrazzo-topped ash bar. There’s Assembly coffee from Brixton during the day, and at night Fernando Berry of Otros Vinos has helped curate a rotating wine list focussing on natural and low-intervention wines. Breakfast starts at 7.30am and covers the classics, alongside trendy new contenders. There’s an organic bacon sandwich with house ketchup; bright-yolked, boiled Burford Brown eggs with Dusty Knuckle Bakery soldiers; and Secret Smokehouse (made in London Fields) on sourdough (check out our guide to sourdough here) with soft cheese, lemon and dill. There’s avo on toast, too, plus scrambled eggs with chives and parmesan, and overnight oats with kefir, toasted seeds and compote. Order the super-crunchy, smoked ham toastie – oozing with melted cheddar, topped with a crispy fried egg and showered in finely grated, nutty Berkswell cheese. crispinlondon.com Click here to read about the best brunches in London Old Spitalfields Market, Spitalfields – for street food Spitalfields Market has a selection of street-food traders right at its heart. Choose from ultimate cheese toasties at Melt, hand-pulled noodles from the team behind Dumpling Shack at Fen Noodles, traditional wraps at Nilly's Turkish Kitchen and much more. oldspitalfieldsmarket.com Click here to read about the best street-food markets in London Smokestak, Sclater Street – for barbecue Founder David Carter launched his US-style smoked and barbecued meat stall onto the capital’s street food scene in 2013. Since then Bajan David has grown a reputation in London and beyond (praise the lord for the UK food festival circuit) for his USDA brisket, pork and beef ribs. Ribs – beef and pork – collapses from the bone with only the merest nudge. Pigtails, cut into bitesize chunks are fiddly with the bones still intact, but this isn’t a place for airs and graces, or cutlery. It’s a place to gnaw, and spit out bones. Pastrami with sour cabbage and pickles< is moreish – rudely blushing pink – amongst the dark, sticky plates that continue to stack up. smokestak.co.uk Dishoom, Boundary Street – for Bombay brasserie-style outings Inspired by the all-day Irani cafés that were an integral part of Bombay life, there are now five branches of Dishoom in London (and another in Edinburgh and Manchester), each serving Bombay breakfast, lunch, afternoon chai and dinner. Breakfasts at Dishoom have won a cult following. Not least for the bacon naan rolls – crisp bacon wrapped in tandoor-charred naan with a dollop of chilli tomato jam and cream cheese. Pair with a breakfast lassi or house chai. dishoom.com These are our favourite Indian restaurants in London Nightjar, City Road – for speakeasy vibes The busy City Road in Shoreditch seems an unlikely setting for a stylish, subterranean speakeasy bar but that’s exactly where you’ll find Nightjar. On the outside, a tall wooden door sandwiched between two cafés is the only evidence of its existence, but go inside and discover a plush space replete with candlelit tables, leather banquette seating and flatteringly dim lighting. The bar’s characteristically detailed drinks menu riffs on old cocktail recipes (ranging from the pre-prohibition to post-war periods) but adds its own twist. Try the Honeymoon – a short, fresh yet punchy blend of Glenfiddich 21-year-old whisky, Nightjar’s ‘forbidden fruit liqueur’ (a mix of citrussy pomelo, sherry and dry vermouth), Cynar, mead, lemon and geranium leaf. It's a complex drink, dry and delicately smoky, with subtle honey and aniseed notes. Drink nerds should investigate the bar’s vintage spirits menu, which is full of rare, aged spirits dating from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. barnightjar.com Boundary Hotel, Boundary Street – for rooftop vibes In fast-changing Shoreditch, Boundary is virtually prehistoric. Which is a compliment. Opened in 2009, the fact that this hotel – part of the Prescott & Conran empire – is still buzzing means it got its recipe for classy but unpretentious food, wine and bedrooms right from the off. In the basement is a small bar serving classic cocktails, and the main Boundary Restaurant, an elegant, boudoir-ish, space that wallows in the gloom, with theatrical lighting bouncing off red velvet chairs, the glass walls of its kitchen and polished cutlery. The menu here also has a strong French influence, with dishes such as roast and confit duck with a cherry sauce and salardaise potatoes and herb-crusted rack of lamb, and a good-value menu du jour (there’s also a wine club, for tastings and events, should the all-French wine list not sate your thirst). In summer the Boundary Rooftop is the ideal spot to rise above the streetside hustle and sip cocktails as the sun sets over a slightly hushed, 360-degree view of London. It’s by no means out of bounds in winter, though, with its heaters, blankets and covered pergola; shelter under a string of fairy lights with a seasonal cocktail and a sharing plate of octopus and chorizo skewers, or fish or meat dishes cooked on a Robata grill. Or just head up after dinner and sit by the outdoor fireplace nursing a digestive glass of vielle prune. boundary.london Click here to read our full review of Boundary hotel Passione Vino, Leonard Street – for wine Wine importers Luca Dusi and Federico Bruschetta have run this Shoreditch< shop since 2013, supplying Italian wines from 75 different producers to top restaurants including Hélène Darroze at The Connaught and The River Café. Behind the shop itself is a ‘secret bar’ which also spills downstairs to the basement with small tables which can be booked. There’s no wine list or menu as customers are encouraged to discuss their tastes so the team can recommend something just a little out of their comfort zone. passionevino.co.uk Click here for the best wine bars across the country Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Looking for the best spots to eat pizza in the capital? We've rounded up our top places, whether you’re after a New York-style slice or an artisanal sourdough base
Looking for the best pizza in London? Here's our guide to the best pizza places in London and the best takeaway pizza. Whether you want a sourdough pizza base or a traditional Neapolitan pizza, we’ve found the best pizza restaurants in London. From pizza in Brixton to pizza in North London, check out our favourite pizza places. If you fancy making your own pizza, check out our best ever pizza recipes here, or read the lowdown on pizza styles and where to find them. Check out more of our London food guides, including the best restaurants in Kings Cross, best restaurants in Chelsea, best restaurants in Brixton and best restaurants in Paddington. Also see our pick of the best Italian restaurants in London for more pizza and other regional dishes. Best for NYC-style slices: Vincenzo's Shoreditch Vincenzo's in Shoreditch is the second location from Tom Vincent, who opened his first location in Bushey in 2022 and watched it become a cult favourite. You can now find his signature crispy, thin-crust whole pies and pizza by the slice in the capital, bringing New York’s late-night energy and providing Londoners with a new way to enjoy pizza: fresh, hot, generous slices to grab and go. It's made such a mark that it's already a buzzing London institution. Which pizza to order at Vincenzo's? Order by the slice or indulge in a 16-inch pie if you're hungry. NYC fold is served on grease-stained paper plates, with simple toppings alongside the likes of spicy vodka sauce, plus a fun take on a Greek-inspired spanakopita. NY slices are the emphasis, however our favourite has to be the focaccia, served by the square: it's tangy, chewy and loaded with premium toppings like burrata and pepperoni (drizzled in hot honey, no less). Super heavenly, though be warned: you may never look at pizza the same way again. What else is there to eat and drink? It's primarily a grab and go situation, with just a few stools to perch, so the only thing left to order are the quietly formidable dips: a hot and sweet roquito ranch (our favourite), truffle mayo, garlic and herb, and hot honey. There's also a range of soft drinks. Address: 122 Bethnal Green Road, London E2 6DG Nearest tube station: Shoreditch High Street Opening times: Wednesday-Sunday (12pm-10pm) Best for 'Britalian' pizza: Connie's Find this smart and cosy pizzeria set under the arches of Queen’s Road Peckham, taking over the site formerly occupied by South African restaurant Little Kudu. It is the latest project from Andrea Asciuti, founder of acclaimed Neapolitan hot spot 081 Pizzeria. Named after his wife, the focus is on Britalian style pizzas, injecting London-style pizza (light, crispy, premium toppings) with Italian soul, all while using seasonal, local ingredients. Which pizza to order at Connie's? Andrea leaves his expertise in Neapolitan-style pizza behind for pies which are crisp and airy, with dough fermented for 36-48 hours and baked at 370C using American flour (you won't find floppy slices here). Expect up to eight different pizzas on the menu, from a classic margherita to a double pepperoni with hot honey, as well as 'nduja and British stracciatella. What else is there to eat and drink? There is a quartet of starters to choose from: cheesy dough balls, deep-fried mac ’n’ cheese, mozzarella sticks and meatballs. The mozzarella fingers easily make it into the cheese-pull hall of fame, while the mac 'n' cheese bites make crunchy morsels which taste even better liberally dunked into a pot of tangy blue cheese sauce. There is one dessert, presented in three forms: fiocco di neve mini brioche filled with either pistachio, Nutella or ricotta whipped cream. Address: 133 Queen’s Road, SE15 2ND. Nearest train station: Queen's Road Peckham Opening times: Monday-Wednesday (5-11pm); Thursday-Saturday (12-11pm); Sunday (12-10pm) Best for deep-dish Detroit pizza: Ria's Ria’s is a cosy, laid-back spot selling fantastic deep-dish Detroit-style pizza and natural wines. It's perfect for intimate dates and candle-lit catch-ups, full of charm and character. The latest Soho site is snug yet stylishly furnished, building on everything that made the Notting Hill original a hit, with exciting new slices and a low-lit wine cave. Which pizza to order at Ria's? Ria’s ferments its dough for up to 72 hours, which gives it a deeper flavour and a deliciously chewy crust. Deep-dish pizza is filling but the pies at Ria’s never feel too much. Our favourite flavours were the House Pie and the Soho Chilli Crisp. The first had a red sauce base and a devilishly delicious combination of ricotta, basil and lemon drizzle. The latter was laden with ’nduja, Lao Gan Ma crispy chilli oil, pickled shallots, spring onions and aged parmesan – tongue-tingling and tangy. What else is there to eat and drink? There is a great range of natural wine to sip alongside your slice at Ria’s: we enjoyed a glass of Orange de Rias for its tropical brightness, and a glass of Herrigoia – a crunchy, easy-going red with tart cherry notes. There's also a small but sharp cocktail list, bottled beer and a good range of soft drinks. If you’ve got room for dessert, treat yourself to a deep-fried Mars bar with soft serve vanilla ice cream. Sprinkled with a little bit of sea salt, it really is the ultimate treat. Address: 29 Foubert's Place, London W1F 7QF Nearest tube station: Oxford Circus Opening times: Monday-Sunday (12pm-10pm) Best for London-style pizza: Dough Hands Dough Hands has garnered a cult following due to its crisp dough and feather-light crust, made possible by baking its pizzas low and slow at 350 degrees. Led by pizzaiolo Hannah Drye, this trendy pizza joint is co-pioneering the emerging London pizza, a style which mashes up various influences including a New York inspired thin crust and light base. Dough Hands is currently doing a permanent kitchen residency at fun-loving south London pub The Old Nun's Head, as well as Hackney-based The Spurstowe Arms. Which pizza to order at Dough Hands? The menu features a handful of 12-inch pizzas. The Jode – arguably the most popular and delicious – sees spicy sausage and stracciatella drizzled with hot honey, finished with a sprinkle of fresh basil and parmesan. Veggies have a cause to celebrate thanks to the Shroomy 2.0, one of the freshest vegetarian offerings we’ve tried. Expect mushrooms roasted in soy sauce, topped with soft taleggio cheese, tarragon, garlic and grana padano. The soy provides a rich umami kick which isn’t typically seen atop mushroom pizzas. What else is there to eat and drink? Sides are kept simple, with just the garlic bread available, covered in a herby garlic butter. Dips includes everyone’s favourite garlic and herb, as well as Dough Hands’ signature hot honey and very own fermented hot sauce. Happy Endings ice cream sandwiches are also available at the bar. We washed down our pizzas with a cold beer – we opted for a pint of Lucky Saint lager and a Lazer Crush by Beavertown, a razor-sharp alcohol-free IPA. Address: The Old Nun's Head, 15 Nunhead Green, London SE15 3QQ Nearest train station: Nunhead Opening times: Tuesday-Friday (4:30-9:30pm) and Saturday (12-9:30pm) Best for inventive Napoli pizza: Napoli on the Road Hidden in the back streets of Richmond you'll find this little gem of a pizza restaurant. The space is intimate and perfect for a date night or special occasion. Which pizza to order at Napoli on the Road? The pizza here is second to none – no surprise really as chef and owner Michele Pascarella won Global Pizza Maker of the Year in 2023. Famed for his inventive take on pizza, the ever-changing seasonal menu features exciting flavour combinations like roasted pumpkin, rosemary and blue cheese, alongside the classics, like margherita. On visiting, we were blown away by the lighter than air, chewy base and quality toppings, as well as the friendly service which took us outside our pizza comfort zones. What else is there to eat and drink? Highlights include the shaved fennel salad with crumbled ricotta, olives and oregano, and the spicy pepperoni slice – both starters that worked perfectly with a negroni. We ended the night with a vast slice of tiramisu and a cloud of boozy crème diplomate and mille-feuille pastry. Full to the brim and happy, a walk along the river was just the ticket. Address: 12 Red Lion St, Richmond TW9 1RW Nearest train station: Richmond Opening times: Monday-Thursday (5pm-10pm); Friday-Sunday (12pm-10:15pm) Best for simple Neapolitan: Santa Maria Tucked away from the bustle of Paddington Station, Santa Maria brings a slice of Naples to west London with a laid-back, quirky vibe – think colourful wall art, cosy booths and a buzzy, casual energy. A new menu features bold creations alongside the signature Neapolitan pizzas. The menu is all about pizza, done properly – chewy, charred crusts and punchy toppings, with a few exciting twists. Which pizza to order at Santa Maria? The standout? San Ciro – a collaboration with Naples’ Bro Pizzeria and a fiery, rule-breaking combo of smoked mozzarella, pepperoni, spicy pineapple reduction, black lime dust and parmesan crisps. The menu cheekily warns “It’s not a pizza for Neapolitans” – a nod to the rebellious twist on tradition, and it’s absolutely worth trying while it lasts. What else is there to eat and drink? Skip starters and go straight for the pizza but leave room for the Pan di Stelle dessert – a rich mascarpone and Nutella chocolate mousse crowned with Italy’s iconic biscuit. Vegan options are well represented, including a silky vegan salted caramel ice cream that shines in an affogato. Drinks-wise, expect Italian beers and spritzes, and relaxed, no-fuss service. Address: 3 Norfolk Place, Tyburnia, London W2 1QJ Nearest train station: Paddington Opening times: Sunday to Thursday (11:30am-10pm); Friday-Saturday (11:30am-10:30pm) Best for deep pan pizza: Little Earthquakes This original concept from chef Neil Rankin and From the Ashes BBQ has taken up residency in Dalston boozer The Railway Tavern, serving up pies nostalgically inspired by deep pan pizza brand Chicago Town, using Italian and British ingredients supplied by local businesses around Newington Green, with sourdough bases made using Wildfarmed regenerative flour. Which pizza to order at Little Earthquakes? The pizzas may only be six inches in size but they deliver plenty of bang for their buck – decadent deep dish affairs with crunchy caramelised crusts, topped with mozzarella and snowy drifts of pecorino. Fillings are hearty and deliver maximum flavour. We tried the richly meaty and umami salami ragu using fennel salami, and the taleggio and guanciale, inspired by a classic carbonara, is lusciously cheesy and porky, the saltiness balanced by a touch of honey. What else is there to eat and drink? While the pizzas are the main focus you can also order the likes of plant-based meatballs (from Neil’s own Symplicity brand), cheesy focaccia, caponata parmigiana and a wonderfully OTT pizza focaccia sandwich with a hefty wedge of mortadella. Refresh yourself with traditional cask ales and craft beers from the pub bar. Address: The Railway Tavern, 2 St Jude Street, London N16 8JT Nearest train station: Dalston Kingsland Opening times: Tuesday to Friday (6-9pm); Saturdays (3-9pm) Best for thin-crust pizza: Alley Cats Pizza Alley Cats pays homage to New York’s iconic pizza scene, with hunger-busting, thin and crispy 14" pizzas. London’s latest pizza outpost off Marylebone High Street is a small yet buzzy space, with gingham tablecloths, dimly lit lamps and a projector playing The Sopranos transporting diners to 90s NYC. Be prepared to queue, as it’s walk-in-only. Which pizza to order at Alley Cats? If you prefer a thin-crust over a sloppy Neapolitan, you’ve come to the right place. The impressive 14" size is achieved through baking the pizzas in the traditional thin and crispy style, which are presented on silver stands by the side of your table. The menu is compact, with seven pizzas on offer. It includes the Smoked Pepperoni (tomato, aged mozzarella, habanero and honey) and our personal favourite, the white-based Wild Mushroom, with three types of wild shrooms and topped with taleggio, aged mozzarella, red onion jam and fried sage. Up the ante by adding dips – we tried a spicy ranch and herb-flecked aïoli. What else is there to eat and drink? Don’t skip the starters for fear of over-ordering: the beefy meatballs are a must-try, slathered in slow-cooked tomato sauce and showered in aged parmesan. Cheesy garlic knots are hot, doughy morsels with a dunkable pot of tomato sauce. The dessert menu is short but complimentary: tiramisu and soft scoop ice-cream. The latter can be customised with your choice of toffee sauce, roasted hazelnuts or peanuts. Address: 22 Paddington St, London W1U 5QY Nearest tube station: Baker Street Opening times: Monday-Sunday (12pm-11pm) Best for crunchy sourdough pizzas: Berberè Pizza Find this Italian pizza empire slinging light and crunchy sourdough pizzas in its newest Tottenham Court Road location, joining Clapham and Kentish Town branches. Originating from Bologna – with locations across Italy – Berberè prepares its sourdough on site every day with organic type one flour, proofed for 24 hours. The result is unique: a subtly sour, nutty taste, with a slightly crunchy exterior and soft, melty interior – no chewy crusts served here! Which pizza to order at Berberè? Expect a menu balancing the classics, including margheritas and marinaras, with trendy toppings and fresh British produce, such as Yorkshire pork sausage. The Instagram-friendly burrata & 'nduja is a picture-perfect blend of vibrant basil, ruby-red dried tomatoes and creamy white mozzarella. Veggies needn’t miss out thanks to the Norma – baked aubergines, basil and walnut pesto, organic tomato, fior di latte mozzarella from Naples and smoked aged ricotta. Definitely one of the best aubergine pizzas on the scene right now. What else is there to eat and drink? You must try Berberè’s signature montanarine: a large, deep-fried dough ball with toppings including ‘nduja, aged smoked ricotta and prosciutto. Crust dippers are crucial – we love the cheeky trio of garlic butter, spicy ‘nduja and honey, and basil and walnut pesto. To drink, you can’t go wrong with a Crodino spritz – a non-alcoholic aperitivo lengthened with orange and soda. Or try a traditional Italian aperitif – negroni sbagliato, anyone? For dessert, tiramisu is made every day in the kitchen or save space for two pieces of Sicilian cannoli: fresh, sweet ricotta in a crispy shell. Address: 2 St Giles Square, London WC2H 8LH Nearest tube station: Tottenham Court Road Opening times: Sunday-Thursday (11:30am-10pm) Friday-Saturday (11:30am-11pm) Best in Covent Garden: Doughnation Find this lively pizzeria in the heart of Covent Garden, boasting its own summer garden terrace with top-tier views across the piazza. Which pizza to order at Doughnation? Choose from a short menu of artisan-crafted pizzas on hand-stretched dough, where you’ll find well-known toppings as well as fun flavour combinations. A must-order for veggies, the truffled mushroom ragout sees a truffle-base sauce combined with creamy mozzarella, topped with crunchy hazelnuts and mushrooms for extra earthiness. Or try the cosy and comforting potato pizza, layering sliced potatoes with fontina cheese and thyme salt. ‘Nduja sausage will appeal to meat-eaters, featuring pockets of ‘nduja sausage, shaved pecorino romano and rocket. What else is there to eat and drink? Elsewhere on the menu you’ll find dishes which stray from a traditional pizzeria, like the baked sweetcorn ribs with basil pesto, chilli and bocconcini cheese. For dessert, a warm skillet cookie, served with a dollop of chocolate ice cream and a white chocolate sauce, makes for an indulgent finish. Address: 3 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8PS Nearest tube station: Covent Garden Opening times: Monday-Sunday (8am-11pm) Best in the West End: Pizza Pilgrims With its green-and-white chequered plastic tablecloths, chessboard tile flooring and framed film posters hanging on the walls, Pizza Pilgrims feels like an American diner meets Italian pizzeria. Available for walk-ins only, it's a perfect spot to grab a pre-show pizza and beer in the heart of theatreland. Which pizza to order at Pizza Pilgrims? The Naples-style pizza with blistering crust and sloppy centre is proved slowly, then cooked fast. Order 'You've Got Maiale' with prosciutto cotto, 'nduja, salsiccia and pepperoni, burrata, red onion and balsamic glaze if you fancy something indulgent. Or, go for 'The 8-Cheese', a ramped-up cheese feast with ricotta, buffalo mozzarella, fior di latte mozzarella, gorgonzola, parmesan, provola, pecorino and burrata, beautifully finished with pockets of smoked chilli jam. Or, take it back to basics with the margherita, topped simply with tomato, fior di latte mozzarella, basil, parmesan and olive oil. What else is there to eat and drink? Set the mood with an aperitivo in the form of plump XL nocellara olives, taralli, a bitter negroni or Pilgrims Spritz, a fragrant concoction mixing Pococello limoncello with prosecco, elderflower, mint, soda and lemon. For dessert, satisfy your sweet tooth with a nutty pistachio affogato, or make a beeline for the hazelnut-flavoured espresso martini, shaken with Frangelico noisette liqueur and served with a chocolate and hazelnut rim. Address: 23 Garrick Street, London WC2E 9BN Nearest tube station: Covent Garden Opening times: Monday-Thursday (11.30am-10.30pm), Friday-Saturday (11:30am-11pm), Sunday (12-9pm) Best in Soho: Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza Rudy’s outpost in Soho (they have pizzerias scattered across the north of England, including Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool and Leeds) makes a worthy addition to the scene. Which pizza to order at Rudy's? Pizza toppings are crowd-pleasing, from parmigiana with roasted aubergine to spicy calabrese with ‘nduja sausage and cinghiale with wild boar salami. Our lavishly topped capricciosa with creamy fior de latte, prosciutto, mushrooms, Kalamata olives and artichoke hearts ticked all the boxes, but it was the base that really impressed — well-flavoured and pillowy while still being satisfyingly chewy. All of Rudy’s pizzas — baked daily using 24-hour fermented dough — are made by trained and accredited pizzaiolos. What else is there to eat and drink? Start with an aperitivo of Campari and soda, which arrives premixed in a dinky little bottle alongside a bowl of salted crisps for snacking, before moving onto generous sharing platters loaded with deli treats and house-baked bread. Address: 80 Wardour Street, London, W1F 0TF Nearest tube station: Piccadilly Circus Opening times: Friday-Saturday (12-10:30pm), Sunday-Thursday (12-9:30pm) Best for personalised Neapolitan pizza (plus fans of crusts): Crust Bros If crusts are a big deal to you, it’s worth paying a visit to this Waterloo-based pizzeria. The clue is in the name – crusts are a big deal here, as well as the freedom to customise your pizza however you please (regardless of your eccentric topping combination). Which pizza to order at Crust Bros? Personalise is the name of the game here. Choose from either a Neapolitan or gluten-free base, pick your sauce (red, white, pesto, vegan), protein (‘nduja, anchovies, parma ham etc.), cheese (burrata, gorgonzola, vegan mozzarella etc.) and veg (peppers, onions, aubergines, chilli etc). If this seems complicated, choose from its list of pre-designed pizzas – Straight Outta Hell is a devilish combo of mozzarella, chicken, chillies, pepperoni and ’nduja. You could even add burrata for extra indulgence. What else is there to eat and drink? Double up on carbs with a side of cheesy flatbread topped with caramelised onions. Crust dippers will be more than happy with its offering, and we'd recommend ordering the trio of truffle, garlic and spicy mayos. To drink, Birra Moretti is on draft, while cocktails cover the classics, from Aperol spritz and margarita to espresso martini. Address: 113 Waterloo Road, Lambeth London, SE1 8UL Nearest tube station: Waterloo Opening times: Mon-Thurs 12-11pm, Fri-Sat 12-11pm, Sunday 12-10pm Best artisanal pizza in Hackney Wick: Unlock Enjoy Neapolitan pizza by the canal at this trendy pizzeria-cum-exhibition space in Hackney Wick. Artist collaborations decorate the walls, while pizzaiolos sling pies from the wood-fired oven in the open kitchen. Which pizza to order at unlock? The menu is split into ‘classic’ and ‘gourmet’, and we encourage diners to opt for the more adventurous options. Toppings feature ingredients which you wouldn’t typically find on pizza, from kiwi purée to panko tempura prawns and sweet and sour pork neck. The base, however, is true to Neapolitan form, with a soft, chewy dough and blistered crust. We tried the prawn and pistachio from the gourmet section, and the nutty pistachio pesto and creamy stracciatella was a strong match for the crispy tempura prawns. What else is there to eat and drink? Starters are sophisticated and honour Italian produce: think smoked straciatella with Vesuvio apple vinegar and quinoa crumbles. To drink, choose from a short list of Italian wine, beer on tap and traditional Italian cocktails. Address: 1 Monkwood Way, London E32EG Nearest tube station: Hackney Wick Opening times: Tuesday-Thursday (1pm-10pm), Friday-Sunday (12-11:30pm) Best authentic Neapolitan pizza: Fatto a Mano Fatto a Mano pays homage to the classic Neapolitan pizza, where soft and pillowy is favoured over thin and crispy. Dough is made from scratch every day, proved for a minimum of 24 hours then topped by a pizzaioli who cooks each pizza in a wood-fired oven at 450 degrees for no more than 90 seconds (just as they do in Naples). You can enjoy a slice of Fatto’s wood-fired magic at its newest pizzeria, located under the railway arches in Paradise Row, Bethnal Green (joining the Covent Garden and King's Cross locations in London, plus three Brighton branches). Which pizza to order at Fatto a Mano? Pizzas are lightly digestible and beautiful swollen at the cornicione rims, topped with artisanal Italian ingredients such as smoked provolone, spianata (spicy salami) and black pepper pancetta. When we visited we enjoyed the seasonal winter special, guanciale cacio e pepe, a creative spin on the popular Roman pasta dish where quality cured guanciale sat atop creamy cacio e pepe cream, roasted squash, porcini mushrooms, mozzarella and thyme. What else is there to eat and drink? Those looking for a full-on feast are in luck, with comforting Italian starters and sides in abundance. We enjoyed a plate of Neapolitan smoked provolone potato croquettes, ’nduja lasagne fritta and slices of Calabrian sausage and provolone, served with pickled veg and toasted bread. For drinks, kickstart the evening with a classic aperitivo such as a negroni, then make your way through the impressive list of Italian wines or British beers. A hefty slice of Fatto’s tiramisu is compulsory to wrap up proceedings, boasting the perfect ratios of coffee liqueur-soaked sponge, mascarpone and chocolate. Address: 250 Paradise Row, London E2 9LE Nearest tube station: Bethnal Green Opening times: Mon-Thurs 12-10pm, Friday-Saturday 12-10:30pm, Sunday 12-9:30pm Best vegetarian and vegan pizza in London: Flat Earth Pizza Flat Earth Pizza has moved into its first bricks and mortar location, an intimate space with bottle green and rattan furnishings. This sustainable pizza joint puts veg at the forefront and dismantles the idea of pizza as ‘junk food’: the dough is neither refined or processed, while ingredients are sourced locally. Which pizza to order at Flat Earth Pizza? Experimental pizza lies at the heart of Flat Earth, and the offerings do not disappoint. The ‘Hackey hot’ – an oval-shaped pizza with sweet pickled beetroot, a mixture of three Somerset cheeses, jalapeños, fermented hot salsa and tomato passata – has sweet warmth, while the ‘Kimchi Fiorentina’ with kimchi, tomato passata, beetroot crumb and egg, is a Korean twist on a veggie classic (vegans have the option of a plant-based mozzarella pie). What else is there to eat and drink? Start with a selection of well-designed vegan small plates to share, such as pickled beetroot and turmeric-spiced white cabbage, roasted red onions with caramelised shallots, chives and soubise and hummus with sweet house pickles and springy house focaccia. Drink natural orange wine on tap during summery evenings, or try the foraged fig leaf and sweet woodruff martini. Finish with a gooey vegan sea salt brownie with salted caramel ice cream. Address: 286-290 Cambridge Heath Rd, London E2 9DA Nearest tube station: Cambridge Heath Opening times: Tuesday (5-10pm), Wednesday-Thursday (11am-10pm), Friday (11am-10:30pm), Saturday (10am-10:3opm), Sunday (10am-4pm) Best pizza and beer in East London: Ace Pizza at Pembury Tavern This historic Hackney boozer is the home of Ace Pizza, a fun-loving pizza brand famed for its slow risen, picture-perfect Neapolitan pizzas which are stone baked for longer to achieve a crispier crust. Pembury Tavern is also under the stewardship of The Five Points Brewing Company, a local and independent brewery with modern brewing at the heart of its work. Which pizza to order at Ace? If you like your pizzas heavily topped, doughy and with lashings of sauce, try the chicken shawarma, a fun spin on the classic kebab where house-made shawarma is layered with red onions, spicy marinara, garlic and herb sauce, Guindilla peppers, mozzarella, and fresh parsley. Pickled pink onion is the magic ingredient though, providing a gloriously tangy flavour to cut through the creamy garlic sauce. What else is there to eat and drink? Pizzas span meat, veggie and vegan with the menu divided into red, white and green bases. Vegans can indulge in ‘Ooh Mami’, the creamy truffle bechamel providing the perfect base for a smattering of portobello mushrooms, cashew ricotta, caramelised onions, oregano oil, porcini salt and fresh parsley. Crust dippers include the enticing truffle aioli and a lip-smacking, fittingly named ‘crack sauce’. And, as the pub is a Five Points Brewery pub, plenty of beer is available to pair with your pizza, including a Five Points favourite the JUPA, a juicy and fruity pale ale with bold, citrus flavours. Address: 90 Amhurst Rd, London E8 1JH Nearest tube station: Hackney Downs Opening times: Monday-Wednesday (4-11pm) Thursday-Friday (4-12am) Saturday (12-12am) Sunday (12-11pm) Best Neapolitan pizza in London: Vicoli di Napoli Pizzeria For the ultimate Neapolitan pizza in London, head to Stoke Newington (and be prepared to queue) for a seat in Vicoli di Napoli Pizzeria, as recommended in the book ‘Eat, Pray, Love’. This Neapolitan family first began making pizza back in 1870, and the business is still going strong five generations later with sites in Naples, Tokyo and, London. Which pizza to order at Pizzeria da Michele? Go for the classic marinara or the margarita (with the option for double mozzarella). Each of the ingredients used is of the highest quality, from the thin, pillowy soft base to the sweet tomatoes and fresh peppery basil. Address: 125 Stoke Newington Church St, Stoke Newington, London, N16 0UH Nearest overground station: Stoke Newington Opening times: Tuesday – Saturday (12 –11pm), Sunday (12 – 10.30pm) Best for progressive Italian: Lamezia Maria Dell’aquilla took over the reins of her parents’ restaurant in April and describes her new menus as “progressive Italian” in view of its combination of the original Calabrian dishes and her own inspired addition of nutrition-inspired elements, such as hemp and turmeric bases as well as vegan, gluten-free dough and dairy-free cheese. Which pizza to order at Lamezia? Hemp pizza is not the first ground-breaking dish to come out of Lamezia: Maria’s father, Franco, created his signature ’nduja pizza 10 years ago and it’s still the bestseller. Address: 165 Holloway Road, London, N7 8LX| Nearest station: Holloway Road Opening times: Tuesday – Thursday (12 – 10pm), Friday – Saturday (12 – 12am), Sunday (12 – 10pm) Best for vegan pizza: Purezza The UK’s first 100% vegan pizzeria, Purezza specialises in plant-based pizzas that respect the Neapolitan heritage. Where possible, this means using alternative versions of animal products, such as a plant-based mozzarella, which took more than two years to develop – this organic cheese (that’s dairy-free, low in fat and allergen-free) is made with brown rice milk and is unique to Purezza. Last year, the restaurant secured investment to begin producing the cheese from a factory for retail. The original Brighton restaurant opened in 2015 and was followed three years later by a Camden branch and plans for more later this year. In 2018, Purezza won National Pizza of the Year for its Parmigiana Party pizza, despite being the only plant-based entrant. Address: 43 Parkway, London, Nw1 7PN Nearest station: Camden Town Opening times: Sunday – Thursday (12 – 10pm), Friday – Saturday (12 – 11pm) Best for seasonal toppings: Manifesto Former Natoora director, Vittorio Maschio, has opened his first London pizzeria with a focus on carefully sourced and seasonal toppings. Flour comes from Molino Pasini, a family-run mill in North Italy, while fior di latte is brought over from Puglia. The biga-style dough (meaning it proves for 48-hours, creating a ciabatta-like texture) with a semolina-coated crust creates a super light, crisp base which holds its shape well when topped with sweet tomatoes. There's a laid-back vibe and minimalist design to the place with a few wooden tables inside, help-yourself counter service and a pile of boxes ready to be filled for takeaway. Which pizza to order at Manifesto? The stripped back menu offers six pizzas, two beers (from Hackney Wick's Crate Brewery), four wines and two Sicilian soft drinks. Keep it simple with the tomato and co. pizza topped with wild cantabrian anchovies and taggiasche olives, or order the pig and field option piled with peppery pedrazzoli ham and mushrooms if you want something more filling. There are no starters or desserts, but pizzas are reasonable in size. If you're still peckish, go back and order seconds. Address: 148 Northcote Road, London, SW11 6RD Nearest station: Clapham Junction Opening times: Monday – Saturday (11 – 11pm), Sunday (11 – 10.30pm) Best for pizza and pasta: Cecconi’s Pizza Bar From the team behind Soho House, Cecconi’s Pizza Bar focuses on pizza, pasta and Aperol spritz on tap. Vintage Italian posters, black and white mosaic tiles and mahogany tables give the space a retro feel. In the summer, grab a seat on the street and spend the evening sipping on punchy negronis. Which pizza to order at Cecconi’s Pizza Bar? The super doughy charred crust has a slightly smoky flavour, while the sloppy base is piled high with toppings. Either keep it classic with buffalo mozzarella, tomato and basil, or choose one topped lavishly with parma ham, peppery rocket, mozzarella, parmesan and meltingly creamy burrata – torn apart then drizzled with olive oil. If you fancy something a little lighter, go for a pizzette instead. What else is there to eat and drink? Crisp matchsticks of zucchini fritti with silky aioli (lifted with lemon) is the best place to start. While pizza is the focus, be sure to share a bowl of creamy spaghetti dusted with shavings of umami truffle. If you’ve saved room for dessert, the tiramisu is a must. Waiters bring large dishes to the table and serve the rich coffee-soaked dessert straight up. Address: 19-21 Old Compton Street, London, W1D 5JJ Nearest tube station: Leicester Square Opening times: Monday – Wednesday (11.30 – 1am), Thursday – Saturday (11.30 – 3am), Sunday (11.30am – 11.30pm) Best pizza crust in London: Farina Nestled on Notting Hill High Street, Farina pizzeria focuses on traditional Neapolitan pizzas, with no pineapple or pepperoni in sight. In the summer, grab a table by the floor-to-ceiling folding glass doors and wait for the smoky scent to waft over, or hunker down next to the small open kitchen. Which pizza to order at Farina: The 48-hour fermented dough is light, with a pillowy, charred crust – tear some off to save for mopping up the leftover tomato juices at the end. Order the Farina, topped with 'nduja, salami and provola if you like something spicy, or the Burratina topped with courgette and burrata for a fresh, creamy topping. What else is there to eat? Although pizzas are the focus, be sure to order the garlicy polpette to start, which come in a rich, sweet tomato sauce, and if you have room afterwards go for the cannoli – the crisp pastry shell is generously filled with sweet, creamy sheep's milk ricotta and sprinkled with pistachio nuts. Address: 115 Notting Hill Gate, London, W11 3LB Nearest tube station: Notting Hill Gate Opening times: Monday – Saturday (12 – 10.30pm), Sunday (12 – 10pm) Best sourdough pizza in London: Theo’s Head to Theo’s in Camberwell for the best sourdough pizza in London. Its wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas are the best in South London. Which pizza to order at Theo's? The Scotch Bonnet nduja is the menu must-order, as the spiced sausage is made across the road by the team at the Camberwell Arms pub. What else is there to eat and drink? Save room for a serving of Theo's outrageously good tiramisu, and order a negroni bianco or espresso martini to finish. If you don’t fancy sitting in, Theo’s do delivery, so it’s up there with the best takeaway pizza in London, too. Address: 2 Grove Ln, Camberwell, London, SE5 8SY Nearest overground station: Denmark Hill Opening times: Monday (12 – 10pm), Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday (12 – 10:30pm), Friday – Saturday (12 – 11pm) Best gluten-free pizza in London: Zia Lucia For the best selection of pizza bases, visit Zia Lucia on Holloway Road or Brook Green and choose between a traditional, wholemeal, vegetable charcoal or gluten-free base. The 48 hour fermented doughs are cooked in a wood-fired oven, each resulting in a different flavour and texture. We recommend the gluten-free base which has a crisp yet light texture. You can create your own pizza and choose from the large selection of toppings including spianata, broccoli, butternut squash and taleggio goat’s cheese. Which pizza to order at Zia Lucia? The Carlotta is an unusual, indulgent pizza, topped with fresh Italian sausage, crisp, sliced roast potatoes, pecorino and dill. Address: 61 Blythe Rd, London, W14 0HP Nearest overground station: Kensington (Olympia) Opening times: Tuesday – Sunday (11.30 – 10.30pm) Best pizza slice in London: Voodoo Ray’s For the best slice of pizza in London, head to Voodoo Ray’s for a New York style slice. With four locations across East, North and South London, this joint bakes 22-inch pizzas topped with everything from wild mushroom, squash and red onion; salt beef, sauerkraut and emmental and a vegan option, piled high with artichoke hearts and green olives. Which pizza to order at Voodoo Ray's? If you fancy a pizza pie for brunch, Voodoo Ray's serve 10” pizzas on the weekend topped with classic eggs and bacon or a veggie spinach and ricotta version. What else is there to eat and drink? With a selection of craft beers (think Beavertown, Red Hook and Kona) and frozen margaritas on offer, Voodoo Ray's is the place to go for a late-night munch. Address: 95 Kingsland High St, London, E8 2PB Nearest overground station: Dalston Kingsland Opening times: Monday – Wednesday (5 – 12am), Thursday (5 – 1am), Friday – Saturday (12 – 3am), Sunday (12 – 12am) Best pizza joint atmosphere in London: Yard Sale What started as a weekly supper club in owner Johnnie’s back yard has grown to three restaurants (with another opening in March 2018) offering the best pizza in North London. Grab a leather booth seat close to the kitchens for the comfiest spot in house and order a 12 or 18-inch pizza topped with slow cooked tomato sauce and fior di latte mozzarella. The blistered base is crisp yet doughy which gets slightly sloppy when you reach the centre (so napkins are necessary). Which pizza to order at Yard Sale? There’s no holding back when it comes to toppings, be it the ‘TSB’, a mixture of Tender stem broccoli, manchego, pine nuts, garlic and olive oil; ‘Cour Bimey’ topped with courgette ribbon, pancetta and black pepper, or, one for the cheese lovers, ‘Cheesus Walks’, a white base piled high with basil pesto, mozzarella, gorgonzola, ricotta and parmesan. What else is there to eat and drink? If you’ve got room for more, order a garlic pizza bread with cheese and Marmite for the ultimate punchy umami experience. There’s a great choice of beers from Beavertown and the Five Points Brewing Company. Address: 54 Blackstock Road, Finsbury Park, London, N4 2DW Nearest tube station: Finsbury Park Opening times: Monday – Thursday (5 – 11pm), Friday (4 – 11pm), Saturday (12 – 11pm), Sunday (12 – 10pm) Best unusual pizza toppings in London: Homeslice Homeslice is one of the best pizza restaurants in London with sites in Shoreditch, Fitzrovia, City and Covent Garden. Whether you want to eat in or takeaway, you can order just a slice or a 20-inch pizza. Which pizza to order at Homeslice? Go all out and split your pizza 50/50 with two different flavours, ideal for sharing. Choose between a classic margherita; a salty salami, rocket and parmesan or a slice topped with kimchi, porcini cream and basil. Address: 13 Neal’s Yard, Covent Garden, London, WC2H 9DP Nearest tube station: Covent Garden Opening times: Monday – Sunday (12 – 11pm) Best all-round pizza meal in London: Made of Dough For the best pizza in Brixton and Peckham, visit Made of Dough. The moreish, chewy dough has a 60-hour fermentation process before being cooked in a wood-fired oven, and the mozzarella is fresh from Campania. Which pizza to order at Made of Dough? If you fancy something extra cheesy, order the truffle pizza that comes with fior di latte, white alba truffle oil and an entire ball of Burratina. What else is there to eat and drink? Make sure to order a side of the scotch bonnet romesco sauce to add a spicy kick to the crust, and wash your pizza down with one of the negronis or a fruity pompelmo G&T. Address: 182 Bellenden Road, Peckham, London, SE15 4BW Nearest overground station: Peckham Rye Opening times: Monday – Saturday (12 – 10pm), Sunday (12 – 9pm) Best for pizza garlic bread: Sodo Pizza With six sites across London London, Sodo pizza is the place to go for a light, crispy, tangy base. Which pizza to order at Sodo Pizza? Head to the Walthamstow restaurant on the weekend for a brunch of pizza topped with eggs and sausage and, if it’s warm enough, grab one of the outside tables and order a Bloody Mary or two. What else is there to eat and drink? While the pizzas are great, we love the sourdough garlic bread topped with sweet, crisp rosemary and drizzled with an earthy olive oil. Address: Hatherley Mews, Walthamstow, London, E17 4QP Nearest tube station: Walthamstow Opening times: Tuesday – Friday (12 – 10pm), Saturday – Sunday (10 – 10pm) Fancy something sweet now? Click here for our chocolate chip cookie pizza recipe Photographs: Steven Joyce (Doughnation)
Best new restaurants in London to visit in 2026
The best new restaurant openings in London, expertly reviewed by the olive team. Keep up to date with the hottest new openings and find out which are not to be missed, plus which dishes to order in each restaurant
Looking for new restaurants in London? We've visited the hot new openings in the capital to experience the restaurant for ourselves to bring you our regularly updated best London restaurants list. Read on for all the best new openings (including some from the end of last year) and we'll be continually adding new restaurant openings for 2026 as they launch, after we've expertly reviewed each one. For more restaurant guides check out our best restaurants in Soho, Covent Garden, Shoreditch and the best restaurants with rooms in the UK. If you want to pull out all the stops, find out the UK's best showstopping restaurants to impress or try the best chef's table experiences in the UK. Best new London restaurant openings 2026 Plaza Khao Gaeng, Borough Yards For fiery southern Thai cooking Set under the railway arches that flank Borough Market, this fun spot brings the energy of a raan khao gaeng – the informal canteens that pop up on street corners and markets across Thailand. The high-ceilinged room is breezy and buzzy with a quirky, eclectic style: stainless steel tables, zingy pops of colour, retro Thai movie posters and restaurant signs all add to the atmosphere. Pre-visit we’d read a lot about the heat level of some of the southern Thai dishes and our server was keen to make sure we didn’t go in blind. She helpfully marked up our menu with dots (one for a mild dish, three for fiery), recommended a couple of must-order dishes and we chose accordingly. A Paricha margarita eased us into the heat zone – mango infused tequila and kumquat liquor with a kick of fresh Thai chilli served alongside an appetiser plate of miang pla: betel leaves to be wrapped around spicy sausage, dried fish and crunchy galangal floss to make a herbal, tangy mouthful. The yam strawberry salad was a refreshing sweet/salty surprise – strawberries in a punchy dressing, topped with a sprinkling of the tiniest translucent fish and coconut. From the curries, the gaeng massaman neua was deeply comforting – big chunks of beef, slow cooked in a rich spiced coconut sauce with hunks of potato to soak up all of that fragrant curry. Gung pad prik gaeng sator (tiger prawns stir-fried in red curry paste) brought some of that notorious heat but balanced it well with coconut cream. We kept the heat at bay with a icy glass of Singha beer, served in a chunky frozen glass tankard. Or if you’re in a crowd there’s the option to order a three-litre beer tower with your own tap – a fun playful touch for a very fun spot. plazakhaogaeng.com Janine Ratcliffe Sartoria Launcestone Place, South Kensington For a date night deserving of a white tablecloth Set between the bustle of Kensington High Street and the quieter elegance of Gloucester Road sits Sartoria Launceston Place. It’s a restaurant negotiating several identities at once: Regency stucco houses on one side, galleries and traffic on the other. Inside, though, it’s clear about what it wants to be. This is Milanese cooking, done with confidence and restraint. Sartoria Launceston Place is the younger sister to the original Sartoria on Savile Row and it carries that same sense of polish and tradition, just loosened slightly for this corner of west London. The room is all softness and polish. Banquette seating, white tablecloths and plenty of tucked away corners give it an easy sense of comfort, while still feeling smart. It’s an obvious choice for a date, though there are larger tables too, should the evening stretch into something more sociable. Being part of the Terence Conran family shows, not loudly, but in the calm assurance of the space. The menu follows the familiar Italian rhythm: snacks and breads, antipasti, primi, secondi and sides. I drank a peach bellini, sweet and balanced, with a gentle floral lift. Calamari arrived shatteringly crisp, paired with a chilli jam carrying just enough heat. Tuna tartare and beef carpaccio made a pleasing contrast: the tuna soft and buttery, glossed with vivid basil oil; the carpaccio deeply beefy, brightened by the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. For my primi, I chose the calamarata: generous and seafood-rich, mussels scattered through the pasta, red prawns offering small bursts of sweetness. Fillet steak followed, perfectly rare and lounging in a pool of creamy peppercorn sauce, so good we wished the plate had lingered a moment longer. We kept sides simple with sautéed spinach, its slight bite cutting cleanly through the richness. Tiramisu finished things, served from a large bowl at the table. It was exactly what you hope for: soft, balanced and quietly indulgent. Sometimes that’s more than enough. Service is warm and attentive, perhaps a little formal for some, but in keeping with the room and the setting. sartoria-launcestonplace.co.uk Lydia Anderson Motorino, Fitzrovia For modern London-Italian fare Modern and open, Stevie Parle’ and Luke Ahearne’s Italian-inspired bar-restaurant is a space for all occasions – quick lunches, group meals or cosy dinners. Booths line the walls, while bigger tables keep sight of the buzzy open kitchen. It’s a place you can talk without being overheard, or laugh without annoying your neighbours. We started with Moto Classic martinis, then tore into springy rosemary-scented focaccia, complemented by crisp, acidic pickles. From the starters, delica pumpkin with stracciatella, candied hazelnuts and radicchio moved comfortably between sweet, creamy and bitter. But the dish that defined the meal was the agnolotti carbonara. Each small pinched pasta pocket was filled with a classic pecorino and yolk-rich carbonara, and topped with salty bites of guanciale. The fun comes from eating it whole, as it bursts between your teeth. Clever and deeply satisfying. We’d heard about chef-owner Stevie’s Wildfarmed steaks from his own herd but, as tempted as we were, went another way. An old spot chop, sliced into slabs, was juicy and beautifully cooked, where the pink becomes blush, the rich meat cut through by mustard fruits and apple. Cornish blonde ray followed, robust and flake-apart, with a shellfish sauce that added depth without dulling the fish. Add a couple of glasses of the light Burgundy pinot noir and you have a perfectly balanced lunch. motorino.london Keith Kendrick Island, Kings Cross For elevated surf and turf Island takes the concept of surf and turf, and adds two cult chefs - Tom Brown (on surf) and Brad Carter (on turf) – to create a unique and playful menu. Although they aren’t cooking here day to day there’s some serious skill behind the open grill that lends a beautifully smoky edge to dishes. The dining room occupies the top floor of buzzy Mare St Market – it’s a big space but the cosy velvet-lined booths, banquette seating and chandelier-covered ceiling manage to make it warm and welcoming. We kicked off with a lamb and clam skewer – chunks of lamb belly, the fat rendered crispy and smoky, topped with tiny salty clams. Not listed on the menu but recommended by our server were seaweed flatbreads, puffed and golden with the edges almost like fried bread. We shared a whole grilled john dory which came doused in caper-spiked café de paris butter, the sweet flesh falling of the bone. An aged dairy ribeye was served with a deep umami version of peppercorn sauce and in place of chips little crunchy ‘turf’ roasties dusted with bone marrow powder (we also got the surf version dusted with mussel powder). A Bogtrotter-style layered chocolate cake to share finished us off – rich and dark with a shiny chocolate glaze, it was a perfect end to the meal. island-restaurants.com Janine Ratcliffe 74 Charlotte St by Ben Murphy, Fitzrovia For modern European 74 Charlotte Street by Ben Murphy sees the chef (who ran the kitchen at Launceston Place to great acclaim) in his first solo spot. The room is calm and elegant: coming in from a rainy winter evening the golden light and a warm atmosphere was immediately welcoming, as was the beautiful crescent-shaped cocktail bar where we kicked off with an icy, citrussy yuzu gimlet and a French 75. Such is the commitment to a perfect cocktail that my drink was decanted into a fresh frosty glass halfway through to keep it chilled. Don’t skip the bread – a pillowy loaf of tear-apart milk bread served with a cube of beurre noisette and a dish of hummus with vivid green pumpkin seed oil was just gorgeous. We loved the tender butter poached lobster tail with a tartlet topped with tiny discs of pumpkin to look like fish scales, and the iberica presa pork served perfectly pink with tiny grilled baby gem, carrot purée and a savoury jus – each dish looking like a little work of art. The wine list has some interesting by the glass options, with a Turkish sauvignon blanc being a particular surprise. Desserts are fun – there’s a retro mint green ice cream trolley with a seasonal flavour (mince pie on our visit) and a lovely chocolate tart, dense and rich with crisp chocolate pastry and hazelnut praline. 74charlottestreet.com Janine Ratcliffe Ria's, Soho For deep-dish Detroit pizza Ria’s is a cosy, laid-back spot selling fluffy Detroit-style pizza and natural wines. It's perfect for intimate dates and candle-lit catch-ups, full of charm and character. The latest Soho site is snug yet elegantly furnished, building on everything that made the Notting Hill original a hit, with exciting new slices and a sultry wine cave. Ria’s ferments its dough for up to 72 hours, which gives it a deeper flavour and a deliciously chewy crust. Deep-dish pizza is filling but the pies at Ria’s never feel too much. Our favourite flavours were the House Pie and the Soho Chilli Crisp. The first had a red sauce base and a lip-smacking combination of ricotta, basil and lemon drizzle. The latter was laden with ’nduja, Lao Gan Ma crispy chilli oil, pickled shallots, spring onions and aged parmesan – tongue-tingling and tangy. There is a great range of natural wine to sip alongside your slice at Ria's: we enjoyed a glass of Orange de Rias for its tropical brightness, and a glass of Herrigoia – a crunchy, easy-going red with tart cherry notes. There's also a small but sharp cocktail list, bottled beer and a good range of soft drinks. If you’ve got room for dessert, treat yourself to a deep-fried Mars bar with soft serve vanilla ice cream. Sprinkled with a little bit of sea salt, it really is the ultimate treat. rias.world/soho Helen Salter 2210 by NattyCanCook, Herne Hill For reimagined Caribbean food As a Brixton resident I was extra excited about this opening. The Clink project at HMP Brixton inspired Nathaniel Mortley to turn his life around, launching a social media channel which led to residencies and now his permanent home in Herne Hill. Though born and raised in Peckham, Natty’s heritage is Bajan, Jamaican and Guyanese, thus he spotlights flavours and ingredients from the region in his elevated dishes. We kicked off by dunking grilled roti triangles into whipped scotch bonnet butter. Next came crispy spring rolls stuffed with ackee and saltfish, and pork belly with crackling trim, spiced jus and puddles of scotch bonnet mayo. I recommend sharing the hearty mains, all served with a choice of aromatic jollof rice or spiced rice and peas. There’s a sophisticated take on jerk chicken with mango and pineapple salsa, a much talked-about lamb rump with tamarind jus, and pan-seared spiced duck breast served with a show-stealing confit leg croquette. My highlight was whole brill lifted with a lightly spiced plantain velouté, pickled plantain cubes and vibrant coriander pesto. Don’t miss deep-fried apple crumble for dessert, presented in croquette form encasing spiced, pickled apple, with coffee chantilly cream and basil oil crème anglaise to lift. Cocktails pack a punch – signature rum punch is a popular choice, while margaritas are laced with scotch bonnet, and negronis infused with tangy sorrel. It’s a family affair – Natty's delightful godmother Cecilia was our server, his mum is his accountant and an old school friend helps out front of house. This, paired with the throwback soundtrack causing us to wiggle along in our plush grey chairs, ensures that good vibes prevail. I’m already planning a trip back for the Sunday roast, with the promise of scotch chimichurri roasties, followed by a brisk walk in neighbouring Brockwell Park. 2210bynattycancook.com Alex Crossley ALTA, Soho For sophisticated northern Spanish cuisine There’s a focus on northern Spanish cuisine at this large, sophisticated addition to Soho’s Kingly Court. The two-floor space combines industrial warehouse features (large windows, exposed ceilings) with earthy touches – rough stone walls, textured wood and soft lighting. At the helm is Rob Roy Cameron, a chef well versed in the region thanks to years as Albert Adria’s right-hand man. We were advised to order four to five snacks and starters to share between two. The highlight was a set of five rich, smoked Txistorra pork sausages charred on the grill and doused in aged PX vinegar, closely followed by a striking sardine and wine-soaked raisin empanada neatly encased in a puff pastry blanket, the fish head and tail peeking out for show. Sharing mains are cooked on the wood-fired open grill, providing a theatrical focal point on the restaurant’s ground floor. Think 35-day aged sirloin and ribeye, pork chops and Basque classic turbot. Must-order salt-baked Charlotte potatoes are finished in the pan, topped with a disc of mojo verde butter that slowly melts into the hot, crispy flesh. Desserts are by no means an afterthought – finish with dark chocolate ganache lifted with olive oil and salt, topped with sourdough ice cream and charred Italian meringue. The drinks menu is strong – Basque 75 is a pétillant combination of txakoli, oak-aged vodka, verjus, orange blossom and oloroso sherry, while a considerable selection of vermouths and sherry are a welcome feature alongside natural wines. alta-restaurant.com som saa, Shoreditch For Thai food After a fire devastated its kitchen early in 2025, som saa has reopened with its same regional Thai authenticity and buzzy vibes, but with a few new angles and a bit more bar-snack energy – recalibrations the team introduced after months to reflect and refresh. We started where the menu now gently nudges you to start: the nibbly bits. Tua phrik krob — deep-fried cashews with makrut lime leaf and dried chilli — are toasty, fragrant and entice you to keep reaching back into the bowl. Nang gai thort, crisp chicken skin with sriracha, makes you yearn to recreate it at home from the family roast. From there, the table builds itself. Gai yaang (BBQ chicken) comes off the grill juicy and lightly charred, with a tamarind jaew dip that keeps the sweet-sour heat tidy. Yum sanat, a warm northern salad of grilled pork, aubergine and herbs, has that lovely Thai balancing act: smoky meat, soft veg, bright herbs, a little roasted rice nuttiness. Dtom juet — clear soup of shiitake, samphire, kajon flowers and tofu skin — is the reset button in the middle of all that spice. Curries and braises keep the meal anchored. Mu parlow (five-spice soy-braised pork with fermented chilli sauce and a soy-cured egg) is glossy, savoury comfort, while gaeng gari yort mapraow orn — tofu with heart of coconut palm — brings an aromatic, gently sweet warmth. A side of sticky rice feels less like an option and more like the point. Olive tip: Start with four or five small dishes, then add a curry and rice. If the daily som dtam is on, order it — it sharpens everything around it. somsaa.com Keith Kendrick Cô Thành, Covent Garden For Vietnamese noodles On visiting Ho Chi Minh in 2013, Hong Kong based Brian Woo was transfixed by local Nguyễn Thị Thanh's street stand, returning daily for her rotating noodle soups. He befriended the ‘Lunch Lady’, training with her for three years before opening a restaurant in her name in Hong Kong. Now Cô Thành comes to Covent Garden, taking the elegant former Frenchie site and adding a vibrant Vietnamese canteen sheen – mirrored tabletops, signage popping from exposed brick walls and colourful plastic stools outside. Sharing starters include minced beef wrapped in betel leaf, sausage skewers glistening in tamarind glaze and beer battered chicken wings with sweet, spicy fish sauce. Next comes an extensive list of noodle soups, my highlight being fragrant bún bò huế, the broth sweetened with pineapple that tenderises the rare beef and beef shank slices along with springy meatballs, fresh herbs and shredded morning glory. Seafood-packed bún Thái has a tom yum edge thanks to tamarind, galangal and ginger, while bún mám packs a fermented umami punch, and bún riêu’s crab base is ideal for thinner vermicelli noodles. We were recommended to drop a couple of unique yellow chillies into our broth, allow them to infuse their floral fragrant spicy kick and then remove. Dinky desserts punch above their weight, from kem chuối inspired coconut and banana ice cream lifted with lime zest, to tiramisu laced with rum and dark roast coffee that caramelises into the mascarpone. Dipping deep-fried sponge fritters into Vietnamese drip cà phê took me right back to Hanoi’s quirky coffee shops. Next time I’ll be trying the clarified bloody mary style cocktail, Vietnamese Maria, for a savoury pick-me-up. cothanhrestaurant.com/london Alex Crossley The Salusbury, Queens Park For modern European cooking in a neighbourhood restaurant setting Half pub, half dining room, The Salusbury brings a confident new energy to leafy north-west London. We visited on a busy Friday night, the bar buzzing with chatter and that end-of-week cheer. Step through to the dining room, though, and the volume drops – it feels like a little pocket of calm tucked just off the action. Modern European cooking leads the charge and the kitchen delivers. We kicked off with the du jour snack, parmesan churros, and these were easily the best version we’ve tried: crisp, savoury and impossible not to leave even a crumb behind. A silky Dorset crab linguine with a peppery cacio e pepe kick had us chasing every last strand, helped along by warm rosemary focaccia that’s clearly made with care. Generous portions continue into the mains. Roast cod came piled high with mussels and sweet leeks in a bowl-sipping cider broth, while Somerset chicken arrived succulent and bronzed with golden gnocchi, sweetcorn and girolles. Desserts hold their own too – the salted caramel tart has just the right wobble and a perfectly judged sweetness. A polished, promising new neighbourhood staple. thesalusbury.co.uk Barney Desmazery Khao-Sō-i, Soho For fiery Northern Thai cuisine London doesn’t lack for Thai restaurants but at Khao-Sō-i – named after the curry noodle dish of Chiang Mai – chef Win Srinavakool has created a menu shaped by the flavours of northern Thailand, with smoke from a wood-fired grill and bold (okay, hot) spice. We began with moo ping: wafer-thin Norfolk pork belly skewers grilled over wood with a sticky, caramelised edge and a deep, savoury warmth. Tum khanun – young jackfruit salad tossed with northern herbs – whacks your tastebuds with refreshing and tingling heat and zest. It’s a perfect spot for an after-work or after-shopping catch-up, buzzing with chatter, the throb of music and the theatre of the open grill. The main event is the namesake khao soi. We tried it two ways: gai (chicken) and bai pye (torched beef chuck eye). The pleasure is in shaping it. Each bowl arrives with coconut cream, chilli flakes, herbs and crisp noodles on the side, so you build your own version: richer, hotter, crunchier, or all of the above, before you pull the noodles from the creamy spiced broth and slurp like no one’s watching. There’s an extensive drinks list but ice-cold Neckstamper pale ale is the way to go to douse the fire and cleanse your palate before diving in to luxurious cha thai cheesecake or bai toey ice cream with cloud-like cubes of brioche. Olive tip: If you go as a two-some order separate dishes and share. You’ll want to experience as much of the menu as possible. khaosoilondon.com Keith Kendrick Il Bambini Club, Hoxton For Italian food in beautiful surroundings Walk into the main entrance of The Hoxton hotel and you are immediately swept into the chic world of Il Bambini Club. The room is warmly lit and beautifully furnished – think curved banquette seating, colourful stripes and florals, and giant fringed lampshades. A big open kitchen runs along one side, which adds to the appealing buzz. We tucked ourselves into one of the comfy booths and kicked things off with pair of cocktails – a rosso spritz with Martini Riserva, cherry and sparkling red, and a punchy vesper martini. The concise menu is trattoria-style. Antipasti of zingy yellowfin tuna tartare came heaped on a pile of crushed avocado, and a whole burrata was served with a juicy panzanella salad (for smaller appetites these would make a perfect lunch or light dinner). After consulting our waiter went for piatti (mains) of meatballs cloaked in a rich tomato sauce with dollops of whipped ricotta and a roasted sea bass – the sweet flesh cut with bitter escarole and capers. From a mostly Italian wine list the chilled Nero d’Avola is great value at £9 a glass – a lovely partner to the food or light enough to drink as an aperitivo. For dessert we shared the very generous tiramisu – creamy and light with a decent kick of espresso and booze. It gave us an excuse to linger, have one more drink and enjoy the cosy vibes of the beautiful room. bambini-restaurant.com Janine Ratcliffe The Elizabeth, Belgravia For cosy bistro vibes This exciting opening sees legendary chef Anthony Demetre, who pioneered modern British cooking at restaurants like Arbutus and Wild Honey, overseeing the new menu. Stepping into the intimate dining room, all leather banquettes and dark wood panelling, felt like entering a Parisian-style bistro. We loved the cosy feel, especially as we were able to get a sneak peek at our neighbour’s dishes to help ordering. The concise menu follows a three-course style which felt refreshing in this age of sharing plates. From starters we chose a Demetre classic, pâté en croûte. Layers of guinea fowl, pork and duck in a crisp pastry shell which came in a generous slab with a dollop of pickled walnut ketchup. After consulting our server we went for mains with an autumnal feel – a steamed Cornish sea bream with a piquant diced piperade and a rich bouillabaisse sauce poured tableside for drama, and a meltingly tender duck confit with comforting stew of chickpeas, spinach and oregano. There’s a pleasingly retro cocktail list – I tried the zingy Lemondrop and my non-drinking guest was given a Juke of Westminster – a non alcoholic wine shrub posing as a glass of red. There’s also a great selection of wines by the glass starting at £7.50. We did end up sharing a dessert of perfectly executed crème brûlée with a rich vanilla spiked custard and shatteringly crisp crust which was a lovely light way to end dinner. olive tip: There’s an amazing value set menu at lunch and early dinner (two courses for £25 or three for £29.50) – on our visit it included Cumbrian beef tartare with ’nduja mayo and beef dripping toast; chicken with pearl barley, morteau and duxelles; and a pear tart with clotted cream. theelizabethsw1.co.uk Janine Ratcliffe Platapian, Soho Of the many surprising dishes at Platapian, the Soho Thai restaurant from the people behind Patara, one especially stood out: cabbage roasted until soft yet still with bite, the wedges dressed with fish sauce and whole chillies to deliver a sweet-salty heat that works beautifully with the vegetable’s faint sourness. But it’s by no means the only eyebrow-raiser in this stylish, sleek space on one of London’s busiest streets. We started with crispy chicken skin with a squeeze of lime – think gourmet pork scratchings. Stuffed snub nose chilli stuffed with minced chicken and prawn is big enough to share, plump and aromatic, and, despite its name, only mildly hot. Then a pandan-leaf wrapped parcel of miang kham scallop, beautifully silky and smoky. Mains kept the balance between comfort and freshness. Short rib beef in five-spice ‘paloh’ with grated salted egg yolk is the stand-out. Flake-apart meat in a rich gravy was positively swoon-worthy. While southern-style yellow curry with crab, mellow and light, saucy with coconut, was a hug in a bowl. Together they showed how Platapian’s menu celebrates the whole of Thai cuisine. From the drinks list, Tom Yum-tini and a whisky sour are smart, punchy and in simpatico with the elegance of the restaurant, while desserts use Thai ingredients to twist familiar Western dishes, such as a smooth pandan crème brûlée. olive tip: When we went on a Thursday night, Platapian was packed, buzzing and loud – so if you want to talk ask for a counter seat near the front. pataralondon.com Keith Kendrick Taco Bros, East Finchley For taco lovers who’ll cross town for them Taco Bros is the sort of neighbourhood place you wander into for something simple and good, then find yourself staying longer than planned, thinking, okay, we’ll order another round. Taco Bros grew from a taco truck and still carries that scrappy charm, though the new bricks and mortar space has its own warmth. Family photos, bright ceiling decorations and the hum of early evening give it the feel of a home kitchen that happens to pour margaritas. I started with the guacamole, which arrived with a heap of crisp tortilla chips and a bowl of green that kept a little of its rustic chunkiness, the sort that feels properly made by hand rather than fussed with. The fish tacos took me straight back to their market days: batter shatter-crisp, slaw bright, tortillas full of flavour. The lamb birria came with a jus that was rich and intensely fatty in the most comforting way, sharpened by white onion and lime. Even the chicken enchiladas felt like a quiet hug, all smoke and gentle heat. The margarita list is long and playful. I went for mango, sweet and sunny, though I found myself wishing it was a touch more sour. There’s a full spread of Mexican soft drink brand Jarritos too, including flavours I’d never seen before. I finished with churros, hot and crisp with enough dulce de leche to make me grateful for the walk home. tacobrosldn.co.uk Legado, Shoreditch For regional Spanish cuisine in a contemporary setting At Nieves Barragán Mohacho (chef-owner of Michelin-starred Sabor)’s regional Spanish restaurant, a bar complete with Estrella Galicia’s signature ceramic taps welcomes guests into the contemporary space. A wine rack spans almost an entire exposed brick wall and prime kitchen pass seats watch over chefs adding finishing touches to no fewer than nine menu sections. We were advised to order three to four dishes each, including two starters, a rice dish and a dessert to share. Things kicked off strong with pan tomate – the olive oil doused tomato toast elevated with dry-cured beef – and tempura-coated piquillo peppers filled with creamy goat’s cheese. Seafood highlights included glistening pan-fried squid stuffed with girolles set on a rich squid ink bisque and tiny fried camarones coated in glossy egg yolk. The ibérico lagarto pork atop rice cooked in earthy mushroom stock is a menu must-order, while sliced tomatoes topped with red mullet bottarga and shaved cured blue fin tuna heart were a surprise highlight. Dessert left us gleeful – saffron honey ice cream quenelle with white chocolate mousse and caramelised pistachios – and we’ll be back to try the Segovian sponge cake. Unique 3-sip amuse-bouche cocktails are served in quirky cups – Spanish bitter aperitif Bonanto is balanced with sharp, sweet rhubarb. To follow, there are multiple sangria options, plenty of Spanish-style gin tonics (re:strong!) and a regional wine and sherry list including my favourite albariño grape from Rías Baixas. olive tip: I would usually order suckling pig if on the menu, and the one at Sabor is epic, but we opted for the more manageable (for two) half pig’s head, deep-fried and sprinkled with jamón powder, which we pulled apart to find juicy treasures. legadorestaurants.com Alex Crossley Canal, Westbourne Park Tucked down a cobbled mews between Notting Hill and Maida Vale, and built into the new Mason & Fifth hotel-apartment complex, Canal is one of London’s most exciting recent openings. Its towpath perch on the Grand Union Canal sets a modern, urban stage for food that’s both precise and packed with flavour. Provenance is proudly front and centre – sourdough comes from Layla, while charcuterie like jamón and Mangalitza sausages arrive from Coombeshead Farm. The menu is cleverly pitched so there’s something for everyone. A fat diner-style cheeseburger bucks the smashburger trend and feels all the better for it, while scallops arrive plump and caramelised, served in their shells with ’nduja butter begging to be mopped up with that sourdough. Crab on toast is so fresh it tastes like it’s just left the boat, and chicken with sweetcorn and girolles might be the most impressive chicken breast you’ll eat this year. Desserts are just as memorable – a tiramisu that’s unapologetically boozy, and a brown butter almond cake with sour cherries that’s indulgent yet balanced. With seasoned owners and staff who know their craft, Canal feels confident from the start – we can’t wait to return. mason-fifth.com Barney Desmazery The Lavery For modern European cooking inside a Grade II-listed townhouse The Lavery is an elegant space in smart South Kensington, where you can expect chic yet understated Georgian interiors: high ceilings, wooden floors, beautiful fireplaces and floor-to-ceiling windows. The menu and service are as chic as the interiors – no surprise given that the kitchen is led by Yohei Furuhashi, former chef at River Café, Petersham Nurseries and Toklas. His menu showcases Mediterranean seasonality while incorporating ingredients from the British Isles. Starters strike a beautiful balance of fresh flavours, from grilled squid with fresh borlotti, rocket and chilli to Honeymoon melon with shaved courgette and almonds. Standout mains include Scottish sea trout baked in fig leaves and sea salt served with pea, fennel and basil aïoli, and linguine with lobster in tomato and vodka sauce. Desserts are worth lingering over, from a feather-light bean chocolate mousse to the perfect almond tart accompanied by strawberries and cream. You’ll be well looked after from the moment you arrive to the last lick of the dessert spoon. For excellent value, visit for the three-course set lunch menu for £38 per person. thelavery.co.uk Lily Barclay Noisy Oyster, Shoreditch For modern bistro dishes Noisy Oyster is a new opening from the team behind Soho’s Firebird – a sleek modern bistro with a focus on sustainable seafood and killer martinis. The room is an airy, industrial space with shiny, steel-topped tables and huge open windows leading onto a large buzzy terrace. Kick things off with one of the cult icy-cold mini martinis – the Oyster, made with Sapling gin, Otto’s vermouth and an oyster leaf garnish is great paired with a smoked tomato water and oyster dressed with crème fraîche. From the playful menu, small plate wins include a raw scallop crudo topped with zingy pickled raspberries and basil oil, and a dish of rich, creamy stracciatella topped with anchovies and almond pesto (don’t forget to order the light, puffy focaccia to spoon this onto). Guinness bread topped with a generous slick of whipped butter and piled with Yarra Valley red caviar is the obvious Instagrammable dish but still delicious. Standout larger plates include a crunchy breaded hake with a seasonal peach panzanella, and monkfish skewers with XO sauce, topped with a melting, paper-thin slice of lardo. We tried a twist on rum baba for dessert soaked in fig leaf bourbon and served with crème anglaise and strawberries but the soft-serve Jersey ice cream topped with caviar is intriguing enough for a repeat visit. noisyoysterlondon.co.uk Janine Ratcliffe Lai Rai, Peckham For modern Vietnamese Meet friends for fuss-free snacks and cold beers at this dinky new-school Vietnamese. With the name Lai Rai meaning ‘little by little’, the space is a homage to Vietnamese canteens, with a buttery colour palette, neon lighting and slick red stools. By day it serves bánh mì and Vietnamese coffee, by evening the menu evolves into playful twists on familiar Vietnamese flavours – you won't find any bowls of pho here. Smaller plates include crunchy prawn lollies on sugarcane stalks and a light, multicoloured papaya jellyfish salad with lumps of pineapple, charred tomatoes, fresh Viet herbs and peanuts, mopped clean with charred bánh mì chunks. Larger dishes feature a twice-cooked chicken leg atop a herby dressing and grilled betel leaf beef, bathed in a smoky pool of house-made coffee barbecue jus. Vietnamese-inspired cocktails include the Xoài Kick, a bracing mix of tequila, mango, red chillies and fruit salt, and a Viet coffee-laced vodka martini. Finish with a scoop of freshly churned ice cream made by small south London manufacturer Clingy Wrap, with unique flavours such as fish sauce vanilla caramel and kumquat cucumber sorbet. If you're looking for something altogether unexpected, you’ll find it here. lairai.london Helen Salter SINO, Notting Hill For Ukrainian fine dining Sino means “hay” in Ukrainian, but the word goes much deeper to encapsulate the country’s agricultural roots. At their contemporary fine-dining restaurant on All Saints Road, Ukrainian duo Polina Sychova and Eugene Korolev weave this concept into everything they do, from the menu to striking ceiling installation and handcrafted crockery. Interiors are soft, natural and warm – brushed clay walls, beige banquettes and linen drapes dressing the windows. Chef Eugene combines his Michelin-starred experience and Ukrainian heritage to revamp traditional dishes – bitesize potato and sorrel waffles stacked with sorrel-flecked soured cream and smoked pike roe; chicken kyiv presented in a bonbon-style sphere bursting with wild garlic butter alongside bison grass mash; and beef cheek dumplings bathing in oxtail broth spiced with star anise, fragrant with lemon verbena and umami-rich thanks to smoked mushroom garum. Don’t miss tartare-style marinated aubergine served with Kyyrma smoked cheese flatbread and spiced adjika dip to start. Elevated desserts include a riff on honey cake; its layers of honey and buckwheat flour crowned with buckwheat chocolate in a moat of whipped walnut sauce. Eastern European wines hail from Kyiv, Georgia’s Kakheti region and the Black Sea, while Ana Reznik’s cocktails play on nostalgic flavours from a childhood in Ukraine. sinorestaurant.co.uk Alex Crossley Tatar Bunar, Shoreditch For Ukrainian cuisine Southern Ukrainian cuisine is in the spotlight at this likeable new restaurant from Ukrainian restaurateurs Alex Cooper and Anna Andriienko. Named after Alex’s hometown of Tatarbunary, the menu is inspired by old family traditions and his grandmother’s recipes, as well as the richness of Bessarabian produce. There’s also a wine list packed with Ukrainian producers. Interiors are a soothing lush blend of creamy neutrals and natural textures with materials sourced from Eastern Europe such as reclaimed Carpathian wood and Bessarabian stone, with ceramics from Kyiv artist Svetlana Sholomitska. We start with forshmak: chunky dollops of finely chopped herring pâté on onion bread, the oily richness balanced by a disc of pink pickled onion and smoked soured cream. Bryndza, a crumbly, tangy, feta-like sheep’s milk cheese is topped with luscious slices of sweet tomato and sprat fillets for a caprese-like dish with an Eastern Europe spin. On the heartier side, banush – cornmeal and cream porridge – is velvety, cheesy and comforting, topped with meaty wild mushrooms. Mains come from the grill: we tried charred, juicy lamb chop served with yogurt, flavoursome pickled tomatoes and a bright and spicy sauce made with red peppers, the latter of which also accompanies tender, delicate grilled rabbit. Desserts are robust and rib-sticking. Crème brûlée comes with a secret surprise inside – a sturdy steamed varenyk dumpling filled with soft cheese – while crêpes come with three individual fillings: poppy seed sauce, blackcurrant jam and cottage cheese, all swimming in creamy custard. Tatar Bunar is generous to a fault – portions are sizeable, the glasses of wine are large and the flavours are bold and unapologetic. A refreshing addition to London's restaurant scene. @tatarbunar.london Hannah Guinness Lupa, Highbury For a neighbourhood Italian This cute neighbourhood corner spot is inspired by the osterias of Rome – where co-owner Ed Templeton lived for a time – with their comforting, simple dishes and casual, friendly atmosphere. The bright, breezy room feels fresh but keeps lots of the original charm intact, including the beautiful, almost floor to ceiling original windows. Chef Naz Hassan's menu is concise and a table of four could happily order most of the menu. Kick off with a punchy martini, heady with Malfy gin and fig leaf liqueur, and a snack of courgette flower stuffed with burrata, deep-fried and served on an umami courgette purée boosted with dashi. There are some pasta greatest hits – try the cacio e pepe with handmade pici in a generous slick of peppery, cheesy sauce. Mains include a thick slice of porchetta stuffed with apricot, gorgeously burnished with deep, crunchy crackling – order the creamy green vignarola veg as a perfect accompaniment. There are only two puddings but the tiramisu delivers – feather light and creamy with a proper kick of booze. Punters may book hoping to see a glimpse of co-owner Theo James (of White Lotus fame) but they’ll come back for the spot-on cooking. lupa.restaurant Janine Ratcliffe Osteria Angelina, Shoreditch For Italian and Japanese fusion Angelina in Dalston offers a unique fusion of Italian and Japanese cooking. This new offshoot caters to a more casual set-up, with tasting menus swapped out for a pick-and-mix of Italian-Japanese dishes and an open kitchen and pasta studio to be viewed from marble-topped tables. Small plates are split into pane (hello nori-flecked focaccia), insalate including Usman's magic mirin and star anise tricolore tomato salad, crudos, such as tuna belly with citrussy ponzu and wasabi, and fritti featuring courgette flowers stuffed with creamy miso and caramelised onion ricotta, topped with hazelnut furikake for extra crunch. Pastas are a highlight – the menu advises to order a couple and we agree. Kombu and truffle laced tortellini contrasts slow-cooked duck ragu and crunchy lotus flower pieces on folds of fazzoletti. Larger grill dishes include umami-rich grilled chicken in taro sauce slathered in miso butter, best paired with okonomiyaki-style shoestring fries. Finish with bruléed black sesame cheesecake or cheese panna cotta topped with caviar for a savoury burst. Playful combinations continue on the drinks list – Riso and Rosmarino pairs cynar and rosemary with sake and cucumber, while smoked pineapple and Sicilian smoked cactus distillate create a zippy Shinjuku Albatross. Lesser spotlighted regional Italian wines sit alongside sakes and a selection of digestifs including grappas and Japanese whiskies. angelina.london/osteria Alex Crossley Town, Covent Garden Stevie Parle's latest swishy, provenance-focused restaurant Any restaurant menu that opens with an extensive snack selection is on the money for London 2025: fried sage leaves with heather honey and chilli are a cocktail’s perfect partner. At Town, the new venue from Stevie Parle and Jonathan Downey the vibe is very much a modern take on early James Bond cool and classy. There’s a standalone bar (cocktails by Kevin Armstrong of Satan’s Whiskers fame, 3 choices of martini natch) which draws the eye on one side, while the space age pass to the kitchen is ringed in glowing baize green and every bit of detail from the ceiling to the frosted glasses shouts ‘attention’. The provenance of produce is equally hot. Wildfarmed beef is raised for the restaurant and served wine-cured with crunchy candied walnuts and posh ‘cheese whizz’, as steaks or in fat form as the cooking medium for pink fir potatoes. There are Seasalter clams swimming in sherry or as a main, curried with cod; Isle of Mull scallops with smoked chilli butter and Kentish asparagus swathed in Mangalista lardo. Kasmiri saffron risotto is served with bone marrow to be scooped out and stirred through, mighty rich in flavour and a show-off on the plate. Buttermilk pudding with roasted nespole (loquats) or a scoop of Todoli lemon and Thai basil sorbet make a refreshing end. There is of course an excellent wine list. town.restaurant Lulu Grimes Kerfield Arms, Camberwell Popular NE London pub team heads south of the river The team behind Islington favourite The Baring has kept things stripped back and simple at their new south London pub. The Victorian-era building boasts plenty of space to play with – for now, a bar with independent brews on tap divides a casual area dedicated to drinkers and walk-ins and a dining room for the full shebang, with the promise of outdoor seating and a private dining room next to the first-floor kitchen to come. To kick things off, a silky house martini combines olive oil fat washed Sapling gin and fennel-infused vermouth, while cherry blossom liqueur and sparkling rosé add spring flourish to a French 75. Order a portion of fried pizza dough fingers to scoop up taramasalata while you peruse the menu of seasonal stars. In the inaugural shish kebab, melting squiggles of squid and lardo slivers are barbecued on a skewer and served in spiced pul biber butter along with shaved fennel and whispy monk’s beard. Half a beefy smoked Marmande tomato, topped with cubes of smoked ricotta and pangrattato crumb, is balanced in a moat of zippy tomato consommé. For mains, grilled monkfish comes with tiny waxy Jersey Royals and friarielli greens in a rich shrimp bisque, while four pink, succulent Yorkshire hogget chops are nestled into a plate of violet artichokes, plump broad beans, creamy bagna cauda and rich hogget reduction. The short but strong dessert menu includes strawberry and chamomile custard doughnuts and chocolate olive oil mousse with rustic brownie and crème fraîche. thekerfieldarms.co.uk Alex Crossley Pyro, London Bridge Greek restaurant where smoke and fire do the talking Just a few minutes from Borough Market is Pyro, a light-filled, open-kitchen spot where smoke and fire do the heavy lifting. Headed up by Yiannis Mexis, formerly of Hide, the Greek menu leans into open-flame cooking with balance and control. Potato pita is essential: pillowy, dotted with onion seeds and perfect for scooping up cooling tzatziki or smoky aubergine topped with walnuts and pomegranate. A pork pluma skewer is rich, roasted and herb-packed, expertly balanced with sour apple. Sea bream crudo, by contrast, is light and bright – green olive and caper leaf add savoury lift, while precisely diced chillies lend occasional, welcome heat. The octopus is soft and lightly charred, paired with a spiced red wine sauce and silky yellow split pea. Lamb, cooked over alder wood, is standout – tender, subtly sweet, served with lamb-fat flatbreads and an anchovy-spiked yogurt. Sides more than pull their weight: crisp layered potatoes with garlicky skordalia and a confidently simple lettuce salad. Portokalopita, soaked with citrus syrup and served with a perfumed citrus leaf ice cream, ends things on a bright note. Pyro is a restaurant that lets fire do the talking but knows when to let something stay cool, crisp or raw. It’s considered and deeply satisfying. pyrorestaurant.co.uk Lydia Anderson The Knave of Clubs, Shoreditch Lovingly restored pub with rotisserie kitchen The Knave of Clubs is back on the East End pub scene with a proper old-school flourish. Originally serving the bird market traders on Club Row in the 1880s, this local continued life as an East End boozer until the 1990s when it underwent a full transformation into French restaurant Les Trois Garçons for a decade or so. The pub has been lovingly restored on the ground floor, huge wall mirrors have been unearthed and polished, the bar revamped and a toastie, oyster, snack and rotisserie chicken menu installed. The driving force behind this redo are Benjy Leibowitz (ex NYC’s NoMad), James Dye (The Camberwell Arms) and Patrick Powell (ex Allegra) all of whom are committed to the local feel of the pub – it’s one big room with the rotisserie kitchen at the end open. You can book for lunch (advised, it’s popular) and evenings are walk-in, dogs are welcome and the vibe is buzzy. Try the prawn scotch eggs and venison sausage rolls to start. There's only one dessert, a very good chocolate mousse. theknaveofclubs.co.uk Lulu Grimes Bubala, King's Cross Popular Middle Eastern small plate restaurant opens its third site The third spot from Marc Summers (Berber & Q) boasts its very own wood-fired oven, as well as a bright, light-filled space and high ceilings – unlike its cosier counterparts in Soho and Shoreditch – and with shelves adorned with pickle jars and greenery. Trust that ‘Bubala Knows Best’ with the vegetarian or vegan set menus. Start with a pickle plate – three types all in different brines – closely followed by the superlative dips. The beyond silky baba ganoush comes with a well of curry leaf oil and toasted pine nuts, alongside a sleek fava bean dip with vadouvan. Smoky laffa bread is fresh off the grill and wonderfully charred. The oyster mushroom skewer with tamari and coriander seed is a stand-out dish with umami meatiness that will convince even the staunchest mushroom naysayers. Crisp falafel with a vibrant green centre is served with tangy mango pickle amba and sumac onions. Even something as simple as a side salad is injected with Bubala flair – oak and mustard leaves with onion, pomegranate molasses and mint is a refreshing complement to the deep-fried falafel, charred, smoky vegetables and creamy dips. Wash it all down with a spicy margarita rimmed with flecks of char from the grill. bubala.co.uk Emily Marten Dove, Notting Hill A Jackson Boxer revamp into a true neighbourhood gem Jackson Boxer's latest venture is a revamp on the same site as seafood restaurant Orasay – a place the chef wants to be familiar and accessible but still feel special and playful. This is evident in the menu, where comforting classics are peppered with pops of intrigue, such as octopus gildas to start alongside fino sherry and tonic. The springy, deep-fried potato pizzette comes laden with folds of mortadella and a huge burrata ball, while the yuzu-laced tuna tostada makes a lighter option. Next, four helmeted grilled Atlantic prawns in a zippy smoked garlic and black lime butter and Iberiko tomatoes drizzled in spicy chilli oil and soured cream. The must-order (if you can, only 10 are made for each service) is an umami-rich hunk of a burger formed from 50-day, dry-aged beef rib cap, brisket and chuck, flame-grilled with gorgonzola dolce and champagne-braised Lyonnaise onions so caramelised and melded together in a glazed potato roll… best accompanied with crunchy duck fat chips. Those too late are rewarded instead with steamed hake and Romana courgette in a rich champagne broth or sharing cuts such as wood-roast chicken in Café de Paris butter, 30-day Tamworth pork double loin chop and 50-day Highland beef sirloin chop. Finish with a retro-chic fior di latte soft serve doused in peppery olive oil with chewy oat cookies on the side. Paired with Orasay’s original interiors, elegant yet unfussy in style with earthy-hued linens and exposed brick walls, this next iteration takes Dove into true neighbourhood haunt territory. dove.london Alex Crossley Crunch, Soho Smash-hit sandwiches go upmarket in this slick new all-day Soho spot Landing on the buzzy corner of Dean Street and Old Compton Street, Crunch brings its cult-followed Spitalfields sandwiches to a permanent Soho address – and the result is part elevated sandwich shop, part stainless steel lined sandwich theatre. The vibe is sleek but casual, with polished metal counters, high stools and a front-row view of the sandwich station, where flat iron steaks hit the grill and brioche buns get that signature toast. The menu is concise but clever – the main event is the Soho-exclusive steak sandwich, a decadent, juicy, grass-fed beef patty in golden, crisp-edged brioche. Don’t skip sides: the thousand-layer crispy potatoes with bloody mary ketchup are addictive, and the lasagne bites are punchy, deep-fried delights. For something sweet, the deep-fried french toast made from brioche offcuts, custard-soaked and topped with apple, chocolate chunks and dulce de leche, is reason enough to linger. The service is fast and friendly, perfect for solo diners perched at the bar or a quick lunch with a friend. A breakfast menu is on the way, too – worth keeping an eye on for early morning indulgence. sandwichuprising.com Best new London restaurant openings in late 2024 Babbo, St John's Wood Smart yet relaxed Italian dining, serving updated trattoria classics with finesse Tucked away in St John’s Wood, Babbo brings a refined yet welcoming modern touch to classic Italian trattoria fare. The space is elegant yet relaxed, striking the right balance between sophistication and comfort. Service is warm and efficient, making it the kind of place for both special occasions and relaxed midweek dinners. The meal begins with a generous bread basket – five types, all fresh and warm from the oven. Starters include perfectly cooked zucchini fritti and a clever take on veal tonnato, studded with hazelnuts for added depth and texture. The lobster spaghetti is rich with a deeply flavoured bisque base and vibrant tomato notes, while the grilled lamb chops arrive perfectly pink and full of smoky char. On the side, potatoes al forno steal the show, extra crunchy and moreish. As well as a full menu Babbo also serves pizza which, although we didn’t try them on this visit, looked signature thin and crisp. From the desserts, tiramisu is the standout – light, creamy and classic. Pair it with a strong espresso or a glass of vin santo to finish. With a well-balanced menu of updated Italian classics, Babbo offers some of the best trattoria-style cooking in London – refined, comforting and worth returning for. babborestaurant.co.uk Barney Desmazery AngloThai, Marylebone Thai flavours with British ingredients AngloThai is the debut restaurant from husband and wife team John and Desiree Chantarasak, and marks the culmination of a nearly four-year site search after numerous highly successful pop-ups and residencies. Now the couple bring their unique vision for contemporary Thai-British cuisine to the historic Seymour Place in London’s vibrant Marylebone neighbourhood. À la carte by day and tasting menu by night, the menu is full of dishes that blend the bold flavours of Thailand with modern presentation and innovative techniques, while still respecting traditional cooking styles. It also adapts to the seasonal offerings of the British Isles, and is paired with a wine list that champions thoughtful producers and superior craftsmanship. This 44-cover restaurant was one of the hottest tables of 2024 and the momentum is carrying over to 2025, with AngloThai winning it's first Michelin star. anglothai.co.uk Janine Ratcliffe Silva, Mayfair For varied all-day dining Silva, the Latin word for forest, carries this theme in its interiors with woodland friezes and natural tones in the airy dining room and snug bar. A compact, seasonal menu takes inspiration from the Med and Japan with a raw section designed to wake up the palate – wild sea bass crudo, jalapeño, yuzu and ginger dressing has delicate tang. Classic steak tartare is made hearty by topping a chunky potato waffle and a signature dish of crispy egg with girolle and parmesan sauce is also a generous starter. Lighter mains like roasted cauliflower with butter beans and caponata or steamed halibut are balanced by the more robust Creedy Carver duck with coco beans and addictive rosemary and garlic roasties. Silva’s busy kitchen team, headed up by Slawomir Sawicki, can be seen through the street-facing windows below a pretty striped awning on the increasingly restaurant-focussed Bruton Place. Open all day from breakfast to dinner. silvarestaurant.co.uk Leydi, Holborn Viaduct Sharing plates from Istanbul Leydi sees the return of the talented Selin Kiazim (previously Oklava) to London and brings with it the spirit of Istanbul, serving an all-day menu oozing with Turkish favourites but with Selin’s unique modern twist. Launched opposite the Old Bailey in an area in Farringdon with an abundance of history, the restaurant pays tribute to the vibrancy of Istanbul’s eating culture, featuring generous, celebratory Turkish food meant to be shared and savoured. The drinks menu boasts bespoke creations from Kevin Patnode, two-time winner of the best bartender in Turkey, in addition to a transcontinental wine list with a distinctive Turkish influence. With décor featuring plush banquettes, warm lighting and understated references to Istanbul’s architecture and interiors that can only be described as elegant, this intimate 90-cover dining room sets its sights on charming the capital. leydilondon.com Janine Ratcliffe The Grill at The Hero, Maida Vale Sustainably sourced meat and fish cooked over open fire Find this beautiful dining room above one of west London’s busiest locals. While the pub serves great-value comfort food, like sausage and mash, and cheese and onion pie, The Grill’s focus is on sustainably sourced meat and fish cooked over open fire. Gutsy dishes like sweetbreads with lobster gravy make it a destination, alongside grilled monkfish tail, turbot, pork chop or ribeye with elevated sides of honeyed chicory, jerusalem artichokes and excellent chips. For the best experience, book a booth facing the open kitchen but, wherever you sit, the unique waiter station which stretches the entire length of the room, makes you feel part of the action. Wood panels and leather seating create a grown-up, calming atmosphere. theherow9.com/the-grill/ Christine Hayes Wildflowers, Belgravia Stylish restaurant and wine bar with a Med focus Partners Laura Hart, whose background is in interior and floral design, and chef Aaron Potter, have created a space that’s welcoming and stylish in equal measure. Med-inspired dishes are cooked over coal in an open kitchen, cocktails are imaginative twists on classics (try a melon negroni or almost-dirty martini) and its understated design encourages you to relax and linger over your food. The menu includes little intrigues like Romeo & Juliets (cheese and quince one-bites) and the best versions of trending dishes like sugar pit pork chop, Galician ex-dairy ribeye with smoked bone marrow rice and fior di latte gelato – a soft serve that’s reminiscent of Wimpy, in the best possible way. Upstairs the light-filled wine bar offers a decent selection by the glass and Italian-style snacks, making it an ideal place to swing by when shopping at nearby King’s Road or Pimlico Road’s upscale interior design quarter. wildflowersrestaurant.co.uk Christine Hayes Fonda, Heddon Street For regional Mexican dishes Santiago Lastra, chef-owner of Mexican fine dining restaurant Kol, brings a more informal option to Heddon Street. A fonda is a Mexican family-run inn, to which there are nods in the décor (earthy tones, handwoven fabrics and Mexican crafts), regional Mexican menu and homely touches, including a trio of salsas – smoky salsa macha, lively gooseberry salsa verde and fiery salsa roja – brought to the table for customers to apply to dishes as they wish. Kick off with Yucatan ground pumpkin seed speciality sikil pak topped with vibrant green pine oil and deep-fried totopos. Specials include tuna belly crudo in soy, sesame and fermented gooseberry dressing; and quesadillas stuffed with Oaxacan-style cheese from Canterbury. The traditional clay comal is the kitchen’s focal point and the dedicated comal list includes Marmite beer-battered baja fish dressed with chipotle mayo, Hispi cabbage and pistachio guacamole. Costra is an elevated tribute to CDMX post-clubbing snacks – 30-day aged rib-eye topped with grilled spenwood and manchego infused with macha sauce.Moving on to sharing mains – black sesame, short rib stock and chocolate paste take centre stage in the rich, 60-ingredient short rib mole. Charred adobo-laced monkfish comes on soft Ratte potatoes doused in Arbol chilli infused butter. For dessert, Santi's American cheesecake topped with blackcurrant compote is a popular choice; steamed corn tamales are doused in butterscotch cream and silky chocolate sorbet laced with Oaxacan oak-smoked pasilla chilli oil is a surprising highlight. Santiago’s commitment to sourcing British ingredients continues through to cocktails – think fresh gooseberry juice and rhubarb liqueur to add zing to margaritas; and rhubarb palomas rimmed with gooseberry salt. Honcho the sloth guides guests down to the basement dining room and agave bar for a mezcal night cap. fondalondon.com Alex Crossley Three Little Darlings, Chelsea 'English bistro' with an all-day menu Jason and Irha Atherton’s ‘English bistro’ is named for their three daughters. Its all-day menu appeals equally to families, to groups of friends and for date nights, with seasonal variations and sensible pricing to encourage regular visits. Choose your spot on the covered terrace off Pavilion Road or take a seat in front of the pass and watch the chefs cooking on the Josper grill. Sharing small plates include woodfired fermented Orkney scallop with fermented miso; char siu Shorthorn short ribs; octopus with butter bean aïoli and Yukon Gold cooked in the embers with Lincolnshire Poacher – a posh twist on a cheesy baked potato. The quality of ingredients elevates the experience and surprising twists are designed to delight: monkfish tail is served with a wedge of vibrant Baches citrus; and skate wing schnitzel with katsu sauce and lime. Desserts range from comforting to luxe – bun and butter pudding or soft serve topped with caviar. The wine-curious may be rewarded with a trip to the secret cellar. threedarlingslondon.com Christine Hayes Stay tuned for more reviews of new restaurants in London Reviews by Janine Ratcliffe, Christine Hayes, Lulu Grimes, Helen Salter, Hannah Guinness, Alex Crossley, Lydia Anderson Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Discover our favourite places to eat in this high-end pocket of central London, from glamorous dining rooms to great-value mezze joints
Looking for Fitzrovia restaurants? Check out our ideas for eating and drink in London's Fitzrovia, from Charlotte Street to Wells Street and beyond. Next, discover the best restaurants in Marylebone, best restaurants in Kings Cross, best restaurants in Soho and the hottest new London restaurant openings. Best places to eat and drink in Fitzrovia Arros QD, Eastcastle Street – for flame-led Valencian cooking You might not expect to discover traditional Valencian food just off Oxford Street, so Arros QD is a welcome find. Everything here revolves around fire, from smoky cocktails at in-house Fuego Bar to wood-fired paella and fideuà cooked in the open kitchen. Start at Fuego Bar for a pre-dinner drink – bartender-recommended Sol Y Humo is a vermouth-based cocktail topped up with cava, and spice lovers can’t go wrong with La Picante. I’ve got my eye on the signature bar snacks for next time, particularly the smoked gilda or iberian charcoal presa skewer. Once seated, overlooking the flames, kick things off with the Valencian kale salad. It’s fresh and zingy thanks to tamarillo dressing, Valencian citrus and kumquat with a clever tomato jelly mixed through tableside. For mains, fideuà is a must. Similar to paella but made with short, thin noodles instead of rice, the duck and eel version is spectacular, and a rare find in London – confit duck leg, caramelised eel and shiitake mushrooms cooked in a deeply savoury veal and herb stock. Designed for sharing, the paellas and fideuà arrive in impressive pans and are prepared using the traditional Valencian method, so expect a crisp base, or ‘socarrat’. If you still have room, finish with the warm chocolate cake, or head back to Fuego Bar for one last cocktail to end the night. arrosqd.com Motorino, Pearson Square – for modern London-Italian fare Modern and open, Stevie Parle’ and Luke Ahearne’s Italian-inspired bar-restaurant is a space for all occasions – quick lunches, group meals or cosy dinners. We started with Moto Classic martinis, then tore into springy rosemary-scented focaccia, complemented by crisp, acidic pickles. From the starters, delica pumpkin with stracciatella, candied hazelnuts and radicchio moved comfortably between sweet, creamy and bitter. But the dish that defined the meal was the agnolotti carbonara. Each small pinched pasta pocket was filled with a classic pecorino and yolk-rich carbonara, and topped with salty bites of guanciale. The fun comes from eating it whole, as it bursts between your teeth. Clever and deeply satisfying. An old spot chop, sliced into slabs, was juicy and beautifully cooked, where the pink becomes blush, the rich meat cut through by mustard fruits and apple. Cornish blonde ray followed, robust and flake-apart, with a shellfish sauce that added depth without dulling the fish. Olive tip: add a couple of glasses of the light Burgundy pinot noir and you have a perfectly balanced lunch. motorino.london Koba, Rathbone Street – for Korean charcoal barbecue Koba, Linda Lee’s Korean BBQ restaurant on Rathbone Street, has quietly reinvented itself after 20 years of pioneering Seoul-style DIY cooking. The beloved tabletop grills remain downstairs, ready for those who like to sizzle their own. But while below is party time, above it’s date night – a calm, softly lit space of wood, stone and warm light. The shift gives the chefs room to show off their skills, sending out a parade of dishes that play with contrast: heat and sweetness, crunch and silk. We dived into the £45 tasting menu after a shot of fragrant Korean wine, swapping a dish to suit our cravings. Kim mari, deep-fried seaweed rolls stuffed with prawn, are the snacks you’d happily trade your favourite crisps for, while mandu, pork-filled dumplings, are plump pillows of succulence. Then came dakgangjeong, fried chicken coated in a glossy honey-soy glaze, with chewy rice cakes catching the sauce. Both arrived with a flurry of banchan: tiny dishes of kimchi, omelette and pickled roots that turned the table into a colourful mosaic. We were firmly in bliss territory. From the barbecue section, daeji bulgogi, wafer-thin slices of spicy pork, delivered heat and smoke, followed by fat shell-on king prawns (saewoo gui), which we peeled and piled into lettuce leaves with crunchy kimchi and sauce. For theatre, our server stirred a pot of sticky dubu sotbab (tofu and vegetable rice) before piling it into bowls. Dessert was simple and refreshing: vanilla ice cream topped with dried persimmon, a milky nod to tradition. Olive tip: grab a seat at the bar for a yuzu martini before dining – the perfect way to ease into Koba’s new rhythm. kobalondon.com Luso, Charlotte Street — for authentic Portuguese plates Walking into Luso on Charlotte Street brings a sense of continuity and reset all at once. Formerly Lisboeta, it’s been rebadged and refreshed, but the cooking still sits firmly in Portugal. The room is long and narrow, a bright corridor of tables, with the open kitchen humming at the far end giving the whole place buzz and energy. We went straight for the small plates. Rustic sourdough arrived warm and ready for scoops of requeijão cream cheese – cool, milky, faintly tangy – and drapes of silky ibérico ham. A glass of Quinta do Montalto Cluricaun white from Lisbon slotted in neatly with the seafood. First, sweet clams at à bulhão pato, all garlic, coriander and briny liquor, then wild Iberian garlic prawns, plump and glossy with oil, the kind of dish that has you chasing the last of the sauce with bread. Mains kept things simple and sharp. Grilled wild sea bream came with corn migas – a comforting, savoury base that soaks up the fish juices without stealing the show. But the dish that really stuck was the leitão Segovian suckling pig jowl: a proper contrast of textures, brittle skin snapping cleanly before giving way to soft, fatty meat. Dessert was the chocolate mousse with olive oil and salt – dark, smooth and lifted by that savoury flicker at the end. Olive tip: There are three floors – the top works well for office get-togethers, downstairs suits intimate private dining but, for maximum atmosphere, try to nab the ground floor table nearest the pass to see the kitchen in full flow. luso.restaurant The Ninth, Charlotte Street – for contemporary French cuisine Jun Tanaka’s Michelin-starred Charlotte Street fixture has used its 10-year milestone to gently reset the dial. Long-time head chef Filippo Alessandri has been promoted to executive chef and is now shaping the menu’s next chapter, while keeping faith with the restaurant’s identity – robust French foundations with a Mediterranean tilt, celebrating produce of the season. On our visit, dainty crab and seaweed tartlets arrived like compact bites of the seaside – sweet crab, a saline lift and buttery pastry. Tongue and salt beef cheek on crispbread followed, rich and sticky in the best way, while a venison ragu with kale brought dark, winey comfort offset by the greens’ gentle bitterness. Mains were indulgent yet light. Ibérico pork pluma came pink and tender, bathed in an umami jus that clung to every slice. Grilled mackerel with rainbow chard, mussels and kale was the counterpoint: oily fish, clean smoke and a shellfish-laced savouriness. Then the inevitable return to the pudding that’s been on the menu since 2015. The pain perdu is made from brioche baked past the point of comfort, chilled overnight, soaked in custard, cubed, deep-fried, then brûléed to order. The result is a crackling caramel shell giving way to a molten, custardy centre – the kind of dessert that makes the rest of dinner feel like a prelude. Olive tip: Order Agria potatoes as if they’re roasties – they deserve their own fan club: thin-sliced, confited, pressed in butter, set overnight, cubed and fried until shatter-crisp yet somehow weightless. theninthlondon.com Elsa, Charlotte Street – for all-day grazing inspired by Alsace Alsatian-inspired food gets a glow-up in this cute new all-day space on Fitzrovia’s foodie hub, Charlotte Street. Share snacks like deep-fried munster (a mild, soft cheese) or pork and apricot terrine while lingering over a glass of low-intervention wine for lunch or early evening, or book for dinner where the highly seasonal menu might include white asparagus with brown butter; braised sausage with mustard and sauerkraut; rhubarb and custard crêpe. A small, well-curated drinks list features lighter versions of classics like melon negroni and the best Alsatian riesling and pinot gris. elsabistro.co.uk The George, Cleveland Street – for elevated pub classics Tucked just behind Oxford Circus on the edge of Fitzrovia, the George serves the same menu upstairs and down though it’s a very different vibe in each space. Downstairs a dark wood classic London pub, buzzing with drinkers spilling out onto the pavement. Upstairs is much quieter with plush, soft green velvet seating and a calmer feel. The menu is a mixture of elevated pub classics with some modern touches. The black pudding scotch egg is perfectly done with a nicely runny-ish yolk – and comes with an addictive Oxford sauce (brown sugar, vinegar and mustard, according to our server). The highly recommended fish and chips doesn’t disappoint – a shatteringly crisp batter piled with extra shards on top, perfectly golden fat chips and an extra order of curry sauce. It also comes in two sizes which is great for smaller appetites, although the small portion is still very generous. Desserts are comfortingly retro (banana split, sticky toffee pudding) or, if you’re too full, there’s an ‘Afters’ drinks section choose from, including a sticky toffee old fashioned or the famous George Irish coffee (the twist is the addition of a Guinness reduction which gives a deep malty edge). The beer selection is also well thought out and varied, with taps from Verdant, Northern Monk and Harbour Brewing. thegeorge.london 64 Goodge Street, Goodge Street – for classic French cooking There’s a quiet confidence to 64 Goodge Street. The vibe is grown-up but not stuffy – a polished wood armoire doubling as a cloakroom and frosted windows signal a more refined dining experience but the service is the right side of relaxed and well-paced. The menu is a Francophile’s dream: French classics are lightened and updated, a smoked eel vol-au-vent sets the tone with its rich, silky filling and shatteringly crisp shell, while a navarin of lamb wraps tender braised shoulder in a cabbage leaf, steeped in an elegant broth with spring vegetables. Mains are equally impressive – a brilliantly butchered saddle of rabbit with mustard sauce is robust but precise, and turbot Véronique, poached and served with grapes and beurre blanc, shows serious technical finesse. The wine list is tight but clever, with a focus on French bottles, and desserts are worth saving room for. We tried the best Paris-Brest we’ve ever eaten – crisp and light, filled with a praline crème diplomat that’s dangerously good. For cooking this accomplished, the pricing is almost baffling – three courses for under £60 makes this one of the best-value restaurants in central London. 64goodgestreet.co.uk The Newman Arms, Rathbone Street – for fancy pub grub This historic pub (it dates from 1730) has had a recent glow-up and a new menu, and the result is a warm, friendly spot that still feels like a proper pub at heart. Downstairs the bar has a fun, buzzy atmosphere but make your way up the winding wooden staircase and you’ll find a cosy dining room (or pie room as it’s billed) with a smarter look – think white linen tablecloths, wood panelling and plush velvet furnishings. The pies here are a bit fancier than your regular pub grub. A rich fish pie comes garnished with a large langoustine (clutching a tiny bottle of Tabasco in his claw) and a generous dollop of salmon roe. From the starters don’t miss the lamb scrumpets – slow-cooked lamb belly, breaded and fried to a perfect crispy morsel which is served with creamy tartare sauce. If you can fit dessert there’s only one and it’s a winner: a generous chunk of dark chocolate torte – rich and very shareable. The cocktail list is short and classic – try the twist on a black velvet made with Murphy’s stout and crémant, and served in an old-fashioned pewter tankard. thenewmanarms.co.uk Portland, Great Portland Street – for Michelin-starred dining Now in its 10th year, Portland stands as a beacon of understated excellence. Since it opened, this unpretentious gem has redefined fine dining by focussing on the confident cooking of exceptional ingredients and warm hospitality rather than starched linen. The current menu, curated by executive chef Chris Bassett and head chef Angelica Hope, is a celebration of British seasonality with dishes like roast monkfish paired with Exmoor caviar sauce, and a showstopping Highland beef wellington. The celebratory, great-value £55 four-course tasting menu encapsulates a decade of creativity, from crispy chicken skin with liver parfait to a sublime milk chocolate ganache. Portland’s modest charm extends to its thoughtful wine list, showcasing hidden gems alongside grand cru classics. With a loyal, savvy following and an ever-evolving food ethos, Portland remains a must-visit for those who appreciate elegance without airs. portlandrestaurant.co.uk Bar Kinky – for an intimate bar Hidden underneath modern Georgian restaurant Kinkally, Bar Kinky lives up to its name with sultry interiors and a bold, left-field approach to ingredients and flavours. The small 17-seater bar occupies a sleek, vault-like space with stainless steel walls, sensual red lighting and a techno music soundtrack. The focal point is the marble central island bar around which customers sit – the vibe is somehow intimate yet hectic, with bartenders offering attentive and speedy service. Cocktails look deceptively pared back but have plenty going on behind the scenes, from inventive ingredients to playful garnishes. Bossy is a delicious margarita/gimlet hybrid, with El Rayo Plata tequila, orange, hazelnut and cacao delivering layered flavours and delicate zestiness with soft chocolate notes, plus savouriness from a Georgian seasoning in lieu of a salt rim. Chocolate also plays its part in the smoky and seductively smooth Snatch, alongside truffle, vermouth and Ojo De Dios Mezcal; while Bureau, Bar Kinky’s take on a French 75, is a fruity, fizzy crushable delight with East London Gin, sparkling wine and a frozen pomegranate ball that keeps the drink chilled and subtly changes the flavour as it melts. kinkally.co.uk Akoko, Berners Street — for West African dishes Executive chef Ayo Adeyemi’s tasting menu is rooted in tradition but sharply executed with great imaginative flair. Dishes may include tatale (Ghanaian plantain pancakes) with cashew cream and caviar, or moi-moi (a steamed pudding of puréed black-eyed beans with onions, peppers and stock) served with the Afro-Brazilian seafood and coconut milk sauce, vatapá. akoko.co.uk Rovi, Wells Street – for veg-centric dishes Part of the Ottolenghi canon, Rovi’s a restaurant with vegetables, fermentation and fire at its heart. As is the trend, there are small and large plates available at lunch and dinner with veg punching way above their weight. Corn ribs have already become an Instagram star, taking inspiration from a Momofuku dish – the corn quartered, deep-fried, glazed in apricot sauce, baked then dusted with chipotle sauce. It’s as ridiculously good as it sounds – sweet, sticky, smoky and spicy. Hot tomatoes (roasted yellow and red cherry tomatoes) with cold yogurt, herbs and bags of dark urfa chilli displays a simple but masterful grasp of what feels good in the mouth. There’s plenty more that’s great on the menu – including crumpet lobster toast (think posh prawn toast) with kumquat and chilli sauce – but you won’t go far wrong sticking with the veg. ottolenghi.co.uk/pages/locations/rovi Chishuru, Great Titchfield Street After a summer as a pop-up in 2020, Chishuru now has a permanent home in Fitzrovia with Nigerian-born chef Adejoké Bakare at the helm. She's recently become the first Black woman in the UK – and only second in the world – to be awarded a Michelin star. The set menu dinner includes dishes such as deep-fried quail, cured mackerel and grilled celeriac cake. chishuru.com Roka, Charlotte Street – for elegant Japanese robatayaki The original Charlotte Street branch of this elegant Japanese restaurant is centred around an open kitchen, home to a large, coal-fired robata grill. Sit at the striking wraparound counter, or on a table beneath jewel-like jars of homemade ferments, to taste a succession of contemporary robatayaki dishes. We suggest selecting something from each of the menu’s sections (with a sparkling yuzu and cherry-laced sakura cocktail in hand while choosing). Snacks, salads and tempura include chunky beef and ginger gyozas, crisp prawn and shisho leaf tempura and silky aubergine salad topped with fluttering, umami-rich katsuobushi flakes. Roka's signature tokusen sushi comes next – yellowtail tartare laced with chilli, served in a pot over ice with a wooden spoon to scoop onto puffed rice crackers. From the robata grill, yuzu miso-coated black cod served in a dried hoba (magnolia) leaf is so delicate it melts at a slight touch, while a heartier rack of baby back pork ribs has a tingling edge courtesy of sansho pepper. To mark its 20th anniversary, the restaurant has curated a £20 set menu, signature dishes and special events to celebrate. rokarestaurant.com Honey and Smoke, Great Portland Street – for Middle Eastern mezze Honey and Smoke, the younger sister to nearby Honey and Co. brings the flavours and flair of Jerusalem grill houses to Fitzrovia. There’s a cool yet casual vibe, with rough plaster walls, teal-blue tiles, pops of primary colour and shelves lined with tubs of tahini. Upstairs there’s a slick five-seater bar, while downstairs, the open kitchen is the focus. Go with a group to make the most of the seasonal sharing menu; velvety smooth hummus with diddy triangles of fluffy pitta, feta fritters filled with a sweet pea centre and charred asparagus-adorned labneh. After a mezze feast, tuck into grilled meats, fish and veggies. Slow-cooked lamb falls effortlessly from the bone with a side of gently-roasted plums and dried rose petals. Saffron-marinated chicken thighs have a kick of heat, while scorched orange segments burst with smoky sweetness. Accompany with buttery, almond-flecked basmati rice. Honey and Co.’s signature cheesecake has made its way over to the dessert menu, the crunchy kadaif noodle base topped with a dollop of whipped feta, a drizzle of honey and fresh mint. A regularly changing wine list matches the season, with a few bottles from the Middle East making an appearance, from a light Palestinian cremisan to herby maia red from Israel. If you want a booze-free option, the refreshing orange blossom iced tea has a gentle sweetness. honeyandco.co.uk Pahli Hill, Mortimer Street – for regional Indian dishes Named after one of Mumbai’s oldest neighbourhoods, Pahli Hill’s menu reflects its diverse culinary heritage, offering regional dishes from all over India. Colourful original Indian artwork and fabrics, booth-seating and a view into the open kitchen give the restaurant a contemporary feel, while its Bandra Bhai basement bar delights in its dimly lit, smuggler’s-den vibe. With a tequila-based saffron cocktail in hand, graze on papadi chat, a dip of contrasting flavours and textures, including pumpkin, spiced yogurt, wheat crackers and sev (crispy gram flour noodles), tamarind chutney and vibrant pops of pomegranate. Bangalore-born chef Avinash Shashidhara’s experience in high-end UK restaurants is clear in this menu, which utilises top-quality British ingredients. Mangalore buns – two warm, bready pockets – are served with a generous pile of spiced Scottish crab. Highlights from the tandoor include chicken tikka with cucumber noodles, mint and horseradish. The pumpkin kofta is light and fragrant, and for a veggie feast, it's perfect served with a long ‘paper dosa’ or flaky flatbread and chutneys. pahlihillbandrabhai.com Punch Room at The London EDITION – for cocktails Hidden in the depths of the glamorous London EDITION hotel, this bar is a cocoon of wood panelling and blue-grey velvet banquettes where creatives gather for hushed conversations over iconic punch-style cocktails. An electric fire casts a cosy ambience across the lounge area and there’s a steady stream of shaking and stirring at the free-standing bar in the corner. The menu plays with light, and drinks are split into three sections – opaque, translucent and transparent. From the latter, completely clear drinks include the silky, mezcal-based Halo of Smoke with a kick from cayenne pepper, fragrant Bergamot liqueur Italicus and a fresh, grassy lift from coriander, basil and parsley oil dropped in. Fireball Punch has a tropical edge while negroni fans should order the unique Mother of Pearl, with Campari playing its part in a bittersweet pink foam that sits atop a clear Sakura cherry vermouth infused liquid. An eclectic choice of bar food ranges from the likes of toasted brioche rolls filled with tempura prawns, marie rose and trout caviar to crisp chicken tenders lifted with jalapeño and even mini versions of Berner Tavern comfort food, such as mac and cheese with braised beef blade. editionhotels.com Clipstone, Clipstone Street – for date night Clipstone is on a corner of Clipstone Street in Fitzrovia and is the sister to nearby (and Michelin-starred) Portland, a modern-European dining room set up by restaurateurs Will Lander and Daniel Morgenthau with chef Merlin Labron-Johnson. Both restaurants pride themselves on high-quality cooking, wine and service, but Clipstone is more casual – here, you can have freshly made sourdough flatbreads from a pizza oven, left-over from the Italian restaurant that was here before it. There are larger plates including homemade ravioli of hay-baked carrot and ricotta with brown butter and hazelnuts and a tempting array of desserts – lemon sheep’s milk ice cream, for example, and the ultimate Paris-Brest (a Parisian bistro classic). Drinks-wise, there are several wines on tap and, for something soft, homemade sodas (including yuzu-ade) and watermelon iced tea. It’s all set in a warm, elegantly designed space – expect reclaimed stone, natural linens and outdoor seating. clipstonerestaurant.co.uk Circolo Popolare, Rathbone Place – for a group dinner This extravagant Italian trattoria (the second London outpost from Big Mamma group) is ideal for a fun group dinner – it’s buzzy, loud and seemingly the place to be (booking is essential, unless you want to brave the walk-in queue that snakes round the block). The interiors set the tone – lights twist into foliage hanging from the ceilings, walls are jam-packed with colourful memorabilia (photo frames, ceramic plates, candelabras) and shelves groan with every liquor imaginable – there are tens of thousands of bottles. Kick things off with the Big Mamma cocktail, a refreshing vodka, lime and ginger ale concoction served in a mermaid-painted glass, or one of the restaurant’s takes on Italian aperitifs and spritzes – we loved the Spritz Veneziano with herbaceous Plymouth thyme gin, prosecco, blood orange bitters and a gobstopper-sized olive for good measure. There are also sharing cocktails served in giant strawberry ceramics and champagne buckets. The food is centred around produce from Sicily – share a huge burrata with pesto or deep-fried courgette flowers to start. Mains are ideal for groups, too, with carbonara served in a pecorino wheel and silk handkerchief pasta covered in Tuscan pork ragu and aubergines, both meant for two. Tongue-in-cheek-named pizzas include I Wanna Nduja (San Marzano tomato and smoked mozzarella with subtle heat from ’nduja, spicy sausage and chilli), Elizabeth Regina topped with Sicilian herbs, prosciutto and ricotta cream, and vegetarian Emrata Burrata with creamy burrata heart, almonds, capers and olives. For dessert there’s a hefty 5.9-inch-high slice of lemon meringue pie, or creamy, boozy tiramisu spooned straight from the dish.bigmammagroup.com Kiss the Hippo – for coffee The second branch of this sleek coffee shop (see our brunch guide for info on the original spot in Richmond) offers breakfast and brunch classics alongside top-notch coffee. Expect plenty of niche brews, from Ugandan nitro cold brew and a fresh, bright option from Yemen to their classic George Street blend with notes of blackberry, caramel and chocolate. Dishes include vegan options such as avocado on toast with toasted seeds and chilli flakes, and scrambled tofu with red pepper and herbs on toast. An indulgent eggs benedict is served in an Insta-worthy croissant bun, while mushrooms on toast is slathered in black olive tapenade and shaved Italian cheese.kissthehippo.com Al Dente, Goodge Street – for pasta This neighbourhood glass-fronted pasta spot is a casual affair, with simple black and white walls, a reggaeton soundtrack and a fridge packed with colourful San Pellegrino cans. In front of the small open kitchen, creations from the on-site pasta lab are laid out in all shapes and sizes to take away, from twirly fusilli to ribbed tubes of maccheroni and filled tortelli. After a starter of fresh tomato cubes on toasted focaccia doused in Sicilian olive oil, tuck into an array of handmade pasta dishes. Spaghettoni coated in a silky, yolk-yellow sauce jewelled with salty guanciale (complete with melty fat) and pecorino cheese makes a top-notch carbonara, while large tubes of paccheri soak up a sweet tomato sauce of finely minced beef and vegetables. Vegetarian options include the peppery punch of cacio e pepe tossed through chewy worms of tonnarelli (thicker spaghetti), and ravioli parcels filled with pumpkin and ricotta adorned with crispy sage. Simple desserts are well executed, with ricotta-filled housemade cannoli, and thick folds of mascarpone layered with boozy sponge in a Kilner jar tiramisu. The wine list showcases producers from across Italy – floral Umbrian San Giovanni, rich Puglian primitivo, and soft, smooth chianti from Tuscany. <pastificioaldente.com Flesh & Buns, Berners Street – for Nikkei cuisine Nikkei cuisine and on-demand pisco sours define the vibe at Flesh & Buns’s newest site. While Flesh & Buns’s trademark bao buns still make an appearance, the menu focusses on nikkei (Peruvian-Japanese fusion) cuisine – from tiger prawn toban with aji amarillo (a Peruvian chilli), ponzu butter and shiso, to fish and seafood tiraditos (a cross between Peruvian ceviche and Japanese sashimi). There’s also new dishes created using Ross’s new wood smoker – including chilli miso brisket and bath chap with butternut squash kimchi. Portions are generous. Korean-fried chicken wings come slathered in a fiery, tangy sauce while smoked pork ribs are two huge, succulent bronzed slabs glazed in aji amarillo honey. A ceviche of sea bass with cherry tomato, pickled kumquat and rocoto tiger’s milk (the citrussy curing marinade in a ceviche) is delicate and spicy all at once. fleshandbuns.com/restaurants/oxford-circus/ Words by Ellie Edwards, Alex Crossley, Charlotte Morgan, Laura Rowe, Jordan Kelly-Linden, Hannah Guinness, Nicki Smith Photographs by Patricia Niven and BAO Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Chelsea Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Check out our pick of the best pasta spots in London, from dedicated pasta bars such as Padella to Italian restaurants specialising in pasta
Looking for the best pasta in London? Pasta is having a moment. From Padella in Borough Market to Emilia’s Crafted Pasta in St Katherine Docks and Burro e Salvia in Shoreditch, the last five years has seen a crop of new openings that specialise in freshly made plates of the stuff – carb loading has never been so cool. Here's our pick of the best pasta restaurants in London... Now discover the best dining experiences in London. Marcella, Deptford Marcella is a restaurant for almost every occasion: introducing friends to the area, taking parents out for lunch or settling into a reliably good local date night. It always feels like the right choice. Sitting on Deptford High Street, the dining room is light, airy and simply decorated, with an easy neighbourhood feel. I usually aim for a window seat, perfect for watching the rhythm of the high street while lingering over a long lunch or dinner. The menu is short, seasonal and ever-changing, handwritten on a chalkboard (and shared on Instagram for those who like to plan ahead). Cooking here is classic Italian in spirit: unfussy, confident and driven by excellent produce. Think crisp puntarelle alla romana, bucatini alla gricia, casarecce with a sausage and saffron ragu – all rooted in familiar flavours but handled with finesse. The traditional Italian structure means pasta is a primo before a meat, fish or vegetarian secondi but you can also enjoy all of the pastas as a main too. The wines lean Italian, with a mixture of the classics: think montepulciano and barolo, and more fun orange and natural wines. The set lunch is also exceptional value: three courses for £29 on a Sunday. marcella.london Brutto, Farringdon Brutto in Farringdon has all the hallmarks of a trattoria in Bologna. The deep fried ‘dough ball cuddles’ with stracchino cheese and prosciutto are just about the perfect starter in my eyes. Tear open a steaming hot dough ball, fill with cheese and ham, then breathe a contented sigh. The antipasti section is perfect for picking on a few delicious morsels while sipping on Brutto’s famed £5 negroni or spritz. The mortadella with pickles was a perfect balance between fatty and briny – we were fighting over the last piece. The menu is seasonally changing but you’ll always get a great range of pastas. We visited in September and ate sublime rabbit and lemon pappardelle, and maltagliati with meat sauce that was rich and buttery. A salad on the side is always a good thing, and the cabbage in olive oil sounds humble but really lifted the cabbage to new heights. If you can manage it, Brutto does a great steak, served in the rare style of bistecca alla fiorentina but it’s not a make or break. Save room instead for another pasta, I reckon. Tiramisu for dessert is non-negotiable and Brutto makes a mean one. instagram.com/bru.tto Manteca, Shoreditch Fresh, hand-cut pasta and nose-to-tail sauces are the order of the day at this Shoreditch restaurant. Tender orange-scented olives of every colour and size are fine fodder for browsing the short menu, while warm and bouncy, rosemary-flecked focaccia, damp with oil and salt crystals, staves off hunger before the main event. There’s house-made mortadella, which we’ll be returning for, but are tempted in the direction of the fresh pasta. Rich and silky brown crab cacio e pepe clings onto tonnarelli – spaghetti’s squarer, rougher cousin – while fat, slippery ribbons of pappardelle hold the softest, well-seasoned ox cheek ragu and fresh, grassy parsley. The must-order, though, should you be lucky enough to still catch the season, is mushroom ravioli in a buttery sauce with crisp sage and shavings of marbled black truffle – they’re creamy, earthy, forest-floor-fantastic. Padella, Borough Market Tim Siadatan and Jordan Frieda, the duo behind Trullo in Highbury, opened their second restaurant, Padella, in Borough Market in March 2016. Padella’s menu is made up of eight pasta dishes taken from Trullo’s ‘greatest hits’, using fresh pasta rolled in the window of the restaurant just before service. A small, no-bookings restaurant where queues are a given, Padella was born of a desire to make fresh handmade pasta accessible to everybody. The open kitchen combines traditional Italian techniques and quality British produce to make dishes like pappardelle and eight-hour beef shin ragu, tagliarini with brown shrimps, green and yellow courgette, and its now famous pici cacio e pepe. Jordan says: “We wanted to create a restaurant that was true to the principles we admired in the great British restaurants – rigorous seasonality with a focus on using British producers wherever possible. We make everything in-house – rolling pasta, baking our bread, churning our ice cream – every day, and do it at a price that isn’t exclusive.” River Café Café, Hammersmith Pasta dishes are a highlight at the River Café’s neighbouring offshoot. Tuck into green beans and vibrant basil pesto tossed through trofie twists, Datterini tomatoes and Buffalo ricotta creating puddles in orrecchiete and prosciutto di Parma and garlicky yellow Roman courgettes folded between vesuvio spirals. It's a vibrant spot – pops of neon pink, bold Damien Hurst artwork and signature blue floors, and a shiny bar doubles up as a prep station for twists on classic Italian cocktails – negroni invecchiato, cynar spritz, bergamot margaritas and telefonico. Enjoy aperitif-style with a selection of focaccia, pecorino and fennel grissini and bruschetta. There's antipasti in abundance to try before your pasta – punchy Sicilian aubergine caponata, pieces of mozzarella with flash-fried frigitelli peppers and fresh, beefy tomatoes. For dessert, this is your opportunity to try River Café classics in a more casual setting – mousse-like Valrohna chocolate nemesis and bright, creamy signature lemon tart – best shared between two. If the weather’s fine, enjoy on the handful of tables scattered out beside River Cafe's iconic riverside lawn. rivercafe.co.uk/river-cafe-cafe Bancone, various locations The tagline for the Italian restaurant, with four locations in Covent Garden, Soho, Borough Yards and Kensington, might be “pasta, prosecco, espresso” – but it’s those first little mouthfuls of arancini from the antipasti that you’ll be raving about, come home time. Fresh pasta, which is made and rolled upstairs, is flash-boiled before being tossed with any of the 10 sauces on offer. Chitarra – guitar-string like spaghetti – is slicked with cacio e pepe and topped with a crisp, peppered cheese wafer. Oxtail ragu (best ever ragu recipes here), slow cooked for 10 hours until sticky and sweet, clings to bouncy folds of pappardelle. A golden egg yolk adorns the top of the limited edition silk handkerchiefs 'carbonara', where ribbons of pasta sit in a decadent, cheese sauce with crisp shards of pancetta. Simple, quality ingredients – the bedrock of good Italian cookery – are shown proper respect. Click here for our dinner party menu from Bancone here Lina Stores, Soho Lina Stores is a much-anticipated pasta, antipasti and aperitivi bar from Soho institution Lina Stores, an Italian deli that’s been the go-to for authentic produce since opening in 1944. The white and mint striped awning makes the new restaurant easily identifiable to regulars at Lina Stores’ original green-tiled corner shop a few streets away. Head chef Masha Rener has kept the menu simple and seemingly authentic, with every ingredient hailing directly from Italy – from bright and buttery Cerignola olives right down to the sugar used in exemplary Italian desserts and cakes. Fresh pasta, handmade an hour before service, is given pride of place at Lina Stores, served as the main event rather than traditional pre-main primi. Bright yellow strands of pappardelle soak up light, gamey rabbit ragu, perfectly formed gnocchi is brightened up with popping peas, and a vibrant mint and courgette mixture is stuffed into little tortellini parcels. Pici alla norcina is the highlight, though – springy worms of pasta in a creamy, nutty sauce of porcini mushroom and Norcia sausage (often celebrated as the best in Italy). Here’s our review of Lina Stores’ original shop, too Trullo, Higbury Older sister to Borough Market’s Padella, Trullo serves perfect pasta, antipasti and larger charcoal grill dishes in a romantic yet relaxed environment. Upstairs, wooden tables – simply laid with white paper tablecloths and flickering tea lights – are huddled together, while downstairs, dark booths are perfect for a longer, laid-back dinner. The menu changes twice daily, depending on seasonal produce, but if there’s two of you we’d recommend a couple of antipasti, a couple of plates of pasta and one larger oven dish. Baskets of bread are served alongside a pot of olive oil, and you can keep asking for more but it’s better to save yourself for the pasta. Rich beef shin ragu coats slippery ribbons of pappardelle, while sweet squash ravioli gets a richness from the olive oil. If it’s on the menu, order Padella’s iconic pici cacio e pepe for a cheesy hit. Meat and fish are simply cooked over coals, served with the likes of soft polenta and salsa verde or baby beetroot. trullorestaurant.com Emilia’s Crafted Pasta, St Katherines Dock “Many people have said the view from our restaurant resembles the coast of southern Italy,” says Andrew Macleod, owner of Emilia’s in St Katharine Docks. After developing the concept, Andrew joined forces with pasta chef Simone Stagnitto to create the menus for this rustic pasta bar. The pasta is made daily on site and the concise menu features just seven pasta dishes. Recipes include a northern Italian-style carbonara and four-hour slow-cooked béchamel bolognese. Noci, Battersea Power Station Modern pasta restaurant Noci has opened its second site deep inside Battersea Power Station, joining the original Islington location. Despite the industrial surroundings of Battersea Power Station, once you’re inside Noci it manages to still feel warm and cosy – suitable for both special occasion dinners and quick lunches whilst shopping. A range of modern spritzes on the cocktail menu is a new addition to the Noci offering that's exclusive to Battersea and not to be missed: the lemon and elderflower spritz on tap is a refreshing easy-drinker, whilst the sherbety yuzu and rhubarb spritz is our new favourite summer drink. Kick a meal off with a selection of the snacks: salty house focaccia topped with red onions, or triangular parcels of mortadella, ricotta and fior de latte torte fritter that ooze with cheese. Crisp, buttery nduja arancini are accompanied by a cloud of rich pecorino and parmesan mousse. The pasta menu combines Noci classics with changing seasonal twists. The signature veal and pork Genovese ragu (pictured) remains the standout dish and is a must-order, with deep caramelised onion flavour, meat that falls apart and melting Monk’s Head cheese delivered with style. The brown butter cacio e pepe is chewy and indulgent, whilst the crab and ricotta raviolo is generously filled and the richness balanced by plenty of deeply toasted pine nuts. There’s a short dessert menu, but you’re here for the savoury. Go for three pastas between two and a couple of the fried snacks and you’re sure to leave happy. nocirestaurant.co.uk Officina 00, Old Street Officina 00 is a cool pasta spot bringing a warm taste of the Med to Old Street roundabout, in East London. Italian classics from each region are given a modern twist, be it crumbled tarallo (a southern Italian savoury breadstick) atop burrata or cacio e pepe-filled deep-fried ravioli. All dishes are designed for sharing, and between two it’s best to order a couple of snacks, a small plate and two bowls of pasta (leaving room for tiramisu). Start with gooey aubergine croquettes, spiked with ‘nduja and topped with a sheet of ricotta salata, a final drizzle of honey giving a floral sweetness. Pasta comes al dente (although some might find it a little on the thick side), so if you like things lighter order gnocchi. Gooey dollops of melted gorgonzola cling onto pillows of soft pumpkin, all soaking up a nutty sage brown butter. It’s a comforting cuddle in a bowl. Corzetti (a thinly rolled, round pasta shape, stamped with a decorative design) traditional of north-west Italy is topped with an umami kick of bouncy wild mushrooms and crumbled fennel sausage. Pastaio, Soho Chef Stevie Parle’s casual venture brings handmade pasta and affordable wines to Soho. From the pasta section, malloreddus (tiny, ridged Sardinian gnocchi) come dressed with a slow-cooked sausage sauce that's elegantly light and flavourful, while agnoli stuffed with grouse, pork and rabbit in a seriously moreish sage-butter sauce is a deceptively simple dish that makes good use of prime autumn produce. Bocca di Lupo, Soho Bocca di Lupo showcases regional Italian cooking in tapas-sized portions. Jacob and Victor travelled extensively around Italy to research the restaurant’s menu and wine lists. There's a dedicated pasta section featuring the likes of pappardelle with wild boar ragu, spaghetti with squid cooked in it’s ink to turn black, and “pinched” little parcels of agnolotti del plin filled with veal and pork. boccadilupo.com Want to create homemade pasta from London's best pasta restaurants? Try these recipes... Padella's pici cacio e pepe Three of the most comforting words you'll read: pasta, butter, cheese. This classic Tuscan recipe for pici cacio e pepe comes from Borough Market's Padella. Bancone's lamb ragu pappardelle Check out chef Louis Korovilas's melt-in-the-mouth pappardelle with indulgent lamb ragu. This easy yet impressive recipe comes from Italian restaurant Bancone in Covent Garden. Cantino Corvino's cauliflower and fontina cannelloni This recipe for cauliflower and fontina cannelloni comes from the chefs at Cantino Corvino, London. It's a delicious, comforting pasta dish.
From matcha lattes to rhubarb and almond croissants – these are the West London hot spots that foodies need to know
Discover where to eat in west London, from elevated pub classics in Shepherd's Bush to a matcha hot spot in Hammersmith
Looking for the best places to eat in Shepherd's Bush and the surrounding area? Local resident and expert Helena Busiakiewicz shared her must-visit recommendations, from a Japanese bakery to an original London gastropub. For more London food recommendations, check out our reviews of the best restaurants in Shoreditch, best restaurants in Notting Hill, best restaurants in Mayfair, best restaurants in Marylebone and best restaurants in Paddington. The Hawthorn, Shepherd’s Bush The Hawthorn is a reasonably new addition to Sheppy B, but already a firm favourite. Its food feels a similar style to Rochelle Canteen or St John, but with pub classics such as fish and chips and a cheeseburger with fries. I maintain that a roast dinner is always better in your own home, but I make two exceptions: one for The Hawthorn, which does a great one (get the beef IMO) and one for the Anglesea Arms (see below). We had a sticky toffee pudding there that my partner has not stopped talking about since. A great spot for taking family for a leisurely meal, or equally, a cheeky pint and delicious snack. thehawthornpub.com The Anglesea Arms, Hammersmith Perhaps the best roast dinner in west London. Have a stroll around Ravenscourt Park, then, when you get chilly, slip into The Anglesea for a delicious meal. This is a tucked-away spot that is always busy, and with good reason. The menu is ever-changing, but I have often had its ham hock croquettes and squealed with glee. It has everything you could want from a pub, in my opinion! angleseaarmspub.co.uk The Hawk’s Nest, Shepherd’s Bush If you're planning a date night or girls' night out, or just fancy a great spicy marg, head to the Hawk’s Nest. It has a fully retractable roof, so is the venue for all seasons – cosy and warm in winter, then bustling and breezy in summer. Sunday to Friday, it has a fantastic £14 ‘marg and a marg’ deal, which is a lovely excuse to sip on a margarita and not have to cook my own dinner. the-hawks-nest.co.uk Mr Dumpling, Goldhawk Road This is our ‘shall we have a quick bite before the cinema’ spot – no frills, but all the flavour. You can see the chefs making dumplings in the window, which is always a good sign. The portions are generous, so share a beef noodle soup, then get wontons in chilli oil and crispy fried dumplings, and thank me later. instagram.com/mr.dumpling888 Frankie’s, Turnham Green Frankie’s is a new addition to Chiswick, and bakes some excellent pastries. It's run by bakers Jamie and Eleni, the shop having originally been a cobbler's in Eleni’s family for over 50 years. I normally eschew a cruffin, often finding them not as satisfying as having either a croissant or a muffin, but its cruffins changed my mind – perfectly balanced, not too sweet and with lovely, flaky pastry. The classic viennoiserie is excellent too, which makes sense, as both Jamie and Eleni note that their favourite thing to bake are croissants. I’ve been delighted by everything I’ve had from Frankie’s. Plus, the coffee is smooth, strong and very reasonably priced. I don’t know the last time I paid £3 for an oat flat white anywhere else. instagram.com/frankiesbakerylondon Konveni Matcha, Hammersmith Konveni will always have a place in my heart. It's a family run spot offering some of the best matcha in London – one for hardcore matcha lovers and newbies alike, as it offers different matcha grades, so you can get authentic, traditional matcha, or flavours such as strawberry, mango, ube and sticky date. I love the iced Spanish matcha latte – a touch of condensed milk is just enough to offset a little of that classic bitterness. It does great ube and matcha soft serve ice cream in the summer, too. instagram.com/konvenimatcha 101 Thai Kitchen, Hammersmith I am always craving 101 Thai Kitchen – I have a personal mission to eat my way through the menu, and I’ve made a strong start. Some of my favourites are the tom kha soup – which is very healing during a hangover – and the mini-menu of som tum salad (I love the addition of soft shell crab in the tum pu nim). Make sure you get a Thai iced tea to cool down, too. In summer, the mango sticky rice is worth the trip alone. 101thaikitchen.uk Burnt, Askew Road This is my go-to brunch spot. It does fantastic coffee and has a seasonally changing menu with exciting additions – though you can always get some impeccably done classics made with quality ingredients. The scrambled St Ewe eggs with a side of Maldon deep smoked salmon is divine. It has a great range of sandwiches and pastries for takeaway, too – the forced rhubarb and almond croissants are something I look forward to every January. In warmer weather, it has a private garden that opens for alfresco lunches. It is always busy though, so make sure you book ahead – it's open on Friday evenings for small plates and wine, too. burntrestaurant.co.uk Happy Sky Bakery, Askew Road This Japanese bakery is full of the most delicious pastries and breads, from melon pan and adzuki bean buns to teriyaki chicken and mochi matcha custard pastries – there's something for everyone. This is a takeaway-only spot and it sells out fast, so go early, load up your tray and take it to nearby Wendell Park for scoffing on a park bench. happyskylondon.com Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington Best restaurants in Camden
Clerkenwell restaurants: Clerkenwell Boy shares his favourite insider spots
Discover where to eat in Clerkenwell, from a Florentine trattoria and a classic French bistro to London's oldest Italian delicatessen
Looking for the best places to eat in Clerkenwell? Local resident and expert Clerkenwell Boy shared his must-visit recommendations, from nose-to-tail dining to craft beer pubs and global street food. For more London food recommendations, check out our reviews of the best restaurants in Shoreditch, best restaurants in Notting Hill, best restaurants in Mayfair, best restaurants in Marylebone and best restaurants in Paddington. Best restaurants in Clerkenwell Bouchon Racine Henry Harris reopened Bouchon Racine in Clerkenwell in 2022. The menu changes daily but always celebrates Lyon – a city I’ve wandered through many times, and regarded as France’s gastronomy capital. Cosy, buzzing and authentically French, I can’t resist the duck confit or slow-cooked rabbit with mustard sauce and lardons. Save room for crème caramel with armagnac-soaked prune. bouchonracine.com Brutto Founded by my late friend Russell Norman, Brutto represents the ultimate Florentine trattoria – candlelit tables, red and white checkered cloths, £5 negronis and a welcoming bar where everyone feels at home. Start with the ‘cuddles' (deep-fried dough balls with stracchino and prosciutto), penne vodka or a colossal sharing steak. Don’t skip the tiramisu, and grab a bottle of chianti for the table. msha.ke/brutto Exmouth Market Alive with global street food, boutiques, cafés, bars and pubs, you’ll stumble upon little treasures all along the street. Moro and Morito bring bold North African and southern Spanish flavours, Mikkeller Brewpub pours inventive craft beer, Café Kick is perfect for sports fans and The Exmouth Arms or The Wilmington offer traditional pints. If you’re looking for a special gift, EC One makes bespoke jewellery with ethically sourced materials, hand-crafted in London. exmouth.london The Quality Chop House A Victorian gem on Farringdon Road since 1869, this is my go-to for sharing steaks and a solid glass of red. Don’t miss the confit potatoes – layers of potato compressed overnight, then fried to perfection – or seasonal specials. Next door, Quality Wines offers a daily-changing menu in a relaxed wine bar. thequalitychophouse.com Sadler's Wells Perfect for a date night – dinner nearby, then a show. The theatre began as a mineral spa and music hall in 1683, and became the base of the Royal Ballet in 1931. There are plenty of restaurants, bars and pubs nearby for a pre-show pint to treat yourself before the curtain rises. sadlerswells.com Sessions Arts Club Housed in the former 1779 Middlesex Sessions House, this space is buzzing. The restaurant is in the old judges’ dining room – soaring ceilings and ever changing art on the walls – thanks to the vision of founder Jonny Gent. Seasonal British dishes are beautifully plated, cocktails brilliant and the wine list thoughtfully curated. Entering feels like crashing an eccentric aristocrat’s house party – a mixture of elegance, humour and warmth. sessionsartsclub.com St John A London institution near Smithfield Market, St John has championed nose-to-tail dining since 1994 and been Michelin-starred since 2009. Missed a table? The walk-in bar and bakery shine at lunch – try welsh rarebit on sourdough, washed down with a pint of stout. stjohnrestaurant.com Terroni of Clerkenwell The capital’s oldest deli (it opened in 1878), this family-run shop serves a huge array of cheese, cured meats and fresh pizza. My essentials: taleggio, burrata, gorgonzola, guanciale and mortadella with pistachio. Join the locals for freshly baked pizza alongside an Aperol spritz or glass of sangiovese. terroni.co.uk Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington Best restaurants in Camden
From Michelin-starred Greek dining to viral pasta spots, fresh seafood and fiery Sri Lankan cuisine - these are the best restaurants in Borough Market
Are you looking for the best restaurants in Borough Market? This area of London is filled with some of London's best places to eat and drink. As well as the popular stalls of the market itself, Borough Market is surrounded by top restaurants. Whether you go for Michelin-starred Greek plates at Oma, grab a bun from Bao or join the pasta queue at Padella, you're spoilt for choice for a great meal. Read on for our tried-and-tested reviews for the best restaurants in Borough Market. For more London Bridge recommendations see our full guide to the best restaurants in London Bridge. For restaurant inspiration across the capital, check out our guides to the best restaurants in Soho, best restaurants in Covent Garden or Mayfair. Best places to eat and drink in Borough Market Plaza Khao Gaeng – for southern Thai cooking Set under the railway arches that flank Borough Market, this fun spot brings the energy of a raan khao gaeng – the informal canteens that pop up on street corners and markets across Thailand. The high-ceilinged room is breezy and buzzy with a quirky, eclectic style: stainless steel tables, zingy pops of colour, retro Thai movie posters and restaurant signs all add to the atmosphere. A Paricha margarita eased us into the heat zone – mango infused tequila and kumquat liquor with a kick of fresh Thai chilli served alongside an appetiser plate of miang pla: betel leaves to be wrapped around spicy sausage, dried fish and crunchy galangal floss to make a herbal, tangy mouthful. The yam strawberry salad was a refreshing sweet/salty surprise – strawberries in a punchy dressing, topped with a sprinkling of the tiniest translucent fish and coconut. From the curries, the gaeng massaman neua was deeply comforting – big chunks of beef, slow cooked in a rich spiced coconut sauce with hunks of potato to soak up all of that fragrant curry. Gung pad prik gaeng sator (tiger prawns stir-fried in red curry paste) brought some of that notorious heat but balanced it well with coconut cream. We kept the heat at bay with a icy glass of Singha beer, served in a chunky frozen glass tankard. Or if you’re in a crowd there’s the option to order a three-litre beer tower with your own tap – a fun playful touch for a very fun spot. plazakhaogaeng.com Oma – for Michelin-starred Greek small plates Restaurateur David Carter — who already claims an impressive portfolio that includes acclaimed restaurants Smokestak and Manteca — has furthered his London restaurant empire and opened the doors to Oma and its more casual sibling Agora. The restaurant, split across two floors (Oma upstairs and Agora downstairs), draws inspiration from the lively street markets and restaurants of Athens and the wider Mediterranean, with décor and food and drink offerings that evoke its relaxed yet refined energy. In 2025, Oma won it's first Michelin-star. We sent our pro reviewer KS Tong to check it out, here are his thoughts: "Oma's menu begins with a sneaky hero in the form of the wood-fired laffa flatbreads and açma verde (akin to a wild garlic-twisted bagel). These are made on-site in the basement bakery using wild-farmed British grains to go with a selection of house spreads, such as a salt cod XO labneh that was pure heaven. I could’ve easily just stopped here, via a few samples from the 23-page-strong wine list featuring 450-plus predominantly Greek producers, and left content. But to miss the crudo menu would be criminal (the name Oma is derived from the Greek word for ‘raw’ after all) – and yellowfin tuna with zesty clementine ponzu and crispy garlic certainly delivered. Small plates of skewers of dry-aged Cornish lamb chop (from renowned high-quality, high-welfare supplier The Cornwall Project), and lobster bisque börek and spanakopita gratin were a sensory slam dunk, each purposefully executed and thoughtfully curated. The real centrepieces however are the bigger clay pots, and the oxtail giouvetsi served with bone marrow and beef fat pangrattato was a worthy dish – rich, heavy and a striking contrast to the rest of the menu, which is a great deal fresher and lighter. It’s the perfect plate to set you up for dessert, where the sticky date pudding is not to be missed and pairs pleasingly with an Oma negroni." oma.london Applebee's, Borough Market – for seafood Applebee’s, a family-run Borough Market institution for 25 years, has recently relaunched with a new design and menu showcasing seasonal, sustainable British seafood. In summer, bag a table in the outside area at the front for watching the bustle of the market go by, while, inside, the open kitchen and bar all down one side of the winding room add to the buzzy atmosphere. Take a look at the fridge holding that day’s catch and watch chefs cooking over the tall barbecue grills. Kick off with cocktails – a delicate rhubarb sour had an almost creamy texture. The drinks list includes a good range of wines by the glass, including interesting English bottles. If you can resist the opening snacks (crab croquettes, oysters, taramasalata), head straight to starters. Scallops are served in the shells with three different butters to tour through – lemony garlic, spicy sobrassada and salmon roe. A wedge of brown crab rarebit is cheesy and filling, topped with samphire and shrimp. The mains showcase classic fish cookery paired with a range of culinary influences – grilled monkfish tail with chorizo jam, hake with beurre blanc, whole stuffed sea bream with spiced potatoes and curry sauce. A skillet of fish pie is soft and comforting. While Applebee’s may be predominantly all about the fish, make sure you save room for dessert – the sticky toffee pavlova with warm toffee sauce served tableside is not to be missed. applebeesfish.com Rambutan – for Sri Lankan cuisine Flames leap from clay pots, woks clatter over white-hot embers and the deeply satisfying aroma of coals and spice perfumes the air. This is mesmerising theatre from a counter seat at Rambutan where you watch the brigade of chefs turn out dishes that balance heat, sweetness and sharp aromatics with clockwork precision. Set over two floors, the buzzing restaurant on Stoney Street is the creation of Cynthia Shanmugalingam, a British-born daughter of Sri Lankan immigrants from Jaffna who left before the civil war. Her menu is simply structured but the dishes are surprising and thrilling. Start with citrus wedges sprinkled with a lip-tingling, salty-sour punch of achuru, before moving on to gundu dosas, fluffy crisp balls for soaking up fresh, bright coriander sambol. Hotel Nippon beef and bone marrow rolls, crunchy with panko breadcrumbs encasing unctuous meat are essential. The charcoal grill delivers smoky sensations (go for leeks and mango chutney) but the curries and clay stove dishes steal the show – saffron chicken pongal rice, like a smoky chicken risotto; not-for-the-faint-hearted red pineapple and mustard seed curry; and unmissable lamb kottu roti with spring greens and wild garlic. Butter rotis, delicate and flaky, puff before your eyes, ready to mop up every morsel of intensely flavoured sauce. Cool your tongue with tart, creamy blood orange curd ice cream. There’s a lot to love, so box up the rest and come back for more. rambutanlondon.com Brindisa – for tapas Brindisa sits in a prime corner spot with a wraparound terrace and open windows that are perfect for grabbing a sunny post-work drink or weekend bite after exploring the market. Channel a classic taste of Spain with a glass (or jug) of sangria or seasonal spritz. The Green Garden Cooler with Seedlip, elderflower cordial and apple and cardamom syrup is an excellent alcohol-free option. Traditional tapas favourites are all found here: crisp jamón croquettes are the perfect sangria partner, while chorizo on toast has a crisp char and tangy chimichurri dressing. Seasonal and house specials join the menu, too. The monte enebro – creamy fried goat’s cheese with orange blossom honey – will be a welcome addition to your table. Patatas bravas are crispy but the aïoli is surprisingly light on garlic. Chargrilled vegetables come served whole with a refreshing green gazpacho. Skip the large plates but save room for creamy burnt cheesecake. If you don't have time for a whole meal, head to the Brindisa market stall to pick up a chorizo roll stuffed with plenty of crispy chorizo, piquillo peppers and rocket. brindisatapas.com Agora – for a taste of a Greek taverna Agora means 'market' in Greek, which reflects the buzzy, casual style of David Carter's ground-floor restaurant below his Michelin-starred Oma. Punters can soak up the buzz of Borough Market at window perches or sit inside the modern space that provides a layer of Greek taverna warmth thanks to the handmade rotisserie’s open flames. Make a beeline for the frozen margarita or paloma pepped up with lemongrass syrup while perusing the Mediterranean food menu. Flame-grilled bread, slicked with garlic butter, is perfect dipping material for fermented chilli erzu-topped tahini and silky hummus laden with hot crisp shards. The spanakopita with a flatbread twist is a must-order, it's graviera cheese combined with buttery, dill-flecked spinach and finished with paprika crisps and grated parmesan. Sardines are served simply with za'atar and a squeeze of lemon, while mushrooms skewers are given an umami makeover with spring onion, soy and mirin. Turkish chilli and crispy capers brings texture to braised fava beans and a crunchy cucumber and radish salad is livened with sumac and lemon vinaigrette. Rotisserie highlights include chicharron-style pork belly served with vibrant green herb, cornichon and pickled chilli sauce. There's only one dessert – a tiramisu that holds its own served with a plum and mezcal margarita. agora.london Bao – for bao buns There's almost always a line outside take-away kiosk Bao in Borough Market – and for good reason! The entire takeaway menu is astonishingly tasty, and a bargain price at that. The Fried Chicken Bao with golden kimchi and hot sauce – served in a playful sesame ‘burger bao’ – is a delightful combination of tender, crunchy, tangy, pillowy, and spicy tastes. Or order the ‘Fried Horlick Ice-Cream’ for a deliciously nostalgic treat. You can also click and collect if you want to beat the queues. baolondon.com Elliot’s – for a gourmet wine bar Elliot’s has focussed on working with small-scale producers for both its drinks and produce since opening in 2011, and much of it is sourced from the market itself. The bar incorporated an all-natural or low-intervention wine list early on and has worked with Master of Wine Isabelle Legeron on its wine list. All the producers share the same mindful approach to wine-making as chef-owner Brett Redman does to cooking simple dishes including cauliflower caponata and flaked almonds, or grilled sweet and sour squash with chicory and Tunworth cheese. Elliot’s also makes its own seasonal infused spirits and soft drinks. elliots.london/borough-market Porteña Empanadas – for hot empanadas There’s something eternally appealing about this Borough Market institution's hot empanada counter (traditional Argentinian pasties), partly thanks to the way the word ‘Porteña’ is stamped into the crimped crust of the freshly baked pastry. Try the ‘Chorizo Empanada’, which is their most delicious – with a heavenly slick of spicy porky oil that drips onto your hands. Their ‘provolone and onion’ is also very good - almost jammy sweet and extremely cheesy. Order extra chimichurri sauce to smother on top for an extra flavour kick. portena.co.uk Tacos Padre – for Mexican street food Irish-Spanish chef Nick Fitzgerald worked at Pujol in Mexico City before setting up a stall in the hustle of Borough Market to serve tacos, from beef short-rib suadero with aged beef fat to morita salsa, chicken asado and cauliflower al pastor with guajillo adobo. You can also find an increasingly famous salsa macha every day until 6pm. tacospadre.com Padella – for pasta Padella’s short menu features handmade, fresh pasta dishes that have become cult classics across London. With a laidback atmosphere and reasonable prices, Padella is the perfect place to escape the tourists at Borough Market (although word has got out about the excellent pasta here, so expect to queue). Showcasing classic Italian techniques, the simple menu is built around slow-cooked sauces and ragus from the owners’ travels around Italy. Traditional pici cacio e pepe, a simple, yet brilliantly executed dish of parmesan, lemon and black pepper is an example of how confident the team are in their products. Padella’s signature dish though, is pappardelle with eight-hour Dexter shin beef ragu, and it’s easy to see why. The succulent flavour of the slow cooked, fall-apart beef combined with the fresh tomatoes and just the right amount of garlic makes the sauce the real hero here. With traditional Italian flavours at the heart of the menu, from Dexter beef carpaccio to bruschetta with baked borlotti beans, there’s plenty to please. Finish off with an espresso, the only coffee Padella serve, or add a shot of grappa or sambuca for a caffe corretto, in true Italian style. padella.co/ Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Check out our favourite foodie spots in the Battersea area, from trendy wine bars to cosy neighbourhood restaurants
Looking for Battersea restaurants? Here are our favourite restaurants in this part of London. The best foodie spots include contemporary Italian at Fiume, Battersea Rise wine bars and plenty of pizza. Check out our ideas for eating and drinking locations in the area, from Battersea Power Station to Battersea Rise and beyond. For more like this, check out our picks of the best restaurants in Chelsea, best restaurants in Paddington, best restaurants in Brixton or the best restaurants near Oxford Street. Looking for something extra special? Discover the best chef's table experiences in the UK. Now find out the best female-owned restaurants in the U.K. Jump to: Best places to eat and drink in Battersea Best places to eat and drink in Battersea Power Station Best places to eat and drink in Battersea Bar Brasso, Nine Elms Bar Brasso is the sort of neighbourhood spot that makes dining feel like a treat while also managing to set you at ease and feel relaxed. Tucked into the polished new Nine Elms development, just in the shadow of the US Embassy, it brings a welcome sense of warmth to an area that can sometimes feel all glass and gloss. The room is relaxed but quietly confident. A great place to linger over a bottle with friends or have a few beers while enjoying the small plates. Chef Robin Gill’s Mediterranean-leaning menu is designed for exactly that kind of convivial eating. The menu focuses on sharing plates that use the best of seasonal produce and artisan produce, and the charcuterie boards encourage sharing. A classic gilda pintxos, the Bourdain grilled toastie and Tuscan bangers and mash featuring a cotechino sausage were among the highlights. The staff also manage to strike the perfect balance. They’re knowledgeable without being showy, friendly without fuss and adding to the sense that this is a place to socialise, not posture. Bar Brasso manages to feel both easy-going and elevated. barbrasso.com Boqueria, Queenstown Road Boqueria is a hidden gem that proves Battersea restaurants aren’t all about the Power Station. A charming neighbourhood restaurant for lucky locals, Boqueria has been in the area for over 10 years and takes inspiration from Barcelona’s famous food market with authentic Spanish recipes. We stuck to the extensive tapas menu on our visit but there are also paellas, charcuterie and a few larger plates (such as octopus or steak with chimichurri) to choose from that we’ll be going back to try. Start with a jug of sangria to share, classic cocktails or a glass of the house red. From the tapas selection, must-tries include creamy croquettes, meltingly tender pork cheeks in a rich red wine sauce and crispy fried aubergine drizzled with honey. Patatas bravas are a staple on any tapas menu but those at Boqueria were excellent – small, perfectly crisp potatoes generously drizzled with spicy salsa brava. Save room for churros with intense dark chocolate sauce for dessert, or try the zingy lemon-lime sorbet for a refreshing palate cleanser. boqueriatapas.com Tamila, Northcote Road From the team behind The Tamil Prince comes Tamila, a restaurant serving up South Indian small plates alongside classic curries and sides. The menu is reasonably small, especially for a curry house, but this doesn’t take away from the experience – if anything it enhances it. Split into snacks, dosa and poori, tandori, curries, breads and extras, there’s plenty of variety to make an exciting meal. Favourites from our visit include the onion bhaji (perfectly spiced with a great crunch), mutton curry dosa (a little spicy but so comforting) and paneer butter masala (a great sharing curry) – plus, if you’ve got a sweet tooth, the mango soft serve is a great dessert option. The drinks menu combines creative cocktails with classic beers, plus some thoughtful non-alcoholic options (try the Desi spritz). The interior of Tamila is simple but cleverly designed to help it feel cosy and intimate while also feeling vibrant. A great location for a date or a dinner with friends, especially those who don’t mind sharing. Expect knowledgeable attentive servers to add to a great dining experience. tamila.uk Pear Tree Café, Battersea Park This café run by Annabel Partridge and Will Burrett (previously of Petersham Nurseries) boasts picturesque views of Battersea Park boating lake. Open every day from dawn to dusk, there’s an extensive brunch menu ranging from buttermilk pancakes to soft scrambled eggs on sourdough with maple and paprika bacon. Come lunchtime, there are loaded burgers with chipotle jam, Lincolnshire Poacher cheese and roasted garlic aioli, washed down with mango lassis. peartreecafe.co.uk London Distillery Company, Broughton Street This gin distillery is in a warehouse complex that also houses a gallery, a bar, a boxing gym, a food truck and table tennis tables… this is London! The star of the show, though, is undoubtedly the London Distillery Company. They produce Dodd’s Gin, an absolute stunner. Battersea has it’s own distillery and it is soaring. Serving advice: have a large measure of Dodd’s and a large measure of Fever Tree Mediterranean tonic water over loads of ice in a wine glass with a sprig of rosemary. It will blow your mind. londondistillery.com Darby's, Viaduct Gardens Inspired in name and nature by chef Robin Gill's jazz musician father, Earl ‘Darby’ Gill, this grand space houses a bakery (with bread, pastries, bagels and sarnies ready to take away), open kitchen (complete with open-fire stoves) and oyster bar. With a 1950s Manhattan feel, there are bottle-green tiles, fluted velvet banquettes and booths, herringbone floors, dark wooden tables and colonial-style chairs. Seating spills out onto the terrace, which looks up to the embassy. The menu is split into snacks, oysters, starters, sharing mains, daily specials and sides. Things started off well with Dooncastle oysters (served with shallot vinegar, lemon, black pepper and Tabasco, depending on your penchant) from Galway Bay. They’re some of the best bivalves you’ll get in London (and we’ve done the rounds). Then, in quick succession, we made our way through “‘Gilda’ little perverts, witty and spicy” which we learn are Robin’s take on Basque skewers of pickled chillies, slivers of eel, juicy olives and chives. Depending on your level of restraint during dinner, the dessert list tempts with sorbets drowned in East London Liquor Company vodka, homemade croissant and tonka bean ice cream sandos and Pump Street chocolate mousse that is as light as it is full of flavour. darbys-london.com Humble Grape, Battersea Rise Originally founded as a wine importer in 2009, Humble Grape built a strong following based on wine tasting events and private sales. It has now found a permanent home on Battersea Rise as South London’s newest wine bar and shop. Unsurprisingly, the focus here is wine. As Humble Grape import their wines directly from the vineyards, they don’t have to pass on the hefty middlemen mark-up to their customers. This means that their fantastic selection of wines is available to take home or to drink in by the glass, carafe or bottle, at bargain prices. Food is divided between snacks such as salted cashews and smoked paprika peppers, whole baked camemberts, sourdough toasties and sharing platters. There’s a great selection of wines from small, lesser-known vineyards around the world, although the big-hitting regions are still included. humblegrape.co.uk/battersea Best restaurants in Battersea Power Station Solis, Battersea Power Station Solis is the personal product of Ana Gonçalves’ (along with husband Zijun Meng, who together are behind cult favourites TĀ TĀ Eatery and Tou) desire to showcase food from her childhood and challenge the conventional expectations of the steak night. With bold flavour influences from Spain, Portugal, Uruguay and Argentina, Solis is looking to break the mould without breaking the bank. Located right in the heart of Battersea Power Station’s multi-billion-pound restoration and redevelopment, it offers an accessible menu headlined by its signature grilled spatchcock chicken and flat-iron steak, both served with salad, fries and a big side of South American vibrancy. arcadefoodhall.com/solis Joia, Battersea Power Station With a view that looks out over the transformed Battersea Power Station, Joia, with its floor-to-ceiling windows pouring light onto the warm pastel interiors, literally shines – which is apt, given that its name means ‘jewel’ in Portuguese. Perched at the top of Art’otel, Joia is London’s first offering from Michelin-starred Henrique Sá Pessoa, with the main restaurant, a vermouth and wine bar, and an additional rooftop bar spread over three floors. The menu, simply created using the best ingredients available, includes dishes such as bulhão pato mussels, suquet – a monkfish and red prawn stew – and hand-dived scallops with black aïoli sabayon. joiabattersea.co.uk Arcade, Battersea Power Station Having launched on Tottenham Court Road, Arcade’s second food hall is a welcome addition to Battersea Power Station. Great for a gathering of friends both because it’s a lovely setting and the range on offer – no need to argue over a cuisine when there are so many in one room. Flavours from all over the world are covered at Arcade. The beef suadero tacos at Mexa were a hit: confit short rib wrapped up with onion, coriander and a zingy salsa. Fries loaded with chicken shawarma, salad and spicy shatta from Shatta & Toum is a great sharer, as is the menu from Flat Bread by Thomas Straker (we enjoyed the option with burnt chilli mussel butter). Other vendors include Hero Indian Fast Food, Bao, Manna, Tipan Tapan, Siu Siu, Bebek! Bebek! and Phed Power (the neua nam tok ‘waterfall’ beef steak salad is great). With more options being introduced regularly, check the website before you go. arcadefoodhall.com BAO Noodle Shop, Battersea Power Station The classic London eatery began its life over 10 years ago and now has several venues. Its new home is inside the iconic Battersea Power Station and caters for Arcade Food Hall as well as a more extensive menu, including its noodle dishes. If you fancy a sing-song there’s even a karaoke room on hand. Menu favourites like the classic bao and fried chicken bao are available to order alongside Battersea exclusives such as the danzai pork and prawn noodles: the braised pork makes for a rich and indulgent broth. We enjoyed the crispy tripe with spring onion dip for its sweetness and texture, and the slow-cooked beef cheek and short rib noodle dish which was warming and full of umami flavours that bring a huge smile to your face. The Taiwanese fried chicken is a spicy delight, great for sharing, as are the boiled cull yaw dumplings: soft, tender and full of flavour. ­Be sure to finish with the fried Horlicks ice cream bao, you won’t regret it. baolondon.com Noci, Battersea Power Station Modern pasta restaurant Noci has opened its second site deep inside Battersea Power Station, joining the original Islington location. Despite the industrial surroundings of Battersea Power Station, once you’re inside Noci it manages to still feel warm and cosy – suitable for both special occasion dinners and quick lunches whilst shopping. Kick a meal off with a selection of the snacks: salty house focaccia topped with red onions, or triangular parcels of mortadella, ricotta and fior de latte torte fritter that ooze with cheese. Crisp, buttery nduja arancini are accompanied by a cloud of rich pecorino and parmesan mousse. The pasta menu combines Noci classics with changing seasonal twists. The signature veal and pork Genovese ragu (pictured) remains the standout dish and is a must-order, with deep caramelised onion flavour, meat that falls apart and melting Monk’s Head cheese delivered with style. The brown butter cacio e pepe is chewy and indulgent, whilst the crab and ricotta raviolo is generously filled and the richness balanced by plenty of deeply toasted pine nuts. There’s a short dessert menu, but you’re here for the savoury. Go for three pastas between two and a couple of the fried snacks and you’re sure to leave happy. nocirestaurant.co.uk Roti King, Battersea Power Station The new Roti King brings with it all of the famous Malaysian classics that have made the North London institution so successful. Fragrant nasi lemak, served with crisp fried chicken and a sambal stuffed full of chillies and shrimp paste, laksas with slippery noodles, nasi goreng and beef rendang made with the most incredible and fragrant curry pastes. The rotis are as good as ever, crisp and flaky; we had the fish kari served alongside. Deep-fried fish pieces in a rich but light curry, with crisp roti for mopping, were sensational. Another favourite was char kuey teow – stir-fried flat rice noodles with prawns and chicken, deeply savoury from kecap manis and that smoky essence of great wok cooking. The kangkung belacan, or morning glory, cooked in shrimp paste and sambal was the perfect accompaniment – veg with a nice bite that’s wrapped in the funkiest savoury sauce. rotiking.com Fiume, Battersea Power Station Translating as 'river', this contemporary Italian sits in front of a water feature that reflects the golden hue of the recently renovated chimneys towering above. This is Calabrian chef Francesco Mazzei’s third restaurant in partnership with D&D London. Inside, the restaurant’s décor reflects the menu – it’s smart but relaxed. There’s counter dining and high chairs by the bar for quick plates of cicchetti (fried calamari to crostini draped with mozzarella, anchovies and roasted peppers) and homemade breads from the wood-fired pizza oven. The menu proper focusses on the recipes of southern Italy, or Mezzogiorno, jumping around the eight different regions. Think wobbly burrata and slow-cooked octopus to start, with classic mains such as aubergine parmigiana and seafood fregola, along with a handmade pasta menu. fiume-restaurant.co.uk Dishoom, Battersea Power Station Inspired by Bombay's Irani cafes, Dishoom has become a must-visit London restaurant, with venues in Edinburgh, Birmingham and Manchester as well. Expect queues to get in if you haven't booked a table for both brunch and dinner and sip on their famous house chai while you wait. Their two-storey Battersea location next to Battersea Power Station, like the others, will transport you to 1920's Bombay. The menu is home to the best of authentic Bombay comfort food and the plates are perfect for sharing. Fresh and perfectly spiced dishes mean that you'll manage 4 to 5 plates between two, no problem, with extensive veggie and vegan options. Dishoom's signature black daal is cooked for 24 hours, creating a rich and smokey dish that's best scooped up with their handmade, baked to order naan. Marinated in lime juice, spices, ginger and garlic, the spicy lamb chops are melt in the mouth and the ideal two-person sharer. If you're looking for a comforting curry, their chicken ruby pairs tender chicken pieces with a silky smooth makhani sauce that's rich in flavour without being overpowering. Their extensive drinks menu makes it easy for drinkers and non-drinkers alike to find their ideal tipple and if you can squeeze in dessert, the mawa cake with yuzu ice cream is a great choice. The soft sponge and zesty ice cream is served with a sticky and sweet jaggery syrup, combining flavour and texture perfectly. dishoom.com/battersea Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Best restaurants in Soho: where to eat and drink
Discover our favourite places to eat in and drink in the buzzy central London neighbourhood, from Taiwanese fine dining to pasta joints and intimate cocktail bars
Looking for the best Soho restaurants? Check out our ideas for eating and drinking in Soho from Brewer Street to St Anne's Court, from Old Compton Street to Chinatown (find the full list of the best restaurants in Chinatown here). For more London food recommendations, check out our reviews of the best restaurants in Covent Garden, best restaurants in Kings Cross, best restaurants in Mayfair, best restaurants in Marylebone and best restaurants in Paddington. Best places to eat and drink in Soho Ria's, Foubert's Place– for deep-dish Detroit pizza Head to this cosy, laid-back spot for fantastic deep-dish Detroit-style pizza and natural wines. It's perfect for intimate dates and candle-lit catch-ups, full of charm and character. The latest Soho site is snug yet stylishly furnished, building on everything that made the Notting Hill original a hit, with exciting new slices and a low-lit wine cave. Ria’s ferments its dough for up to 72 hours, which gives it a deeper flavour and a deliciously chewy crust. Deep-dish pizza is filling but the pies at Ria’s never feel too much. Our favourite flavours were the House Pie and the Soho Chilli Crisp. The first had a red sauce base and a devilishly delicious combination of ricotta, basil and lemon drizzle. The latter was laden with ’nduja, Lao Gan Ma crispy chilli oil, pickled shallots, spring onions and aged parmesan – tongue-tingling and tangy. There is a great range of natural wine to sip alongside your slice: we enjoyed a glass of Orange de Rias for its tropical brightness, and a glass of Herrigoia – a crunchy, easy-going red with tart cherry notes. There's also a small but sharp cocktail list, bottled beer and a good range of soft drinks. If you’ve got room for dessert, treat yourself to a deep-fried Mars bar with soft serve vanilla ice cream. Sprinkled with a little bit of sea salt, it really is the ultimate treat. rias.world/soho Mamapen, Great Pulteney Street – London’s only Cambodian pops up in Soho This lively pop-up is currently the only place to eat Cambodian in London. Chef Kaneda Pen’s classic and contemporary cooking is inspired by his mother, his love of BBQ and his Scottish partner. So sour pineapple curry with roasted sweet potato and pickled mango; and Khmer BBQ chicken with shaoxing teriyaki glaze with tuk trey koh kong dipping sauce, sit alongside braised beef tattie mince noodles with cucumber, spring onion and chilli. Lunchtime specials for takeout keep local workers happy. Find it until the end of the year in one of Soho’s busiest pubs. http://sunand13cantons.co.uk/cambodian-food-london <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/2/2024/08/London-Food-and-Drink-Photography-Mamapen-at-Sun-and-13-Cantons-London-2024-Nic-Crilly-Hargrave-102-copy-fa88d56.jpg" width="8256" height="5504" alt="London Food and Drink Photography - Mamapen at Sun and 13 Cantons London 2024 - Nic Crilly-Hargrave-102 copy" title="London Food and Drink Photography - Mamapen at Sun and 13 Cantons London 2024 - Nic Crilly-Hargrave-102 copy" /> The Palomar, Rupert Street — for vibrant sharing plates This small but mighty restaurant has carved its reputation as a Soho institution thanks to ten years of warm hospitality and top-notch cooking. Perch at the counter to get close to the lively action or take a seat at one of a handful of cosy tables in the back for a quieter evening. Head chef Dan Murray takes influence from Southern Spain, North Africa and the Levant to create a succinct menu of dishes packed with texture and flavour. Think silky lamb croquette cubes topped with pickled walnut HP sauce, smacked baby cucumbers with pickled slices, green tahini, candied almond clusters and crispy chilli oil, and charcoal chicken slathered in chilli butter with yogurt and charred onion. Bookend with saffron-infused negronis alongside swirly Yemeni kubaneh bread and mezcal old fashioneds paired with bitesize cubes of pistachio baklava ice cream sandwich. thepalomar.co.uk Marjorie's – for Parisian-style wine bar vibes Though slap bang in the middle of Soho, this Parisian-inspired wine bar is tucked away, its happy punters spilling out onto the pavement giving neighbourhood feels. Upstairs is dominated by a large counter table where you can perch beside owner Michael and team as they pour wines. A wooden dresser showcases the 100% French wine line-up, covering a diverse mixture of regions and styles. New bottles are opened each day to keep the ‘by the glass’ list interesting. There’s always a sparkling, three reds, three whites and two skin-contacts on rotation – that might be a pétillant, oak-aged chenin blanc from the Loire, a chilled beaujolais or a robust Crozes-Hermitage. Downstairs, in full view of group tables in whitewashed alcoves, is where the open kitchen action happens under the guidance of Giacomo Peretti. After the obligatory baguette with French butter, up your amuse-bouche game with a savoury twist on the Ferrero Rocher – a Morello cherry rolled in chicken liver parfait and hazelnuts. Soft lamb tartare follows, studded with a pretty riot of summer vegetables – sliced radishes, peas, broad beans and edible flowers. My highlight, spotted on a fellow foodie’s Instagram, was the ever so comforting poached chicken and nutty rice bathing in a rich, frothy brown butter emulsion. Order radicchio and leaves doused in floral orange blossom dressing to pair. For dessert, a towering slice of puff pastry mille-feuille comes layered with silky crème diplomat and strawberries, while cocoa nib and hazelnut-flecked warm chocolate mousse was greedily spooned up like custard. marjorieslondon.co.uk Khao-Sō-i, Market Place – for northern Thai cuisine London doesn’t lack for Thai restaurants but at Khao-Sō-i – named after the curry noodle dish of Chiang Mai – chef Win Srinavakool has created a menu shaped by the flavours of northern Thailand, with smoke from a wood-fired grill and bold (okay, hot) spice. We began with moo ping: wafer-thin Norfolk pork belly skewers grilled over wood with a sticky, caramelised edge and a deep, savoury warmth. Tum khanun – young jackfruit salad tossed with northern herbs – whacks your tastebuds with refreshing and tingling heat and zest. It’s a perfect spot for an after-work or after-shopping catch-up, buzzing with chatter, the throb of music and the theatre of the open grill. The main event is the namesake khao soi. We tried it two ways: gai (chicken) and bai pye (torched beef chuck eye). The pleasure is in shaping it. Each bowl arrives with coconut cream, chilli flakes, herbs and crisp noodles on the side, so you build your own version: richer, hotter, crunchier, or all of the above, before you pull the noodles from the creamy spiced broth and slurp like no one’s watching. There’s an extensive drinks list but ice-cold Neckstamper pale ale is the way to go to douse the fire and cleanse your palate before diving in to luxurious cha thai cheesecake or bai toey ice cream with cloud-like cubes of brioche. Olive tip: If you go as a two-some order separate dishes and share. You’ll want to experience as much of the menu as possible. khaosoilondon.com Fonda, Heddon Street – for contemporary Mexican Tucked just off Regent Street on Heddon Street, Fonda feels like a secret. Co-owned by Santiago Lastra of Kol, Fonda is a more relaxed cousin – casual yet quietly refined. Start with the frozen margarita or a salt-rimmed, non-alcoholic paloma – refreshing, sharp, all edge and sparkle. The ceviche leans into fresh and floral: soft tuna, basil and tomato meet fresh cherry in a combination that’s quietly brilliant. The Baja taco is everything a fish taco should be – lacy crisp batter, tender cod you can actually taste and a pistachio mole that brings it all together. Octopus tacos layered with Ratte potatoes and bruléed bone marrow are deeply rich (ask for the pickled vegetables to cut through). Finish with the mezcal rice pudding - silken, smoky and punctuated with cherries that burst and bloom. It’s a place to settle in, let the plates keep coming and forget the busy city just round the corner. fondalondon.com ALTA, Kingly Court – for sophisticated northern Spanish cuisine Northern Spanish cuisine is the focus at this large, sophisticated addition to Soho’s dining arcade. The two-floor space combines industrial warehouse features (large windows, exposed ceilings) with earthy touches – rough stone walls, textured wood and soft lighting. At the helm is Rob Roy Cameron, a chef well versed in the region thanks to years as Albert Adria’s right-hand man. A set of five rich, smoked Txistorra pork sausages charred on the grill and doused in aged PX vinegar are the sharing snack highlight, closely followed by a striking sardine and wine-soaked raisin empanada neatly encased in a puff pastry blanket, the fish head and tail peeking out for show. Sharing mains (35-day aged sirloin and ribeye, pork chops and Basque classic turbot) are cooked on the wood-fired open grill, providing a theatrical focal point on the restaurant’s ground floor. Must-order salt-baked Charlotte potatoes are finished in the pan, topped with a disc of mojo verde butter that slowly melts into the hot, crispy flesh. Desserts are by no means an afterthought – finish with dark chocolate ganache lifted with olive oil and salt, topped with sourdough ice cream and charred Italian meringue. The drinks menu is strong – Basque 75 is a pétillant combination of txakoli, oak-aged vodka, verjus, orange blossom and oloroso sherry, while a considerable selection of vermouths and sherry are a welcome feature alongside natural wines. alta-restaurant.com Ham Yard Hotel, Ham Yard – for a leisurely Sunday roast Ham Yard Hotel’s ethos matches its bold name: expect bags of character, typical of all Firmdale Hotels, from co-owner Kit Kemp’s bright and colourful interiors, with patterned textiles, unique finds such as reclaimed African prints and plenty of original artwork. The Long Lunch is Ham Yard’s take on a leisurely Sunday roast. Expect an elevated experience but in a relaxed and friendly setting – think musicians playing jazz and glasses of wine being poured from magnums. The sharing menu lets you choose your own roast (from lamb leg with braised shoulder to a smart monkfish wellington if you want to try something different) and then have endless sides for the table to share. Gooey Montgomery cheddar cauliflower cheese and impressively crisp roast potatoes were highlights that you’ll definitely be asking for more of. As the lunch service goes on, you’ll spy the extravagant dessert trolley being loaded up and wheeled around to be served tableside. Make sure you save room for your choice of profiteroles (with a range of sauces to add), tiramisu, baked cheesecake and more. firmdalehotels.com KILN, Brewer Street – for Thai food Ben Chapman’s latest outpost has all the ingredients for yet another frustratingly brilliant Soho restaurant – small, no-reservation policy, sterling reviews. But, it’s worth any queue. Grab a spot at the pass, where the flames of the charcoal fires will keep you as warm as the spices from the confidently succinct, regional Thai menu. As well as delivering on atmosphere, Kiln actually offers the lesser-known and ever rarer phenomenon of good value in London. Aged lamb skewers, delicately fragrant with cumin and Szechuan pepper and cranked-up in flavour with the lick of those flames, are £2.90 for two. A delicious main of clay-pot baked glass noodles with Tamworth pork belly and brown crabmeat, which comes with an intense, zingy herb dip on the side, is a highlight. We’re warned about the heat of the roasted long pepper and Tamworth pork shoulder curry but its tingle was just the right side of numbing, mellow and spicy sweet. Wild mushroom salad seasoned with soy and lime, inspired by the region of Isaan, in the northeast of Thailand, was precisely the sort of plate that the term umami was coined for. kilnsoho.com Platapian, Greek Street – for stylish Thai dining Find this sleek space from the people behind Patara on one of London’s busiest streets. We started with crispy chicken skin with a squeeze of lime – think gourmet pork scratchings. Stuffed snub nose chilli stuffed with minced chicken and prawn is big enough to share, plump and aromatic, and, despite its name, only mildly hot. Then a pandan-leaf wrapped parcel of miang kham scallop, beautifully silky and smoky. Of the many surprising dishes at Platapian, one especially stood out: cabbage roasted until soft yet still with bite, the wedges dressed with fish sauce and whole chillies to deliver a sweet-salty heat that works beautifully with the vegetable’s faint sourness. Mains kept the balance between comfort and freshness. Short rib beef in five-spice ‘paloh’ with grated salted egg yolk is the stand-out. Flake-apart meat in a rich gravy was positively swoon-worthy. While southern-style yellow curry with crab, mellow and light, saucy with coconut, was a hug in a bowl. Together they showed how Platapian’s menu celebrates the whole of Thai cuisine. From the drinks list, Tom Yum-tini and a whisky sour are smart, punchy and in simpatico with the elegance of the restaurant, while desserts use Thai ingredients to twist familiar Western dishes, such as a smooth pandan crème brûlée. olive tip: When we went on a Thursday night, Platapian was packed, buzzing and loud – so if you want to talk ask for a counter seat near the front. pataralondon.com Imad’s Syrian Kitchen, Kingly Court — for Syrian sharing plates Imad Alarnab’s story is a remarkable one. After spending years as a successful restaurateur in Damascus, his businesses were destroyed by the war, and he was forced to flee the country for safety. Shortly after arriving in London in 2015, he began cooking Syrian food at supper clubs and pop-ups (at which he raised thousands of pounds for refugee charity, Choose Love), before crowdfunding for his own permanent restaurant. Located on the top floor of Soho’s Kingly Court, the restaurant has the feel of a family-run taverna, with white walls accented by bright blue windows and tiles, dotted with heart-warming photographs from Imad’s past. As for Imad’s food, its every bit as uplifting as his story. Every dish we tried from his sharing-style menu of Syrian dishes was a hit, from the super-crisp, perfectly seasoned falafel with lightly pickled, sumac-dusted red onions, to the pool of chickpea-topped hummus with hot, fluffy pittas for dunking. Other highlights include the fattet macdous – a dish of silky soft baby aubergines filled with cumin-spiced minced lamb, served with tahini, crispy pittas, pine nuts, herbs, and juicy pops of pomegranate – and the shish tawook, which combines beautifully tender, charred chicken with homemade paprika crisps, tomato mayo and pitta. imadssyriankitchen.co.uk Bubala, Poland Street – for Middle Eastern small plates The second spot from Marc Summers (Berber & Q) and Helen Graham (Palomar) is decked out in the same earthy-chic style as the original Spitalfields restaurant. Gather round the table at the back to get a slice of action from the open kitchen and peruse jars of ferments and infusions that make their way into dishes and cocktails. Peanut-infused bourbon is stirred with chocolate bitters for a warming old fashioned, blood orange syrup is shaken up with tequila in a rose petal and Persian salt-rimmed margarita, and citrus syrups are topped up with sparkling water and fresh herbs in the non-alcoholic gazoz options. To start, order fresh laffa flatbread to dip into silky baba ganoush, followed by charcoaled leek swirl skewers and corn ribs, slathered in a punchy chipotle, Aleppo chilli, black garlic and cumin sauce. Lip-smacking mains include buttery hispi cabbage coated in a dried orange, nori and sesame crumb, and deep-fried, brined cauliflower served with caramelised spiced spinach bkeila. Potato latkes are given a modern twist, pressed with garlic butter into stacks and fried to order, and fresh vesuvio tomatoes and mango are soaked in a sweet and tangy tamarind and date syrup dressing. Finish with coconut and tahini fudge, subtly laced with blood orange and coated in crackly sesame seeds. bubala.co.uk/soho Bao, Lexington Street – for Taiwanese buns Bao began life as a tiny bar in Hackney, selling pillowy soft ‘baos’ (steamed milk buns) stuffed with various fillings. Following its success, the team opened a restaurant in Soho. Husband and wife team, Shing Tat Chung and Erchen Chang, alongside Shing’s sister Wai Ting Chung are behind the venture, and it was the trio’s travels across Asia that inspired the menu.Their signature bao take centre stage – try classic braised pork and panko-crumbed daikon radish bao – but there’s also xiao chi (small eats) on offer. As for drinks, expect hot oolong and cold foam tea, plus cider, sake and whisky. It’s a cosy space with shelves lined with homemade pickles – including golden kimchi. baolondon.com Crunch, Dean Street – for smash-hit sandwiches Landing on the buzzy corner of Dean Street and Old Compton Street, Crunch brings its cult-followed Spitalfields sandwiches to a permanent Soho address – and the result is part elevated sandwich shop, part stainless steel lined sandwich theatre. The vibe is sleek but casual, with polished metal counters, high stools and a front-row view of the sandwich station, where flat iron steaks hit the grill and brioche buns get that signature toast. The menu is concise but clever – the main event is the Soho-exclusive steak sandwich, a decadent, juicy, grass-fed beef patty in golden, crisp-edged brioche. Don’t skip sides: the thousand-layer crispy potatoes with bloody mary ketchup are addictive, and the lasagne bites are punchy, deep-fried delights. For something sweet, the deep-fried french toast made from brioche offcuts, custard-soaked and topped with apple, chocolate chunks and dulce de leche, is reason enough to linger. The service is fast and friendly, perfect for solo diners perched at the bar or a quick lunch with a friend. A breakfast menu is on the way, too – worth keeping an eye on for early morning indulgence. sandwichuprising.com Gaucho, Swallow Street – for steak Step through the doors of Gaucho Piccadilly and you step into the original. The flagship that launched a now 20-strong group, this is where the magic started. Dark walls and flickering candlelight – the décor remains familiar just like the head chef Mario, who’s been grilling here for 25 years. That longevity brings serious consistency. Argentinian beef is sourced from farms committed to regenerative practices. The signature cut, churrasco, is a must: spiralled lomo (fillet), chorizo (sirloin), ancho (ribeye) or rump (cuadril), marinated in parsley, lemon, garlic and olive oil, and grilled to perfection. There are elegant starters – crispy prawn chicharrón with sweet-spicy aji amarillo and lime-bright crab tostada – but you’re here for steak and a serious glass of something red. Ask the sommelier for a pairing from the knockout New World wine list, and trust the superb waiting staff – they’re as much part of the institution as the steak. Once the haunt of power lunchers, today it’s shoppers and tourists looking for post West End indulgence. And they find it – topped off with a rich dulce de leche cheesecake crowned with chantilly, hazelnuts and cherries. gauchorestaurants.com 123V Bakery, Stephen Street — for vibrant vegan fare Chef Alexis Gauthier – vegan pioneer at his eponymous Soho restaurant – recently opened a nearby diffusion venue, housing a “fun, unbuttoned” restaurant, Studio Gauthier, and bakery-café 123V. The latter serves vibrant vegan sushi, brunch dishes and plant-based burgers. 123vegan.co.uk Sucre, Great Marlborough Street — for Argentinian fine dining Sucre has to be one of Soho’s most beautiful (and impressive) dining rooms, with sky-high ceilings (the room was formerly a concert hall for the London College of Music), huge chandeliers made from more than 1,000 glass decanters and a room-length open kitchen at one end where you can watch chefs cooking over charcoal. Executive chef Jack Godik has given the menu a recent refresh but it remains centred around South American fire cooking. Seasonal small plates of chargrilled Trombetta courgettes with ricotta and a seaweed and almond crumb, and red Alistado prawns with wafer-thin pickled pineapple sit alongside classics like the melt-in-the mouth cheese-stuffed empanadas. Monkfish tail cooked on charcoal and served with a punchy salsa macha, and tender iberico pork matambre are the main course highlights, along with baked shellfish rice with langoustine and mussel aïoli. For dessert, a beautiful creamy Basque cheesecake with a strawberry compote just screams summer, and there’s a really inventive cocktail list – try the spicy, sharp Peperita with green pepper infused tequila, agave and lime. There’s also a newly launched fire-fuelled tasting menu which offers a selection of menu greatest hits for £80pp. sucrerestaurant.com Bar Termini, Old Compton Street – for negronis and espresso Fifties-style Italian café-bar Bar Termini is known for its pre-bottled negronis, but pop in during the day to sip an espresso at the marble-topped counter or recline on a green-leather banquette with a bicerin espresso, stirred up with thick chocolate and foamed milk. bar-termini-soho.com Kati Roll Company, Poland Street – for Bengali kati rolls For many years, this unassuming eatery – located just off Oxford Street – was a secret spot for diasporic Indians in London who were in the know. It’s decked out in a fiesta of bright orange paint and faded Bollywood posters, with rustic wooden benches and a silver serving counter at the very end. They specialise in kati rolls – the iconic Bengali street food from Kolkata – which consists of vibrantly spiced fillings, wrapped up in your choice of either buttery fried paratha or iron-griddled roti. Their ‘Achaari Panner Roll’ marinated in spicy pickle is especially tasty. Order extra chutney on the side if you like it especially saucy. tkrc.co.uk Long Chim, Rupert Street – for casual Thai from renowned chef David Thompson’s bright pink book Thai Food is on every enthusiastic cook’s bookshelf. Now the Australian chef, with restaurants in Sydney and Bangkok, is back in London with a residency hosted in Rupert Street’s Hovarda, revamped with Thai murals and neon art. Order street food classics like skewers of spicy grilled squid, southern-style with pickled ginger; cockle salad with smoky chilli paste and thai basil; sweet crispy pork with five-spice; and curry of monkfish with cucumber relish. Watch a whole load of wok action in the open kitchen as you enjoy classic cocktails with a Thai twist, like coconut and lemongrass gimlet. The spontaneous will love its communal tables reserved for walk-ins. longchim.london Kapara – for fun Middle Eastern feasts Channelling Tel Aviv, this vivacious Soho complex mixes music, food and cocktails. Chef Eran Tibi’s creative food revels in theatrical presentation and playful dish names. Dessert ‘gramp’s cigar’ very much looks like it, while deep-fried paprika marinated chicken thighs, with orange harissa kimchi and wild garlic mayo, are subtitled ‘crispy crunchy bums’. kapara.co.uk Bocca di Lupo – for regional Italian dishes Bocca Di Lupo (along with its ice cream shop Gelupo that sits opposite) has been a Soho institution for regional Italian cooking and wine since its 2008 opening. Friendly and knowledgeable Italian staff will help you navigate the impressive seven sections (from fritti to grill) of the somehow still concise menu – a tour of Italian regions and specialities, the daily changing offering adapts with the seasons, too. Go sharing with six to seven plates between two, or go with a classic starter and main, with most dishes available in both small or larger sizes to suit your choice. Sit at the bar to watch the kitchen in action, or the smart dining room at the back. Puffy sage and anchovy fritti make the perfect snack to kick off your meal with drinks – cocktails are also divided by region, with plenty of wines by the glass. Sea bream carpaccio doused in rosemary salt and blood orange is a highlight, along with mini fried flatbreads stuffed with fennel-studded finocchiona and soft squacquerone cheese. The chefs make strong use of seasonal ingredients – tender rabbit orzo and trofie with wild garlic pesto on our spring visit elevated familiar dishes. If it's on the menu, don't miss the silky pappardelle ragu either. Gelupo is across the street so don’t miss the ice creams in house for dessert – the prettiest pale pink rhubarb sorbet is almost vegetal in its intense flavour and not too sweet, while blood orange granita is a refreshing end to a decadent tour of Italy. boccadilupo.com Japan Centre, Panton Street – for Japanese snacks The sushi fridges at Japan Centre – in a back street right behind Piccadilly – are a brilliantly overwhelming place to browse; complete with abundantly filled fridges of freshly prepared sushi rolls, sashimi and perfectly triangular onigiri. However, the hot deli counters are even more exciting – with things like karaage chicken, tonkatsu udon noodles, katsu curries and donburi rice bowls all available for very reasonable prices, to dine in on their communal benches or to takeaway. The okonomiyaki stick is a perfect bite – a pancake stick with octopus, tangy brown sauce, nori seaweed dust and umami rich bonito flakes sprinkled all over the top. Ask them to warm it up, it’s even tastier hot! japancentre.com Yasmin, Warwick Street – for rooftop dining with Middle Eastern flavour Come for the sunny terrace and jewel box interiors, stay for the sharing plates at chef Tom Cenci’s latest venture at Piccadilly Circus. Inspired by a stint in Istanbul, the menu majors on superior dips, flatbreads and zingy salads and grills. Sesame seed hummus gets a lift with raisins and peanut dressing; whipped sheep’s cheese features hot honey and isot biber (dried chilli pepper). The sumac smoked duck salad with grilled corn is a must order. Pair salmon and olive skewers with smashed cucumber and batata harra potatoes. Signature desserts are the pistachio ice cream sandwich and turkish delight cheesecake. Delicately spiced cocktails work throughout dinner – try Shapash, which blends tequila with chili, watermelon, strawberry and citrus. yasminsoho.com Singapulah, Shaftesbury Avenue – for Singaporean comfort food Londoners and tourists queue for up to 40 minutes at key times to bag a seat at restaurateur Ellen Chew’s celebration of Singaporean food, with beloved suppliers namechecked on the menu (such as fishball supremo DoDo, and Udders ice cream – its durian flavour has a Marmite response). Head here for comforting bowl of noodles, nasi goreng and beef rendang. Singapore laksa is served over mee tai bak – short noodles which make it easy to eat with a spoon (less of a slurpfest!). Snacks and small bites include fried chilli crab bao and kueh pie tee savoury pastries topped with prawns and peanuts, best shared with three or more. The utilitarian space is softened with a pastel colour scheme, colourful ads as artwork with shelves lined with ceramics and products. Signature cocktails and mocktails feature ingredients such as Yeo’s chrysanthemum tea. singapulah.co.uk Paradise – for Sri Lankan cuisine After a brief revamp, Dom Fernando has relaunched his critically acclaimed restaurant Paradise in London’s Soho with a new design and dining experience. There’s now a tasting menu in the evenings (with a choice of vegetarian or meat options) that continues to draw on Sri Lanka’s diverse and multicultural history, as well as Dom’s heritage. An à la carte option is available at lunch, closely aligning with the highlights from the tasting menu. Accompanying the menu is a comprehensive wine list of ever-evolving natural biodynamic wines that can be ordered by the bottle – or there’s the option of suggested wine pairings or Sri Lankan inspired cocktails that highlight ancient fermenting and clarification techniques. paradisesoho.com Chotto Matte, Frith Street– for Nikkei cuisine Blending Japanese and Peruvian cuisines, Nikkei combines ingredients from both, so along with gyoza, sashimi and nigiri there are ceviches, tostadas with chilli, corn, casava and coriander. Chotto Matte’s owner Kurt Zdesar and his team make regular trips to Peru to ensure the menu at this glamorous bar and restaurant is constantly evolving. Cocktails play a starring role, from the classic Peruvian pisco sour to twists like kumquat margarita. Raw starters include tuna sashimi with miso mustard and honey; and yellowtail with yuzu truffle soy and jalapeño. There’s drama, too, with some dishes flamed at the table, and luxurious touches in otoro (premium tuna) and wagyu, alongside more humble corn ribs, and lamb chops with coriander and chilli miso. Chilled tunes and vibrant art walls create a club-like vibe. chotto-matte.com Bébé Bob, Golden Square – for rotisserie chicken and champagne Bébé Bob is younger sibling to Bob Bob Ricard (of champagne button fame), so high glamour is the name of the game. Ultra-comfortable and gorgeous to look at, the venue is a clever backdrop to what is essentially a menu centred around roast chicken (Vendée or Landes). But, what roast chicken. Rotisseried and served with roast potatoes (chicken fat, of course) and/or chips, and a salad, if you like. Super-luxe starters include three types of caviar or VSOP prawn cocktail, and desserts offer an option of lemon-infused vodka served at -18C, or a perfectly formed paris-brest. Drink champagne, or choose a wine, of which there are a commendable amount served by the glass. The menu has recently expanded to include a chicken burger – a 12 hour brined chicken breast encased in a crunchy coating, spicy gochujang mayo, crisp pickled slaw, an incredibly umami cured egg yolk and, naturally, topped with Oscietra caviar. In keeping with Bébé Bob’s MO, it’s an elevated version of a classic fried chicken burger, and it’s a treat. bebebob.com Nessa, Brewer Street – for a modern, seasonal menu Nessa is a sophisticated restaurant situated right in the bustle of London’s Soho. Enter the striking horseshoe bar and you’ll see a range of UK producers on display, including no- or low-alcohol options – as well as the option to order snacks and small plates. The space has been fully renovated with the style of the neo-baroque building in mind – it’s stylish with lots of marble, oak and brass fixtures, and fittings on the art-lined walls. In the dining room, you’ll find booths and an open kitchen, where Executive Chef Tom Cenci (formerly of Loyal Tavern and Duck & Waffle) has devised a menu of British influences with global flavours, focusing on seasonality. Signature dishes include celeriac carbonara with pancetta and truffle, Sirloin grass-fed Irish beef and roast rump of West Country lamb, courgette cassoulet with white beans and lemon herb crumb, and poached Cornish cod with parsley root purée and hazelnut crumb. For sides, try the spice bag or charred broccoli with caesar dressing. Nessa offers a relaxed yet stylish dining experience, perfect for anything from a quick snack to a full meal, all served in a space that’s as inspiring as the food. nessasoho.com Kricket, Denman Street – for Indian small plates Contemporary and cool, Kricket specialises in Indian small plates using local vegetables along with fish and meat sourced within the British Isles. Expect to queue at these no-reservations restaurants but dishes like samphire pakoras and Keralan fried chicken are more than worth the wait. We have the recipe for Kricket's kichri. Kedgeree as we know it was an adaptation of the original recipe for kichri, which consists of rice and lentils. You can use poached eggs rather than raw egg yolks, if you like. kricket.co.uk NOPI – for Ottolenghi's vibrant small plates When Yotam Ottolenghi opened NOPI in 2011, it was quite a departure from the more casual cafés he was known for, and reviews commented as much on the glamorous mirrored loos, marble floors and burnished light fittings as the quality of its Med-meets-Middle-Eastern menu. Since 2024, NOPI’s newly appointed head chef Elaine Goad has embraced a fresh perspective on the restaurant’s iconic menu. The small plates tick all of the Ottolenghi boxes; fresh, vibrant, veg-rich dishes, including roasted aubergine with cashew tahini and tomato sambal, and crispy mushrooms with wild garlic aioli and Thai basil. Cod is elevated with a smoky miso glaze served on an artichoke purée and peas. Finish with the coffee financier, a delicate sponge with crunchy pecan running through it, served with a soft maple cream. There’s a more casual arrangement downstairs, where diners share a large farmhouse-style table that offers a front row seat to the open kitchen so you can watch the talented team at work. ottolenghi.co.uk Three Sheets – for sleek cocktails Max and Noel Venning need no introduction in the cocktail world. The original Three Sheets in Dalston is a bartenders’ institution, thanks to its stripped-back interiors, late-night vibes and innovative. The brothers were pre-batching cocktails before it became a trend, setting standards high with their floral sparkling French 75 served in a champagne bottle. This iconic cocktail is still on the menu at the new spot in the heart of Soho, joined by many new stand-out contenders. An elegant version of a dirty martini has a delicate floral finish thanks to Ethiopian Koseret tea-infused Belvedere and a silkiness courtesy of an olive oil fat wash. Mezcal Sunrise is a juicy, long drink with smoky depth and floral bergamot notes from earl grey-infused mezcal, bright and citrussy freshly squeezed mandarin juice and a touch of marigold powder for subtle earthiness. Sazzaquack makes a short, smooth whisky number with notes of black treacle and a subtle spice finish thanks to homemade five spice tincture. The vibe is a little sleeker than the original, with marble tables, teal blue booths and black and white photographs of Soho's characters reminding punters that they are in the hearty of London's drinking district. threesheets-bar.com Humble Chicken, Frith Street — for nose-to-tail yakitori and modern cocktails Humble Chicken’ name gets straight to the point. This intimate Soho restaurant from chef Angelo Sato is all about grilling every part of the bird (from gizzard to thighs) over binchotan charcoal (a high-quality charcoal used in Japanese cooking). Start with a selection of refined snacks, including a delicate, umami miso foie gras tart and creamy freshly made tofu with tangy kimchi, before diving into the yakitori menu with gusto. Skewers — smoky, juicy, delicious — arrive speedily from the open kitchen, with highlights including meatball with salty tare sauce and egg yolk for dipping, rib with spicy miso and chives, and (our favourite) absurdly tender chicken oysters with smoked garlic and ponzu. Larger plates include crispy chicken leg with rice, and save room for dainty desserts such as deconstructed strawberry cheesecake, and purin, a Japanese dessert akin to a creme caramel, and just as delicious. There’s Asahi on draft and a small selection of sakes, wines and Japanese whiskies, but it’s the cocktails that deserve most attention on the drinks list, including a tangily fruity lychee martini; a silky Nikka whisky, coconut milk and oolong highball, and a sultry miso and coffee old fashioned. humblechickenuk.com Dram – for whisky cocktails You’d be forgiven for walking past the low-key, unassuming Soho frontage with its sanded wooden shutters on Denmark Street, but step inside and this Grade II listed building starts to slowly unfold with surprises. There's a basement bar, an open garden terrace, an upstairs pool table room, a private events space and even a hidden drinks development ‘lab’. The more you explore, the more you begin to appreciate the creative vision behind the venue. Founders Chris Tanner, Martyn ‘Simo’ Simpson and Jack Wallis have masterfully reimagined what a bar can be. The concept shines particularly through the venue's duality of flavour, with a brilliant upstairs-downstairs twist. Upstairs, the menu offers light, highball-style cocktails from Dram's tapped cocktail bar, while the basement bar features complex, sophisticated concoctions. For instance, the Tomato & Peach lets its savoury elements shine in a bright tomato spritz upstairs, while the peach notes take centre stage in a more refined rum-based martini downstairs. drambar.co.uk Speedboat Bar, Chinatown – for fiery Thai cuisine Despite London having possibly the best nightlife in the UK, it feels rare to get a spot like Speedboat Bar. Open until late on the weekend (you can get your fill of fiery cuisine and party vibes until 1am), this Thai canteen in Chinatown, brought to you by Plaza Khao Gaeng’s Luke Farrell, has décor almost as bombastic as the flavours. Once you’re done looking at the framed pics of the Thai royal family or playing a game of pool, get your tongue tingling with a menu that would satisfy any chilli fanatic. And don’t forget to cool down after with a creamy cocktail or a tower of beer. speedboatbar.co.uk Maresco, Berwick Street – for fish-focussed, modern tapas Following successful openings in Crouch End and Stoke Newington, the team behind local favourites Bar Esteban and Escocesa has ventured into central London with this intimate 48-cover space in the heart of Soho. Billed as a modern tapas bar (with a more formal dining room on the basement floor), expect a seafood-focussed menu at Maresco, featuring top-quality Scottish produce served with Spanish flair and (a lot) of Spanish wine. maresco.co.uk The Listening Room – for Japanese-inspired cocktails and omakase small plates Soho’s Wardour Street contains a secret. Downstairs from Japanese-inspired grill and omakase restaurant MOI – and via an impressive retro-futuristic spiral staircase – resides The Listening Room, a spacious underground listening bar. Serious about audio, bespoke speakers are from London-based sound system maker Friendly Pressure, and the walls are covered in soundwave-like textured curves for great acoustics. The drinks menu is led by ex-Langham Dino Koletsas and infused with Asian flavours. The shiro negroni, a refreshing white spin on a negroni with yuzu sake, potato shochu and chrysanthemum bitters has a pleasantly floral nose. Them Apples cleverly recreates the flavour of fresh green apple without using the ingredient itself: instead sparkling green tea, whisky, tomato liqueur and marigold combine for an ultra-refreshing sip. The extensive sake and natural wine list is accessible to both the more experienced and more nascent sipper. Order sushi, small plates and skewers hot off the grill from the upstairs kitchen by executive chef Andy Cook who worked with Gordon Ramsay to open his outpost in Tokyo. The crisp, warm and slightly sweet steamed buns served with smoked cod’s roe was a strong start. Sushi is not one to miss either – we chose Icelandic sea urchin and chutoro tuna temaki delicately wrapped in nori, whose rich flavour was perfectly complemented by dots of wasabi and slices of pickled ginger. moirestaurant.com Manzi’s, Bateman's Buildings – for fish and seafood dishes Latest off the block from the Wolseley Hospitality Group, Manzi’s is as glamorous as nautical comes. Set over two floors and with bright, airy blue and white interiors, this is a place of comfort and attention to detail. Head chef Christian Turner’s menu encompasses a beautifully executed monkfish wellington and cioppino fish stew, as well as oysters and dressed crab, Galician-style octopus, fish finger sandwiches and lobster rolls. Non-fish dishes are also available, including leeks mimosa and devilled egg, and roast Landes chicken. manzis.co.uk Chung’dam, Greek Street – for modern Korean cooking Named after the bustling Cheongdam-dong district in Seoul, Chung’dam is a contemporary Korean restaurant combining modern Korean cooking with traditional cooking techniques, paired with the finest ingredients in a sleek and refined space that’s designed to facilitate an interactive dining experience taking you on a journey through all your senses. With an impressive cocktail list that features rice wine and soju alongside a global wine list, Chung’dam attempts to live up to the vibrant reputation of its namesake. chungdam.co.uk The Seafood Bar, Dean Street – for quality, sustainably sourced seafood Already a raging success in the Netherlands because of its commitment to serving quality, sustainably sourced seafood at a reasonable price, this is the first international branch to open in London on Dean Street, Soho. The restaurant occupies the ground floor of a Georgian townhouse and the grand dimensions, pale wood and white interior and high ceilings give the space a luxurious but airy feel. The menu is comprehensive with several different sections covering hot and cold starters, crustaceans, oysters, fruit de mer platters, mussels, mixed seafood grills, caviar and even fish and chips. We almost go for the full bells-and-whistles giant double-decker fruit de mer platter that every table seems to be ordering, but our waiter after a hunger check-in advises a smaller platter, plus a couple of hot starters, which are both winners; sweet, juicy clams in a delicate wine and garlic sauce, and plump creamy, gratinated scallops in the shell. Our fruit de mer platter is a shellfish-lover's dream with some more unusual offerings such as razor clams, periwinkles and whole brown shrimp alongside mussels, cockles, clams, prawns, crab, seaweed salad and oysters. Everything is served simply on ice with lemon and mayo allowing the freshness and quality of the seafood to shine through – a perfect pairing with a crisp glass of Grüner Veltliner. theseafoodbar.com Yeni, Beak Street — for wood-fired modern Turkish food With most dishes at Yeni given the funk of fermentation or seasoned with smoke, this is food that’s big on flavour but handled with enough respect to let the quality of the ingredients shine. The open fire kitchen is centre stage in the tall-ceilinged room, start with a G and house-made T (tonic meets kombucha) then it’s all about choosing sharing plates for the table or letting the chef choose for you with a daily changing tasting menu. About half the menu is creatively vegetarian – beetroot is almost sticky from being slow braised in olive oil then punctuated with sour cherries, salty galomizithra cheese and a crunch of hazelnuts. Choose a filling of either beef or dried aubergine for the Turkish manti dumplings which come in a broth made so complex and creamy from using double-fermented yogurt that you’ll be ordering more wood-fired puffy tava bread to mop the bowl clean with. yeni.london Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza, Wardour Street — for impeccable pizzas in laidback surroundings London is no stranger to a good pizza — from Yard Sale to Homeslice, Theo’s, Vicoli dio Napoli and Voodoo Ray’s (and many more), there’s stiff competition for who serves the best slice in town. Rudy’s outpost in Soho (they have pizzerias scattered across the north of England, including Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool and Leeds) makes a worthy addition to the scene. Start with an aperitivo of Campari and soda, which arrives premixed in a dinky little bottle alongside a bowl of salted crisps for snacking, before moving onto generous sharing platters loaded with deli treats and house-baked bread. Pizza toppings are crowd-pleasing, from parmigiana with roasted aubergine to spicy calabrese with ‘nduja sausage and cinghiale with wild boar salami. Our lavishly topped capricciosa with creamy fior de latte, prosciutto, mushrooms, Kalamata olives and artichoke hearts ticked all the boxes, but it was the base that really impressed — well-flavoured and pillowy while still being satisfyingly chewy. All of Rudy’s pizzas — baked daily using 24-hour fermented dough — are made by trained and accredited pizzaiolos and it shows. rudyspizza.co.uk/soho/ Dishoom, Kingly Street – for Indian food Breakfasts at Dishoom, the small chain of Bombay-café-inspired restaurants, have won a cult following. Not least for the bacon naan rolls – crisp bacon wrapped in tandoor-charred naan with a dollop of chilli tomato jam and cream cheese. Pair with a breakfast lassi or house chai. See our full round up of the best Indian restaurants in London. Lina Stores deli, Brewer Street – for Italian produce Pretty Italian deli Lina Stores has been a destination for local foodies since 1944. The mint-tiled corner store is packed with anything from metre-long pasta frills to pretty bottles of passata – perfect for stocking fillers and souvenirs. There’s also a fresh pasta bar and a counter piled high with ’nduja, finocchiona and gorgonzola. linastores.co.uk Lina Stores restaurant, Greek Street – for pasta Head chef Masha Rener has kept the menu simple and seemingly authentic at the Italian deli's original restaurant opening, with every ingredient hailing directly from Italy – from bright and buttery Cerignola olives right down to the sugar used in exemplary Italian desserts and cakes. Fresh pasta, handmade an hour before service, is given pride of place, served as the main event rather than traditional pre-main primi. Bright yellow strands of pappardelle soak up light, gamey rabbit ragu, perfectly formed gnocchi is brightened up with popping peas, and a vibrant mint and courgette mixture is stuffed into little tortellini parcels. Pici alla norcina is the highlight, though – springy worms of pasta in a creamy, nutty sauce of porcini mushroom and Norcia sausage (often celebrated as the best in Italy). The antipasti menu includes silky aubergine fritters in a crunchy golden shell, crisp radicchio salad with anchovy dressing, and little bowls of almost-too-pretty-to-eat baby artichoke hearts. Creamy lemon sorbet refreshes after so many comforting carbs, the little half-lemon bowl a nostalgic nod to Italian holidays, and is served with a shot of limoncello to send you merrily on your way. linastores.co.uk Duck Soup, Dean Street – for date night For a post-shopping drink or two, head to wine bar and restaurant Duck Soup. It’s pared-back but cosy, and super friendly. Its range of natural and biodynamic wines, served by the glass, changes weekly, as does the short menu of European dishes chalked up on a board. You can even browse the in-house vinyl collection and choose your own soundtrack. ducksoupsoho.co.uk Blacklock, Great Windmill Street – for a chophouse Go for the ‘all in’ option at cool and casual restaurant Blacklock and you’ll be faced with pre-chop bites (duck rillettes, kimchi, pickle) followed by huge sharing platters of skinny chops (including short rib beef, lamb cutlets and pork loin) plus chargrilled flatbreads to soak up the juices. The £5 cocktails are fab, too. theblacklock.com Bar Swift, Old Compton Street – for cocktails From the team behind Nightjar and Oriole, Swift is a classy spot that covers all your cocktail needs. Stand at the slick upstairs bar for a pre-theatre aperitivo (we love the refreshing lemon sorbet, prosecco and Italicus sgroppino) or sink into a sofa in the basement for your whisky of choice from an extensive list. barswift.com Koya Soho, Frith Street – for noodles Duck through the curtains at Koya Bar and you’re transported straight to Tokyo. A wooden counter spans the narrow space: punters huddle over bowls of springy udon noodles on one side, while chefs add eggs to breakfast bowls, and slip noodles, prawn tempura, tofu and miso pork into hot broth on the other. koyabar.co.uk Daroco, Manette Street – for great Italian food in glitzy surroundings Pizza isn’t hard to come by in Soho, but truly great pizza is more elusive. Daroco’s menu of elevated Italian dishes features amped-up classics like tonnato, arancini and tiramisu, but it’s the pizza menu that really shines. The super-soft, charred crust (less ‘crust’, more a pillow) is a masterclass in dough work, while toppings are simple but just that little bit extra – we had the “mortadelight” with mortadella, Stracciatella and pistachio cream. Pasta dishes are luxurious and included paccheri with lobster bisque and pappardelle with venison Genovese. Our chocolate mousse pudding was rich and finished with sea salt and olive oil, while the cannoli was served deconstructed with serious flourish. Speaking of flourish, the Daroco aesthetic is fun and just a little ostentatious, with a buzzy open kitchen, plenty of mirrors and velvet – a hidden gem feel and a very memorable pizza oven covered in blue ceramic butterfly frieze. In short, it’s the place to go if you want to eat a really huge, delicious pizza but feel a bit extra while you’re doing it. daroco.com Robata, Old Compton Street – for Japanese robata grill cooking Located on Old Compton Street in the heart of Soho, Sonny Huang’s Robata restaurant specialises in robata grill cooking, a Japanese tradition that was first introduced by ancient fishermen who took boxes of hot coals with them on their boats to cook the food that they gathered from their day’s catch. The menu is broken down into five sections – small plates, raw and sushi, bao buns, robata skewers and robata large – and diners are encouraged to share dishes. Stand-out plates include miso aubergine topped with pickled shimiji mushroom and red chilli; sweet soy glaze and spring onion pork belly skewers; and Chilean wagyu smoked and cooked over burning hay. Robata also serves an extensive selection of sake and sake-based cocktails including the Umetini (Roku gin, umeshu plum sake and orange bitters). Head chef Charles Lee worked in a number of Michelin-starred restaurants during his career before arriving at Robata, and his menu shows the diversity of Japan’s food, highlighting traditional cooking techniques and contemporary flavours, along with using high-end British produce. robata.co.uk Berenjak, Romilly Street – for Iranian food This is a buzzy casual restaurant and tables are a tight squeeze. Out front, the open kitchen spills out its sights, sounds and smells onto the counter diners – there’s a flaming tandoor (oven), mangal barbecue, and vertical rotisserie. The menu at Berenjak is broken down into mazeh that are designed to be mopped up with house-made flatbreads – either taftoon, seeded sourdough, baked in the clay tandoor, or whole wheat sangak cooked on hot pebbles – kababs and khoresht (stews), and sides, including various pickles, rice and beans. It’s hard not to order everything but we’re reliably informed by our enthused German waitress that jigar (mangal-grilled calves liver) is a good place to start. She was right, as were all her recommendations. Served on soft and blistered lavash bread with mellow sliced red onion, a wedge of lemon to squeeze over, and shredded mint, the offal was burnished, buttery and blushing. berenjaklondon.com Hoppers, Frith Street – for Sri Lankan dishes Named after the lacy, bowl-shaped pancakes that are a staple of Sri Lanka, Hoppers has quickly established itself as one of London’s hippest hangouts. From the can-do-no-wrong team behind Michelin-starred Gymkhana, Hoppers references the food of southern India and Sri Lanka. There’s a succinct menu starring traditional hoppers: light fermented rice and lentil pancake bowls, with a softly steamed egg and a selection of confidently spiced karis.Load up on the ‘short eats’, though. Mutton rolls are like crunchy cigars – with a golden crumb, shredded gamey meat and lightly spiced tomato chutney. Bone marrow is so seductively sauced that you would be forgiven for refusing to share. The best, perhaps, are buttered devilled shrimps: juicy and fiery. There a fab and refreshing cocktails also. hopperslondon.com Try our egg hoppers recipe here… Temper, Broadwick Street – for BBQ Blink and you’ll miss Neil Rankin’s barbecue restaurant in London’s Soho. From ground level it looks like just another wine bar, but head underground and it’s a dark den of mezcal, smoke, meat and, er, Pickled Onion Monster Munch. Temper is cavernous, with booths and tables filling every corner, but if you want a piece of the real action, grab a counter seat around the open kitchen where tacos are hand-pressed, flatbreads are blistered, and whole animals are butchered and roasted over glowing coals. It’s not for the squeamish but this waste-little, love-food attitude did it for us. (As did the surprisingly ergonomic bar stools and Irn Bru spritzes and mezcal negronis). temperrestaurant.com Pastaio, Ganton Street – for pasta Chef Stevie Parle’s Pastaio brings handmade pasta and affordable wines to Soho. The agnoli was a triumph of pared-back cooking; perfectly cooked and crafted pasta, a generous game filling and a seriously moreish sage-butter sauce. pastaio.co.uk Korean Dinner Party, Kingly Court —for Korean flavours and sharing snacks Head to the top of Kingly Court in Soho to discover this this lively opening inspired by Korean flavours and LA’s Mexican food scene, with menus designed by prolific chef duo Ana Gonçalves and Zijun Meng of Tata Eatery, and craft sake from London’ only sake brewery, Peckham’s Kanpai. Inside, expect stripped-back interiors with concrete walls, neon lighting and Korean wall art. An eclectic menu covers everything from Korean corn dogs to tacos and kimchi pancakes. There are larger dishes on offer — go for the Korean tacos with 48-hour slow-cooked beef short rib, ssamjang, slae and homemade wrappers — but it’s the sharing snacks and cocktails that especially impress. Bacon mochi, fudgy chewy rice cakes wrapped in caramelised bacon with gochujang caramel are succulently umami, while ‘chikin’ turns out to be a mound of tender nuggets and rice sticks decadently blanketed in garlic cream and parmesan. The drinks list features fresh twists on classic drinks, such as a plum Americano made with Korean plum wine and Kanpai umeshu. We tried the pleasingly fiery Michelada Boilermaker — spiced Korean beer served with a shot of sake alongside — and the sultry and silky burnt rice old fashioned to finish. koreandinnerparty.com Bob Bob Ricard, Upper James Street – for an impressive dinner Bob Bob Ricard is a Russian-inspired restaurant in Soho that exudes luxury, with ornate interiors loosely based on the Orient Express (train-carriage style booths, brass rails and coat racks), slick service and iconic ‘press for Champagne’ buttons. It’s all about excess, with hearty portions, theatrical presentation and copious amounts of fizz. The menu focuses on English classics, with Russian influences highlighted in pink (think plenty of truffle, shots of -18 degree vodka and caviar). Highlights include traditional truffled potato dumplings served with crispy onions and shimeji mushrooms, puff-pastry-topped fish pie with chunky pieces of smoked haddock, sole and cod and the perfectly pink 28-day aged Scotch beef fillet wellington accompanied by silky truffled mash. Chocolate Glory’ is a showstopping dessert or keep things lighter with a zesty trio of lime, lemon and pink grapefruit sorbets served with Platinum vodka. bobbobricard.com L’escargot, Greek Street – for a Soho institution L’escargot was big news in the 80s and is somewhat of a Soho institution but it’s sparkle faded over the years. Now, after a refurb and now with a brunch menu, it’s worth putting on your radar once again. The 280-year-old town house is also a member’s club, and it shows in this room: dark wood and comfortable, red velvet-covered chairs, it hasn’t lost the French bistro charm. lescargot.co.uk Photography Credits: Leigh Griffiths (Long Chim) Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Want to know where to go for the best sirloin, the juiciest ribeye and top quality wagyu? Read on for our picks of the best steak restaurants in London.
Want to know where to go for the best sirloin, the juiciest ribeye and top quality wagyu? Read on for our picks of the best steak restaurants in London. From old-school steakhouses to Argentinian classics and modern Japanese grilling, foodies are spoilt for choice with options for the next meat-feast. For more like this, check out our reviews of the best brunch in London, the best outdoor restaurants in London or the best London pubs for food lovers. Best places to eat steak in London Ibai, Smithfield Ibai is a steak restaurant that starts well before the grill. The duo behind it, Nemanja Borjanović and William Sheard, own Mr Txuleta, the wholesale butcher that supplies the restaurant, controlling the beef from farm to table. That means choosing breeds, working directly with farmers, selecting cattle pre-slaughter and ageing the meat on its own terms. Ibai is known for its Galician Blond – including the first UK herds, in Wales and Bedfordshire – but there’s also a focus on rare native breeds and older animals. It’s beef with a backstory, and it tastes like it. The room matches the ambition. High ceilings, polished stone and firelight frame the open grill, giving the place a sense of occasion without stiffness. We began lightly. Cantabrian anchovies slicked with arbequina olive oil slip down in seconds, before moving on to house favourite Croque Ibai, a gloriously indulgent sandwich of carabinero prawn, boudin noir and Tomme de Brebis, crisped and molten, both salty and sweet. But the pull is the open grill. Ask to be shown the board, heaving with slabs of sirloin and rib, cut thick before being cooked over embers. We went for Galician Blond, a six-year-old animal, its meat aged for 51 days: deeply flavoured, with a savoury sweetness, buttery textured but with a satisfying drool-inducing chew – a true connoisseur’s steak. Beef-fat fries and braised leeks with mustard played their roles, anchovy and herb salsa added sharpness to cut through the rich meat. Dessert kept faith with the Basque thread. The pain perdu – crisp, rum-scented – was reason enough to stay. olive tip: Hand yourself over to sommelier Hugh to steer you through an ever-changing by-the-glass list – from classic European benchmarks to more left-field bottles. ibai.london Vivat Bacchus, Farringdon Ever tried a zebra stokkie? In Afrikaans it means ‘little stick’, a type of biltong, the air-dried cured meat that’s a South African classic. Zebra, along with beef, is part of the theatre of the biltong trolley at Farringdon steakhouse Vivat Bacchus, rolled to your table and sliced to order. It’s powerful with spices and vinegar, chewy and deeply satisfying. The trolley is the star starter, a tongue-tingling warm-up for the main attraction, the heritage braai selection. The equivalent of a UK barbecue, braai is more than a cooking method – it’s an event for bringing people together over food. The braai here offers a well-balanced spread of meats cooked over flame, designed for two to share. Juicy sirloin, meltingly soft cola-cooked pork belly, peppery boerewors (sausages) and ostrich fillet. If you’re not familiar with steaks from the big bird, think venison – incredibly lean and mildly gamey. Pot-baked mealie bread, fiery chakalaka relish and sweet-spicy monkey gland sauce are the go-to accompaniments, along with “flippen lekker” (very tasty) chips. As you’d expect, South African wines dominate the list, so ask your sommelier to match a glass with each dish. Finish with peppermint tart, a creamy dessert like a tiramisu. vivatbacchus.co.uk The Guinea Grill, Mayfair At one of Mayfair’s most characterful pub-restaurants, the meaty mains beg to be experienced, so we plumped for beef, Guinness and oyster Pie (to share) to kick off proceedings (though the devilled kidneys on toast, and seared scallops on the table next to us, looked very appetising). Topped with a crispy oyster and melted cheese, it set the tone for the next grand entrance – a magnificent côte de boeuf, presented at the table before being flamed on the grill and served with brandy peppercorn sauce, crispy layered pancetta confit potatoes and parmesan-creamed sweetcorn. For pudding, the crème brûlée crackled satisfyingly under the spoon, while the bread and butter pudding was surprisingly light and fluffy. Olive tip: If you’re visiting in the evening, try to skip lunch to take full advantage of the meaty fare. As well as starters, salads and mains, add-ons include lamb cutlet, calf's liver, lamb kidneys, black pudding and haggis. theguinea.co.uk Goodman, Mayfair At Goodman, the cut is everything. Each day begins in the basement ageing room where chefs inspect racks of prime beef, selecting the finest cuts to feature on The Cut specials board – a roll call of sirloin, ribeye, T-bone and fillet, sourced from the UK, USA, Australia and beyond. The star is a 75-day-aged Angus Pure Breed from the Lake District: deep, gamey and minerally, with intense beefiness. Diners get to choose not only the cut but the size of their steak – whether you’re in the mood for a modest 250g or a mighty kilo. Each one is cooked to your liking over red-hot 400C coals that leave a toffee-like crust and juicy centre. The Mayfair dining room, opened in 2008 (the first of three), hums with a clubby but not stuffy confidence – all dark leather, low lighting and cosy corners. Along one wall, regulars' engraved steak knives sit in a glass-fronted cabinet like prized trophies. Starters include crispy, fist-sized prawn tempura, and sweet and briny crab on warm brioche toast. From the side, truffled mac and cheese is luxurious, spinach sings with garlic, Josper-roasted onions are sticky and dark, and triple-cooked chips are made to dredge through the creamy béarnaise. Get to know the sommelier – they’ll match your palate and your steak, possibly with a lush American pinot noir or a more classic French Bordeaux. goodmanrestaurants.com Dorian, Notting Hill Relaxed and friendly, Dorian has polish but no pretence. Smart enough for a birthday, casual enough for a Tuesday night, it proudly boasts of its place in the heart of the neighbourhood. But for all its clubbable vibe, what makes it a destination is the steak. Aged for 60 days on-site, Dorian offers three cuts, cooked with mesmeric care over wood fire: sirloin on the bone, rib-eye on the bone and the grand T-bone. Each arrives richly barked, exteriors crisped and as smoky as embers, interiors blushing and butter soft. It’s dramatic, theatrical cooking – made to share, made to marvel at. But this isn’t a one-dish restaurant. Rostis are fried to a deep gold and topped with crab and broad bean, or langoustine and pea. Or, if you’re feeling especially decadent, caviar. For starters, a plate of white asparagus is a snappable delight, tempura St George’s mushrooms deliver umami nuggets, and the succulent ibérico pork is complemented by noisily crunchy strips of deep-fried pig’s ear. Triple-cooked Pink Fir potatoes deserve their own accolade, shrapnel skins, fluffy flesh, built for scooping up whatever’s left on your plate. Desserts are great – go for salted milk flan with a scoop of coffee and dark chocolate sorbet. But, really, you’re here for the incredible steak. dorianrestaurant.com Cut at 45 Park Lane, Mayfair As you would expect, Cut at 45 Park Lane – culinary heavyweight Wolfgang Puck’s fine dining steakhouse – wants you to experience the best cuts from the world’s best steaks. To make the most of an experience in this sleek, polished dining room, choose The Taste of Cut: a trio of British grass-fed sirloin, Australian wagyu and Japanese A5 wagyu, each carefully cooked and clearly distinct. The sirloin is bold and beefy; the Australian richly marbled; while the A5, almost white with silky fat, barely needs a knife. It’s an impressive way to understand what top-grade beef really tastes like. Wolfgang may be best known for revolutionising Californian fine dining with Spago and feeding the stars at the Oscars, but at Cut you feel that steak is his passion. Head chef Ibrahim cooks over open flames, resting and flaming to deliver smoky perfection, perfectly paired with dry Italian red wine barbaresco. Small bites include miso cones of spicy tuna tartare, bite-sized, meltingly soft wagyu sliders, and sweet and fluffy crab and lobster rolls. If you have room for dessert, share a burnt Basque cheesecake with Hugh Lowe Farm strawberries, the freshness of the fruit a perfect foil for the delicately creamy pudding. dorchestercollection.com Macellaio RC, various locations The tagline of this collection of six Italian restaurants is ‘the butcher’s theatre’. Genoan restaurateur Roberto Costa’s original South Kensington branch is a homely ‘butcher with tables’, while the glamorous Soho outpost focuses on the theatre butchery. Executive chef Lello Favuzzi’s menu starts with lardo that melts onto sourdough with honey and hazelnuts, smoked, aged tuna bresaola with heirloom tomatoes and Tropea onions, and the signature steak tartare. The latter is excitingly prepared tableside on a smart wooden trolley – bowls of chopped Fassona steak, capers, onions, gherkins and anchovies are mixed with cognac, Worcestershire sauce and mustard, with an egg yolk balanced on top. The main event is the grill. House-butchered T-bones, ribeyes and sirloins are dry-aged for seven to nine weeks, and there’s a choice between grass-fed British, lean Fassona from Piedmont and a Bavarian breed that boasts intensely flavoured fat. Pair with a Seven Hills negroni, a bottle from the exceptional Italian wine list and finish with a tiramisu, built at the table, or homemade hazelnut gelato. macellaiorc.com Zoilo, Marylebone This intimate bistro has been serving regional Argentinian classics for over a decade. The upstairs dining room is a cocoon of elegance – exposed brick and wood panelled walls strung with black and white photographs of life in Buenos Aires, flickering tea lights on white tablecloths, deep red leather banquettes and chequered flooring, with a heavy velvet curtain wrapped around the door to keep out the cold. A wooden bar is generously stocked with aperitifs and spirits to make cocktails while impressive vintages line shelves behind. Chef Patron Diego Jacquet returns to Argentina two to three times a year to source the 250-strong list of wines including Mendoza's prestigious Malbec regions UCO Valley and Vista Flores. Kick things off with house-cured salami, flaky, beef-filled empanadas, provoleta (a semi-hard cheese similar to Italian provolone) melted and topped with almonds and honey, and sea bream ceviche doused in green oil, chia seeds and pickled kohlrabi. Grass-fed, pampas-reared Argentinian steak is the main event, from juicy ‘bife ancho’ rib-eye served with lively tomato and parsley salsa criolla to perfectly pink ‘asado’ flank and Brazilian style picanha cooked sous vide. Order extra-crunchy hand cut Provençal chips and seasonal sides that might include opulent cauliflower cheese layered with peanut butter. To finish, silky smooth crème brûlée is topped with dulce de leche swirled banana ice cream and petits fours include squares of dulce de leche fudge. zoilo.co.uk Flat Iron, Southbank Who can argue with Flat Iron’s motto, “Great steak for everyone”, when £15 is all it costs for a beautifully cooked flat iron steak. It’s no surprise that the crowd spans everyone from young professionals to parents with toddlers in tow. This is the 18th Flat Iron, set just behind the Royal Festival Hall and overlooking Southbank Market Square. Inside, a smart central bar divides a bright, lively front space from a cosier dining room at the back. There’s also a sunny terrace, perfect for relaxed lunches and summer evenings. The signature flat iron steak is the headline act: British-reared beef, expertly seared to a rosy blush and served simply with beef dripping chips, silky creamed spinach and an outrageously indulgent crispy bone marrow mash. Blackboard specials like wagyu keep regulars coming back, while a short, well-curated list of wines, beers and classic cocktails rounds out the offering. Flat Iron skips a formal dessert menu, instead handing out complimentary salted caramel soft serve in a crunchy cone – a small detail that’s part of the charm. Unfussy, reliable and brilliantly executed, Flat Iron really does make great steak democratic. flatironsteak.co.uk Hawksmoor, various locations There are multiple branches of Hawksmoor to choose from across London. The Wood Wharf branch combines its signature British steakhouse flair with a unique waterside location. Situated on a floating pavilion, this restaurant offers stunning views of the City alongside its renowned menu of perfectly cooked steaks, fresh seafood, and hearty sides. The outdoor terrace is ideal for sipping on classic cocktails while enjoying the serene waterfront atmosphere. Hawksmoor’s dedication to quality and sustainability ensures a memorable dining experience. thehawksmoor.com/locations/wood-wharf/ NIJŪ, Mayfair Experience wagyu and kobe beef grilled to perfection at Japanese restaurant NIJŪ in Mayfair. Endo Kazutoshi, arguably London’s most esteemed sushi master, is behind this new Mayfair grill, with exec chef Chris Golding overseeing the menu day to day. Careful sourcing, luxe ingredients and well-honed kitchen skills create a unique menu inspired by ‘Katei Ryōri’: homecooked, seasonal dishes, some – like dover sole, asparagus and nori butter – served tableside. Wagyu, that most highly-prized beef, is sourced from Japan and England, cooked simply over Japanese charcoal and offered with fresh wasabi and yuzu salsa verde. Beyond the steak offerings, sashimi includes indulgent cuts like otoro (fatty tuna) served classic style or with a contemporary NIJŪ twist – ‘aburi’ (seared) with caviar. Vegetables are treated with equal care, from grilled aubergine with white sesame dressing to spicy spinach with sobacha (buckwheat tea). A sushi counter and glass panel revealing all the kitchen action add to the buzzy atmosphere. The basement Nipperkin bar uses British ingredients, some grown and distilled on site in its hyper-seasonal cocktail list. nijulondon.com Blacklock, various across London While Blacklock’s famous ‘All In’ – a pile-up of seared pork, lamb and beef chops served atop charcoal-grilled flatbread – remains a carnivore’s rite of passage, another must-order is the magnificent beef prime rib chop (choose the size to suit you). Charred and glossy, blushing pink within, it’s a true showstopper, elevated to even greater heights of umami meatiness with house gravy. It’s a dish that feels perfectly in keeping with the dark wood and exposed brick of Blacklock’s Shoreditch branch, tucked inside a Victorian warehouse, buzzing with office workers. Begin with bite-size canapés then choose succulent pig’s head on toast, lifted by sweet, pickled chilli slices. Sides compete for stardom: 10-hour ash-roasted sweet potato, smoky and creamy; sharp kale with parmesan; loudly crunchy beef dripping chips; and silky bone marrow. Try your luck and ask for the secret pie: only 20 are baked each day and they’re not listed on the menu – a celebration of Blacklock’s nose-to-tail philosophy made with handpicked cuts, slow-cooked in Cornish stout and wrapped in thyme-topped shortcrust pastry. To finish, white chocolate cheesecake is like no other you’ve had before, served at your table in great scoops for everyone to grab a spoon and dive into. theblacklock.com Solis, Battersea Solis is the personal product of Ana Gonçalves’ (along with husband Zijun Meng, who together are behind cult favourites TĀ TĀ Eatery and Tou) desire to showcase food from her childhood and challenge the conventional expectations of the steak night. With bold flavour influences from Spain, Portugal, Uruguay and Argentina, Solis is looking to break the mould without breaking the bank. Located right in the heart of Battersea Power Station’s multi-billion-pound restoration and redevelopment, it offers an accessible menu headlined by its signature grilled spatchcock chicken and flat-iron steak, both served with salad, fries and a big side of South American vibrancy. arcadefoodhall.com/solis The Guinea Grill, Mayfair Recently reopened after a revamp, this gorgeous restaurant and pub is tucked away down a quiet side road behind New Bond Street. This institution is every bit the great British pub with its tartan carpets and wood-panelled walls. Try the prawn and crayfish cocktail for a delicious retro starter. For your main, though it serves pub classics such as homemade pies, it is well known for its steaks. It has used the same premium butcher for 60 years, for tender, dry-aged steaks, and the knowledgeable staff will give you expert advice on how each cut should be cooked to ensure the optimal experience. We loved the pancetta confit potatoes and creamed spinach, served alongside the steak. The wine list to complement the meal is vast but let the wait staff guide you, or go the whole hog and ask for some wine pairings with your meal – we tried a gorgeous white from Austria. Round off a special meal with a decadent banana sticky toffee pudding, served with generous scoops of vanilla ice cream. If you’re not quite ready to leave the warm embrace, you can roll to the pub side and enjoy a perfectly poured Guinness, too. theguinea.co.uk Fazenda, Shoreditch This might just be the ultimate sharing extravaganza for steak lovers. Fazenda’s Churrasco Experience brings the theatre of the traditional gaucho grill to your table, offering a limitless selection (you can eat as much as you like) of 15 grilled meats, carved from giant skewers by expert passadores. Highlights include picanha (beef rump), sirloin, ribeye, pork belly and fillet, all cooked to medium-rare perfection. This premium south Brazilian restaurant spans two floors in the sleek 100 Bishopsgate Tower and boasts three private dining rooms, an elegant mezzanine lounge and the standalone Fino bar. Start your experience with the Market Table’s fresh salads and sides or opt for Brazilian small plates, such as seafood moqueca (a tomato and coconut stew) or yellowfin tuna with beef cream emulsion. For something extra special, Fazenda’s ‘Share an indulgent cut’ menu features sharing dishes like roasted bone marrow with chimichurri, a one-kilo tomahawk steak dry-aged for 21 days, grilled giant king prawns and a 500g grade 9 wagyu sirloin. To drink, Fazenda specialises in Argentinian, Brazilian, Chilean and Uruguayan wines, as well as innovative cocktails from South America. If you still have room, try dulce de leche filled churros or crème caramel layered with chantilly cream and madeira cake. fazenda.co.uk/location/bishopsgate Heliot Steak House, Covent Garden Heliot Steak House, right at the heart of Leicester Square’s famous Hippodrome Casino, overlooking the Grand Casino, has recently been given a refurb. It majors in elevated American cuisine, with buttery prime USDA steaks the stars of the show. Everything here is about the drama, from plumptious prawns presented with billowing clouds of dry ice, to perfectly grilled steaks, sliced at the table and served with oozy mac ‘n’ cheese (with a rarebit-style topping), creamy spinach and rosemary-salted fries. There’s a choice of 120 wines (choose Ramnista Xinomavro, a velvety red from Greece, a perfect partner for red meat). There are also fish, lamb, chicken and pasta dishes, and some vegetarian options. And if you do get lucky on the tables, you might want to splash out on a luxurious Japanese wagyu sirloin. hippodromecasino.com/restaurant-bars-lounges/ The Butcher’s Tap and Grill, Chelsea A meat chamber filled with labelled cuts is the first sign that this is no ordinary boozer. The London outpost of Tom Kerridge’s pub joins the Marlow original in offering superior steaks and sauces: prime bone in ribeye with jalapeño mayo and truffle fries enjoyed in a leather booth feels right in this smart neighbourhood just three minutes from Sloane Square and shopper’s paradise King’s Road. True to its pub roots there are chops, burgers, kebabs and hot dogs, real ales and beer on tap, and sport on the TV screens. Tom has a knack for making everyone welcome, from locals popping by to collect a Friday night takeaway to destination diners and football fans catching the match over a pint or two. thebutcherstapandgrill.co.uk/chelsea Daffodil Mulligan, Shoreditch Chef Richard Corrigan’s partnership with fellow Irishmen John Nugent and Tony Gibney is an unapologetic tribute to Irish craic. The industrial Shoreditch space is modestly decorated with moody portraits of Irish legends – Sinéad O’Connor guides you down the stairs to the basement drinking den; while upstairs is where you’ll find the main restaurant, open kitchen, complete with a wood oven and grill, and oyster bar. Let chef be your guide with six sharing courses and a Gibney’s stout, or work your way around the snacks, small plates, oysters and grill. On the grill, you'll find a selection of steaks using award-winning Shorthorn beef sourced from across Ireland and dry aged in Himalayan salt bricks for 28 days. As well as classic sirloin, flat-iron or cote de boeuf from the grill, the wood oven offers more for meat-lovers from a forerib of beef & bone marrow cheeseburger (served in a beef fat brioche bun) to sugar pit pork and wood-fired whole roast chicken. Many ingredients are sourced from Richard’s own estate in Ireland, Virginia Park Lodge – including smoky, wood-roasted carrots that punch way above their weight. Biscuity champagne and a light, very gluggable muscadet are winners on the wine list – but drinks nerds should explore the cocktails with infused spirits, from jalapeño-infused tequila in a blood orange margarita to chilli Aperol with mezcal, chocolate and orange bitters. daffodilmulligan.com Lurra, Marylebone Tucked away on Marylebone’s pretty (and seriously foodie) Seymour Place, Lurra is a contemporary, sophisticated Basque-inspired restaurant. It’s sister to Donostia, just across the road. There’s more to this trendy joint than its good looks though: ingredients are key. With a meat import business (think 14-year-old Galician Blond, 67-day hung beef) supplying the likes of Kitty Fisher’s and Chiltern Firehouse, and a cellar downstairs housing top Spanish wines (including an incredible Louro from Valdeorras), owners Nemanja and Melody know their stuff. lurra.co.uk The Colony Grill Room, Mayfair With its vintage styling, large booths and striking murals, the Colony pays homage to classic New York grill restaurants. Dishes finished tableside are a big part of chef Ben Boeynaems’ menu, including dover sole meunière with miso butter, theatrically deboned before guests. The sharing wood-grilled tomahawk steak (bone-in ribeye) is a similarly dramatic presentation, carved as it’s served at the table. Deft knife skills maximise the cut’s juiciness. colonygrillroom.com Gaucho, Piccadilly Step through the doors of Gaucho Piccadilly and you step into the original. The flagship that launched a now 20-strong group, this is where the magic started. Dark walls and flickering candlelight – the décor remains familiar just like the head chef Mario, who’s been grilling here for 25 years. That longevity brings serious consistency. Argentinian beef is sourced from farms committed to regenerative practices. The signature cut, churrasco, is a must: spiralled lomo (fillet), chorizo (sirloin), ancho (ribeye) or rump (cuadril), marinated in parsley, lemon, garlic and olive oil, and grilled to perfection. There are elegant starters – crispy prawn chicharrón with sweet-spicy aji amarillo and lime-bright crab tostada – but you’re here for steak and a serious glass of something red. Ask the sommelier for a pairing from the knockout New World wine list, and trust the superb waiting staff – they’re as much part of the institution as the steak. Once the haunt of power lunchers, today it’s shoppers and tourists looking for post West End indulgence. And they find it – topped off with a rich dulce de leche cheesecake crowned with chantilly, hazelnuts and cherries. gauchorestaurants.com STK Steakhouse, The Strand If you like your steak with a side of glamour, STK on The Strand delivers it in style. A buzzing, clubby vibe, a menu built around premium cuts and a sleek central bar make this one of London’s go-to spots for a steak night with extra sparkle. The space feels part steakhouse, part cocktail lounge – dark, dramatic lighting, plush leather booths and a live DJ most evenings. It's a popular choice for celebrations, stylish dinners and anyone looking to combine a serious steak with a lively night out. On the menu, prime cuts of USDA beef can be finished with a range of toppings and crusts, including truffle butter, crab and parmesan, blue cheese and chimichurri. If you’re feeling especially hungry go for the 900g tomahawk, a magnificent cut that’s made for sharing. But steak isn’t the only indulgence: mini wagyu burgers are a luxurious take on a crowd-pleaser, while Mermaid Surf & Turf pairs perfectly cooked steak with seafood. There’s plenty for lighter appetites, too — tuna tartare, roasted halibut and a punchy caesar salad ensure no one’s left behind. The drinks list leans heavily on signature cocktails alongside a robust wine selection. Room for dessert? Share a crunchy apple crumble topped with a scoop of creamy ice cream. stksteakhouse.com Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Islington Best restaurants in Chelsea Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Best Knightsbridge restaurants: where to eat in the elegant London district
From contemporary Japanese to modern Indian flavours and stylish afternoon tea, check out our pick of some of the most lavish dining rooms in central London
Looking for Knightsbridge restaurants? Check out where to eat and drink in this elegant London district, then find more recommendations for where to eat and drink in Chelsea, our favourite restaurants in Soho and discover more of our London restaurant reviews. Our pick of the best restaurants in Knightsbridge Dinings SW3 – for contemporary Japanese izakaya and sushi A grade-II listed building tucked away on a quiet street in Knightsbridge is where tiny Marylebone restaurant Dinings opened its second home in 2017. Subtle touches include warm towels and edamame beans brought to the table shortly after being seated. Order a cocktail while you peruse the menu of sashimi, sushi and modern Japanese tapas that has evolved from traditional Japanese Izakaya cuisine. Yuzu and sansho pepper lift the refreshing paloma, while Roku gin and cherry infused vermouth add richness to a classic negroni. Or, try Dinings’ own-label sake from Konotomo, a family-run brewery in Japan. Start with the impressive sashimi platter; a heavy stone box filled with ice piled high with tiny, perfectly constructed mouthfuls, such as mosaic salmon wrapped in crunchy kohlrabi, sea bass carpaccio and hay-smoked toro (fatty tuna). The gentle smoky flavour is achieved with a Josper grill, using charcoals that reach 480C, which also help to create other robata-style dishes on the menu, such as tender chicken teriyaki skewers and scallops with punchy and refreshing wasabi salsa. Handmade udon noodles are elegantly presented in the restaurant's umami-rich susuru broth for a soothing warmer in the colder months. Expect to leave feeling somewhere between happily zen and really special from the attentive Japanese hospitality (and we recommend a jar of chef Masaki Sugisaki’s crunchy chilli oil in hand...). diningssw3.co.uk Vatavaran – for Indian flavours with a modern twist Inspired by the Indian Himalayas, the latest restaurant from Rohit Ghai, takes its name from the Sanskrit translation of atmosphere. Spread across four floors in the heart of Knightsbridge, each has its own vibe: Brook and Ridge are buzzy and casual, while Meadow and Shikhar (meaning peak) create more of a special occasion ambience. As with Rohit’s other venues, Manthan and Kutir, the food combines classic Indian flavours with a modern twist. Start with the indori poha chaat – plump dumplings with tamarind and pressed rice – a satisfying explosion of crunch, tang and spice; and ghati masala prawns, fried in crispy batter and dressed with peanuts and sesame. Come with a crowd for the mains – they’re spectacular. Lamb shank biriyani arrives with a pastry lid which is cracked open at the table, before the soft meat is shredded from the bone. Butter chicken is among the best we’ve ever tried (in a fiercely competitive field): succulent chicken thigh meat in a smoky-sweet, vine tomato sauce. Neelgiri lobster is exceptional, served in a fresh coriander sauce with the tail shell decorating the plate. To drink, try Nisha, a refreshing gin with cucumber and elderflower, then finish with Lava, a chocolate and cardamom kulfi with meringue. vatavaran.uk Sachi at The Pantechnicon This atmospheric Japanese restaurant lies on the lower ground floor of destination design, shopping and eating complex, The Pantechnicon. While just a few moments from busy Knightsbridge, its dim lighting, Japanese garden decor and hidden booths make it feel like another world. The menu features regional Japanese dishes using the best British ingredients, such as Scottish scallops and lobster and Cornish monkfish, many cooked over fire on the robata grill. Among favourites such as sashimi, nigiri and maki rolls, agedashi tofu, tempura and a magnificent nasu (miso aubergine), discover some unique dishes such as seabass with lava salt and seabuckthorn, butinako – a rich pork belly braised in barley miso – shortrib with fermented mushroom and black garlic, and luxurious wagyu with beetroot and miso. The sommelier will guide you through each course, explaining the source and complexities of each saki as you go. Finish your meal with a sakura cocktail (gin, vermouth and peach) in Sakaya, the tiny whisky bar. pantechnicon.com/sachi The Rosebery Lounge at Mandarin Oriental – for Asian-inspired afternoon tea Afternoon tea at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park is taken in The Rosebery Lounge, a grand yet unstuffy dining room with high ceilings and a small, stylish bar offering a selection of wines and spirits, including Chêne Bleu Domaine De la Verrière rosé, Goose Island IPA and Hendrick’s gin. Speckled antique mirrors and contemporary abstract art line the walls, and individual metal coat stands (tree-like) are brought to intimate, low, dark-wood tables. Elegant chandeliers and large windows facing onto Knightsbridge high street make the lounge bright, and a rose and ginger scent infuses throughout the room. We were greeted by a friendly and informative waiter who explained the options available: beer afternoon tea, teamaster’s choice, sake afternoon tea, mini afternoon tea (for children under 12) or traditional champagne afternoon tea. We opted for the latter, which came with R de Ruinart rosé champagne and R de Ruinart white champagne, both smooth, chilled and crisp, the rosé leaving slight floral notes after each sip. mandarinoriental.com Tom Brown at The Capital – for elevated seafood dishes Tom Brown made a name for himself at his fish restaurant, Cornerstone, in Hackney Wick, where he quickly gained a Michelin star. The chef has since travelled west, bringing his seafood skills to The Capital Hotel’s ivy-clad red brick building in the heart of Knightsbridge. Pass through the reception for a punchy After Dark cocktail at the moon-themed bar – an elegant cocoon of deep blue. Continue to the main restaurant, elegantly embellished with white tablecloths, statement chandeliers and constellation-themed hand-painted ceiling reflected in mirrored cornicing. Dishes are intricately presented like artwork on the plate, most notably in a sea bream tartare, delicately layered with sliced radishes and finished with slow-cooked quail’s egg in a ponzu dressing laced with jalapeño oil. To kick off, crisp lobster toast is a must, topped with tail and claw tartare, lardo and shellfish ketchup. Next comes the bread course – light, fluffy, still-warm chocopan scattered with dehydrated scallop roe, and Guinness and seaweed soda bread to slather in crab oil and cultured butter. Showstopping fish cooking continues in the mains with the likes of pan-roasted monkfish with a varietal trio of pumpkin served confit, crushed and puréed, all coated in rich lobster sauce. To finish, rich pauper treacle cake is created using left-over bread, layered with pear membrillo and a slice of Cashel Blue cheese, with a crème brûlée style pear tuile balanced on top. tombrownatthecapital.com CLAP – for people watching This lively Knightsbridge restaurant is the place to be if you like entertainment in the form of DJs and people-watching with dinner. An international set, familiar with its branches in Beirut, Dubai and Riyadh, laps up the bustle of the open kitchen and sushi bar, which turns out modern Japanese dishes with luxurious touches, such as truffle edamame, a surprising shiitake and sesame salad, hamachi sashimi, otoro and wagyu nigiri, black cod miso and kimchi-spiked lamb rack. Desserts are big on drama, too – the natsu platter is stacked with exotic fruit, matcha cheesecake and mochi. A rooftop bar has views over the city and fascinating light fittings that are made for Instagram. claprestaurant.com Nanyang Blossom – for creative cooking from Southern China Taking inspiration from the Nanyang region (Southern China, Malaysia and Indonesia), chef Daren Liew’s creates dishes as pleasing to the eye as to the taste buds. Prawn toast is reimagined using edamame to add colour and almonds for extra crunch. Two premium signatures include luxe ingredients: Deluxe Hokkien ‘stir-fry’ of wild prawns, abalone (a lightly sweet and salty delicacy) in a prawn stock with bottarga powder and egg; and Miyazaki beef with small plates including a piquant pickled okra. Sea bass is grilled with turmeric and ginger flower with blue pea rice. With clever lighting and panelled walls, the small dining room shimmers. Attentive service (and high prices) reflect its Knightsbridge location. nanyangblossom.co.uk Osteria Romana – for authentic Roman cooking The structure of the menu at Osteria Romana is classically Italian, divided into antipasti, pasta and soups, and main courses, plus dessert. Order all four courses for a true Italian feast, though as portions are generous (particularly the pasta), just one would do if you’re after something lighter. Prices, while not low, are still reasonable for this expensive part of London. Dishes on offer maintain a strictly Roman focus – ingredients like salt cod, pecorino, artichokes and broad beans abound, and the menu is full of classics native to the Eternal City, from cacio e pepe and bucatini amatriciana to Roman-style tripe and oxtail stew. osteriaromana.co.uk abc Kitchens – for global sharing dishes Renowned New York chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten has curated the concept and all-day menu at this glamorous all-suite hotel. Featuring dishes from three of his NYC restaurants, influences range from Mexico to Japan to Italy, with British ingredients playing a starring role. English peas are added to guacamole; tacos are filled with south coast battered john dory; toasts are topped with Dorset crab and wildflowers. Everything is designed to share and there are plenty of crowd pleasers like burgers; three-cheese and truffle pizza; lemony chicken and rice with a side of homemade hot sauce with crisp crackling for added crunch. There are moments of genius, too, with a hero dish of Orkney scallop tartare, served in the shell and spooned onto shiso leaves and translucent slices of kohlrabi. Puddings include a deconstructed salted caramel, peanut and popcorn sundae. Views over Hyde Park and Knightsbridge, sumptuous banquettes and joyful bursts of colour in Damien Hirst’s The Secret Gardens artworks complete the upmarket vibe. the-emory.co.uk/restaurants-bars/abc-kitchens/ The Georgian at Harrods, Knightsbridge – for elevated pies in iconic luxury surroundings There’s a place for traditionally glamorous, formal dining and Harrods is just that. While its ground floor dining hall reflects the tastes of both global restaurant-curious Londoners and food-savvy international visitors, the fourth-floor The Georgian is a British affair. By day, afternoon tea is taken in the vast, regal, chandeliered space. At night, there are cocktails, a pianist and gloriously old-fashioned trolley service. Pies are the must-order here – chef, previously of the much-lauded The Pie Room at Rosewood London, Calum Franklin’s curation includes beef shin and squash; lobster; chicken and penny bun; plus the signature lamb – with ratatouille, anchovy tempura and sweetbread for two. Whipped potatoes with buttermilk make an indulgent side dish. Pie refuseniks can chose from mains of dover sole, cod or chicken. But first there is bread with Marmite butter, starters of crab tart or pâté en croûte. Crowd-pleasing puddings include sticky toffee, lemon tart and a trifle where layers of apple, calvados and vanilla cream are constructed tableside. harrods.com/en-gb/c/restaurants/the-georgian
Best festive afternoon teas in London 2025
Looking for a festive treat? We’ve found the best spots to take friends and family over the Christmas season, from traditional afternoon tea at The Ritz to afternoon tea with a view from The Shard
Treat loved ones and dine in style over the Christmas season with one of these festive afternoon teas for a Christmas treat. Classic afternoon tea menus of sandwiches, scones and perfect patisserie get a festive makeover at this time of year, from turkey sandwiches and cranberry jam to go with scones, to carefully crafted yule logs, Christmas trees made of cake, savoury mince pies and many more magical discoveries. You're sure to leave full and with a wonderful new Christmas tradition to return to year after year. If you're not after a Christmas theme, check out the best afternoon teas in London and the best across the UK, too. Best festive afternoon teas in London 2025 Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill, Marylebone Known for its travel-themed Flavours of the World afternoon teas, this Christmas, Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill has fittingly chosen Lapland as its destination inspiration for guests. However rather than just a few festively named desserts, the hotel fully embraces a sense of delightful theatricality, transporting guests on board a ‘Montagu Kitchen Airlines’ flight to Lapland. Upon arriving our hostess immediately donned a pillbox air stewardess hat, stamped our boarding pass ‘in-flight menus’ and escorted us to our seats ready for take-off. Our napkins were tied with a chic leather luggage tag, two of our three courses were gorgeously presented in multiple compartments of a suitcase, and champagne was offered upon lift off. Our in-flight menu boasted an array of spiced treats, including a tangy sweet water shrimp tartelette and, my personal favourite, a rich but light brioche roll topped with forest mushroom duxelles and Witheridge cheese. Following this there was the classic, traditional plain and raisin scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam – it was however given an exotic twist by featuring a zesty passion fruit jam, all suitably located in the side compartments of our luggage. Lastly, the main part of our suitcase opened to reveal a vibrant display of sweet, delicate pastries – all appropriately Christmas themed, from a Santa Belly made of an almond financier, gooseberry compote and vanilla crémeux, to Scandinavian favourite, kaffe rulltårta, everything was beautifully light and rich in flavour. Price: Festive afternoon tea from £59pp Address: 30 Portman Square, London W1H 7BH Book festive afternoon tea at Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill here. Corinthia London, Whitehall Corinthia London will be serving its festive afternoon tea in The Crystal Moon Lounge with a selection of festive treats from 14 November-4 January 2026. Relax in the stylish lobby under the glistening chandelier and listen to grand piano playing in the background while you feast on elevated turkey or honey roasted ham sandwiches, followed by scones with both strawberry and blackcurrant jams. Finish with the patisserie, including a black forest bûche de Noël, gingerbread and mandarin cake and pear and Tahitian vanilla choux, to name just a few of the many treats on this classically luxurious menu. Price: Festive afternoon tea from £95pp Mon-Thurs, £105 Fri-Sun, caviar afternoon tea from £150pp. Address: Whitehall Place, Westminster, London SW1A 2BD Book festive afternoon tea at Corinthia London here. The Ritz, Piccadilly The Ritz will be serving its traditional afternoon tea with a fun festive twist from 15 November-3 January 2026, with five sittings per day. Take in the luxurious surroundings while you feast on six different sandwiches (think classic cheddar and chutney, ham and mustard mayonnaise, traditional smoked salmon sandwiches and more), Christmas-inspired British pastries; and choose from over 20 different teas including a bespoke Ritz Christmas spiced tea. Price: £120pp; £79 per child (up to 15 years old), except for Christmas Day which is priced at £135 per adult and £90 per child Address: 150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR Book the Ritz Christmas afternoon tea here. Festive afternoon tea by Lily Vanilli, Four Seasons Tower Bridge For a modern take on a a festive afternoon tea, head to Lily Vanilli at the Four Seasons Hotel London Tower Bridge. The Christmas treat is served in the grand setting of the Rotunda Bar, complete with towering Christmas tree at the centre. There's no finger sandwiches here. Instead, the tea kicks off with a range of unique savouries including parmesan gougères, confit potatoes topped with smoked salmon and roe, and gildas with fiery pickled chilli. Even mince pies get a savoury twist, with buttery pastry holding a hearty cheese, cabbage and potato filling. Classic scones are served with clotted cream and blackberry compote. Make sure you save room for the sweet course, which includes mini lemon meringue tarts, and sticky toffee madeleines served with a generous cup of toffee sauce. The highlight is a grand mini chocolate salted caramel cake served on it's very own cake stand, adorned with gold baubles and decorated in Lily Vanilli’s signature style with rich, buttery icing. If you can’t slice into it there and then, the team will box it up for you to take home and savour later. Price: £65 per person Address: Four Seasons Hotel London Tower Bridge, 10 Trinity Square, London, EC3N 4AJ Book the Four Seasons Tower Bridge tea here. oblix at The Shard Nothing starts off a festive afternoon tea like walking through a corridor lined floor to ceiling with sparkling fairy lights. Oblix, on the 32nd floor of The Shard, more than delivers that Christmas feeling. If you can tear your eyes away from panoramic views of London including Tower Bridge, the City and the Walkie Talkie building, then the Oblix tea has been given a Christmas makeover until the 4th January. Start with a plate of sandwiches including coronation chicken, egg mayo with generous amounts of truffle and classic smoked salmon. Cranberry scones are served with raspberry and orange preserve and clotted cream, whilst patisserie includes a Christmas tree carrot cake, festive chocolate bauble and snowflake mont blanc. Price: from £69pp Address: oblix East, Level 32, The Shard, 31 St. Thomas Street, London SE1 9RY Book the oblix festive afternoon tea here. The Savoy, The Strand The festive afternoon tea at The Savoy is available now. You can expect classic sandwiches with a Christmas twist, such as oak-smoked cheddar with plum and ginger chutney, coronation turkey on cranberry bread, and a savoury parsnip and carrot cake. Traditional freshly baked plain and raisin scones come with strawberry jam, lemon curd and clotted cream to accompany festive spiced teas. To finish, enjoy a cluster of seasonal cakes and pastries such as the chocolate and orange log, fruit cake bauble and pistachio and redcurrant tree. Price: Afternoon tea starts at £95pp and £115 with a glass of Nyetimber. Address: Strand, London WC2R 0EZ Book The Savoy afternoon tea here. TĪNG Shangri-La, The Shard TĪNG at the Shangri-La is serving a 'Season of Wonders' afternoon tea until 6 January 2026. The first thing you'll notice are the striking views of London from the heights of The Shard. The stunning scenery makes this trip worth it alone. Then choose from the extensive list of signature teas or add a festive cocktail, mocktail or glass of champagne. The finger sandwiches include coronation chicken, roast beef and truffle egg mayo, while extra savouries include a smoked duck bun with blackberry vinaigrette. Warm scones are served with clotted cream and cranberry jam for full on festivities. Finish with pastries including a 'Festive bauble-choux' and 'Charmed snowy tree'. A vegetarian tea is also available. Price: £89pp, £99 with a glass of champagne. Address: 31 St Thomas Street, London SE1 9QU Book the TĪNG festive afternoon tea here. Fortnum & Mason, The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, Piccadilly Fortnum & Mason serves its seasonal afternoon tea in The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon. For the Christmas tea, you can expect classic sandwiches with a festive twist such as Christmas spiced ham, alongside familiar cucumber or egg mayo. Still-warm scones are served with Somerset clotted cream, strawberry and champagne preserve and orange curd, while cakes and patisserie highlights include a mince tart, mandarin mousse and sticky figgy loaf. Price: £84pp for traditional or vegetarian afternoon tea with a pot of Fortnum’s Tea Address: 181 Piccadilly, St James's, London W1A 1ER. Book the Fortnum & Mason afternoon tea here. The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, Knightsbridge This festive afternoon tea served at The Carlton Tower Jumeirah until 11 January 2026 is inspired by Cadogan Gardens. It's perfect for a spot of indulgence after a shopping trip. Cosy up in their dedicated tearoom, complete with a warming fire and pastry counter. Start with a selection of sandwiches and savouries including a truffle beignet, lobster tartelette and Norfolk turkey sandwich. Expect the unexpected with the 'Scones Experience', with four different flavours of scones to enjoy. After a quince lollipop palate cleanser, the pastries to finish include a pear tart, chocolate pecan tree and apple bread pudding. The tea is accompanied by a selection of JING teas, chosen for flavour and wellness benefits. £1 from every tea is donated to The Felix Project. Price: from £85pp Address: The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, 1 Cadogan Pl, London SW1X 9PY Book festive afternoon tea at The Carlton tower here. Related reviews and recipes Best afternoon teas in London Best afternoon teas in the UK Best afternoon tea recipes
Check out our favourite restaurants, bars and foodie spots in this buzzing area of north London. Try Mexican-style rotisserie chicken, low-intervention wines, bacon naans and more
Looking for King’s Cross restaurants? Here are our favourite restaurants in King’s Cross. Check out our ideas for eating and drinking in King’s Cross, from Coal Drops Yard to Granary Square and beyond… Next discover the best private dining rooms in the UK and the best UK spa hotels or food lovers. For more London food inspiration, check out our guides to the best restaurants in Soho, best restaurants in Islington, best restaurants in Paddington and best restaurants in Mayfair. Best places to eat and drink near King's Cross station Island — for elevated surf and turf Island takes the concept of surf and turf, and adds two cult chefs - Tom Brown (on surf) and Brad Carter (on turf) – to create a unique and playful menu. The dining room occupies the top floor of buzzy Mare St Market – it’s a big space but the cosy velvet-lined booths, banquette seating and chandelier-covered ceiling manage to make it warm and welcoming. We kicked off with a lamb and clam skewer – chunks of lamb belly, the fat rendered crispy and smoky, topped with tiny salty clams. Not listed on the menu but recommended by our server were seaweed flatbreads, puffed and golden with the edges almost like fried bread. We shared a whole grilled john dory which came doused in caper-spiked café de paris butter, the sweet flesh falling of the bone. An aged dairy ribeye was served with a deep umami version of peppercorn sauce and in place of chips little crunchy ‘turf’ roasties dusted with bone marrow powder (we also got the surf version dusted with mussel powder). A Bogtrotter-style layered chocolate cake to share finished us off – rich and dark with a shiny chocolate glaze, it was a perfect end to the meal. island-restaurants.com Bao Kings Cross — for Bao’s take on Western-style cafes in Asia This modern all-day dining spot, tucked between the canal and St Pancras, offers a chance to dine in and a take-away bakery option. As the name suggests, this is one of the Bao stable and its signature fluffy white bao is on the menu, along with two exclusive versions (giving you a good excuse to visit every venue), a hamburger bao (just as it sounds) and a seafood roll made from a decadent fried brioche filled with lobster, crayfish and mayo. The rest of lobster reappears as a no-waste dish, head split open with crisp fries to dip into the creamy filling. A Taiwanese breakfast staple is reimagined, the standout ham hock congee comes not with a side of youtiao (fried bread sticks) but a golden pastry topping to rip off and dip — if you only eat one thing, make it this. Desserts feature BAOfiterole and an exemplary pineapple cake (actually a pastry), and cocktails include a plum sake-based negroni. The bakery dispenses salted egg custard ‘sad face’ bao and cookie caramel bao alongside coffee — should you wish to take away. baolondon.com Supermax – for a hidden gem bar Supermax is a hidden gem in King’s Cross, transporting guests straight to the disco era with its 70s-style speakeasy vibes. Tucked beneath Happy Face Pizza, it’s the perfect spot for both an after-work aperitif (don’t miss the daily aperitivo hour from 5-7pm) and late-night revelry. The cocktail list here is a well-curated mix, from classics with a twist, like the negroni picante and mezcal old fashioned to unique creations like the signature spicy Maxcalita that comes to your table, quite literally smoking, ideal for adventurous palates. The expert bartenders are always on hand to recommend the perfect drink if you’re unsure. For a light bite, the menu offers tasty nibbles like smoky almonds and Nocellara olives. Stick around past 10 pm on Thursdays through Saturdays to dance under the disco ball and neon lights, making this an all-in-one nightlife destination. supermaxbar.com Sushi on Jones – for affordable omakase With omakase menu prices often heading into triple figures, it’s refreshing that this London outpost of a New York fave brings it in for £68 for 12 courses. It’s an intimate space with only eight seats at a counter, so you can watch as head sushi chef Mattia Aranini and his team prepare and explain each course. Tasting menu £68; sushionjones.com Booking Office 1869 – for classic all-day dining Booking Office 1869 is the re-imagining of the original 19th-century ticket hall that has greeted the many travellers visiting St Pancras Station since its opening in 1869. But Harry Handelsman – lead behind the redesign – is no stranger to grand undertakings, having been responsible for past projects including the Chiltern Firehouse. This relaunch coincides with the 10-year anniversary of stewardship of the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, where the restaurant is located. With décor that embraces its Victorian heritage and celebrates the building’s rich history, plus a menu that highlights classic dishes and gives them a modern twist, Booking Office 1869 is establishing itself as the place to be for all-day dining in London’s King’s Cross, whether it be for an early breakfast or late-night supper. booking-office.co.uk Fatto Pizza & Beer – for authentic Neapolitan pizza If you like your pizza pillowy, Fatto A Mano’s Kings Cross outpost is a must-visit. The opening from the Neapolitan-style pizzeria boasts modern furnishings and a buzzy atmosphere, perfect for a quick and casual dinner with friends. Which pizza to order? The menu balances traditional Italian toppings with simple twists, with everything from fennel sausage and Neapolitan broccoli to mortadella and a whole burrata. Dough is made fresh every day then left to prove for at least 24 hours – meaning less yeast is used for a lighter crust – then, the pizza is cooked at about 450 degrees for no more than 90 seconds (just how they do it in Naples). To start, nibble on nocellara olives and fennel tarallini as you sip on a seasonal aperitivo. A bowl of signature Campania fries is ideal for sharing, or opt for a cheeky salad of buffalo bocconcini, pesto, tomato and Little Gem lettuce. Everything is noticeably fresh and well proportioned, so you’re getting bang for your buck, too. Round off your night in typical Italian fashion with a limoncello – a smooth, warming digestif. fattoamanopizza.com Decimo – for hip Mexican with a view Hop in the red bubble lift that clings to the outside of The Standard Hotel up to chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias’s striking top floor restaurant. Cacti poke out from behind wooden features, Mexican textiles line sweeping curved banquettes, and a large open fireplace provides a focal point. Bag a burgundy-tiled table by the window for iconic London views while you sip zippy margaritas on the rocks or Sevilla mimosas and peruse the menu. Order a selection of Spanish and Mexican small plates, including salty anchovies slivers in a pool of confit garlic oil, panko-coated croquetas laced with iberico ham and manchego, and charcoaled sourdough to scoop up smoky red pepper tartare. At the Saturday brunch, try twists on classic egg dishes, such as huevos flamenco – iberico pork shoulder ribbons topped with two fried eggs. There are also tacos served on chunky bespoke marble platters and delicate skewers including pork in cumin and cinnamon or meltingly soft koji squid. Opt for the mezcal flight to taste a selection of handpicked regional Mexican agaves, from a toasty variety from the Pacific Coast to a Oaxacan mezcal distilled with coffee. All to the backdrop of live DJs and music. standardhotels.com Merkato, Kings Cross This Eritrean and Ethiopian restaurant on Caledonian Road is not only popular with knowing locals but has also attracted the attentions of London’s top critics in recent years. Portions are gargantuan – with speciality dishes like their dereq tbsi (sautéed beef with tomatoes, pepper and onion), keyh qlwa (hot spiced fried lamb), and special kitfo (minced beef with spiced butter). Their delicious injera (fermented teff flour pancake) is tangy and springy in texture, the perfect vehicle to scoop up everything in front of you. merkatokingscross.co.uk Hoppers – for Sri Lankan food in bustling Pancras Square Any food lover will know that Hoppers gets its names from the crisp, bowl-shaped pancakes made from a fermented batter of rice flour and coconut milk. They are devilishly difficult to make at home – but devilishly delicious in the hands of the chefs at the buzzy, spacious, family-friendly King’s Cross branch of Hoppers, the third in the empire from JKS restaurants. Filled with a soft fried egg or masala, they are a must-try. But, there are other essential-order dishes inspired by the street food along the coastal journey from the capital Colombo to Galle. Crunchy mutton rolls yield soft and tender shredded meat. Devilled paneer, a perfect sponge for chilli sauce, has a pleasing bounce. Chilli cheese dosa is as big as a bath sheet and a perfect mop for signature karis, the stand-out of which being swimmer crab – a tangle of shell and claws smothered in intense, silky sauce. Make sure you choose Hoppers’ own beer – Toddy ale. It has a touch of salt, which is as surprising as it is fire-dousing. hopperslondon.com/kingscross Happy Face Pizza – for pizza Tucked away behind Coal Drops Yard, Happy Face Pizza is a must-visit if you’re after a low-key dinner without having to queue. A slick marble bar takes centre stage, with high stools and sharing tables filling the industrial-style space. Wood-fired pizzas (with dough fermented for 72 hours) come with puffy, charred crusts and sloppy centres. Try the salsiccia with smoked mozzarella, Neapolitan sausage and fresh fiery chilli, or the prosciutto one for a salty number. If you just fancy a snack, order shoestring zucchini fritti, washed down with a house-bottled Roller Ball cocktail – a concoction of Suze, white vermouth and tonic cordial. For more party vibes, head downstairs to SUPERMAX, a vermouth-led cocktail bar that’s all glitter balls, plush pink furnishings and DJs every Friday night. happyface.pizza Fortitude Bakehouse – for bakes Time is a key ingredient at Dee Rettali’s fascinating mews bakery off Russell Square. Doughs and cake batters are designed to ferment in stages, between making, rolling and baking, to enhance their complexity. “We make a fermented brownie using a liquid starter and cultured butter which sits for four days before baking,” explains Dee. From Guinness cakes to lunch sandwiches of zaalouk, aged feta, preserved lemon and parsley, flavour inspiration is drawn from Dee’s Irish background and her love of Morocco. A viral hit, Fortitude’s beignet might feature a rhubarb cream filling and crumble topping: “The dough is a fermented, fried brioche, not typical doughnut dough.” fortitudebakehouse.com Granger & Co. – for brunch Granger & Co. King's Cross is the third London location of Australian celebrity chef Bill Granger's restaurants. Focussing on it's trademark sunny, healthy style of Med/Southeast Asian food, great cocktails, wine and top-notch coffee, Granger and Co is open from breakfast to dinner every day. Granger & Co's menus are famously eclectic, bringing flair to the sunny Australian Med/South-east Asian melting-pot. The crispy duck, spring onion crepes, iceberg and plum sauce, is an especially memorable dish which could be likened to a dream you might have had about what crispy duck pancakes might be like before you'd ever seen any. Granger & Co. makes reference to 80's Italian train station restaurants, with its Terrazzo floors and bar tops, olive leather banquettes, a wood-panelled ceiling, 70s table lamps, moody modern art, salmon and peach paintwork, an Italian style leather and brass fixed-stool-seated bar with a huge feature mirror dominating the space behind it. grangerandco.com Canopy Market – for street food This weekly food market in King’s Cross plays host to independent food producers every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Choose between honeycomb doughnuts from Bread Ahead, meats from The Charcuterie Board and hot sauces from World of Zing. Take your pick between indulgent risotto balls from the Arancini Brothers, or grilled cheese sandwiches at the Big Melt. canopymarket.co.uk Best places to eat and drink in Coal Drops Yard Bubala, Lewis Cubitt Park – for Middle Eastern vegetarian small plates Bubala has done it again. The third spot from Marc Summers (Berber & Q) and Helen Graham (Palomar) boasts its very own wood-fired oven, as well as a bright, light-filled space and tall ceilings – unlike its cosier counterparts in Soho and Shoreditch – and with shelves furnished with pickle jars and greenery. Trust that ‘Bubala Knows Best’ with the vegetarian or vegan set menus. Start with a pickle plate – three types all in different brines – closely followed by the superlative dips. The superbly silky baba ganoush comes with a well of curry leaf oil and toasted pine nuts, alongside a sleek fava bean dip with vadouvan. Smoky laffa bread is fresh off the grill and beautifully charred. The oyster mushroom skewer with tamari and coriander seed is a highlight, with umami meatiness that will convince even the staunchest mushroom naysayers. Crisp falafel with a vibrant green centre is served with tangy mango pickle amba and sumac onions. Even something as simple as a side salad is pepped with Bubala flair – oak and mustard leaves with onion, pomegranate molasses and mint is a refreshing complement to the deep-fried falafel, charred, smoky vegetables and creamy dips. Wash it all down with a spicy margarita rimmed with flecks of char from the grill. bubala.co.uk El Pastor Coal Drops Yard – for Mexican party vibes Dining is an alfresco affair at El Pastor – with multicoloured tables and chairs grouped around a central bar in a covered, heated terrace, complete with Latin beats on the speakers. The menu might be casual – spicy Mexican-style rotisserie chicken, tostadas and tacos are the stars here – but there’s an attention to detail that elevates the food. A surprisingly meaty mushroom taco comes with oaxaca cheese, caramelised onion, pumpkin seeds and coriander, with a piquant salsa made with toasted árbol chillies and garlic oil (they have seven salsas in total, all made in-house). tacoselpastor.co.uk Lina Stores – for pasta This swish space near Coal Drop’s Yard is made more cosy with soft globe lighting and clever sectioning off into counter dining, a bar lined with Italian aperitivi, and booths sheltered by iconic striped awnings in Lina Stores’ signature pale peppermint hues. Kick things off with a cocktail – try a punchy Villa Ascenti Gin negroni or a refreshing Italian twist on the g&t spiked with vermouth, black olive tonic and a sprig of rosemary. Antipasti dishes include roast aubergine and red peppers adorned with toasted pine nuts, nocellara olives and caramelised sultanas. Or slices of tuna carpaccio topped with gherkins, salsa verde, caper berries and lemon zest with tuna anchovy mayo. The focus is on fresh, handmade pasta dishes to share. Pici alla Norcia is a highlight, with thick pici pasta worms topped with a deep, umami-rich ragu of porcini mushrooms and Umbrian sausage. Large ravioli parcels are filled with sweet pumpkin and black pepper, or try oxtail ragu enriched with black ferrandina olives and tossed through silky pappardelle folds. linastores.co.uk The Drop – for wine Exposed brick walls, low-arched ceilings and soft lighting give The Drop an intimate, unpretentious feel. The chiefly European curated wine list focusses on mostly low-intervention and small producers, from France to Georgia. There’s lots to explore here, plus Guinness on tap and cheese toasties from the kitchen. thedropbar.co.uk Vermuteria – for aperitivo Vermuteria opened at Coal Drops Yard, King’s Cross, in October 2018 and it’s the first café and bar created by chef Anthony Demetre and designer Michael Sodeau. As well as charcuterie and dishes combining European and British influences (think rabbit in mustard sauce, potato and kale; Galician octopus and chickpeas; or venison ragu and gnocchi), there are more than 70 vermouths on the list. The vermouth takes centre stage in the form of simple aperitifs and a base for cocktails such as the sbagliato (Cinzano Rosso, Campari and prosecco). vermuteria.cc Click here for the best wine bars across the country Best places to eat and drink in Granary Square Dishoom – for casual Indian food Inspired by the all-day Irani cafés that were an integral part of Bombay life, there are now four branches of Dishoom in London (and another in Edinburgh), each serving Bombay breakfast, lunch, afternoon chai and dinner. Dishoom restaurant can also be found in Shoreditch, Carnaby and Covent garden. To see more of our best Indian restaurants in London, click here Ruby Violet – for ice cream Run with old-school glamour but contemporary flair by ex-food photographer Julie Fisher (the name is a nod to her maternal grandmother), this north London ice cream hot spot developed from a stall at a local market. As Julie says ‘ice cream makes people smile’ and Ruby Violet’s certainly does that. As far as possible, Julie subscribes to the fresh, seasonal, local philosophy; look out for peach and rosewater, damson, English strawberry, Seville orange marmalade ripple and Kentish Town honey. rubyviolet.co.uk Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Chelsea Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
See our top picks for the best Indian restaurants in London. All-day Bombay cafes serving bacon and egg naan rolls, to Indian-style cocktails and bowl-shaped pancakes
Looking for an Indian restaurant in London that isn't your average curry house? From regional Indian street food at Masala Zone to popular traditional Bombay cafe empire Dishoom. Here are the top best Indian restaurants in the capital... Next discover Bangladeshi food: how to cook like a local. Now find out how to celebrate Holi. For something extra special, try one of the best chef's table experiences in the UK, then find out the best female-owned restaurants in the U.K. Now discover the best Japanese restaurants in the UK, the best dining experiences in London and the most romantic restaurants in London. Best Indian restaurants in London Brigadiers, City Brigadiers isn’t your typical City restaurant. It isn’t your typical pub, either. It’s a pulsing combination of both – a warren of rooms tucked inside Bloomberg Arcade, some all chatter and screens, others set for quieter dining. And with food from JKS Restaurants, the group behind Michelin-starred Gymkhana, expectations run high – and deliver. We began with the original BBQ butter chicken wings. New dishes have been added to the menu but these creamy, smoky, finger-licking starters are the essential order. Guided by the team, we then went for a tumbling mountain of prawn, soft-shell crab and squid Tellicherry fry with tomato pachadi – crisp, peppery and lifted by sharp chutney. A chunky skewer of Afghani lamb ribeye kebab followed, juicy and aromatic with cardamom and charcoal. For mains, the Sikandari kid goat shoulder came off the bone with a nudge of the fork, its spiced crust balanced by lacha paratha and sweet onions. The wood-roasted sea bream Pollichathu, wrapped in banana leaf, opened in a fragrant puff of curry leaf and coconut. And the dal makhani – thick, buttery, slow-cooked – tied everything together. Dessert is a nod to comfort: gulab jamun crème brûlée – super-sweet deep-fried milk balls nestling in a satisfyingly tappable caramel custard. Drinks are cold and calculated to cut through the spice: a lychee martini to start, a 4th Rifles IPA for the grilled dishes and a crisp sauvignon blanc from Turnbull & Thomas, Marlborough, to make the occasion even more special. olive tip: Brigadiers has recently opened The Outpost, a covered and heated terrace inspired by army bar culture – perfect for lingering long after the plates are cleared, rain or shine. brigadierslondon.com Kokum, East Dulwich This smart neighbourhood restaurant in East Dulwich serves some of the highest quality Indian cooking this side of the river. It should be no surprise, given the restaurant is the vision of Sanjay Gour (ex-head chef at Gymkhana) and Simeron Lily Patel – co-founders of the Michelin-rated Dastaan and Black Salt Sheen. Far from Michelin prices, Kokum offers a competitively priced menu that bridges delicate starters with bowls of gravy-laden curries and flaky lachha paratha. Dahi puri saw dainty layers of potato, chickpea and moong sprout submerged in deceptively fiery layers of tang, sweet and spice. Pickled and charred tandoori roast cauliflower sat in a pool of hot makhani sauce, jewelled with pockets of mint and coriander chutney. The curries that followed accommodate to the neighbourhood clientele, with deep bowls of lamb rogan josh and lemongrass-infused makrut lime prawns. A side of dal makhani – eight-hour slow-cooked black lentils – countered the mains with its dark sultriness. There’s plenty of choice to drink too – the sharp cocktail list includes an espresso martini spiced with chai liqueur, and a punchy strawberry blush, pepped with tamarind spicy vodka and lengthened with basil tonic. olive tip: Desserts are as crucial to the experience, from the rich kulfi made with Iranian pistachio to the rum-flambéed gulab jamun, tempered with vanilla ice cream. kokumlondon.com Thecha, Poplar Just five minutes from the towering offices of Canary Wharf, tucked inside Poplar’s Lansbury Heritage Hotel, Thecha delivers a knockout tour of Maharashtra with some of the boldest Indian flavours in the capital. The soft pink-grey interior whispers boutique hotel brunch but what lands on the table is straight from the streets of Mumbai. Thecha takes its name from a green chilli chutney – here paired with blisteringly grilled paneer. Sabudana vada (crisp sago and peanut fritters) and kothimbir vadi (crisp coriander and gram fritters) set the tone: regional snacks with punch. Chilli-laden Chicken 65 – so called because of the year it was created – is a must. Try it in the biryani for a complete meal, while the dabi dal fry (slow-cooked creamy lentils) soothes with buttery warmth. From the mains, Kolhapuri mutton rasa (tender chunks in curry broth) and prawn gassi (coastal coconut prawn curry) are full-throttle flavour bombs. But the star? The butter chicken chops. Cooked in the tandoor and drenched in velvety makhani sauce, it’s worth a visit for this alone. To drink, choose cooling solkadhi, made with kokum and coconut milk – refreshing with a hint of saltiness. And make sure you have room for mango shrikhand, a creamy sweet yogurt dessert that’s a perfect balance to the heat of this dining experience. instagram.com/its_thecha Trishna, Marylebone The secret’s been out for a while that eating early is how to bag the best tables and enjoy the greatest food at prices that won’t make your jaw hit the floor. And that is certainly the case at this Marylebone stalwart. Slip in for an early lunch or dinner and you’ll be rewarded with the Taste of Trishna menu: a stellar-value four-course showcase of South Indian coastal flavours for £55. Open since 2008, Trishna helped put regional Indian cooking on the map in London. It has unveiled a refreshed look with soft light blues, warm walnut tones and handcrafted rattan accents, inspired by India’s southern coastal towns. After thrilling your taste buds with a crisp trio of papads and tangy chutneys, choose from a range of perfectly portioned and beautifully presented plates of expertly spiced specialties. Soft shell crab masala with a quenelle of delicate white meat is divine. Duck chutney seekh is smoky, spicy and perfectly charred, cut through with pineapple chutney. Mains come with a thali-style spread of rice, breads, dhal and a sensational chettinad potato roast, with options such as wild mushroom biryani (elevated by truffle and pink peppercorn raita), deeply savoury gongura lamb with a sour, pickled edge, or baby aubergine vathagal, its creamy texture complemented by crunchy peanuts. Desserts nod to tradition with flair: a mango malai, layered with lassi cream and makrut lime jujubes, is both delicate and decadent. trishnalondon.com The Great Indian, Archway When a restaurant says it’s great, it better have the chops to prove it, and fortunately, The Great Indian has some of the best tandoori lamb chops we’ve ever tried. Meltingly soft, thrillingly juicy and spiked with mustard-chilli they are the dish chef Mohit most wants The Great Indian to be known for. Also the degh dal makhani, cooked for 48 hours until it’s unctuously creamy. And the butter chicken – golf ball-sized chunks of fall-apart grilled thighs, bathed in a silky, smoky sauce with a touch of tang. Set in a quiet leafy street in Archway, The Great Indian is the kind of pub everyone would like in their own neighbourhood. The foliage-decorated ceiling and wallpaper depicting scenes of India sets the inviting, relaxed vibe. It bustles with families with young children (there’s also a great kids’ menu), office workers, seekers of the new and locals. Like us, they come to see what’s so great about the place. Then they come again to sample surprising creations such as coastal chilli-tamarind prawns dosa, lamb ghee roast in a roti taco, and pork belly sliders, plus exciting meat-free dishes, including tangy chilli paneer and jackfruit biryani. thegreatindian.uk Dishoom Permit Room, Notting Hill Dishoom’s new all-day pub-café brings the vibes of Mumbai to Notting Hill. The space is bright, art-filled and fizzing with energy. By day, it teems with families, tourists and local workers; by night, a vintage jukebox hums in the background; and at weekends DJs spin vinyl. The playful menu is a medley of Dishoom classics and new bar-friendly bites. Crispy spinach chaat arrives as a tower of crunch, spice and tang. Chakli, the coiled, spiced snack, is crisp and moreish. Chicken Pick-Me-Ups –drumsticks with Indo-Chinese seasoning – are sticky, fiery and impossible to eat quietly. Prawn moilee is delicately sweet, lifted by turmeric and curry leaf, while the legendary house black daal remains the warm hug you hope it will be. Mattar paneer delivers soft cubes of cheese and bright green peas in a richly spiced tomato gravy. Drinks are as crucial to the experience as the food (this is a pub, after all). The Sober Summer negroni is bright and herbal, while the old fashioned is coconut-washed and smooth as silk. Dishoom IPA makes a bold, hoppy companion to the food, along with local beers and considered soft drinks. permitroom.co.uk Vatavaran, Knighstbridge Inspired by the Indian Himalayas, the latest restaurant from Rohit Ghai, takes its name from the Sanskrit translation of atmosphere. Spread across four floors in the heart of Knightsbridge, each has its own vibe: Brook and Ridge are buzzy and casual, while Meadow and Shikhar (meaning peak) create more of a special occasion ambience. As with Rohit’s other venues, Manthan and Kutir, the food combines classic Indian flavours with a modern twist. Start with the indori poha chaat – plump dumplings with tamarind and pressed rice – a satisfying explosion of crunch, tang and spice; and ghati masala prawns, fried in crispy batter and dressed with peanuts and sesame. Come with a crowd for the mains – they’re spectacular. Lamb shank biriyani arrives with a pastry lid which is cracked open at the table, before the soft meat is shredded from the bone. Butter chicken is among the best we’ve ever tried (in a fiercely competitive field): succulent chicken thigh meat in a smoky-sweet, vine tomato sauce. Neelgiri lobster is exceptional, served in a fresh coriander sauce with the tail shell decorating the plate. To drink, try Nisha, a refreshing gin with cucumber and elderflower, then finish with Lava, a chocolate and cardamom kulfi with meringue. vatavaran.uk Patri, Northfields The lively shack-chic Indian restaurant, Patri, has two west London sites and offers an extensive street food menu but we headed to the Northfields branch which does the UK's biggest thali. This immense, Insta-grabbing feast needs to be booked in advance and is a steal at £105, as it would easily feed five or six adults. While chef prepares the dishes that make up the thali, you are brought two pomegranate-topped palate popping starters of different chaats and a big jug of mango lassi. Chef brings the thali to your table ceremoniously and talks you through all 29 dishes which have been curated of as a culinary adventure around India. The thali offerings change daily and are divided into starters, which include spicy chicken samosas and the lightest pani puri we’ve eaten, then there’s tandoori, from which we loved the seekh kebabs, and the signature mains with the more familiar curries, including a knock-out keema and, from the sides, there’s rice and dhals, and everything is served with two types of fluffy naan. Claiming the UK’s biggest thali is an attention grabber that got us through the door but the quality of the cooking at Patri makes it a must return. patri.co.uk Colonel Saab, Trafalgar Square A pigeon’s stroll from Trafalgar Square, Colonel Saab is an oasis of calm and comfort away from the hustle and bustle. Adorning the walls of the grand dining space – magnificent rose-coloured chandeliers create a wow factor – are family photos, art and the framed military uniform of Indian soldier Colonel Manbeer Choudhary, the paternal inspiration behind the celebration of the diversity of cuisine from the subcontinent. Chef Sohan Bhandari’s menu is inspired by the colonel’s postings around India, so step into his shoes and try the £80 tasting menu. Marwad’s Raj Kachori – a crunchy ball of spiced chickpeas and potato with creamy, sweet and tart sauces with black lime chaat masala – brings drama. Then comes the highlight, a choice of curries, from Sunday lamb to Nadan fish or beetroot and lotus kofta, served thali-style with raita, rice, dak and naan accompaniments. colonelsaab.co.uk Kutir, Chelsea Walking into Kutir is akin to entering someone’s home – someone with an eye for interior design and a penchant for elegance. With its mint green and floral walls and dramatic chandeliers, the Georgian townhouse – in a smart side street off Chelsea’s King’s Road – oozes intimacy. Come here with a loved one or friend for a special occasion. But, most of all, come for Rohit Ghai’s cooking – an extensive exploration of India’s vast food heritage. Tasting menus are the way to go, with or without wine pairings. The signature Expedition menu (£75 per person) delivers six dishes, plus tadka dal, breads and rice. Plump, pink prawns are elevated with a dusting of coconut, sesame and peanuts. The richness of salmon tikka – so tender it’s spoonable – is off-set by pickled radish. Tandoori lamb chop – the star of the menu – is as fat as a cushion and just as luxurious, marinated with smoky black cumin. Then, choose between the nation’s favourite, chicken tikka masala, or spicy duck madras, with a hint of tamarind sourness. Finish with an unctuous date pecan pudding or refreshing pineapple and coconut. Apparently, the 2022 British Restaurant of the Year winner attracts the likes of Ed Sheeran, James Blunt, Pierce Brosnan and Roger Federer. Clearly, celebs of impeccable taste! kutir.co.uk Pravaas, South Kensington Pravaas, explains chef-patron Shilpa Dandekar, means journey, and the menu at this stylish, intimate venue, a two-minute walk from South Kensington underground station, is the culmination of her journey from 21 years as a chef. It’s a challenge to come up with something new and exciting to stand out in the increasingly crowded scene of high quality Indian restaurants in the capital, but Shilpa pulls it off: an eclectic mix of dishes that combine the skills she acquired working alongside Sriram Aylur at Quilon and Raymond Blanc, before opening her successful Pure Indian Cooking in Fulham. You’ll want to come to Pravaas again and again, but for your first visit, plump for Shilpa’s tasting menu. Pani puri shots get the tastebuds carnival started: crisp mini bowls in which to pour minty zingy water. Seared scallops come next, hot with vinegary tartness, tender yet crunchy. There are so many more dishes to rave about: patra chaat, a kaleidoscope of colour, texture, sweet and sour, starring colocasia leaves; venison chops, charred outside, pink in the middle, and served with fiery Rajastani laal maas sauce – as succulent as any lamb chops we’ve eaten anywhere; dal makhani, smoky and silky, cooked and stirred for 24 hours. If Pravaas has a signature, it’s Wasabi chicken tikka. Marinated first in ginger, garlic and lemon juice, then again in wasabi and coconut, before cooking in the clay oven and served with green chutney, this is the dish you simply must try– an original creation from the brilliant inventiveness of Shilpa. Pravaas: well worth making the journey for. pravaas.com Babur, Forest Hill Established in 1985 by Emdad Rahman, the tiger that adorns the front of the restaurant makes it a neighbourhood landmark, as does its modern take on Indian dishes and cocktails. Inside, the restaurant interior is one of exposed brick, with walls adorned with art from Indian and local artists. The kitchen is led by head chef Jiwan Lal and sous chef Praveen Kumar Gupta – both formerly of the Oberoi Hotel Group. An ever-evolving menu of specials is updated throughout the year, alongside an à la carte menu that pairs each dish with a wine recommendation. Customers who sign up to the Tasting Group on the website can become involved in menu development by attending afternoon sessions during which new menus are honed, in exchange for honest feedback. The meal starts with poppadoms and a range of homemade pickles, including a fiery ginger and chilli chutney and tamarind and raisin chutney. Starters of Dhungri lamb tikka and shakerkandi ki chaat – a Punjabi sweet potato with pomegranate in salted pasty – are highlights. For mains, there is Gulnar jalpari, a Babur take on the North Indian Holi dish, with spiced prawns rolled in lemon sole on a sweet red pepper sauce. The theatrical cumin chocolate fondant with salted caramel gelato is the perfect finish, and there’s an extensive cocktail list curated by mixologist Rupam Talukdar – the whitegroni is full of aromatics, while the saffron gimlet is tart and sharp. babur.info The Tamil Prince, Islington Nestled among the leafy terraced streets of Islington, away from the bustle of central London, Tamil Prince is a gem: an airy, spacious new restaurant serving some of the finest Indian food in the capital. Created by ex-Roti King chef Prince Durairaj, it marries the classic British pub vibe (and excellent beers) with the food of Tamil Nadu from the chef’s childhood in South India. The menu is effortlessly navigable: six small plates; five large plates; four desserts. From the smalls, onion bhajis are a must, a billowy tangle of crunchy battered rings that melt in the mouth. Also choose pulled beef uttapam – a savoury dosa topped with unctuous meat – is a perfect sponge for mopping up fiery chilli coconut chutney. A small pot of glossy, smoky dhal makhani completes the set before going on to the main event, the grills. Go for the lamb chops – served as four, they are gorgeously tender, charred and crisp; nibble at the bone until clean. Then the dish with the biggest jaw-drop factor – a platter of three gigantic tiger prawns, like small lobsters, plump with sweet briny meat. Mango lassi for dessert refreshes the palate. Tamil Prince has a range of Indian cocktails and bottled beers but, on a warm summer evening, try a pint of cold, light 3.8% ABV Harbour Daymer Extra Pale Ale. thetamilprince.com BiBi, Mayfair Head chef Chet Sharma's selection menu is the must-try at his intimate Mayfair restaurant, comprising a dozen sharing plates using produce from the UK and India created with sustainability at its core. Formerly development chef of the JKS group (Gymkhana, Trishna, Brigadiers, etc), Sharma's BiBi – an affectionate term for grandmother in parts of India – is the realisation of his dream to open his own restaurant. To snack on, tangy Wookey Hole cheese papads have a melting yet crunchy texture; creamy Carlingford oyster pachadi is a refreshing segue to sweet, spicy, salty and sour chaats, including nashpati bhel – grains topped with a crunchy frozen pear granita – and raw Belted Galloway beef pepper fry, hot with lots of black pepper. From the counter, marvel at the theatre of chefs grilling on the sigree: aged Swaledale lamb chops, as soft as butter, with a subtle smokiness. And our star among many stars, Sharmaji's Lahori chicken: gorgeously tender chicken breast with a delicate creamy sauce made with whey that has been reduced to the point of caramelisation and then mixed with ground cashews and spices. Then finish with choc ice on a stick-style kulfis. bibirestaurants.com Empire Empire, Notting Hill The Indian disco era of the 1970s inspired this new opening from Harneet Baweja (Gunpowder). Eat traditional dishes such as bihari boti kebab, tandoori broccoli and chicken malai tikka from the open grill serenaded by 70s Bollywood bangers from the bespoke jukebox. For the ultimate in luxe dining order the showstopping lobster dum biryani to share, £42 – complete with the crustacean’s head emerging from the pastry lid. empire-empire.restaurant Farzi, Haymarket Located in the heart of theatre-land, Farzi specialises in modern Indian fusion, using fish and meat sourced within the British Isles. The menu is divided into sections ‘small plates’ ‘grill’ and ‘curries’, as well as chaat and sides, with a good value pre-theatre menu also available. Seasonal rotating dishes include palak paneer handi, wagyu beef kadak seekh kebab and Awadhi lamb shank korma. Be sure to check out the range of cocktails created by mixologists behind the jazz-age bar, with concoctions such as the ‘smoked old fashioned’, presented in a glass orb in a nod to Farzi’s theatrical surroundings. farzilondon.com Pahli Hill, Fitzrovia Named after one of Mumbai’s oldest neighbourhoods, Pahli Hill’s menu reflects its diverse culinary heritage, offering regional dishes from all over India. Colourful original Indian artwork and fabrics, booth-seating and a view into the open kitchen give the restaurant a contemporary feel, while its Bandra Bhai basement bar delights in its dimly lit, smuggler’s-den vibe. With a tequila-based saffron cocktail in hand, graze on papadi chat, a dip of contrasting flavours and textures, including pumpkin, spiced yogurt, wheat crackers and sev (crispy gram flour noodles), tamarind chutney and vibrant pops of pomegranate. Bangalore-born chef Avinash Shashidhara’s experience in high-end UK restaurants is clear in this menu, which utilises top-quality British ingredients. Mangalore buns – two warm, bready pockets – are served with a generous pile of spiced Scottish crab. Highlights from the tandoor include monkfish with monk's beard (greens grown in Tuscany); chicken tikka with cucumber noodles, mint and horseradish, and Cornish lamb cutlets. The pumpkin kofta is light and fragrant, and for a veggie feast, it's perfect served with a long ‘paper dosa’ or flaky flatbread, tomato and coconut chutneys, and sambar of radish and drumstick (seed pods from the Moringa tree, which are reminiscent in texture to okra. Ask about the trick to eating them). pahlihillbandrabhai.com/london-restaurant Madhu, Richmond Madhu's contemporary Indian restaurant has expanded from central London's Harvey Nichols to a smart neighbourhood setting in Richmond. The glass-fronted brasserie is full of cosy booths as well a bar overlooking an impressive tandoor oven and robata grill, where you can spy on an array of beautiful looking food before you order. Presentation is excellent, with food served in copper dishes with an array of interesting garnishes. For a very moreish appetiser try the palak patta chaat – British samphire and battered spinach leaves with chilli, turmeric, fresh coriander, yogurt and taramind, or the succulent robata chops that are marinated in aromatic spices and can be cut with a butter knife. Other highlights include king prawns cooked in a creamy coconut curry with ginger, mustard seeds and curry leaves. There's also vegetarian and vegan thalis on offer, which looked very generous when coming out of the kitchen. Finish off with a cooling badam kulfi – Indian ice cream made with clotted cream and almonds for a very satisfying end to the meal. madhusbrasserie.com Heritage, West Dulwich A new restaurant in leafy West Dulwich, Heritage is a welcome addition to the neighbourhood from Dayashankar Sharma, previously head chef at Michelin-starred Tamarind. Inside, the restaurant is spacious and elegant, with gold accents adding a modern feel, much like the menu, where you’ll find contemporary versions of dishes from all over India. From the small plates, start with the venison badal jaam (if you usually find game too strong, you’ll love this) — grilled aubergine topped with a fiery tomato sauce, cooling yogurt, and spiced venison. If you’ve got room, share the paneer and pineapple kebab — thick slices of paneer pair perfectly with sweet pineapple. Highlights from the mains include murgh makani, tender chicken in a tomato and fenugreek sauce; Kashmiri lamb spiced with saffron; and the most indulgent version of dahl mhakani we’ve tried — outrageously creamy, it’s not to be missed. The floral tones of the pulao rice steeped in rose water cut through the richness of the other dishes, and be sure to order a truffle naan. Subtly flavoured, it has just the right amount of umami, and is a great vehicle for mopping up all those delicious sauces. heritagedulwich.co.uk Madhu's of Mayfair, Piccadilly ‘Special occasion’ are the first words that spring to mind when you walk into the ornate dining room of Madhu’s of Mayfair, complete with enormous chandeliers, rococo-style architecture and marble tables. But far from feeling formal, the vibe is fun and friendly, bustling with birthday parties, tourists and after-work businessfolk. The design is the vision of Madhu’s founder Sanjay Anand, who wanted to "create an experience which engages each of the senses — ‘not just taste’." The food comes from creative chef Poonam Ball — Sanjay’s sister. She oversees the menus of the Madhu group’s four restaurants. It’s Indian, but with a Kenyan twist, including recipes handed down through four generations from her Nairobi-born mother Krishna and her father Jagdish Kumar Anand (nicknamed Madhu). Choose the signature dishes: palak patta chaat, a pile of crunchy marsh samphire and crispy spinach with warming spices and tangy chutneys; nyamah choma, succulent prime cut lamb ribs marinated in chilli and lemon; and Madhu’s machi’s — whole seabass in an onion and carom seed marinade — which is ‘special occasion’ luxurious. madhus.co.uk Chourangi, Marble Arch Named after the district of Calcutta (as the owners refer to the city we now call Kolkata) and translating as ‘crossroads’, the food at Chouranghi is a curation of ‘unexplored’ surprises from the British, Dutch, Armenian, French, Portuguese and Chinese who have influenced its cuisine. There are a lot of high-end Indian restaurants in London, each with its own ‘well, that was worth the money/must go back again’ dish. At this bright and vibrant open-plan venue, where you can watch the theatre of the chefs at work from the street, it’s the black dal. Simmered overnight until the urad lentils break down, then finished with spices and butter, it’s an unctuous, creamy, perfectly spiced bowl of deliciousness. In the hands of Indian restaurateurs Anjan Chatterjee and Aditya Ghosh, the dishes are simple yet intricately flavoured. Kamal kakdi chaat is a creamy, crunchy concoction with a fiery hit of sweet chilli-soy-jaggery. Nizami makai tikka, cooked with soft cheese, has an aromatic finish from aamada (mango ginger). Chingri cutlets (beaten-out breaded prawns) are dense and ‘meaty’ while another star is blistering paanch phoran, Welsh rack of lamb seasoned with ‘Calcutta five-spice’ And have you heard of hilsa — Calcutta’s queen of fish? Think white salmon — soft, oily and flake-apart. chourangi.co.uk Bombay Delight, Wimbledon A newly opened sister restaurant of Mumbai Delight in Vauxhall, Bombay Delight is a larger, more vibrant venue with a stylish bar area, space for private functions, and walls decorated with elephants and framed pictures of old Bombay. The offerings aren't dissimilar to its sister's, but there are some new dishes, including the excellent tiltala jhinga appetiser – juicy king prawns coated in a crisp sesame seed and gram flour batter, with a spiced mayo for dipping. Poppadoms arrive with two moreish dips – subtle beetroot, fresh mint and coriander, and a mango chutney with a hint of chilli. The menu doesn't stray too far from well-loved classics, and the rich and creamy BBC (Bombay butter chicken) is proof that this restaurant does them well, with the freshest ingredients and no colourings. Finish with the Indian sweet, gulab jamun, soaked in sugar syrup and served with a smooth vanilla ice cream, along with one of the mocktail concoctions, such as a fresh masala thums-up with mint, cumin and black salt. South London-dwellers will be happy this restaurant has arrived on their doorstep. bombaydelight.co.uk Fatt Pundit, Covent Garden Street food sharing plates with Indo-Chinese heritage storytelling is all part of a great restaurant experience these days, and the staff at Fatt Pundit are very happy to share. Pull up a chair! First, there’s the name Fatt Pundit, a combination of the common Chinese surname with the Indian word for scholar. Then the story of the Hakka Chinese immigrants who created a new cuisine by combining traditional Chinese cooking techniques with the spices of India. Set in an industrial chic dining room, there’s a buzzy vibe, with queues outside. But don’t rush: there’s so much to savour. Momos – steamed dumplings – are a must (especially the spiced kid goat). Crackling spinach is a refreshing take on a chaat with sweet yogurt, date & plum sauce and pomegranate. Hakka chilli paneer lettuce cups are filled with tongue-tingling Szechuan pepper-spiced paneer, showcasing the Indo-Chinese influences. Unique to the Maiden Lane outlet (there’s another branch in Soho) are crunchy pepper soft shell crab – blisteringly hot; sweet, caramelised Kolkata chilli duck, accompanied by pancakes and cucumber strips and plump chunks of rib-eye steak with chillies and roasted cashews.fattpundit.co.uk Manthan, Mayfair With a pedigree chef like Rohit Ghai, expectations of the food at his new Mayfair restaurant are high – and it doesn't disappoint. Rohit led the kitchens at Gymkhana and Trishna before opening his first venue, Kutir, in Chelsea. At Manthan – the Hindu word meaning to churn and reflect – Rohit takes inspiration from his mother’s cooking and the street food of India. The Maddox Street dining room is long and wood-panelled, adorned with beautiful paintings of exotic flowers. Even at lunchtime it feels romantic, and the sharing dishes reflect that vibe. If you’re here for the first time, have an overview experience and choose two dishes from the gali ka khana (street food) section, one from rassedar (curries), one from chapata chops & tikka, plus a couple of sides. To start, ghati masala prawns are plump and tender, coated with sesame, peanut and coconut for a satisfying crispy crunch. Jackfruit tacos are a revelation – almost meaty in texture, stuffed into fluffy rice lentil pancakes with southern spice and chutney. Fall-off-the-bone lamb ossobuco sits in a silky, satisfying sauce flavoured with jaffa spices and curry leaf, while sarson chicken, tangy and hot with mustard and chilli, is as soft as butter. If you have room for dessert, opt for the classic trip of sweet laddoo, sticky gulab jamun and creamy srikhand. manthanmayfair.co.uk Benares, Mayfair When spiced corn street snacks arrive under a bonsai tree, you know you’re in for a memorable experience. That feeling grows when a Porlock Bay oyster with a jewel-like cured sea bream chaat is presented on beach-like pebbles, swathed in dry ice to mimic sea mist. The bonsai tree is a salute to roadside vendors in India who seek shade beneath trees, and it’s the creation of executive chef Sameer Taneja, who regained a Michelin star for the Berkeley Square restaurant. But this culinary theatre is no gimmick: the dishes are as delicious to eat as they are a treat for the eyes. They’re part of a new eight-course tasting menu which takes influences from throughout the Indian subcontinent, using British ingredients. Too many dishes to list here, but stand-outs include soft-as-butter tandoori muntjac – venison cooked in a spicy marinade served with a garlic yogurt and chilli chutney; fragrant baby poussin tikka masala; and, to finish, sweet rasmalai, a quintessential milk-based dessert popular in eastern India. There’s also a vegetarian tasting menu, featuring baked golden vegetable kofta in rich cashew nut and kashmiri saffron korma. Make sure you’re not in a hurry: this is a three-hour dining experience, as relaxing as it is special. benaresrestaurant.com Dishoom, across London Inspired by the all-day Irani cafés that were an integral part of Bombay life, there are now seven branches of Dishoom in London (and a branch in Edinburgh, Birmingham and Manchester), each serving Bombay breakfast, lunch, afternoon chai and dinner. Breakfasts at Dishoom have won a cult following. Not least for the bacon naan rolls – crisp bacon wrapped in tandoor-charred naan with a dollop of chilli tomato jam and cream cheese. Pair with a breakfast lassi or house chai. dishoom.com Kanishka, Mayfair Focussing on the Seven Sister States as well as nods to Nepal and Bangladesh, Kanishka is a modern Indian restaurant serving a series of tasting menus and a la carte. Start with the Gantok momos (steamed Nepalese dumplings), proudly billed as made ‘in-house’ which was telling by the skins being light but still with some bite to them. We also had chef’s chicken tikka pie which wasn’t accredited to a region but still an exemplary piece of proper pie making with well-cooked puff pastry encasing juicy chunks of well marinated chicken. For mains we went with the lightly spiced and coconut sauced Kanishka seafood curry and underutilised goat cooked slowly until fork tender in a rogan josh style. Once we added generous serving of puffy paratha, fresh kachumba and signature black dhal to our order we were too full for dessert but the dark chocolate sphere with orange chocolate cream and spiced caramel sauce seemed to be impressing our neighbours with its table-side server theatrics. kanishkarestaurant.co.uk Darjeeling Express, Carnaby Street Darjeeling Express started life as a supper club in the Kensington home of Kolkata-born Asma Khan but her restaurant on the top floor inside Kingly Court is now at the forefront of the London’s Indian food scene. What is most striking about the kitchen at Darjeeling Express is that the chefs are all female, something that’s still a rarity in restaurants. These women come from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures but none of them have worked in professional kitchens before. Asma lets them cook in the restaurant on Sundays to help them to get used to working in a professional environment. darjeeling-express.com Hoppers, Soho and Marylebone Named after the lacy, bowl-shaped pancakes that are a staple of Sri Lanka, Hoppers has quickly established itself as one of London’s hippest hangouts. From the can-do-no-wrong team behind Michelin-starred Gymkhana, Hoppers references the food of southern India and Sri Lanka. There’s a succinct menu starring traditional hoppers: light fermented rice and lentil pancake bowls, with a softly steamed egg and a selection of confidently spiced karis. Load up on the ‘short eats’, though. Mutton rolls are like crunchy cigars – with a golden crumb, shredded gamey meat and lightly spiced tomato chutney. Bone marrow is so seductively sauced that you would be forgiven for refusing to share. The best, perhaps, are buttered devilled shrimps: juicy and fiery. There are fab and refreshing cocktails also. hopperslondon.com Try our egg hoppers recipe here... Kricket, Brixton and Soho Contemporary and cool, Kricket specialises in Indian small plates using local vegetables along with fish and meat sourced within the British Isles. Expect to queue at these no-reservations restaurants but dishes like samphire pakoras and Keralan fried chicken are more than worth the wait. We have the recipe for Kricket’s kichri. Kedgeree as we know it was an adaptation of the original recipe for kichri, which consists of rice and lentils. You can use poached eggs rather than raw egg yolks, if you like. kricket.co.uk Try Kricket's kichri recipe here... Masala Zone, across London Excellent regional Indian street food – thalis, grills, curries and biryanis – explains the success of Masala Zone, which now has seven restaurants dotted around the capital. Best-sellers include spicy squid bhaji and the ghee roast duck. masalazone.com Looking for inspirational Indian recipes? Check out our best ever Indian recipes.
Tooting restaurants: Milly Kenny-Ryder shares her favourite insider spots
From top-notch brunches and bakeries to bao buns and special occasion restaurants, this is an insider guide to where to eat in Tooting
Tooting doesn’t try too hard, with all the grit and authenticity a true London neighbourhood should have, but with a sprinkling of gentrification. This exciting mix ensures it’s satisfyingly varied for locals and thrillingly unexpected for occasional visitors. Speciality coffee and independent bakery fans will be delighted with the offering, while foodies looking for something different to sink their teeth into will rush with anticipation to the Afghan, Spanish and Taiwanese outposts. For more south London restaurant recommendations, check out our guides to the best restaurants in Battersea or the best restaurants in Brixton. Best places to eat and drink in Tooting Juliet's Quality Foods My local happy place and quite honestly one of the reasons I started looking to live in Tooting. This is an Aussie-style brunch spot everyone wants within walking distance. Uber-talented Julian Porter is at the helm and the menu is filled with his travel-inspired dishes. But it’s the trusty classics like Sweet Maria (sweetcorn fritters with grilled halloumi, tomato, coriander, avocado and homemade kasundi sauce) that ensure this cool spot is always busy. I have been known to Deliveroo the dark chocolate, marshmallow and sea salt cookies to my house in sugar-desperate moments. @julietsqualityfoods Cut the Mustard While some bakeries produce overly sweet hybrid bakes to follow the trends, Cut the Mustard keeps things classic with unbeatable French-style viennoiserie. This small scale bakery has a handful of branches across south-west London and continues to grow. Expect perfectly poured coffee (from UK roastery Campbell & Syme), buttery pain an chocolats and cakes so moist it will dictate an afternoon tea break. cutthemustardcafe.com The Little Taperia This charming restaurant finds itself on every top Tooting eats list for good reason. Spanish classics reign supreme here – pan con tomate, croquetas de jamón and tortilla sit alongside its own creations (morcilla scotch eggs never leave the menu due to popularity). Grab a cosy corner table with a group of friends and make your way through the tempting menu. Open every day for lunch and dinner, it is a failsafe place to have a flavour-filled meal. thelittletaperia.co.uk Watan A family-run restaurant celebrated for its warm hospitality and authentic Afghan and Pakistani cuisine. The shiny dining room is expansive and the extensive menu can be overwhelming, so I recommend asking your waiter for suggestions. If in doubt, the Afghani mixed grill is a good place to start – a platter stacked high with delicious marinated meats and fragrant rice. watanrestaurant.co.uk/tooting Milk Run Little sister of the hyped Balham brunch hang-out Milk, this bakery and café prides itself on sell-out creative pastries and speciality coffee. The pale pink interiors and terracotta tiles may tick all the Instagram boxes but it is definitely not style over substance here. Choose a special – the team works wonders with seasonal fruit – or opt for my favourite, the crème brûlée danish, a flaky, creamy wonder. milk.london/milkrun Smoke & Salt In an area awash with casual dining options, Smoke & Salt offers something a bit more refined but without the pretense. It started out as a pop-up but is now a Michelin-recognised restaurant. The interiors are simple and allow you to focus on the energetic open kitchen. Visit for a special dinner – seasonal tasting menus are surprisingly affordable and often feature wood-smoked and fired dishes. smokeandsalt.com Daddy Bao When I lived in Peckham, Mr Bao was my go-to for fun fluffy buns. Now I live in Tooting, its second branch, Daddy Bao, is my local for Taiwanese cuisine. It’s a buzzy place to enjoy a plum wine negroni with fried chicken, handmade dumplings and, of course, a selection of bao (the pork belly with house pickles and roasted peanut is my favourite). daddybao.co.uk Check out more London restaurant guides: Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Best restaurants in Hackney: where locals eat and drink
Check out our favourite restaurants, cafes, bars and foodie spots in Hackney. Try Sicilian red prawns, fragrant curries dipped into buttery homemade roti, and one of the best-value tasting menus in town
Looking for Hackney restaurants? Here are our favourite restaurants in London's North Eastern borough. The best foodie spots include tasting menu at Nest, unusual wines at Sager + Wilde and Cretan food at Morito. Check out our ideas for eating and drinking in Hackney, from Hackney Road to Homerton and London Fields... Best places to eat and drink in Hackney Albers, Du Beauvoir – for small plate classics with a twist Albers is a small corner room in De Beauvoir, all big windows and candlelight, with bikes sliding past outside and a faint Edward Hopper Nighthawks feeling to the scene. Inside, white walls and warm wood keep things simple, the tables close, the mood sociable. It’s the sort of place that wants to be your local even if you’ve crossed town for it. The cooking sits in that appealing middle ground between pub comfort and bistro intent: classics remembered, then gently tilted. I drank a sage cordial with soda, sweet and syrupy in the best way, and lifted by a soft herbal edge. The sardine ragu croquette was the first real wink from the kitchen: crisp outside, creamy within, deep with sardine warmth and finished with a generous parmesan dusting. Grey mullet crudo with cranberry and citrus was all balance, sharpness layered on sharpness, the fish cool and slightly creamy, the fruit giving tart little bursts. Sausage with sauerkraut and quince came rich and peppery, handmade and satisfying, the kraut leaning sweet-sour, quince adding a gentle perfume. The smoked eel and bacon caesar salad was the dish I kept going back to: smoke from eel and bacon folding into the salty anchovy depth of the dressing, crisp leaves: a bold take on something you think you know. Celeriac with confit egg was decadent and nutty. Bluefin tuna with peppercorn sauce was pleasant enough, thick buttery slices and a clean sear, though the sauce felt a touch thin and the temperature slightly off. Dessert was a maple and hazelnut ice cream sandwich: the biscuit was a little firm but the maple ice cream was silky smooth and toasty. Service is friendly, still smoothing its edges, and there’s no coffee or hot drinks to stretch the evening. Still, Albers feels like a place settling into itself. albers.london Mambow, Clapton – for modern Malaysian dishes Abby Lee has become eponymous with Malaysian cuisine in London. After years of pop-ups and a street-food outpost in Peckham, the chef opened a bricks-and-mortar space in northeast London. It’s a casual spot complete with pretty, mismatched tiles, bench seating and a lively soundtrack. Half of the small space is dedicated to an open kitchen, where Abby and her team dart between simmering pots and sizzling pans to create fiery, fragrant modern Malaysian dishes. Highlights include the signature lor bak – five spice pork encased in crisp, frilly beancurd, deep-fried stone bass steak in a lively Nyonya-style tamarind curry sauce and sticky, double-roasted pork belly pieces coated in a silky kecap manis caramel glaze, served with blue rice (to match Abby’s fabulous hair colour). There’s only one dessert option, but it has plenty going for it – a bright green pandan pancake filled with brown sugar and desiccated coconut, served with coffee ice cream. There’s a succinct natural wine list as well as Malaysian twists on classic cocktails. The floral, thirst-quenching Juice Box softens the heat from the spicier dishes, while the 100+ Sour is a refreshing concoction of gin, coconut liquor, miso syrup and blackberry. mambow.co.uk A Bar With Shapes For A Name– for cocktails The name of Remy Savage and Paul Lougrat’s Bauhaus-inspired bar takes pictorial form – the signage on Dalston’s Kingsland Road featuring a yellow triangle, red square and blue circle. If that sounds a little complicated then rest assured once you step into the bar – colloquially referred to as Shapes – everything takes a decidedly more minimalist turn. Inside, bare bones interiors look more akin to a science classroom than anything else, with bartenders flitting around in brightly coloured jumpsuits. The drinks list at Shapes is pleasingly pithy – just seven house cocktails and six bottled cocktails. The martini-style Habanero is an ingenious affair, using a distillate made from yellow habanero peppers that delivers all the vegetal flavours of the pepper minus the heat – funky and savoury, with a zingy Campari jelly garnish. The xscold is a surprising twist on a marg – here, eucalyptus adds a menthol edge to the herbaceous flavours of Amarás espadin mezcal and Ocho 8 tequila for a refreshing agave treat. From the bottled cocktails, a manhattan uses Buffalo Trace bourbon fat washed in olive oil, and a turmeric distillate, for a boozy whisky cocktail with dried date notes and fruity, earthy richness. clubbauhaus.com Marquee Moon – for a vibrant restaurant-cum-cocktail bar If you’re seeking a vibrant venue in Dalston that perfectly marries exceptional cuisine with a lively atmosphere, look no further than The Marquee Moon, the latest venture from the creative minds behind The Cause and All My Friends. This trendy establishment boasts an eclectic sharing menu that puts a fresh twist on contemporary pub classics, all with a nod to East Asian flavours. The Marquee Moon is a feast for the senses. Begin your evening in the stylish downstairs area, where you can indulge in melt-in-the-mouth sambal short ribs and an impressive portion of dan dan noodles. As the night progresses the vibe shifts seamlessly into a dance party, complemented by the expertly crafted cocktails. Don’t miss the Hot Alfonso Marg, a true standout, made with reposado tequila vacuum-sealed with Alphonso mangoes and cooked sous vide to extract their rich flavour. It’s then expertly mixed with manzanilla, agave, lime and a sprinkle of Tajín for a cocktail that’s as balanced as it is delicious. Whether you’re dining or dancing, The Marquee Moon promises an unforgettable experience. themarqueemoon.uk Casa Fofó, Hackney Downs – for a great-value tasting menu An exceptional, yet accessible, haven for Hackney foodies where continental flavours collide without breaking the bank. Casa Fofó is the baby of Italian head chef Adolfo De Cecco, who’s best known for his time at Pidgin, and is joined by alumni from his time here – sous chef Sam Coleman and chef de partie Giuseppe Pepe. Eight courses are kicked off with a super-crisp potato cake finger with a spiced slice of pickled daikon and lardo, taken from a well-fed Middle White pig. The menu, which is tweaked daily, is Marie Kondo-esque minimal with only a few words to describe each finely tuned dish, making each arrival a pleasant surprise. casafofolondon.co.uk Angelina, Dalston – for Italian-Japanese fusion Sleek and buzzy. Angelina’s minimalist interiors include high ceilings, oversized pendant lamps, plenty of indoor greenery and wooden floors. Sit in dusky-toned chairs to eat, or perch at a counter surrounding the open kitchen and watch the chefs calmly at work. Simple yet refined Italian-Japanese cooking is the focus, and their dining concept is boldly simple: a 13-course sharing menu for £68. The menu starts with elegant fish and seafood crudités: Sicilian red prawns, dusted with roasted rice powder and drizzled with olive oil, has a lusciously soft, almost creamy texture, while rich tuna belly is pepped up by a zingy blood orange dressing. Sea bream with mirin is salty-fresh. angelina.london Pophams, London Fields – for pastries and pasta The team behind the popular East London bakery has smartly moved its pastry skills into pasta territory for evenings in the London Fields branch. Don’t fret, bakes are still very much present, with hunks of fresh-from-the-oven sourdough to start, homemade caraway-flecked crackers to scoop up smoked trout pâté and a perfectly formed croissant apple tart, filled with buttery sesame compote, intricate slices of apple and a moat of vanilla custard. These baked delights bookmark the evening’s main event: a short selection of fresh, homemade pasta shapes coated, filled and topped with seasonal sauces. Favourites on our visit were casoncelli parcels filled with a white veal mince bolognese, tossed in butter, guanciale pieces and parmesan. Orecchiette are made with toasted sourdough flour, coated in chicken butter sauce as a vehicle for dinky chicken meatballs. Order a side of pan-fried and roasted Romana courgette sticks with a light coating of fine sourdough and sun-dried tomato crumbs. pophamsbakery.com/pasta Equal Parts, Hackney Road – for Italian aperitivo Michael Sager has partnered with Matteo Vaccargiu to open an Italian aperitivo bar in a green tiled-fronted corner spot, a few doors down from the original Sager + Wilde wine bar. It’s an elegant yet unfussy space, with plenty of wood panelling, flickering candles and vinyl twirling on the decks. Perch at the window ledge to watch trendy passers-by or bag a spot at the bar to see the team shake and stir signature cocktails in front of an impressive line-up of amaros, aperitivo and bitters. The Flor cocktail combines fino sherry and olive oil vodka with Matteo’s elevated clarification of fresh tomato, basil, chilli and a tiny touch of garlic for a bright, fresh finish, alla liquid bruschetta to evoke the Sardinian coast. The Orange is a gluggable concoction of orange wine, Meletti amaro and pear and elderflower syrup, while the ACE makes a refreshing twist on the garibaldi combining carrot cordial, fresh orange juice, Campari and soda. A seasonal infusion makes its way into a trio of classics; on our visit a strawberry and fig leaf martini combo that brightened the negroni, sbagliato and americano. equalpartslondon.com Cinco, Dalston – for Mexican-inspired cocktails Hidden away underneath sister restaurant Corrochio’s, Cinco is a rustic, sultry basement den with flickering candles and bare concrete walls decorated with Mexican art. First and foremost a bar that specialises in agave and Mexican spirits, its collection – including rare bottlings – is curated by Corrochio founders Daniel Corrochio and Amy McQuarrie from their travels across Daniel’s native Mexico. The bar even has its own in-house mezcal available to try and buy. Cocktails are surprising and layered, showcasing the full breadth of what agave spirits have to offer. The Doña Mago uses raicilla (another agave spirit), tomato liqueur, plum sake, Ancho Reyes chile liqueur and plum and tomato cordial for a fabulous margarita-esque drink with smoky, fruity, tangy charm. Another next-level take on a marg comes in the form of the El Chihuas, with sotol (another Mexican distillate, made from the desert spoon plant), fig, guanabana and yuzu liqueurs. The end result is a tropical, creamy drink with a delicate floral edge. The Mujer Moderna features butter-washed Abasolo whisky, Nixta corn liqueur, crème de cacao and chocolate bitters for an opulent, cocoa-tinged interpretation of an old fashioned. Cinco also has a nice little roster of no- and low-alcohol cocktails made using alcohol-free spirits and Mexican ingredients – the La Bikini Cero, with non-alcoholic agave spirit, chilli syrup, verdita water and pineapple has a pleasing spicy kick. corrochios.com WAVE – for leisurely plant-based brunches Tucked down a quiet backstreet off buzzy Hackney Central lies a plant-based oasis. WAVE (We Are Vegan Everything) does exactly what it says on the tin and more: a fully vegan menu of brunches, pastries, bakes and drinks, set among Bali beach-inspired interiors with a neutral colour palette, rattan furniture and hanging macramé plants. Deliciously cooked brunches are available until 4pm for laid-back weekends. The shakshuka with creamy butter beans comes topped with a convincing vegan egg made from whipped tahini yogurt and hollandaise. Eat the rainbow with the brekkie bowl of scrambled tofu, perfectly ripe avocado, roast tomatoes, hummus, sautéed kale and homemade barbecue beans. Açai bowls can be levelled up with Trip CBD, protein powder, maca powder and nut butters. Daily fresh treats from the counter include pasty perfection from up-and-coming plant-based bakery Okja in Spitalfields. Don’t sleep on these – the pistachio and lemon one is zesty and refreshing, while the chocolate hazelnut pastry hits the vegan Nutella spot. Standard coffee fare is available but it’s worth trying the salted coffee or peanut butter latte for a punchy caffeine hit, while the vibrant turmeric and beetroot lattes provide plant-powered goodness. Take it one step further with a medicinal lion’s mane latte or cordyceps chai – or make it a boozy brunch with a bloody mary. Walk-ins only. weareveganeverything.com Sune, Broadway Market – for eclectic small plates and natural wines Sommelier Honey Spencer and her partner Charlie Sims have curated hospitality experience from restaurants across the world to open their own place in Hackney. There’s a real neighbourhood-style buzz to the contemporary space, with a striking terracotta light installation casting a warm glow across the gnarled dark wood tables, prints of fresh produce and sweeping counter with floor-to-ceiling wine racks behind. Honey showcases natural wines, with plenty by the glass, from orange Czech pet nat to fresh Georgian Tsolikouri and South African Syrah. The menu is eclectic and bold, rotating dishes such as crisp potato cake topped with guindilla, anchovies and espelette pepper, sea bass crudo slivers in a vibrant borscht vinaigrette and the signature grilled pork chop bathing in a bisque-style prawn and lemongrass sauce, best paired with whipped brown butter emulsion spooned over pink fir potatoes. Head chef Michael Robins plays with his Canadian heritage in a homage to Montreal’s L’Express, where chefs meet after service for DIY beef tartare and croque Monsieur hybrids. At Sune, he tops a crisp, cheesy toastie with dairy beef tartare for a truly indulgent interlude between courses. sune.restaurant From The Ashes at Five Points Courtyard – for next-level BBQ BBQ legends Martin Anderson and Curtis Bell have a new home in Five Points Brewing Co’s expansive outdoor area beneath the railway arches. The succinct menu of smoker stars includes crisp beef brisket tacos, legendary ‘nduja doughnuts and brioche buns stuffed with smoked pork, garlic mayo and pickles. Meat-free options are equally excellent – floppy flatbreads doused in zaatar to scoop up sweet squash hummus and grilled hispi cabbage slathered in vegan ‘nduja and tahini yogurt. If you can't decide what to order, the chef's BBQ platter gives a taste of three meats and sides (loaded fries and bacon-adorned lettuce wedges) for £55. fromtheashesbbq.co.uk Bambi, Netil House Drama comes in many forms, not least a well-crafted DJ set. As well as whip-smart sharing plates from chef Henry Freestone (think cauliflower cheese arancini, marinated courgettes and whipped feta, roast chicken with focaccia and green sauce), this music-led bar and restaurant comes complete with a lush vintage sound system. On Friday and Saturday nights, guest DJs curated by scene legend Charlie Dark take diners on a deep-dive into their treasured collections. bambi-bar.com Koya Ko, Broadway Market – for Japanese udon noodles Tucked away off buzzing Broadway Market, Koya’s casual, friendly little sister follows suit from noodle bars found in Japan’s train stations, with a tachi-gui (standing-while-dining) element alongside seats for customers to slurp bowls of springy udon and tuck into donburi rice bowls. Pop in for the famous English/Japanese breakfast of hot udon topped with egg, bacon and butter soy mushrooms, or traditional neba-neba breakfast rice bowl with fermented soy beans, pickled seaweed and okra and onsen tamago egg. After midday, there’s crunchy chicken kara-age with spring onion sauce and steaming bowls of udon in dashi broth. Try new menu additions, such as slow-braised beef shin on hot noodles slathered in chilli oil, the KO salad of cold udon with pickled aubergine, and plenty of mini-don rice bowls to enjoy on the go. koya.co.uk Duke of Richmond, London Fields – for French gastro pub vibes A thoughtful restoration, including cool painted floorboards, calming accents of olive and cream on the walls, blue leather banquettes, and varnished wooden tables, make for a modern pub setting. Relaxed, a little bit rowdy (as all good pubs should be) and suitably stylish for its Hackney locals. The menu might be continental in its leaning but all of the dishes feel at home in their British pub setting – think seasonal giant vol au vents, rib cap burgers with confit shallots, roquefort, bearnaise sauce and fries, and tart au citron. Seafood shines – try super-light Cornish crab soufflé, sea trout with wild fennel and Cornish crab chip butties. thedukeofrichmond.com Little Duck The Picklery, Dalston – for casual small plates Dalston’s Little Duck The Picklery is no ordinary restaurant. Describing itself as a “fermenting kitchen, eatery and wine bar”, this third venue from the same team behind Soho’s Duck Soup and Hackney’s Raw Duck centres round one large, family-style kitchen table from which head chef and proprietor Tom Hill preps and cooks a carefully curated selection of seasonal small plates, guests only an arm’s length away. Drinks and dishes are scrawled on blackboards and change each week. For breakfast, expect the likes of beef and lamb sausages with garlic yogurt, flatbreads and pickled tomatoes, masala-spiced scrambled eggs, and shiitake mushroom oats. For lunch and dinner, the Mediterranean-skewed plates linger around the £8 to £11 mark and pack serious flavour. Start with a gut-friendly daily pickle or ferment (like a kimchi or kraut, for as little as £2.50) then move on to the plates proper. littleduckpicklery.com Click here to read our full review and try Little Duck The Picklery's recipes for yourself at home Morito, Hackney Road – for Cretan small plates With polished concrete floors, a striking, horseshoe, marble-topped bar, pops of colour and Instagrammable mirrored fish-scale tiles, Morito feels very much at home in Hackney. The open kitchen is headed by co-owner Samantha Clark and head chef Marianna Leivaditaki. Formerly at Moro, Marianna grew up in Crete and developed her feel for ingredients in her family’s fish restaurant. At Morito she makes exceptionally-sourced produce shine. Buffalo butter that smacks of the farm in Thessaloniki where it began life and the headiest za’atar from Istanbul make the breadbasket irresistible. The menu is similar to that of the first Morito with tapas, mezze and larger plates at lunch and dinner, but with new dishes, too – made-to-order Moroccan breads for breakfast, homemade halloumi with pickled za’atar, and kid mechoui with goat’s curd, preserved lemon and harissa. morito.co.uk Click here to try Morito's dinner party recipes yourself The Dusty Knuckle, Dalston – for cakes and bakes Looking for a bakery in Hackney? The Dusty Knuckle is a social enterprise café and bakery with a conscience, according to co-founder Max Tobias. “The idea was that we would start a bakery that could provide employment experiences to young people at the margins of society.” Max and chef Rebecca Oliver quit their jobs and launched The Dusty Knuckle from a shipping container in 2014. After three successful years it moved a few metres to a new permanent home opposite. It also runs regular bread-making classes and has ambitious plans to run a youth training academy in the future. thedustyknuckle.com/dalston Here are the best bakeries across the country… Sager + Wilde, Hackney Road – for unusual wines and date night At this casual but romantic neighbourhood wine bar, huddle up in around candlelit tables, or prop yourself up at the industrial iron grate bar and soak up knowledge from the chatty staff while getting a closer look at rare bottles displayed on the rack along the back wall. The small but thoughtful wine menu covers lesser-known regions and quirky categories such as crisp and refreshing whites from Austria and bold reds from Hungary, with a dedicated section to ‘skins’ wines (orange wines from Sicily, Alicante and beyond). Other than wine, they offer on-trend white port and tonic or punchy, refreshing bergamot negronis, as well as a selection of craft beers As well as continuing the unctuous cheese toasties (with Neil’s Yard Dairy cheese and Bread Station sourdough), a selection of seasonal small plates has been added to the menu. sagerandwilde.com Crate Brewery, Hackney Wick – for beer and pizza If you love beer and you love pizza, Crate Brewery in Hackney Wick is the best place to visit. The stone-baked pizzas are topped with unusual ingredients including a veggie Kashmiri dal and a middle eastern lamb. As you’d expect, beer is a real focus. Each week there’s a selection of guest bottles from a fruity brown ale to a dark Indian pale ale as well as regular casks and kegs of zingy lemon gose, velvety Crate stout and a crisp Crate cider. cratebrewery.com Click here for the best places to eat pizza in London Barge East, Hackney Wick – for a Sunday roast on the water Nestled among Hackney Wick's trendy warehouses and cocktail bars, Barge East is a floating kitchen and bar on the Regent’s Canal, housed in a 125-year-old Dutch barge. The restaurant, with its open kitchen, boasts seasonal menus crafted by chefs using top-notch produce, from fresh Cornish monkfish to homegrown ingredients like loquat for its Tidal Sour cocktail. F or a memorable Sunday roast, go for the three-course set menu (£39) featuring three meat options (Aberdeen Angus beef, Norfolk marshland lamb leg, Suffolk Red Bruntona pork belly) with an abundance of trimmings. Add on decadent sides like four-cheese truffle cauliflower and honey mustard glazed pigs in blankets to your order. Barge East's superb sustainable food is complemented by attentive staff, who are happy to recommend wine pairings. bargeeast.com Words by Laura Rowe, Mark Taylor, Ellie Edwards, Alex Crossley, Clare Maguire, Lydia Anderson Photography: James Moyle (Marquis Moon) Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants in Paddington
Book a booth in a cosy Italian restaurant, treat your date to an affordable candlelit dinner for two, or secure a spot with the perfect view for a romantic meal in the capital
Looking for romantic restaurants in London? Want to find affordable romantic date ideas? Here are our favourite picks in the capital, from warm and cosy restaurants to romantic restaurants with a view (click here for more spots with perfect views). We also have the UK's most romantic restaurants and the most romantic UK hotels outside of London. Now discover our effortless Valentine's Day menu ideas. Most romantic places to eat and drink in London Albers, Hackney – for classic small plates, reimagined Albers is a small corner room in De Beauvoir, all big windows, candlelight and warm wood. White walls and pared-back decor keep things calm, tables set snugly together, the atmosphere softly sociable with just enough low-light intimacy for a lingering dinner. The cooking sits in that middle ground between pub comfort and bistro intent: classics half-remembered, then gently tilted. I started with a sage cordial and soda, sweet and syrupy with a light fizz, the herb giving a quiet savoury lift. The sardine ragu croquette was the first real hello from the kitchen: crisp outside, creamy within, full of deep sardine warmth and finished with a generous parmesan dusting. Grey mullet crudo with cranberry and citrus was expertly judged, sharpness layered on sharpness, the fish cool and faintly earthy, the fruit offering tart little bursts. Sausage with sauerkraut and quince came rich and peppery, handmade and unctuous, the kraut leaning sweet-sour, quince adding a gentle perfume. The smoked eel and bacon caesar was the dish I kept returning to, smoke from eel and bacon folding into salty anchovy depth, crisp leaves slicked in dressing, a bold, comforting twist on something you think you know. Celeriac with confit egg was decadent and nutty. Bluefin tuna with peppercorn sauce was pleasant enough, thick buttery slices and a clean sear, though the sauce felt a touch thin and the temperature slightly off. Dessert was a maple and hazelnut ice-cream sandwich: the biscuit a little firm, but the maple ice cream silky, toasty and lovely. Service is friendly, still smoothing its edges, and there are no hot drinks to linger over at the end. Even so, Albers feels like a place settling into itself. albers.london Clos Maggiore, Covent Garden – for a romantic pre-theatre dinner Clos Maggiore is a little piece of the Med in Covent Garden. The conservatory, draped with blossoms and fairy lights, has a retractable roof for balmy evenings, while the main building is more cosy Provençal inn. From the French-Italian menu, expect hearty starters such as roasted duck foie gras with crisp confit duck leg and braised shoulder of Loire valley rabbit; mains of slow-cooked Charolais beef cheek and braised halibut fillet with leek fondue. Numerous vegetarian options include a roasted pumpkin, pine nut and parmesan soup and Sicilian aubergine and fig caponata, with Provençal goat’s cheese. olive tip: Close Maggiore is in the heart of the West End, so book the pre-theatre menu (two courses for £32.50, including a glass of bubbles) before treating your loved one to a West End show. closmaggiore.com Leydi, Holborn – for sharing plates Leydi sees the return of the talented Selin Kiazim (previously Oklava) to London and brings with it the spirit of Istanbul, serving an all-day menu oozing with Turkish favourites but with Selin’s unique modern twist. Launched opposite the Old Bailey in an area in Farringdon with an abundance of history, the restaurant pays tribute to the vibrancy of Istanbul’s eating culture, featuring generous, celebratory Turkish food meant to be shared and savoured. The drinks menu boasts bespoke creations from Kevin Patnode, two-time winner of the best bartender in Turkey, in addition to a transcontinental wine list with a distinctive Turkish influence. With décor featuring plush banquettes, warm lighting and understated references to Istanbul’s architecture and interiors that can only be described as elegant, this intimate 90-cover dining room is a charming setting for a date night. Order the The Leydi Deluxe to let chefs decide for you and dig into dips, kebabs, breads and salads to share. leydilondon.com Bottarga, Chelsea – for candlelit Greek sharing plates On a corner spot on the King’s Road, this Greek restaurant is a visual treat: cleverly lit, with playful modern art. Lovingly sourced ingredients in hero dishes ensure food is the focus, best enjoyed at a counter seat along the open kitchen. Silky taramasalata is topped with cod’s roe; anchovies served with sheep’s milk butter and slivers of crisp flatbread are a must-order; signature dish bottarga orzo is creamy and rich, perfectly paired with lamb and a superior Greek salad with caper leaf, barrel-aged feta and rusks. While chef Tzoulio Loulai sources ingredients from his homeland, the menu is not slavishly Greek: chocolate burnt cheesecake and salted caramel is a big hit on Instagram. A Greek house soundtrack ensures a buzzing atmosphere. bottarga.london "mu", Dalston – for a date-night dinner with jazz and cocktails Treat your date to an evening of jazz, Japanese food and innovative cocktails at this trendy Dalston hotspot. Drop into the buzzy bar for drinks, or book a sought-after spot in the restaurant proper, where a handful of tables with atmospheric lamp lighting provide front-row seats to the weekly jazz sets courtesy of Cuban group, Conjunto Cubano. Dishes are reasonably priced. Start with charred, skin-on pumpkin skewers, silky salmon tartare to scoop into nori sheets and plump prawns in tempura batter served with sweet and spicy nori-flecked mayo. Follow with the tonkotsu – a generous pork chop, trimmed with melting fat, crusted in panko breadcrumbs, served with shredded cabbage and tonkatsu sauce – and umami-rich nikiri-glazed tofu with Japanese salad. A side of oyster mushrooms has an udon noodle slurpiness, coated in a glossy soy and garlic glaze. The only dessert, a seasonal crème brûlée, is ideal for sharing before another round of cocktails and the second Cuban jazz set. mu-ldn.com Holborn Dining Room – for a Parisian brasserie feel Holborn Dining Room is one of the most beautiful spaces to eat in London. An impressive, airy room with a Parisian grand brasserie vibe, banquettes and tables are positioned so each dining space feels cosy and intimate - perfect for a special date night or occasion meal. The menu champions the pastry work which made the restaurant famous (the pie menu is always available), but other additions include roast Orkney scallops with Delicia pumpkin, a shrimp burger with jalapeño tartare and a vegan version of the legendary HDR wellington with beetroot and hispi cabbage. The room is flanked down one side by a stunning copper-topped gin bar, with more than 400 varieties available, so a specialist gin cocktail is a must-order to kick things off. Try the Cornish martini made with Tarquin’s Holborn Edition, dill and samphire and Cornish wildflower liqueur. Dawn-til-dusk dining means the space is buzzing from breakfast to late – this is a real hidden gem tucked away from the main road inside the plush Rosewood London Hotel. holborndiningroom.com Isabel, Mayfair – for wow-factor and late-night dancing From its lux grill dishes, including a Galician ex-dairy côte de boeuf or a sharing Cornish dover sole with creamed spinach, preserved lemon and brown butter, to its silk jacquard wall coverings, golden ceiling and bar, this glamorous Mayfair restaurant is guaranteed to wow any date. After dinner, the beats purr, as DJs take guests through until 3am, both in the restaurant and the Dragon Room bar, downstairs. Isabel’s innovative cocktail list includes the Rosetta, a take on the French 75, garnished with a rose petal and dehydrated lychee. isabelw1.london Kitty Fisher’s, Mayfair – for an intimate romantic dinner Red velvet curtains welcome diners into this intimate bistro. A handful of tables sit snugly beside a bar, behind which jars of home-made rhubarb gin, turmeric syrup and fig leaf vodka nestle in amongst trinkets. A creaky wooden staircase in the back corner takes you down past the kitchen into the intimate basement dining room, where dusty-pink banquettes line walls decorated with antique paintings. Start with a round of cocktails. A boozy hanky panky is a more delicate and floral twist on the negroni, while the restaurant’s signature Bad Kitty has a subtle sparkle and a syrupy sloe gin edge. Order all the bite-sized snacks. A smoky stack of Welsh rarebit is finished on the open grill to make Montgomery’s cheddar cheese extra golden; crisp ham hock and jowl croquettes melt in the mouth; and a silky-smooth splodge of chicken liver parfait comes with pieces of quince on a seeded cracker. Mains are cooked on a wood-fired grill so take 20-25 minutes to arrive, but it’s worth the wait. Pork presa is soft and pink with charred edges, accompanied by a pig-cheek sausage, candied heritage carrots and plums, while meaty monkfish comes on a rich bed of aubergines and tomatoes. Get involved with the sides, too – crunchy layers of deep-fried pressed potatoes or wood-fired Hispi cabbage lifted with mustard seeds, described correctly by the owner as “buttery wonderfulness”. For pudding, try the hazelnut and chocolate ganache with brown butter ice cream, covered in a dome of fluffy hazelnut mousse and dusted in cocoa powder. olive tip: If you want a more affordable romantic evening, pop in for a glass of wine and a couple of snacks to enjoy perched at the table in the window, perfect people-watching opportunities for first dates. kittyfishers.com Brutto, Farringdon — for Tuscan-Florentine dishes for sharing Refreshingly, this Tuscan-Florentine restaurant isn't one that values style over substance. Opened by the late restaurateur legend Russell Norman, the relaxed, no-frills interior is reminiscent of more old-school Italian establishments, with red gingham tablecloths, walls lined with framed pictures and a wine menu that's modestly stapled together, emphasising good Tuscan bottles. The menu is particularly good for sharing, with four small pasta plates that include a delicate rabbit pappardelle, and tagliatelle with a nostalgically rich, meaty ragu-style sauce. Start with the deep-fried dough ball 'cuddles' antipasti, paired well with thin slices of salty prosciutto and creamy stracchino. The mains, or secondi, are quite beef-focused, with a blackboard of perfectly cooked T-bone steaks to be ordered per 100g, and a hearty Tuscan beef shin stew. Alternatively, you can try the juicy pork and fennel sausages with lentils and a big dollop of dijon mustard. Leave room for a slice of the light, layered apple tart, or the 'ugly but good' cookies — these crisp hazelnut meringues originate from Tuscany, served here with smooth vanilla ice cream. Despite 'brutto' translating to 'ugly' in Italian, the food here is far from it. It's simple, but it proves that good food doesn't have to be stylish. msha.ke/brutto Ekstedt, Great Scotland Yard – for a romantic 7-course tasting menu Niklas Ekstedt’s tasting menus (five or seven courses) team British produce with traditional Scandinavian ingredients for a memorable experience. Current dishes include charcoal grilled wild sea bass, hay smoked pork loin and sea buckthorn sorbet for dessert. A wood-fired oven and open flame give dishes a delicious smokiness and create both warmth and theatre. ekstedtattheyard.com 144 on the Hill, Richmond Hill – for a cosy alpine-like experience 144 on the Hill is an imposing Georgian Hotel just a stone’s throw from Richmond Park. While the interiors are opulent, the atmosphere is warm and relaxed. An outdoor terrace has been transformed with thick blankets, fairly lights and outdoor heaters to make for a cosy, alpine-like experience. The fondue menu is £90 for two people and includes a warming glass of mulled wine to get you started. The artisan cheese fondue is incredibly generous and almost impossible to stop eating. It comes served with Parisian potato salad, steamed broccoli, a charcuterie board and bread. It’s easy to while away a few hours as the menu is so plentiful and the setting so comfortable. If you’re feeling up to it, you can finish with a rich Belgian chocolate fondue served with strawberries and marshmallows. Imagine the snow and you can pretend you’re just back from a day on the slopes. 144onthehill.co.uk/winter-wonderlounge Manthan, Mayfair — for quality Indian street food in a romantic setting With a pedigree like chef Rohit Ghai's, expectations of the food at his Mayfair restaurant are high — and it doesn't disappoint. Rohit led the kitchens at Gymkhana and Trishna before opening his first venue, Kutir, in Chelsea. At Manthan — the Hindi word meaning to churn and reflect — Rohit takes inspiration from his mother's cooking and the street food of India. The Maddox Street dining room is long and wood-panelled, adorned with beautiful paintings of exotic flowers. Even at lunchtime it feels romantic, and the sharing dishes reflect that vibe. If you're here for the first time, have an overview experience and choose two dishes from the Gali ka khana (street food) section, one from Rassedar (curries), one from Chapata Chops & Tikka, plus a couple of sides. To start, ghati masala prawns are plump and tender, coated with sesame, peanut and coconut for a satisfying crispy crunch. Jackfruit tacos are a revelation — almost meaty in texture, stuffed into fluffy rice lentil pancakes with southern spice and chutney. Fall-off-the-bone lamb ossobuco sits in a silky, satirsfying sauce flavoured with jaffa spices and curry leaf, while sarson chicken, tangy and hot with mustard and chilli, is as soft as butter. If you have room for dessert, opt for the Classic Trip of sweet laddoo, sticky gulab jamun and creamy srikhand. manthanmayfair.co.uk Trullo, Higbury – for a romantic Italian restaurant Older sister to Borough Market’s Padella, Trullo serves perfect pasta, antipasti and larger charcoal grill dishes in a romantic yet relaxed environment. Upstairs, wooden tables – simply laid with white paper tablecloths and flickering tea lights – are huddled together, while downstairs, dark booths are perfect for a longer, more intimate dinner. The menu changes twice daily, depending on seasonal produce, but if there’s two of you we’d recommend a couple of antipasti, a couple of plates of pasta and one larger oven dish. Rich beef shin ragu coats slippery ribbons of pappardelle, while sweet squash ravioli gets a richness from the olive oil. Meat and fish are simply cooked over coals, served with the likes of soft polenta and salsa verde or baby beetroot. As with the food, wines change regularly but there are always a few available by the glass. The natural Puglia Miro is bursting with ripe cherries, or sip on a punchy coffee negroni as a nightcap. olive tip: Impress your date with the promise of Padella's famous pasta dishes without the long wait. If it’s on the menu, order Padella’s iconic pici cacio e pepe for a cheesy hit. trullorestaurant.com Fenchurch restaurant at Sky Garden, The City – for a romantic dinner with a view If you’re on the right side of the room, there’s no view finer than that from Fenchurch. It’s the highest – and most expensive – restaurant at Sky Garden, the three-storey high oasis at the top of 20 Fenchurch Street (better known as the walkie-talkie building). Wherever you’re sat, a meal here is a luxurious experience. Staff are experts; our crumpled napkins were twice replaced with ninja-like stealth, and at night the room transforms into a glamorous, flatteringly-lit space designed to make everyone feel like a million dollars. We were here for the tasting menu, and began in style with a well-made old fashioned and a signature gin and St Germain cocktail. The latter was a little too sweet, but the giant spherical ice cube it came with was transfixing. skygarden.london/restaurants/fenchurch/ olive tip: Make sure you ask for a table ‘on the view side’, and ideally one that’s away from the private dining room, rammed as it sometimes is with rowdy business-types. Gold, Notting Hill – for a secret indoor terrace Gold is a buzzing restaurant and late-night bar on London’s Portobello Road which puts cooking over coals at its heart. Split into raw, charcuterie and cheese, salads, vegetables and plates, all the dishes are designed to share. Portions are hearty though, so start off steady and see how things go. Charred pears with burrata welcome the salty tang of Tuscan ham, while a bouncy farro salad with sweet peas, broad beans and Berkswell cheese steals the show with its fresh flavours. Indulge in desserts – honey rum babas arrive as boozy as they should be, with plenty of lemon verbena cream, while buttery sable biscuits layered with raspberry and mascarpone are lifted further with the crunch of praline. goldnottinghill.com olive tip: You can dine in two rooms, but head to the covered terrace on the ground floor for romantic Moroccan rooftop vibes. Lyon's Seafood and Wine Bar, Crouch End – for a romantic seafood dinner The vibe at this neighbourhood spot is unfussy yet classily comfortable, with muted green banquettes, wooden floors and a white marble bar, while pretty traces of the room’s original cream and green Victorian tiling can be spotted on the walls. Seafood fans will love the kitchen’s offbeat and creative approach to ingredients. Oysters – sourced from Wright Brothers – come with garnishes designed to complement each variety: we try Carlingfords delicately matched with a melon and cucumber salsa. Toasted, treacly rye bread comes piled with fat, sweet, pickled mussels and a delicate curry-tinged sauce, while a classic caesar salad gets a successful maritime twist thanks to smoked sardines. The wine list focusses on sustainable, organic and low-intervention bottles, and there’s also a pithy cocktail list – a super-dry, briny martini made with seaweed-infused Irish An Dúlamán gin and manzanilla sherry is the perfect start to a seafood feast. lyons-restaurant.com olive tip: Finish the evening with a night cap at another excellent neighbourhood outfit in Crouch End, Little Mercies. Stripped-back cocktails include the likes of strawberry negronis made with homemade vermouth and silky caramelised white chocolate old fashioneds. littlemercies.co.uk Champagne + Fromage, Brixton – for an affordable first date Champagne + Fromage does exactly what it says on the tin. It brings an authentic taste of the best that France has to offer to three shops/restaurants in London. The menu is made up of cheese and charcuterie boards, baked cheeses, salads, tartines, and a small selection of desserts. Everything is designed for sharing. This isn’t a typical sit-down meal; it’s more a place to go if you want to linger over a few glasses of champagne and lighter bites, making it ideal for a first date. There are over 50 different cheeses on offer, which could be daunting. But the staff are knowledgeable and friendly, and forthcoming in their suggestions. The charcuterie is all high quality so you can’t go wrong - the blueberry saucisson (although it sounds strange) was particularly good... champagneplusfromage.co.uk olive tip: You’re encouraged to go to the counter to taste and build your board, so go and chat to the staff with your date for an interactive ice-breaker to start the evening. Bob Bob Ricard, Soho – for a blow-out romantic dinner This Russian-inspired restaurant in Soho that exudes luxury, with ornate interiors loosely based on the Orient Express (train-carriage style booths, brass rails and coat racks) and slick service. It’s all about excess, with hearty portions, theatrical presentation and copious amounts of fizz. Start things off with a round of oysters baked with parmesan and black truffle, or stunning beetroot and goat’s cheese gateau. Order the beef wellington to impress, presented as a latticed pastry sphere before being taken away and carved into thick slices. Perfectly pink 28-day aged Scotch beef fillet comes wrapped in a layer of finely chopped porcini mushrooms and a thin pancake to soak up the juices with a golden crisp pastry case. ‘Chocolate Glory’ is an instagram-worthy dessert. Hot chocolate sauce is poured over a gold sphere that opens up to reveal a soft chocolate Jivara mousse with brownie pieces, zingy berries and passion fruit and orange jelly. If you’re too full for all that chocolate, order the zesty trio of lime, lemon and pink grapefruit sorbets served with Platinum vodka. olive tip: Book a private booth for an intimate dinner, complete with iconic ‘press for Champagne’ buttons for a fizz-filled date. bobbobricard.com Sager + Wilde, Hackney – for drinks with nibbles Sager + Wilde’s original Hackney Road bar is a romantic, candle-lit neighbourhood spot to enjoy unusual wines with your date. Huddle around a table on little stools and wooden benches, or sit up at the industrial iron grate bar to get a closer look at the rare bottles displayed in the rack along the back wall. The small but thoughtful wine menu covers lesser-known regions such as Austria, unusual orange wines and twists on classics procured by owners Charlotte and Michael Sager-Wilde. Golden jalapeño and cheddar toasties are served on E5 Bakehouse sourdough and round off the evening perfectly. sagerandwilde.com/hackney-road olive tip: For a super-cheap date option, head to Sager + Wilde's Paradise Row restaurant on Monday-Saturday between 5pm and 7pm for the bargain £10 plate of pasta and negroni or glass of wine deal. Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
There are so many contenders for the best brunch in the city! We've narrowed it down to our favourite morning feasts, including the best places for pancakes, avocado on toast, Bloody Marys and more.
Looking for the best brunch in London, or best breakfast in London? You've come to the right place! We've eaten morning feasts at restaurants and cafes all over London to find the best brunches and breakfasts in the capital. Read on for Bloody Marys, pancakes, eggs benedict, avocado on toast and coffee-fuelled fun. For a more intimate restaurant experience, find out the best private dining rooms in the UK and if you want to pull out all the stops, find out the UK's best showstopping restaurants to impress, best London restaurants with a view and the best dining experiences in London. Now find out the best food and drink festivals to visit. The best brunch in London at a glance Best in North London: Esters, Stoke Newington Best in East London: Ottolenghi, Spitalfields Best in South London: Kiss The Hippo, Richmond Best in West London: Dovetale, Mayfair Best for pancakes: Where The Pancakes Are, Fitzrovia Best American-inspired brunch: Sunday in Brooklyn, Notting Hill Best Middle Eastern-inspired brunch: Honey & Co. Daily, Bloomsbury Best Indian-inspired brunch: Dishoom, across London Best Eastern Mediterranean-inspired brunch: Brother Marcus, various locations Best for bold flavours and striking architecture: Friends of Ours, Kensington Best brunches in London We take 'brunch' to mean a really lazy breakfast-cum-lunch meal that you can spend hours enjoying. It's something indulgent (think pancakes, waffles and eggs royale), usually enjoyed at the weekend (who doesn't love a Sunday brunch?), and booze is very often present... your brunch should go on until after midday, after all! Head to one of our below recommended London brunch spots with family or friends. Friends of Ours, Kensington Best for: Bold flavours and striking architecture Tucked beside the Serpentine Gallery in Hyde Park, Friends of Ours has settled into its new permanent home, and it’s fast becoming our go-to for a weekend refuel. After a brisk walk or a dose of art, you’ll spot the airy, open-plan café drawing you in with the scent of freshly baked pastries. The counter groans with treats – all the classics but also Aussie-inspired bakes like lamingtons that’ll tempt even the most restrained sweet tooth. If you’re after something heartier, order the smoked haddock kedgeree. The rice is beautifully fluffy, crowned with a perfectly poached egg, and the whole thing strikes a sweet spot between buttery richness and fresh flavour. Whatever you do, don’t leave without trying a bread dish, created in partnership with Dusty Knuckle. The croque madamemonsieur is a masterclass in comfort: braised chuck and flank steak layered in sourdough, slathered with chilli jam and a silky miso béchamel, then topped with a fried egg and shaved manchego. It’s the sort of dish that makes you wish brunch lasted all day. friendsofourscafe.com Honey & Co. Daily, Bloomsbury Best for: Middle Eastern brunch Tucked away on Store Street, a quiet Bloomsbury pocket steeped in intellectual heritage and artistic spirit, Honey & Co Daily feels like a hidden gem. Sunlight pours through tall windows, illuminating pale woods, fresh bakes and a space designed for slow mornings. There’s a thoughtful separation between the casual deli space and dining area, yet both hum with the scent of fresh bread, za’atar and honey. The menu is rooted in bold Middle Eastern flavours, balanced with finesse. The labneh with roasted aubergine and plum sauce is a riot of contrasts: cool, sour yogurt against warm, smoky aubergine, with pomegranate molasses adding sweetness. It’s served with pillowy soft seeded bread, perfect for scooping. The cheese and chive bureka is crisp, buttery and deeply savoury, its pickles sharp and sweet. Potato, feta and thyme fritters arrive golden and crisp, flecked with herbs and dotted with chunks of feta. A fried egg, perfectly seasoned, tops the plate: salt beef is optional but not essential. Drinks are just as well considered. The orange blossom iced tea is sweet and floral, refreshing if you enjoy perfumed notes. Mint tea, served in handmade ceramics, adds to the sense of ritual. Dessert is non-negotiable. The honey and feta cheesecake – cold, rich and layered over crisp kadaif pastry – balances sweetness with the gentle salinity of feta and a crunch of richly roasted salted almonds. A quiet corner just steps from the bustle of Tottenham Court Road, Honey & Co Daily is the ideal place to stay and linger. honeyandco.co.uk Margot Green, Clapham Best for: relaxed Australian vibes The Daisy Green restaurants have been a staple of London’s brunch scene since first opening in 2012, with branches now across the city from Victoria to Regent Street. Margot Green, set back from the corner of Clapham Common, is one of its latest openings – a big buzzy site that is reliably full on a Sunday morning. Whether you sit outside during summer or cosy up in a booth indoors on cooler mornings, the sunny peach and pink décor and friendly staff keep the Australian-inspired vibes going. The menu has your favourite brunch classics covered, from a banana bread sandwich and pancakes to smashed avocado on toast and a fancy bacon roll. The Dirty Daisy has it all going on – crispy tater tots, cheese, pink pickled onions, beans and creamy avocado. It’s a delicious mess and perfect hangover cure. Sweetcorn fritters are a popular choice with the crowd, topped with marinated feta, eggs and crisp corn ribs. Poached eggs were standout on all dishes – perfectly cooked with striking deep orange yolks and a promise that if the egg isn’t cooked to your liking it can be remade. Wash it all down with a fresh orange juice and, if you’ve still got room, split a lamington for dessert. daisygreenfood.com/location-margot Aram, Somerset House Best for: Eastern Mediterranean flavours Tucked inside one of London’s most loved cultural hubs, Aram looks out over Somerset House’s River Terrace, offering a calm pause from the gallery’s buzz. Step through the door and a pastry counter greets you, piled high with Mediterranean-inspired bakes like za’atar croissants and halva brownies that are hard to resist. If you’re after something more substantial and a moment off your feet, wander through to the dining rooms where tall sash windows pour in natural light. The breakfast hash is the dish to order. It plays with the classic, swapping heavy fry-up elements for baby potatoes and blistered cherry tomatoes, so it feels fresh rather than stodgy. The smoked brisket and fried egg pair perfectly, finished with a drizzle of chilli oil to tie everything together. The za’atar croissant is another standout. It looks like a bit of a structural gamble at first but the pastry holds its own as you break into layers of tomato, pomegranate-glazed halloumi and a runny fried egg. A brilliant choice if you’re after something vegetarian and satisfying. To drink, a pomegranate fizz feels bright and celebratory, served in a wine glass for a touch of theatre without the booze. If you’re in the mood for something stronger, the za’atar paloma or a sumac-spiked bloody mary will set you up nicely before diving back into the exhibitions. arambyimad.co.uk Yauatcha, City and Soho Best for: dumplings This yum cha brunch is available at both Yauatcha City and Soho. Kick off with a negroni-style cocktail (or non-alcoholic alternative) before your first steamed dumplings pork and prawn shui mai; har gau and seafood black truffle dumpling. A vibrant edamame baked puff and a venison version are next. Gone in a jiffy? No problem – they will be replenished at your request – but save space for baos (pork and veggie) before choosing a generous main course of stir-fried beef; scallop and prawn or sea bass curry with rice. A little stack of soufflé pancakes with cream and honeycomb is a cute end. £45 per person. Upgrade to English fizz or wine for £54 or £40. taogroup.com/venues/yauatcha/ Dovetale, Mayfair Best for: customised frozen margs Its famous knickerbocker glory station – choose your own ice-cream, sprinkles and syrups – has proved such a hit that Mayfair restaurant Dovetale has extended this winning formula to its frozen margarita offering on weekend brunch. Choose from three Casamigos tequilas; add strawberry, apricot or cherry sorbet; season with lime, ugly berry or tajin salt and top with mint, popping candy or coconut flakes. Soak up the cocktails with superior snacks like Marmite onion rings, choose mains like buttermilk chicken waffles and hot sauce; a Thai-inspired crab omelette with slaw and nam jim or a Wagyu cheeseburger. 1hotels.com/mayfair/taste/dovetale Portobello 177, Portobello Road Best for: all-day brunching Served from 8am-3pm from Tuesday to Sunday this is a collaboration with Kiwi sandwich master ‘World Famous’ on (world-famous) Portobello Road. But there’s more to the well-written menu than just its excellent chicken sandwich (with dill mayo and gravy) and the classic salt beef reuben. Braised lamb sausage roll with pickle; smashed pea with smoked beets and its signature merguez, eggs any style, seasonal green and house hash speak to the kitchen’s skills and imagination. Upstairs from cocktail bar Trailer Happiness, the space is diner by day, atmospheric small-plates by night. portobello177.com Mount St. Restaurant, Mayfair Best for: breakfast with a view Sit among works by Picasso, Warhol and Matisse for breakfast at Mount St Restaurant, a light-flooded dining room located above the landmark Mayfair pub, The Audley. Art decorates the entire space, with mosaic-marbled floors creating a one-of-a-kind setting to awaken the senses. Think opulent updates on classic London dishes, such as white truffle-flecked scrambled eggs and smoked salmon, omelettes topped with Oscietra caviar or porridge pepped up with a dram of whiskey. Sausages, chutneys and honey are sourced from Durslade Farm Shop, while beef and lamb come from its farm in Somerset. For drinks, choose from a selection of vibrant juices or a top-quality coffee made behind the glossy white bar. Ask politely for a postprandial tour of the dazzling private rooms located on each floor, including a luxe Venetian-inspired dining room and cosy games room turret. mountstrestaurant.com Brother Marcus, various locations Best for: brunch with an Eastern Mediterranean twist For the perfect slow Sunday morning brunch, look no further than Brother Marcus. Founded by hospitality duo and lifelong friends Tas Gaitanos and Alex Large in 2016, the restaurant is named after Alex’s little brother. Specialising in all-day dining and brunch, Brother Marcus has been serving the vibrant flavours of Greece, Cyprus, Turkey, Lebanon and the wider Eastern Mediterranean to hungry Londoners for nearly a decade. The brunch menu caters to all tastes, offering everything from classic eggs benedict to the more adventurous kefir fried chicken atop crispy potato rostis, fried eggs and zingy kasundi jam. Nursing a weekend hangover? The selection of refreshing juices and smoothies is sure to revive you. Alternatively, embrace a hair of the dog approach with the two for £20 brunch cocktail deal. The bloody mary is bold and fiery, guaranteed to shake off the remnants of the previous night’s indulgence. brothermarcus.co.uk Ottolenghi, Spitalfields Best for: a Middle Eastern spin on staples Ottolenghi Spitalfields is the largest outpost of the Ottolenghi empire, with a dining room serving breakfast through dinner, cocktail bar and modern deli for takeaways. Furnishings are kept to a minimum, with wooden furniture, flowers and draped curtains providing a relaxed setting to while away the hours. Clear your head with a pear, apple juice and basil mocktail, or continue weekend revelries with a classic mimosa. You can expect loosely Middle Eastern twists on classics, from shakshuka with braised eggs, to scrambled eggs and smoked salmon with grilled focaccia – all the flavours synonymous with Yotam. Welsh rarebit on sourdough with a fried egg and salad is cheesy and unctuous, while vegan scrambled tofu with grated tomato and confit garlic is a smoky spin on scrambled eggs. Finish with a trip to the counter of cakes – highlights include spiced date cake with orange icing and pecan brittle and a flourless orange and almond cake with chocolate ganache. Choose from a selection of pastries, from almond croissants to cinnamon brioche pretzels – best served with a frothy cappuccino. ottolenghi.co.uk/spitalfields Sunday in Brooklyn, Notting Hill Best for: American-inspired cult favourites London’s Notting Hill is the ideal setting for this vibrant corner spot that balances being American without feeling themed. The menu covers all the brunch bases, service is friendly and professional and the room has an outside-in feel with a central foliage chandelier and wooden furniture. Pancakes are plate-sized, drenched in a chocolate praline sauce. Steak is slices of charred hanger steak (onglet) with scrambled eggs, toast and home fries, which also appear on the sausage dish but are confusingly called something else. Burgers are stacked high, available as cauliflower or chicken versions but we went for the classic which had the flavour you only get from good provenance. Fun cocktails are well mixed – we tried the signature pineapple and rum Honey Bear on Holiday that comes in the iconic bear-shaped honey bottles and the more morning friendly Champagne Problems (bubbly and strawberries). All this plus a list of extras so you can customise, great coffee and freshly squeezed juices had us feeling there wasn’t much more we could ask of brunch. sundayinbk.co.uk Where The Pancakes Are, Fitzrovia Best for: pancake fans Brunch-obsessed Londoners will already know about this all-day breakfast hotspot in London Bridge. Now, their second restaurant has opened in Fitzrovia, serving the popular buckwheat and buttermilk pancakes. Designed largely using recycled materials, the casual interior is light and relaxed, with a marble bar made from reclaimed dining tables and – impressively – black tiles made from recycled desert-soldier uniforms.nnYou can’t go wrong with the classics on the menu; thick and fluffy American pancakes with maple syrup and bacon, or the classic English breakfast with homemade baked beans. But, if you’re after something different, opt for the pulled beef pastrami with crunchy kale slaw, creamy thousand island sauce and sauerkraut, or the Montgomery cheddar and goat’s cheese Dutch baby (a bit like a giant Yorkshire pudding), complemented by thyme and radiccio. The Fitzrovia site also has Korean miso pancakes and polenta chips with bacon mayo from 5pm. The zesty hummingbird pancakes with cinnamon-poached pineapple and coconut, which can be made vegan, are great if you want something sweet. If you’re not recovering from the night before, we'd recommend ordering a breakfast-inspired cocktail, like a maple old fashioned or espresso tequila martini. It is the weekend, after all. wherethepancakesare.com Eggslut, Notting Hill Best for: egg buns Founded in California in 2011, with the aim of brining gourmet eggs to the breakfast table, Eggslut opened its first UK branch on Notting Hill’s Portobello Road in August 2019. The décor is stark (think grey walls, a metal counter and high wooden stools) with pops of yolk yellow in the neon signs. Choose from six options, all of which come with Bread Ahead brioche buns and Clarence Court Burford Brown eggs. Our pick is the Fairfax, where buttery, softly scrambled eggs mixed with sweet caramelised onions, chives, sriracha mayo and a generous slice of melting cheese for an indulgent (and hearty) start to your day. eggslut.com Milk Beach, Queen's Park Best for: a classic neighbourhood brunch Stray off the main high street of Queen’s Park down a pretty little mews to find this neighbourhood café and wine bar. There’s a communal wooden table to slouch round, with surrounding smaller marble-topped tables for smaller groups, and, on sunny days, white stable doors open out onto the cobbled pavement. The café’s co-owners source specialty coffee from around the world to roast on-site each week, and decent brunch options do the coffee justice – bread and pastries come from Little Bread Pedlar in Bermondsey (save room for a flaky pain au chocolat). Order the sourdough soldiers, their crevices flooded with puddles of butter, ready to duck into a jam jar of coddled eggs, cream, sweet potato purée and chives. milkbeach.com Crispin, Shoreditch Best for: early risers In a quirky, purpose-built zinc and glass pavilion, designed to look like an origami-folded bird, light pours into the back onto the cool polished concrete bars, and terrazzo-topped ash bar. There’s Assembly coffee from Brixton during the day, and at night Fernando Berry of Otros Vinos has helped curate a rotating wine list focussing on natural and low-intervention wines. Breakfast starts at 7.30am and covers the classics, alongside trendy new contenders. There’s an organic bacon sandwich with house ketchup; bright-yolked, boiled Burford Brown eggs with Dusty Knuckle Bakery soldiers; and Secret Smokehouse (made in London Fields) on sourdough (check out our guide to sourdough here) with soft cheese, lemon and dill. Be sure to order the super-crunchy, smoked ham toastie – oozing with melted cheddar, topped with a crispy fried egg and showered in finely grated, nutty Berkswell cheese. crispinlondon.com Kiss The Hippo, Richmond Best for: coffee geeks Kiss The Hippo, so named to mark the coffee shop’s environmental ethos (all cutlery, straws and cup lids are fully compostable), brings a bright and airy hangout to Richmond’s George Street. Up front, a gigantic coffee station caters to the trendiest of coffee geeks, with niche brews including Ugandan Nitro Cold Brew coffee and Japanese-style iced filter coffee, dripped through a Kalita over ice cubes to bring out delicate elderflower and bergamot notes. Pastries and brunch dishes are prepared by the chef consultant from London’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Try tiny Sicilian apricot and mango tartlets with a delicate vanilla scent, or super light cinnamon rolls with cinnamon paste swirled through and white chocolate glaze slathered on top. kissthehippo.com Here are more of our favourite coffee shops in the UK... Friends of Ours, Hoxton Best for: a friendly vibe In the middle of Old Street and Hoxton stations in trendy east London, Friends of Ours is far more than a playground for bearded hipsters. Instead, it draws those seeking bright brunches and speciality coffee from across the capital. Park yourself outside on the long wooden tables if the weather is nice or relax inside on teal blue chairs that contrast dark wood tables and floors. A large counter gives the epic coffee machine pride of place, along with a display of cakes (made in-house) and pastries from Dusty Knuckle. Kedgeree is given a sophisticated twist courtesy of hake (from local fishmongers Sutton & Sons) that had been smoked in-house with black tea, subtly spiced black rice and an egg yolk cured in soy sauce. friendsofourscafe.com Dishoom, across London Best for: an Indian brunch With multiple sites across the capital, Dishoom brings the flavour and flair of traditional Irani cafés to London. There’s an elegant yet relaxed vibe, with unique touches in each restaurant (think rusty weighing scales and ornate tiled flooring). Reinterpreted Bombay dishes are the focus, from fluffy coconut appam pancakes topped with a dollop of shrikhand (a sweet Indian dish made of strained yogurt, sugar and cardamom) to comforting chilli cheese toast. Flaky naans (baked in a tandoor oven) filled with cream cheese, chilli tomato jam and crispy smoked bacon are a must, but, if you’re feeling peckish, order the ramped-up version with a frilly fried egg and peppery pork sausage. dishoom.com Söderberg, Soho Best for: a Swedish brunch Relax in the cool, calm interiors (think blonde wood, retro sofas and muted tones) of this Scandi café and enjoy a Swedish-style breakfast or brunch. Breakfast trays make ideal grazing material with a little bit of everything – a dinky glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, a jar of crunchy granola with thick yogurt, Lescure butter for spreading over Swedish crisp bread and seeded sourdough, slices of serrano ham and a fruit salad of fresh figs, blackberries and sweet, tangy kumquats. There’s a vegan option that swaps yogurt for coconut yogurt and butter for olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Squidgy buns are laced with cardamom and cinnamon and perfect for taking away. soderberg.uk Ozone, Shoreditch Best for: Antipodean-inspired dishes Exposed brick walls, florescent strip lights and weathered floorboards give a minimalist vibe to this Shoreditch coffee roastery and eatery just off Old Street’s Silicon roundabout. Upstairs, staff in dark-denim aprons prepare fruity single-origin espressos at the brew bar, while an open kitchen has chefs whipping up Antipodean dishes such as wagyu mince on focaccia; and smoked carrot, chard and house ricotta-stuffed omelettes. A spongy kaffir lime pancake comes with Crouch End honey, rhubarb, dark chocolate shavings and a dollop of labneh, while crispy bubble and squeak cakes make a hearty change from muffins for the eggs hollandaise. ozonecoffee.co.uk Koya, Soho and City Best for: a Japanese brunch Stop by either of Koya’s Soho or City sites for an alternative savoury brunch. Choose a window table simply laid with chopsticks and napkins, or take a seat on one of the high bar stools to watch chefs at work. The menu, split into udon noodle and rice dishes (with the option for small side plates) combines Japanese dishes and twists on English classics. Keep it simple with Kizami – a bowl of noodles topped with fried tofu and spring onions – or mix things up with a feast of kippers, poached egg, butter rice and miso soup. koya.co.uk The Wolseley, Mayfair and City Best for: a traditional brunch As you walk into the Wolseley from the bustling London streets, you immediately feel as if you're somewhere luxurious. The high ceilings and marble decor give the place a touch of old-school glamour, yet it still feels warm and cosy. Perfect for spending a few hours catching up with friends or dining alone and reading the papers, if that's what you prefer! The menu is classic: omelettes with jambon and gruyère, crispy bacon baps, pancakes with berries and crème fraîche and a full English with all the trimmings. It's the sort of grub that powers you up for the day ahead. We had the rich, buttery and deeply spiced kedgeree with a runny poached egg, and eggs benedict, which came with a pleasingly lemony sauce. Of course, we had to have a round of virgin bloody marys for a fresh, spicy and pickle-forward hit. We also squeezed in a slice of cinnamon-spiced apple streusel, encased in thin, crisp pastry, with a cloud of whipped cream. thewolseleycity.com Esters, Stoke Newington Best for: French toast For the best brunch in Stokey, head to this neighbourhood café just off Church Street. White walls, grey slate, angular tables and pops of orange give this small space a sleek HAY-inspired Scandi vibe, while families spend the morning sipping on flat whites and friends get a post-run refuel. Don’t expect to find avocado on toast here, rather crispy pork belly with punchy wakame salsa verde, wafter-thin slithers of fennel, fried egg, sweet tomatoes (grown just down the road at Stoke Newington’s Growing Communities vegetable patch) and chunks of bread to mop up the rich aïoli. For those with a sweet tooth, order the french toast, where toppings change based on the seasons. estersn16.com Check out more London restaurant guides: Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Best restaurants in Covent Garden: where to eat and drink
From Neal's Yard to Leicester Square, we've found the best places to eat in and around the West End, from intimate seafood bistros to contemporary wine bars and Laotian banquets
Looking for Covent Garden restaurants? Here are our favourite restaurants near Covent Garden for pre-theatre dinners and post-shopping meals. Check out our ideas for eating and drinking from The Strand to theatre land and beyond... For more recommendations, check out our picks of the best restaurants in Chelsea, best restaurants in Soho, best restaurants in Paddington or the best restaurants in Kings Cross. Also discover more of our London restaurant reviews. Best places to eat and drink in Covent Garden Cô Thành – for Vietnamese noodles Hong Kong favourite Cô Thành comes to Covent Garden, taking the elegant former Frenchie site and adding a vibrant Vietnamese canteen sheen – mirrored tabletops, signage popping from exposed brick walls and colourful plastic stools outside. Sharing starters include minced beef wrapped in betel leaf, sausage skewers glistening in tamarind glaze and beer battered chicken wings with sweet, spicy fish sauce. Next comes an extensive list of noodle soups, my highlight being fragrant bún bò huế, the broth sweetened with pineapple that tenderises the rare beef and beef shank slices along with springy meatballs, fresh herbs and shredded morning glory. Seafood-packed bún Thái has a tom yum edge thanks to tamarind, galangal and ginger, while bún mám packs a fermented umami punch, and bún riêu’s crab base is ideal for thinner vermicelli noodles. We were recommended to drop a couple of unique yellow chillies into our broth, allow them to infuse their floral fragrant spicy kick and then remove. Dinky desserts punch above their weight, from kem chuối inspired coconut and banana ice cream lifted with lime zest, to tiramisu laced with rum and dark roast coffee that caramelises into the mascarpone. Dipping deep-fried sponge fritters into Vietnamese drip cà phê took me right back to Hanoi’s quirky coffee shops. cothanhrestaurant.com/london Adoh! – for Sri Lankan sharing plates Inspired by the Sri Lankan expression of greeting or surprise, Adoh! (‘Hey’) is a Covent Garden newcomer from Kolamba founders Eroshan and Aushi Meewella. Channelling the buzz of Colombo’s street food scene it’s a perfect pop-in when you need a fix of heat. Sri Lankans love to share and here there’s a riot of small plates, sambols and spicy mains, bright and colourful to match the walls splashed with the country’s famous lorry murals. We started with mutton rolls: fat cylinders of crisp fried pastry bulging with spiced mince and potato. Just £7 for two, a bargain in this prime London location. (In fact, everything on the menu is under £20). Another must-order is kothu, the nation’s signature street snack, a tangle of chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables, egg and meat or seafood. I chose crab – as good as anything I’d experienced on a trip to Sri Lanka. The menu is short and easily navigable so arrive hungry and choose two or three snacks, including vadai (spiced lentil doughnuts), sticky-sweet devilled sausages and coconut roti with lunu miris, a sharp onion relish. Curries feature in the mains. We plumped for classic black pork, with a deep, roasted flavour, balanced with tangy tamarind, and served with rice, dhal and accompaniments. Sides like morning glory with garlic and red chilli, tomato and onion sambol, and seeni sambol (caramelised onion relish) round things out neatly. Drinks lean tropical: arrack-based spritzes, rum punches and ginger beer coolers that cut through the spice without overpowering it. olive tip: Save room for the only dessert on the menu – jaggery soft serve. Smooth and caramel-like with a subtle treacle sweetness, it’s all that’s needed to douse the fire of the punchy savoury dishes. adoh.co.uk Town – for lavish dinners The vibe at Stevie Parle and Jonathan Downey's new restaurant is a modern take on early James Bond cool and classy. At the standalone bar, pick from three varieties of martini (by Kevin Armstrong of Satan’s Whiskers fame) to pair with fried sage leaves, heather honey and chilli. The space age pass to the kitchen is ringed in glowing baize green and every bit of detail from the ceiling to the frosted glasses shouts ‘attention’. As with all of Stevie Parle's projects, provenance is key. Wildfarmed beef is raised for the restaurant and served wine-cured with crunchy candied walnuts and posh ‘cheese whizz’, as steaks or in fat form as the cooking medium for pink fir potatoes. There are Seasalter clams swimming in sherry or as a main, curried with cod; Isle of Mull scallops with smoked chilli butter and Kentish asparagus swathed in Mangalista lardo. Kasmiri saffron risotto is served with bone marrow to be scooped out and stirred through, mighty rich in flavour and a show-off on the plate. Buttermilk pudding with roasted nespole (loquats) or a scoop of Todoli lemon and Thai basil sorbet make a refreshing end. town.restaurant Ikoyi — for contemporary fine dining Jeremy Chan and Iré Hassan-Odukale’s second iteration of their highly acclaimed contemporary fine-dining restaurant at 180 The Strand. The spice-focussed menu has evolved to new heights and cooking techniques courtesy of a much bigger space, while keeping the theme more than ever on micro-seasonal British ingredients. Tasting menu £300; ikoyilondon.com Setlist – for casual riverside dining To celebrate 25 years of Somerset House, Setlist has arrived – a sharp, summery pop-up that blends food, art and music in a pavilion perched above the Thames. It’s one of the capital’s coolest new hangouts, boasting riverside views, serious culinary clout and a laid-back festival feel. Opeoluwa of Future Plate plates up punchy Nigerian-inspired dishes – crisp goat croquettes with a hum of heat, and jerk chicken offset with a scotch bonnet mango chutney that’s all fire and fruit. Sophie Wyburd teams up with Wildfarmed for pizzettes that go big on comfort and character – roast potatoes and taleggio mingle with fennel sausage and caramelised onion, while smoked aubergine meets sweet-hot honey in a must-try veggie twist. Andrea Montes Renaud and Laura Copp use heritage Mexican maize for their hand-pressed tortillas. The Baja fish taco, zingy with lime slaw and chilli, and lifted with burnt garlic and habanero mayo, is a standout. Drinks are seasonal and sunny. Try the Somerset Spritz – light, botanical and best sipped as the sun sets to the beat of a live DJ set echoing across the river. somersethouse.org.uk Oriole – for cocktails and live music From the moment you step into Oriole you know you’re in for a treat. The speakeasy-style interiors – all plush textures, low lighting, and eclectic global curios – evoke a feeling of discovery that carries through the entire evening. Head chef Gustavo Giallonardo’s menu draws on the vibrant fusion cuisines of Latin America, with playful plates that surprise and delight. Standouts include sea bass ceviche in bright Amarillo leche de tigre, tender lamb rump with spring greens, huacatay and black olives (reminiscent of a crisp, savoury latke), and melting pork cheek with mash and kimchi Nikkei. Finish with pineapple tartare and a cooling coconut and tarragon sorbet. Live music fills the bar while the cocktail list – arranged by continent and complete with tasting notes – brings the more obscure ingredients to life. Try the Saraburi Punch, inspired by Thai mango sticky rice, for a silky, delicately sweet tipple. Warm, intuitive service seals the deal – a truly memorable night out. oriolebar.com Parsons – for an intimate seafood dinner With its Victorian-style white tiles and high marble-counter tables, Parsons has the feel of a traditional, old-school fish restaurant that’s been there for decades, not one that only opened in Covent Garden at the end of 2017. Sibling to The 10 Cases across the road on Endell Street, Parsons is informal enough to drop in for a half-dozen oysters and a glass of fizz, or settle down for a full-on feast of sea trout tartare with bloody mary jelly; octopus with duck-fat potatoes, paprika and parsley oil; or a hearty bowl of clam chowder packed with smoked bacon, shellfish, potatoes and cream. parsonslondon.co.uk J Sheekey – for seafood in an iconic setting Dating from 1896, J Sheekey is located in the heart of West End theatreland so it comes as no surprise that the walls are adorned with portraits of celebrity clientele in the four interconnecting dining rooms. Both the restaurant and its adjacent oyster bar serve an impressive choice of oysters and crustaceans, but the famous Sheekey’s fish pie, and monkfish and tiger prawn tikka masala remain firm favourites with the regulars. j-sheekey.co.uk Officina OO – for pasta and unique pizza New to Covent Garden (there are existing sites in Old St and Fitzrovia), this modern Italian has a real focus on expertly crafted fresh pasta – Officina means workshop or lab and in the centre of the airy dining room there is a glass walled booth with a chef crafting the daily specials in front of diners. What makes this new branch, tucked minutes away from Neal St, unique is the addition of Nonna’s pizza – Officina’s take on a traditional style where the pizza is baked at a lower temperature in a special wheel-shaped rutiello pizza pan. Expect a thicker, lighter crust than usual and lots of fresh toppings – we tried the Pazzarella which came piled up with rocket pesto, prosciutto crudo, aged balsamic and a blanket of parmesan. The pastas are as good as expected, a particular highlight being the occhi – a filled ravioli-style pasta stuffed with pork genovese, parsley pesto and cheese. From the snacks and starters the croquettes had a rich oozy sausage and smoked provolone filling in a crisp shell, and the Sicilian tuna ceviche was spankingly fresh slices of cured fish in a zingy orange and chive dressing. The wine list has some well-priced Italian classics but don’t miss the Italian margarita with its delicious twist of amaretto served with a maraschino cherry, perfect as a dessert cocktail. officina00.co.uk Story Cellar – for rotisserie cooking A modern bistro from the team behind two Michelin-starred Story, with a focus on rotisserie cooking and counter dining. Nestled in Neal’s Yard, Story Cellar is the sister restaurant to Tom Sellers’ acclaimed Restaurant Story, offering a relaxed, Parisian-inspired modern bistro experience. The space hums with energy, with counter seating providing a front-row view of the chefs in action. The snail bolognese on toast is a must-order, rich and deeply savoury, while the tuna tartare is light and fresh, and the cheesy chestnut gnocchi delivers pure comfort. For mains, the dry-aged pork chop is expertly cooked but the rotisserie chicken – succulent and golden-skinned – steals the show. Don’t skip the crispy wild mushrooms, a standout side that’s packed with flavour. For dessert, the jerusalem artichoke soft serve surprises with its nutty depth, while the bread and butter pudding, with tonka bean and orange custard, is warm and indulgent. With a strong wine list, polished service and an open kitchen that makes counter dining the best spot, Story Cellar delivers refined yet effortless bistro dining in Covent Garden. storycellar.co.uk Heliot Steak House – for elevated American cuisine Heliot Steak House, right at the heart of Leicester Square’s famous Hippodrome Casino, overlooking the Grand Casino, has recently been given a refurb. It majors in elevated American cuisine, with buttery prime USDA steaks the stars of the show. Everything here is about the drama, from plumptious prawns presented with billowing clouds of dry ice, to perfectly grilled steaks, sliced at the table and served with oozy mac ‘n’ cheese (with a rarebit-style topping), creamy spinach and rosemary-salted fries. There’s a choice of 120 wines (choose Ramnista Xinomavro, a velvety red from Greece, a perfect partner for red meat). There are also fish, lamb, chicken and pasta dishes, and some vegetarian options. And if you do get lucky on the tables, you might want to splash out on a luxurious Japanese wagyu sirloin. hippodromecasino.com/restaurant-bars-lounges/ Henri – for a modern take on a classic French bistro Chef Jackson Boxer (Brunswick House, Orasay) has partnered with hospitality pioneers, Xavier Padovani, Olivier Bon, Pierre-Charles Cros and Romée de Goriainoff (the brains behind the Experimental Group), and unveiled Henri, a glamorous and playful, Parisian-inspired restaurant on the ground floor of the Henrietta hotel in the heart of Covent Garden. A homage to the traditional Paris bistro with interpretations of some of Jackson’s bistro favourites, expect big and bold dishes as well as an expansive, mainly French, wine list and inventive cocktails. henricoventgarden.com La Compagnie Neal’s Yard – for a hidden wine bar This stylish little wine bar hidden away in Neal’s Yard is the perfect cosy bolthole for a glass or two in this tourist-thronged patch of central London. La Compagnie has been a fixture on London’s new-wave wine bar scene since 2014 – it has sister bars in Paris and New York – and is set over two floors and a terrace, the latter a particularly lovely spot for drinking in warmer weather. The focus is very much on smaller producers and hard-to-find bottles, with friendly staff on hand to make suggestions. Those looking for a bottle have a hefty slab of a menu to investigate but there’s also an impressively lengthy list of wines by the glass – perfect for trying lots of different things. Spot-on recommendations from our server come paired with seasonal European small plates from new head chef Ranieri Raimondi. Highlights include a delicious Jura chardonnay, zesty and minerally, with plump, buttery drunken scallops in a rich foie gras sauce; and torched mackerel with breadcrumbs and endive paired with a light and velvety Corsican red full of juicy red fruits. compagniewinebar.com/london Muse at RSA House – for cocktails in a hidden setting Hidden away in the elegant Georgian environs of RSA House, Muse offers a welcome respite from the busy nearby Strand, with a fine line in sustainably minded cocktails. In partnership with Idyll Drinks and Company of Cooks, the bar is on a mission to spotlight British ingredients, all served in a relaxed, subtly luxe setting. Drinks, designed by Marcis Dzelzainis (Sager + Wilde), are brimming with unusual seasonal and botanical ingredients, from hawthorn and rosehip rum cocktails to a truffle vodka martini. Particularly interesting are a roster of classic cocktails made with wild distillates. Our favourites included a pisco sour made with pineapple weed liqueur – smooth and creamy with a delicate tropical cast – and a wild carrot margarita with a warming, earthy, herbaceous character. thersa.org/muse-at-rsa-house Old Chang Kee – for curry puffs The Singaporean curry puffs at Old Chang Kee are some of the most flavourful savoury pastries anywhere in the city. The signature chicken curry puff is the one to go for. It’s filled with spiced chicken, potatoes and boiled egg – made to a secret recipe, so coveted that it’s locked away in a bank vault! There’s also a spicy ‘mala’ version which has the additional of mouth-tingling Szechuan pepper sauce. For a sweet treat, try their new Kaya Puffs – filled with fragrant pandan coconut jam. oldchangkee.co.uk Frog By Adam Handling – for a special occasion tasting menu There’s a lot to take in at Frog even before the meal begins. Design features include a fun frieze of Piccadilly Circus, juxtaposed with more classic décor, white leather table tops and a dramatic marble open kitchen. Fireworks continue in a tasting menu that spans the British Isles, from chef-owner Adam Handling’s native Scottish waters to the Cornish coast. After generous snacks and bread with Adam’s famous chicken butter, come well-balanced dishes such scallops with smoked chilli; cod, beans, quail or wagyu with morel and truffle; through to cherry bakewell or caramel and salted milk. Some ingredients are foraged by the team and nothing is wasted – all by-products are used up in clever ways in both cocktails in the basement bar in snacks such as crab biscuits made using the soft bones of lobster legs. frogbyadamhandling.com Bancone – for pasta The tagline for Bancone might be “pasta, prosecco, espresso” – but it’s those first little mouthfuls of arancini from the antipasti that you’ll be raving about, come home time. They arrive as three golden nuggets, their crisp armour gives way to the lightest rice, still just al dente, no stodge, and bags of flavour. First (on our visit) earthy mushroom, next creamy dolcelatte, and finally saffron with a fiery heart of ’nduja. It’s hard not to be mesmerised by the rest of the menu, though, particularly if you sit at the marble-topped, brass-trimmed bar, overlooking Louis and his team at work. Fresh pasta, which is made and rolled upstairs, is flash-boiled before being tossed with any of the 10 sauces on offer. Limited edition items also populate the menu, like the silk handkerchiefs 'carbonara', where thick ribbons of pasta are tossed in a cheesy sauce before being topped with crisp shards of pancetta and a golden egg yolk. Chitarra – guitar-string like spaghetti – is slicked with cacio e pepe and topped with a crisp, peppered cheese wafer. Oxtail ragu, slow cooked for 10 hours until sticky and sweet, clings to bouncy folds of pappardelle. Simple, quality ingredients – the bedrock of good Italian cookery – are shown proper respect. Hispi cabbage is charred and dressed with red chilli, garlic and 2017 Planeta olive oil. Chicory and beans are held up with sweet and sour onions, and a deeply savoury anchovy crumb. Classic negronis with the right amount of chunky ice and a twist of orange are just as well received as the prosecco, and don’t leave without a palate-cleansing, retro-tastic Amalfi lemon syllabub (recipe below) and granita served in its original host. Holiday vibes for the win. bancone.co.uk Arôme – for classic pastries with an East Asian twist At two central London bakery-cafés, co-founded with Singaporean restaurateur Ellen Chew, French pastry ace Alix André delivers classic croissants and pain au chocolats, while also exploring how that repertoire might evolve using East Asian flavours. His miso bacon ‘escargot’ (so-called for its coiled, snail-shell shape) neatly deploys sweet and savoury flavours. “Spring onions and a citrus syrup glaze add a touch of acid to cut through the fat,” explains Alix. Arôme’s popular honey butter toast (a thick slice of fluffy Japanese shokupan bread in a crunchy honey crust) was inspired by Alix’s experiences in Japan: “I was taken by the craftsmanship I experienced there, the dedication to perfecting even the simplest steps.” aromebakery.co.uk The 10 Cases – for wine The name stems from the fact that this buzzy little Covent Garden bar and bistro only ever buys 10 cases of the wines on the concise list in a quest to offer customers new experiences each time they visit. It was opened in 2011 by Ian Campbell and Will Palmer, who were bored of overpriced wine lists that never changed. Will says: “I think part of the success of 10 Cases is the constantly changing wine list and having more than 300 wines with very small cash mark-ups and small corkage charges. I think the ability to be able to drink really good and interesting wine in an unpretentious setting strikes a chord with many people.” 10cases.co.uk Click here for the best wine bars across the country Lao Café, Chandos Place – for casual Laotian food Authentic’ is overused on London’s restaurant scene, but Saiphin Moore has managed to do the word justice with her traditional Laotian cooking Covent Garden restaurant Lao Café. After successfully running seven branches of cool and casual Thai restaurant Rosa’s, Saiphin’s mission is to bring traditional home cooking from her original Laotian roots to Londoners. laocafe.co.uk Louie – for elegant seafood and cocktails Conveniently located in theatre district, this converted townhouse is home to three floors of New Orleans-inspired French glamour. Take a seat at the marble seafood counter in the ground floor bistro, or continue up to the first-floor restaurant, where intricately patterned carpets, gilt-framed mirrors, squishy sofas and frilly lamp shades add an elegantly eclectic touch. Start your meal with a selection from the raw bar; a tray of oysters (there are four varieties to choose from), sesame crusted tuna and yellow tail crudo lifted with green tomato, ginger and chilli. Hearty mains range from smoked Black Angus short ribs and black truffle pappardelle to king scallops with cuttlefish ink risotto and whole BBQ lobster in a silky butter sauce mopped up with French baguette toast. Whole lettuce hearts in a cashew dressing make a crunchy, refreshing side. The delicate, contemporary take on a southern pecan pie is a must-order dessert. Cocktails are served in embossed coupes; we loved the citrusy, floral Charles’, with a boozy absinthe edge. Upstairs, the plush Alligator Bar cocoons guests in its chic, New Orleans-style oasis, where champagne flows and boozy cocktails are shaken to the back drop of live jazz (dancing with the energetic staff is very much encouraged). louie-london.com Ave Mario — for lavish, camp interiors and superior Italian ingredients Anyone who loved the OTT charms of Gloria and Circo Populare will find much to enjoy in Big Mamma’s latest opening. Loosely inspired by Florence, it's a sprawling affair with almost 300 seats spread over three floors of kitschy, Instagrammable interiors, from the ground-floor dining room complete with soaring ceilings, green-and-white striped walls and a towering bar stocked with 3,500 bottles, to a louche, mirrored, 70s-style basement bar complete with an open kitchen where you can watch pizzaiolos work their magic. There’s campy Catholic iconography scattered throughout, pictures of Sopranos characters in the loos, pretty vegetable-shaped crockery and a 60cm marbled stracciatella ice-cream cake on the menu to rival Gloria’s famed supersized lemon meringue pie. It’s boisterously fun and undoubtedly a place you go to soak up the atmosphere, but the food — mostly crowdpleasing spins on classics — also impresses, from luscious carbonara ravioli filed with oozy egg yolk and flakes of guanciale, to the pillowiest of pizzas decadently topped with salty pearls of Venetian caviar. Ingredients, sourced from some 180 artisan suppliers, are top drawer — think 36-month-old prosciutto; dreamily creamy Puglian burrata; silky mortadella; and liberal clouds of umami aged parmesan. coventgarden.london/ave-mario Blacklock — for a sustainable approach to meat The Covent Garden branch of Blacklock is in a listed building just off Bedford Street in Covent Garden in what was once the location for the King's Coachmakers and it's their biggest yet. The mid-century modern/industrial feel is welcoming and the menu focusses on the affordable and sustainable approach to meat that is central to Blacklock's approach. A starter of Cull Yaw Crumpet signals what lies ahead. Dry-aged Cornish mutton shoulder and leg is slow-roasted overnight in a range of spices until it's soft and ready to fall apart. This is then placed atop a crumpet with English mustard and pickled onions. A jug of gravy is offered to pour over the meal and soak deep into the crumpet, resulting in an impressive depth of flavour. Blacklock's signature 'All In' option is a sharing platter of beef, pork and lamb skinny chops piled high on charcoal-grilled flatbreads, the juice and flavours of the meat flowing into the bread. There are also meat-free options, barbecued halloumi and coal-roasted celeriac. The drinks menu is extensive with a range of cocktails, wine and their own Blacklock Lager and Pale Ales, brewed with Harbour Brew Co. in Cornwall. theblacklock.com/covent-garden Joe Allen — for American classics with a British accent in Theatreland Beloved by the theatre crowd — that's those on stage, behind the scenes and in the audience — the USA-inspired all-day restaurant has moved into new premises off The Strand, with new (ex-The Ivy) chef Gary Lee on board. Playful touches kick off the menu; mini shepherd's 'tarts', a truffled cheese toastie and 'love it or hate it' — a riff on Marmite. Classic dishes include slow-baked smoked ribs, strip steak with fat chips, hotdogs with or without chilli and a decent caesar along with seasonal mains such as hearty braised beef in barolo and roasted squash risotto. Dessert features the very American peanut butter and jelly ice cream sandwich and the very British eccles cake with cheese. What make Joe's so special, along with live piano and great cocktails (try a New York Wasp with salt and paprika rim) is its brilliantly laidback but ever-efficient staff who make it seem as fun to work as it is to eat there. The set menu available until 7pm offers great value at three courses for £27.50. joeallen.co.uk Jamie Oliver Catherine St — for comforting classics Catherine Street by Jamie Oliver marks the chef’s return to the London restaurant scene. A menu of comforting classics includes starters of devilled eggs, oysters and mushrooms on toast; sharing dishes like ox cheek pie and Sutton Hoo chicken with stroganoff sauce; homemade pastas, daily fish specials, steak and Trevor’s chicken, named in honour of Jamie’s father. Desserts include sticky toffee pudding and the River Café Nemesis cake, a nod to the restaurant Jamie worked in when he was discovered as a TV chef. Enter through an impressive garden-like courtyard with twinkly lights into a dramatic, buzzing main room with comfortable booths, antique lamps and modern art and photography. Suppliers are name-checked, with meat from HG Walter, Cobble Lane Cured charcuterie and Coombeshead Farm bread. jamieolivercatherinest.com Piazza at the Royal Opera House — for modern British dishes Piazza at the Royal Opera House, the restaurant and terrace housed within one of London’s most iconic buildings – overlooking what was once the city’s most famous fruit, vegetable and flower market, Covent Garden – has relaunched with a modern makeover, coinciding with a reinvigorated menu offering seasonal, modern British dishes and aiming to be every bit as breathtaking as the performances taking place within. Dishes include starters such as London burrata with heritage beetroot, mains including Cornish cod with mussels and pumpkin, and sharing dishes such as Belted Galloway ox cheek pie with bone marrow mash. roh.org.uk Pizza Pilgrims — for pre-show pizza and beer With its green-and-white chequered plastic tablecloths, chessboard tile flooring and framed film posters hanging on the walls, Pizza Pilgrims feels like an American diner meets Italian pizzeria. Available for walk-ins only, it's a perfect spot to grab a pre-show pizza and beer in the heart of theatreland. The Naples-style pizza with blistering crust and sloppy centre is proved slowly, then cooked fast. Order 'You've Got Maiale' with prosciutto cotto, 'nduja, salsiccia and pepperoni, burrata, red onion and balsamic glaze if you fancy something indulgent. Or, go for 'The 8-Cheese', a ramped-up cheese feast with ricotta, buffalo mozzarella, fior di latte mozzarella, gorgonzola, parmesan, provola, pecorino and burrata, beautifully finished with pockets of smoked chilli jam. Or take it back to basics with the margherita, topped simply with tomato, fior di latte mozzarella, basil, parmesan and olive oil. For dessert, make a beeline for the hazelnut-flavoured espresso martini, shaken with Frangelico noisette liqueur and served with a chocolate and hazelnut rim. pizzapilgrims.co.uk Lahpet West End — for Burmese food in central London Lahpet West End is set over two floors, with an outdoor mezzanine overlooking a courtyard. Fragrant from cardamon and turmeric, and fresh with lemongrass and coriander, this is one of the few places in the UK to champion the food of Myanmar. The menu is split into small and large plates, bowls and sides which can all be shared or enjoyed as more conventional courses. Cocktails are twists on the classics and the kumquat spritz uplifted a glass of prosecco with orange bitters, lime leaf and kumquat juice. Different fritters are made out of split peas, shan tofu and sweetcorn, and come with a tamarind dip. The grilled chicken thigh and tiger prawn skewers were plump, smoky and worked well with the must-try tea leaf salad — a masterclass in crisp and fermented ingredient layering. The fish noodle soup was packed with seafood, and aubergines are ingeniously served whole and stuffed with chilli, coriander and crunchy fried shallots. We wanted to be left with the flavours of the savoury food so we didn't order anything sweet but the table next to us raved about the banana parfait with ginger crumble. lahpet.co.uk El Ta'Koy — for Hawaiian-style dining El Ta’Koy is the first UK opening from Cuban chef Luis Pous, who has restaurants of the same name in Miami and a pop-up in the Dominick Hotel in New York. Inspired by the tiki bars of Hawaii but with flavour influences that range from Asia to Latin America, El Ta’Koy provides an eclectic menu, with dishes such as ahi poke bowls, lamb barbacoa tacos, sea bass ceviche and pork chicharrón bao all sharing the same space. The menu is split into sharing, tacos and small plates, and there’s an inventive cocktail list that brings fresh updates to some tiki bar classics. el-takoy.com NoMad Restaurant — for New York meets London hot hotel dining Housed in the infamous Bow Street magistrates court, the room is dramatic with its high ceiling — bright or moody depending on time of day. A long comfortable banquette divides the space that’s alive with greenery and London buzz. NoMad’s menu has NYC touches (a nod to its sister hotel) and spans the sublime — oysters with cucumber ice, a delicate sea bream crudo with radishes and teeny picked strawberries; to sturdy (but refined) suckling pig; 30-day dry-aged rib-eye, and a brioche-stuffed chicken dish to share between two — to the sublime again: cherry ice cream with mascarpone within a crisp chocolate shell. The hefty wine list is best navigated with the help of the young, friendly wine team. Dinner bookings are like gold dust so go early or late, but go! thenomadhotel.com FishWorks, Catherine Street – for seafood Classic, maritime-inspired elegance defines the vibe at FishWorks’ third site with soft blue, grey and natural tones, white tiling and playful nautical hints – including knotted robe pendant lights and striking feature walls of copper fish scales. The restaurant’s central location in the heart of the West End makes it the perfect venue for enjoying a pre- or post-theatre seafood feast, from oysters and champagne at the marble-topped bar to lobster thermidor, whole Devon crab (perfectly sweet and plentiful on our visit) and fruit de mer platters. Dishes from the crowd-pleasing à la carte menu also impress. Brixham fish soup is rich and silky, with a pungently garlicky rouille; portly, hand-dived scallops – generously served four apiece – come in their shells swimming in garlic butter and topped with golden breadcrumbs. Dover sole is served on the bone and either grilled or à la meunière. We opt for the latter and it’s just as it should be, soft and flakingly tender. For drinks make a beeline for their roster of ‘maritime wines’ – all produced within 10 miles of the coast and with subtle saline notes designed to complement the fish and seafood on the menu. Finally, pick up more piscine treats at the in-house fishmonger before you leave, which, like the rest of the restaurant, offers responsibly sourced fish and seafood selected from Devon and Cornwall’s day boats and fish markets, plus homemade sauces to cook your catch with. fishworks.co.uk< 26 Grains, Neal's Yard – for porridge and seasonal dishes Hidden in Covent Garden’s courtyard haven, Neal’s Yard, 26 Grains has grown up from its porridge pop-up into the cosy site you see today. A crammed open-plan kitchen dominates most of the space. Shelves bend with the weight of pretty crockery; hard-working pots and pans hang, ready and waiting, above the hot gas stove; and any other free space is filled with jars of spices, grains and bags of flour. You can sit at the bar, facing chef-owner Alex Hely-Hutchinson as she beavers away, high up on smooth wooden bar stools, or at another counter facing the wall. Or there are a couple of communal tables with bench seating, inside and out (weather permitting), modestly decorated with dried flowers and twinkling candles. Seasonality drives the short-but-sweet menu. Visit in late spring, and you might find the likes of porridge with loquat and sweet cicely, whipped ricotta and toasted walnuts, or asparagus, chopped egg and hollandaise before midday. Lunch sees the likes of yellow dal with roasted cauliflower, aubergine pickle, garlic yogurt, almond dukkah and garlic flatbread, alongside fresh plates of courgette ribbons with herbs, nuts and pecorino. Ingredients are cooked with little fuss – meaning their bright, fresh flavours shine through – and thanks to Alex’s strong understanding of the importance of balance (whether that be crunch to counter softness, sourness to stand up to sweetness) everything delivers. 26grains.com La Gelatiera – for ice cream London’s La Gelatiera focuses on unique and intriguing flavour combinations, from blue cheese and walnut to basil and chilli. Each scoop is made with natural, seasonal ingredients and Jersey milk and cream, with the dairy ingredients pasteurised on site for optimum freshness. If you want to keep it classic you can order a scoop of creamy vanilla mananara, but the honey, rosemary and orange is recommended if you fancy something fresher with slightly savoury notes. lagelatiera.co.uk Click here for our favourite ice cream parlours across the country Temper, Mercer Walk – for crowd-pleasing barbecue and cocktails “I’m sure there are traditionalists out there who think I’m the devil himself, but I’d rather be knocked for trying something new than just roll out someone else’s recipes – I never saw the point in that,” says Neil Rankin, explaining his philosophy at Temper Covent Garden. This is a restaurant that likes to push the boundaries when it comes to Italian-rooted food, from the aged beef-fat tallow and pesto ravioli to the wood-fired ‘Detroit’ pizza with its topping of goat ragu, mozzarella, London-cured Cobble Lane pepperoni and San Marzano tomatoes. “I love traditional pizzas and pastas, but London is full of great places doing both – so I wanted to explore a different side to both and have a little fun. For me, food shouldn’t have restrictions and rules past deliciousness.” Other standout dishes at Temper Covent Garden include the crab okonomiyaki pizza with crab, fennel, langoustine mayo, hoisin, sesame and katsuobushi. Neil says: “Certain flavour profiles are almost set in stone, but there is always room within those borders to create something new. I like to see connections between cuisines because they’re all related and when you get an obvious crossover it’s fun to exploit that. Especially in London, which is a multicultural, mixed bag of cuisines.” temperrestaurant.com Click here to read about all our favourite pizza places in London Fabrique Bakery, Earlham Street – for cinnamon buns Whether cinnamon or cardamom is your bun of choice, Fabrique Bakery is a great place to enjoy a spot of fika. This Swedish stone-oven bakery has brought the concept to London, plying in-the-know citizens with squidgy buns and sourdough fresh from the oven. fabrique.co.uk Barbary, Neal's Yard – for counter-dining Specialising in grilling and baking from the Barbary Coast to Jerusalem, the menu at Barbary is divided into baking and grinding, land, sea and earth – and you’ve got a prime view over everything as it is cooked (seating is arranged around a horseshoe-breakfast bar facing the open galley kitchen). Order something from at least every section, and a special if you can manage it. Start with a Jerusalem bagel, a still-warm soft and chewy giant zero-shape, crusted with sesame seeds, and served with a pinch of aromatic za’atar. Roasted aubergine ‘sharabik’ is a smoking melting mouthful of tahini, sweet/sour molasses, toasted almonds and fresh raspberries. Pata negra neck is like no pork we’ve ever tasted – rich, buttery, more like a heavyweight Galician beef in its umami punch. Knafeh for pud, is crisp, savoury and sweet, with its pistachio crumble hiding angel noodles and melty cheese beneath, but it was the halva ice cream that stole our heart. Elegant, grown-up and yet very, very naughty in the best kind of way. thebarbary.co.uk/neals-yard Cora Pearl, Henrietta Street – for modern British small plates Cora Pearl brings modern British plates with Parisian accents to Covent Garden. Dishes are simple but impeccably executed, using beautiful ingredients. The kitchen’s way with vegetables especially impressed; creamy goat’s curd, in a generous pool of grassy olive oil, came with lovage and perfectly seasoned tomatoes. After this came soft, yielding agnolotti filled with more curd – cow’s this time – on a velvety pea purée, with perfectly pitched earthiness from summer truffle. Best of all was a deeply savoury and surprisingly rich main of courgettes – pickled, puréed and charred –with aubergine, black garlic (roasted whole and as a gel) and Ticklemore cheese. Dessert, as per the rest of the menu, was expertly crafted, our poached peach lusciously rich, paired with an intensely flavoured yet delicate earl grey sorbet. corapearl.co.uk Din Tai Fung, Henrietta Street – for dumplings A restaurant with a legacy for seriously good xiao long bao (steamed soup dumplings), Din Tai Fung evolved from half a Taiwanese store in the 70s to a global brand with a cult following and more than 150 restaurants in Asia, Australia and the US today. This outpost, its first branch in Europe, is on the edge of Covent Garden, on Henrietta Street. We’re here for the xiao long bao. The heavy, liquid-filled pouches of umami goodness are very special: the pork and crab version all the better for the rich, iodine tang of the shellfish encased within silky, supple dough. dintaifung-uk.com Shoryu Ramen – for quick ramen Part the noren (traditional Japanese fabric curtains) at Shoryu’s fifth ramen restaurant in buzzy Covent Garden and the friendly staff will shout “Irasshaimase!” (welcome in Japanese) from the white-tiled, sake-lined bar. Interiors are bold and play with angles – classic herringbone parquet timber flooring contrasts the brick walls and a curved wooden booth in one corner. Authentic Japanese touches filter all the way down to garlic cloves piled into pots on wooden tables so you can crush your own for extra welly. Shoryu specialises in food from Hakata, a district of Fukuoka city in Western Japan. Think Hakata buns – the local version of the pillowy steamed bao buns that are on everyone’s lips at the moment, and most importantly eight varieties of tonkotsu ramen. Shoryu gives this comforting and rich 12-hour pork bone broth a lighter, cleaner consistency with added miso and serves over thin, springy noodles. Plenty of Japanese lagers and craft beers line the bar, or opt for a sake flight. shoryuramen.com Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Mayfair Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Best restaurants in Mayfair: where to eat and drink
Check out our favourite restaurants and bars in Mayfair, Central London's swankiest neighbourhood, from buzzy pubs to outstanding Indian hotspots
Here are our favourite Mayfair restaurants, from tapas in Heddon Street to afternoon tea just off Piccadilly and date night bistros in Shepherd Market. Check out our ideas for eating and drinking in Mayfair. Now discover new restaurants in London, the best restaurants in Knightsbridge or the best private dining rooms in the UK. Best places to eat and drink in Mayfair The Audley Public House, Mount Street – for a buzzy pub The dark polished wood and interior of The Audley scream traditional Victorian pub (and this one has been on the site since 1888) but look closer and you’ll see quirky artworks and pops of vibrant modern colour from the recent refurb, including a specially commissioned mosaic artwork from Phyllida Barlow which covers the ceiling in a riot of hot pink, orange and turquoise. It’s walk-in only here which gives the place a buzzy atmosphere, even in this quite fancy bit of Mayfair. The casual vibe extends to the ordering (no table service) – just order your food at the bar alongside drinks. All the usual pub favourites (fish and chips, sausage and mash, chicken pie) are present and correct but elevated with meat sourced from the owners’ farm in Somerset and Cornish day boat fish. There are also some fun surprises like the London Dip – a hearty sandwich of slow roasted, thinly sliced beef served with a pot of gravy for dipping – and bowls of cheesy chips with curry mayo sauce and jalapeños. The wide beer selection includes brewers like Deya, alongside more traditional cask offerings from Battersea brewer Sambrook’s. theaudleypublichouse.com The Guinea Grill, Bruton Place – for quality cuts in historic pub Meaty mains beg to be experienced at this characterful pub-restaurant, so we plumped for beef, Guinness and oyster Pie (to share) to kick off proceedings (though the devilled kidneys on toast, and seared scallops on the table next to us, looked very appetising). Topped with a crispy oyster and melted cheese, it set the tone for the next grand entrance – a magnificent côte de boeuf, presented at the table before being flamed on the grill and served with brandy peppercorn sauce, crispy layered pancetta confit potatoes and parmesan-creamed sweetcorn. For pudding, the crème brûlée crackled satisfyingly under the spoon, while the bread and butter pudding was surprisingly light and fluffy. Olive tip: If you’re visiting in the evening, try to skip lunch to take full advantage of the meaty fare. As well as starters, salads and mains, add-ons include lamb cutlet, calf's liver, lamb kidneys, black pudding and haggis. theguinea.co.uk Silva, Bruton Place – for varied all-day dining Silva, the Latin word for forest, carries this theme in its interiors with woodland friezes and natural tones in the airy dining room and snug bar. A compact, seasonal menu takes inspiration from the Med and Japan with a raw section designed to wake up the palate – wild sea bass crudo, jalapeño, yuzu and ginger dressing has delicate tang. Classic steak tartare is made hearty by topping a chunky potato waffle and a signature dish of crispy egg with girolle and parmesan sauce is also a generous starter. Lighter mains like roasted cauliflower with butter beans and caponata or steamed halibut are balanced by the more robust Creedy Carver duck with coco beans and addictive rosemary and garlic roasties. Silva’s busy kitchen team, headed up by Slawomir Sawicki, can be seen through the street-facing windows below a pretty striped awning on the increasingly restaurant-focussed Bruton Place. Open all day from breakfast to dinner. silvarestaurant.co.uk Sparrow Italia, Avery Row – for luxe modern Italian Set in a townhouse in the heart of Mayfair, Sparrow Italia offers up classic Italian and Mediterranean dishes, and those with a more contemporary twist. Its main menu showcases a selection of hot and cold starters, and pasta designed for sharing – expect classic like cacio e pepe and puttanesca alongside an indulgent lobster acqua pazza – before moving on to fine cuts of steak and some exquisite seafood dishes. Seasonally inspired menus also provide a reason to go back. To celebrate autumn there is a truffle-inspired menu in addition to an à la carte section designed to showcase this luxury ingredient. You can even quench your thirst with a truffle martini. The ground floor’s centrepiece is the floor-to-ceiling bar, perfect for a few drinks before heading up to the main restaurant. On the third floor you’ll find an intimate lounge where guests can enjoy a curated selection of the world’s best cigars. sparrowitalia.com Vesper Bar at The Dorchester, Park Lane – for luxe cocktails Vesper Bar is a thirties-inspired golden, glimmering confection, with polished wood and shimmering surfaces, plump blue armchairs, racing green bar stools and a beautiful 1930s palladium leaf ceiling. It’s plush, luxe and comfortable, with seamless service. The new menu, Eterna, explores the golden ratio, a mathematical ratio seen throughout nature and art, and expressed in the menu through different flavour profiles – from savoury to herbaceous, floral and smoky. The Venus Observed, with coconut pisco, Seatrus gin, Italicus, tomato and caperberry, is a savoury delight, while Thunderball’s combination of Enemigo blanco tequila, pineapple and sage sauvignon blanc is a smoky, spicy winner. The Green Knight deploys diverse ingredients including vodka, mastiha, feta, gentian and watermelon in a balanced, gluggable drink, full of herbaceous character. It would be remiss to miss out on drinking an actual vesper, made with Stolichnaya vodka, the hotel’s own old tom gin, forbidden fruit liqueur and dry sherry. It’s icy, boozy perfection. dorchestercollection.com Farm Shop Wine Bar, South Audley Street – for a hidden wine bar True hidden gems are hard to come by in London but Farm Shop’s underground wine bar truly feels like one. By day it’s a fancy Mayfair deli on South Audley Street, supplied by the company farm in Bruton, among other artisan producers. There are piles of fresh fruit and veg, stacks of chutneys and jams, and loaves of sourdough and pastries laid out in the window. From the afternoon, the basement space comes into its own. There’s no signage from outside, so it’s just the arrows inside the deli that guide you downstairs to a warm, cosy room, speckled by candlelight with a relaxed, welcoming vibe where you can sit along the windows to people-watch. The menu includes classic treats like rotisserie chicken and cheese toasties, alongside sharing boards of charcuterie and cheese from Somerset, near the company farm, as well as a selection of Swiss offerings. Clearly experts in cheese, with temperature-controlled rooms to store it, this is a great place to try Yarlington, Montgomery cheddar and a creamy Bath Blue. Most importantly, the wine list is 150-strong with some varieties from the company’s vineyard. Prices for a glass of house of red start at just £4.50, so it’s a surprisingly reasonable option for such a high-end area. A particular highlight is the Maid of Bruton sparkling rosé, which is ideal for a celebratory drink. farmshop.co.uk/london/wine-bar/ Nipotina, South Audley Street – for welcoming Italian cooking The latest from restaurateur Samyukta Nair (behind the Michelin-starred Jamavar, MiMi Mei Fair and KOYN), Nipotina is a more casual affair. Chef Somaia Hammad was brought up in Turin and brings Italian warmth to her unfussy, family-style cooking. The room is welcoming and cosy with banquette seating and a warm orangey glow. Start with a Nipotina claypot negroni, premixed and poured table-side from a large earthenware jug, with Amaro Santoni and earl grey bringing herbal notes. The menu is split classic style into cicchetti, antipasti, primi, secondi and pizza. A basket of rustly courgette fritti arrived with a tempura-style light crunch and a rich aïoli dip – deliciously moreish. From the antipasti, a tricolore tuna, sea bream and salmon carpaccio was spankingly fresh, and a fennel and aged pecorino salad came with a crunch from caramelised walnuts and a kick from Calabrian chillies. The pasta is house-made – try the mafalde, a rich creamy tomato, beef and veal ragu, or from the special seasonal truffle menu, tagliolini in a creamy parmesan sauce with a shaving of fresh Umbrian truffle added by the waiter. Standout puddings include a light and airy tiramisu enriched with gianduja (chocolate and hazelnut) and a rich almond-infused cheesecake with sour cherry, which had all the flavours of a bakewell tart and was quite ingenious. Wines are exclusively Italian and sourced from small regional independent producers. nipotinaristorante.com Encore, Mayfair - for a stylish listening bar and cocktails Downstairs from Lebanese rotisserie joint Toum, Encore successfully ticks off two cocktail bar buzzwords in one fell swoop: listening bar and speakeasy. Just steps away from Regent Street, this stylish subterranean bar unites a heady mix of Lebanese and French influences across the polished cocktail and snack menus. Twelve signature cocktails showcase inventive twists on classics – a sumac-spiced negroni with tequila is balanced by pomegranate, while the refined mezcal spritz brings in zingy and refreshing yuzu, lime and coconut water. Those sweet-inclined will enjoy the unique yet familiar taste of the tarte tatin: oak aged brandy, vanilla liqueur, coconut water and honey give a balanced sweetness that is never saccharine. The Encore batanga is a stand-out with added depth from sherry and spidery strands of red chilli scattered on top. Unctuous and warm comté madeleines were particularly irresistible from the elevated bar snack menu. Habibi funk and Arabic disco deep cuts can be heard spinning on vinyl, thanks to the sound-diffusing ceiling and speakers dotted around the intimate space. Rich red carpets, mid-century wood panelling and stylish contemporary artwork make the bar the perfect spot for a date night or cosy catch-up with a friend. toumrotisserie.com Cut at 45 Park Lane – for cuts from the world's finest steaks Cut at 45 Park Lane – culinary heavyweight Wolfgang Puck’s fine dining steakhouse – wants you to experience the best cuts from the world’s best steaks. To make the most of an experience in this polished dining room, pick The Taste of Cut: a trio of British grass-fed sirloin, Australian wagyu and Japanese A5 wagyu, each carefully cooked and clearly unique. The sirloin is bold and beefy; the Australian richly marbled; while the A5, almost white with silky fat, barely needs a knife. It’s an impressive way to understand what top-grade beef really tastes like. Small bites include miso cones of spicy tuna tartare, bite-sized, meltingly soft wagyu sliders, and sweet and fluffy crab and lobster rolls. If you have room for dessert, share a burnt Basque cheesecake with Hugh Lowe Farm strawberries, the freshness of the fruit a perfect foil for the delicately creamy pudding. dorchestercollection.com Nipperkin, Berkeley Street – for a hideaway cocktail bar Situated in the depths of NIJŪ Japanese grill and sushi bar, Nipperkin is inspired by 1950s Japanese listening bars. Step through ornate curtains into an intimate, mid-century space with plush seating and marvel as expert mixologists fan perfectly cuboid ice, behind them an impressive record collection and vinyl set-up. Centred around micro-seasonality, the drinks menu from award-winning mixologist Angelos Bafas is split into four harvest seasons. Hyper-seasonal British ingredients such as wild garlic, spring flowers and blackberries expertly coalesce with the classic Japanese such as yuzu, shiso and matcha. The highball pickled cucumber was seriously refreshing, as was the Granny Smith and yuzu with Exmoor raw wildflower honey. Macerated blackberries and sloes make a pleasantly herbaceous and bitter sip with Axia extra dry mastiha and Cambridge red bitters, while there’s umami savouriness on offer from the likes of Nipperkin’s aged mushroom spirit, Cambridge truffle gin and tomato liqueur. Don’t overlook the ‘dry’ season – the sour green gooseberries with a non-alcoholic citrus spirit and English wasabi tastes like a lemon meringue pie with a whisper of warmth. Dunk crunchy bar snacks from NIJŪ of seasonal vegetables and lotus chips into creamy tofu with shiso oil and buttery grilled aubergine – and you can even peep into NIJŪ’s kitchen when paying a visit to the adorned bathrooms. nijulondon.com Sabor, Heddon Street – for authentic tapas vibes With a friendly service style and nods to Andalucían tapas bars (colourful tiles, high tables), Nieves Barragán Mohacho and José Etura have nailed the authentic feel of bars found all over Spain. Wait in the lively brick-walled bar area and whet your appetite with mushroom croquetas and cured presa Iberica. Charismatic José will then seat you at a counter overlooking the open kitchen, where conversation with the Spanish chefs is encouraged. Sabor means ‘flavour’ in Spanish, and there’s plenty of that in the restaurant’s small plates – tiny deep-fried shrimp served with a crispy, paprika-dusted fried egg, golden croquetas and chubby mussels ‘a la Bilbaina’ slurped up a light sauce of tomatoes, sherry, sherry vinegar and herbs. Sobrasada, the soft paprika sausage from Menorca, come in a rusty rubble on top of lightly crushed new potatoes, bobbing in a garlic cream. Desserts tick every box – chocolatey bombas, sharp and creamy rhubarb and mascarpone tartlets, and an inspired goat’s cheese ice cream with a liquorice sauce rounded off a perfect meal. The all-Spanish wine list begins with txakoli, the lightly effervescent Basque wine that’s poured from a dramatic height. Or try fresh and zingy rosé with a touch of red fruit, along with a couple of saline fino sherries. There’s vermouth on tap, too! saborrestaurants.co.uk Goodman, Maddox Street – for a polished steakhouse The Mayfair dining room, opened in 2008 (the first of three), hums with a clubby but not stuffy confidence – all dark leather, low lighting and cosy corners. Along one wall, regulars' engraved steak knives sit in a glass-fronted cabinet like prized trophies. The highlight is a 75-day-aged Angus Pure Breed from the Lake District: deep, gamey and minerally, with intense beefiness. Diners get to choose not only the cut but the size of their steak – whether you’re in the mood for a modest 250g or a mighty kilo. Each one is cooked to your liking over red-hot 400C coals that leave a toffee-like crust and juicy centre. Starters feature crispy, fist-sized prawn tempura, and sweet and briny crab on warm brioche toast. From the side, truffled mac and cheese is luxurious, spinach sings with garlic, Josper-roasted onions are sticky and dark, and triple-cooked chips are made to dredge through the creamy béarnaise. Get to know the sommelier – they’ll match your palate and your steak, possibly with a lush American pinot noir or a more classic French Bordeaux. goodmanrestaurants.com Hide, 85 Piccadilly – for an extra special brunch Modern European Hide in Mayfair offers a decadent brunch perfect for special occasions. With a menu featuring the likes of truffle-smothered scrambled eggs, a scorched banana and pecan croissant, blueberry and crème crue French toast and an oozing croque Madame, find out what we thought below when we popped in for breakfast. hide.co.uk View Green Video on the source website Fonda, Heddon Street – for regional Mexican dishes Santiago Lastra, chef-owner of Mexican fine dining restaurant Kol, brings a more informal option to Heddon Street. A fonda is a Mexican family-run inn, to which there are nods in the décor (earthy tones, handwoven fabrics and Mexican crafts), regional Mexican menu and homely touches, including a trio of salsas – smoky salsa macha, lively gooseberry salsa verde and fiery salsa roja – brought to the table for customers to apply to dishes as they wish. Kick off with Yucatan ground pumpkin seed speciality sikil pak topped with vibrant green pine oil and deep-fried totopos. Specials include tuna belly crudo in soy, sesame and fermented gooseberry dressing; and quesadillas stuffed with Oaxacan-style cheese from Canterbury. The traditional clay comal is the kitchen’s focal point and the dedicated comal list includes Marmite beer-battered baja fish dressed with chipotle mayo, Hispi cabbage and pistachio guacamole. Costra is an elevated tribute to CDMX post-clubbing snacks – 30-day aged rib-eye topped with grilled spenwood and manchego infused with macha sauce.Moving on to sharing mains – black sesame, short rib stock and chocolate paste take centre stage in the rich, 60-ingredient short rib mole. Charred adobo-laced monkfish comes on soft Ratte potatoes doused in Arbol chilli infused butter. For dessert, Santi's American cheesecake topped with blackcurrant compote is a popular choice; steamed corn tamales are doused in butterscotch cream and silky chocolate sorbet laced with Oaxacan oak-smoked pasilla chilli oil is a surprising highlight. Santiago’s commitment to sourcing British ingredients continues through to cocktails – think fresh gooseberry juice and rhubarb liqueur to add zing to margaritas; and rhubarb palomas rimmed with gooseberry salt. Honcho the sloth guides guests down to the basement dining room and agave bar for a mezcal night cap. fondalondon.com The Colony Grill Room, Balderton Street – for classic grill With its vintage styling, large booths and striking murals, the Colony pays homage to classic New York grill restaurants. Dishes finished tableside are a big part of chef Ben Boeynaems’ menu, including dover sole meunière with miso butter, theatrically deboned before guests. The sharing wood-grilled tomahawk steak (bone-in ribeye) is a similarly dramatic presentation, carved as it’s served at the table. Deft knife skills maximise the cut’s juiciness. colonygrillroom.com The Cocochine, Bruton Place – art gallery and upscale restaurant combined The partnership of chef Larry Jayasekara and gallerist Tim Jefferies is surprisingly under the radar for cooking of this standard. Three courses only (with a regularly changing set lunch menu) are offered on the ground floor restaurant, starting with a presentation of seasonal veg grown on the restaurant’s Rowler Estate. Ingredients and dishes reflect chef Larry’s travels and connections with artisan suppliers including his native Sri Lanka, regional England and the shores of Scotland’s Inner Hebrides. Unusual combinations are both playful and seriously cheffy: roasted onion soup, truffle cheese toastie and agnolotti is a rich, umami broth poured at the table; chicken, sourced from chefs’ favourite Arnaud Tauzin in south-west France, is offered with Scottish langoustine and maitake mushroom; and a spoonful of gorgonzola adds extra punch to quince and vinegar tart. Around the counter on the first floor, watch the chefs at work in one of those rare working kitchens with natural light. Throughout the restaurant photography by Irving Penn and Richard Avedon add extra interest, and in the top-floor private dining space there are original prints by Andy Warhol. thecocochine.com Milos, Regent Street – for luxurious Mediterranean seafood Milos’s concept is gloriously unique. Entered by imposing wooden doors the formal room is dominated by Grecian urns and grand marble features, and is lively at lunchtimes with business execs from Mayfair and St James, and a glamorous international set at dinner. Each table is guided by a ‘Captain’ through its signature market display of colourful, just-caught fish from the Med and more local shores. While British turbot and sole might be familiar, varieties such as balada, fagri and barbouni are less so, and each one is described in term of texture, intensity of flavour and cooking technique. This includes a raw bar of oysters, carabinero shrimp and jumbo Madagascan prawns, and sashimi-grade tuna. You might start with a tartare of magiatiko with chilli, lime and micro herbs, and signature tower of courgette and aubergine served with kefalograviera cheese and tzatziki; move onto a mid-course of Greek salad before whole grilled snapper with steamed wild greens, lemon and olive oil. estiatoriomilos.com/location/london/ NIJŪ, Berkeley Sreet – Japanese steak and sushi with a contemporary edge Endo Kazutoshi, arguably London’s most esteemed sushi master, is behind this new Mayfair Japanese grill, with exec chef Chris Golding overseeing the menu day to day. Careful sourcing, luxe ingredients and well-honed kitchen skills create a unique menu inspired by ‘Katei Ryōri’: homecooked, seasonal dishes, some – like dover sole, asparagus and nori butter – served tableside. Wagyu, that most highly-prized beef, is sourced from Japan and England, cooked simply over Japanese charcoal and offered with fresh wasabi and yuzu salsa verde. Sashimi includes indulgent cuts like otoro (fatty tuna) served classic style or with a contemporary NIJŪ twist – ‘aburi’ (seared) with caviar. Vegetables are treated with equal care, from grilled aubergine with white sesame dressing to spicy spinach with sobacha (buckwheat tea). A sushi counter and glass panel revealing all the kitchen action add to the buzzy atmosphere. The basement Nipperkin bar uses British ingredients, some grown and distilled on site in its hyper-seasonal cocktail list. nijulondon.com The Guinea Grill, Bruton Place – pub classics and premium steaks Recently reopened after a revamp, this gorgeous restaurant and pub is tucked away down a quiet side road behind New Bond Street. This institution is every bit the great British pub with its tartan carpets and wood-panelled walls. Try the prawn and crayfish cocktail for a delicious retro starter. For your main, though it serves pub classics such as homemade pies, it is well known for its steaks. It has used the same premium butcher for 60 years, for tender, dry-aged steaks, and the knowledgeable staff will give you expert advice on how each cut should be cooked to ensure the optimal experience. We loved the pancetta confit potatoes and creamed spinach, served alongside the steak. The wine list to complement the meal is vast but let the wait staff guide you, or go the whole hog and ask for some wine pairings with your meal – we tried a gorgeous white from Austria. Round off a special meal with a decadent banana sticky toffee pudding, served with generous scoops of vanilla ice cream. If you’re not quite ready to leave the warm embrace, you can roll to the pub side and enjoy a perfectly poured Guinness, too. theguinea.co.uk UMU, Bruton Place – Michelin-starred Kyoto cuisine Opening in 2004 and thriving 20 years later is testament to UMU’s unique offering – inspired by Kyoto cuisine, using British ingredients such as fish sourced from Cornwall and Welsh lamb. Behind a discreet doorway in Mayfair’s Bruton Place, the dark wood-panelled room is lit to emphasise the sushi masters at work at the counter, carving, chopping and grating fresh wasabi. There is more theatre on the plate with premium ingredients like high-grade wagyu served à la minute, which arrives smoking at the table; the salty-sweet and glistening eel kabayaki, and a cute dessert: Charamisu Mayfair garden Japanese seasonal tiramisu, with a mini watering can to sprinkle over sake. Select a wine or sake pairing for the full experience. umurestaurant.com Akira Back, Hanover Square – for playful riffs on Japanese cuisine Akira Back, well known in the USA for his playful approach to Japanese cuisine, is influenced by both his travels and Korean heritage. Dishes are made to share and flavours are bold. Try the signature tuna sashimi pizza, rich with truffle oil; mini tacos filled with wagyu bulgogi; rock shrimp with creamy gochujang; black miso cod; and finish with sushi rolls like Hot Mess – sashimi poke, crab tempura and spicy ponzu aïoli. A lighter starter of yellowtail jalapeño with citrussy yuzu, is a highlight. On the inventive wine list try Smiley NV, a South African chenin blanc blend which pairs well with sushi. The triple-height room, with one wall dominated by spectacular artwork by Akira’s mother, and glass ceiling, makes it light-filled at lunch, twinkling at night. mandarinoriental.com/en/london/mayfair/dine/akira-back Murano, Queen Street – for elegant Italian After a short closure and 15th anniversary celebration redesign, Angela Hartnett’s Michelin-starred contemporary Italian restaurant has reopened. George Ormond has taken the reigns as head chef and worked with Angela to create a selection of new regional Italian dishes. Fold out the green and pink menus to build your own three-to-six course menu (or go at lunchtime for the great-value set lunch, £55 for three courses). Chef’s appetisers from the kitchen (gorgonzola and pickled walnut choux bun, spindly grissini, sun-dried tomato-studded focaccia) make an extra treat best enjoyed with a classic negroni. Menu highlights include agnolotti parcels filled with provolone and puréed smoked potato, chicken tortellini scooped up from a clear, nourishing broth and a unique play on the classic tonnata using fried monkfish slices on a fennel salad lifted with veal jus. For dessert, try the chocolate marquise’s elegant layers topped with a PX sherry reduction or the signature silky Amalfi lemon tart in a delicate puff pastry casing. Supreme Italian wine pairings, unpretentious yet informed service and a hushed living room atmosphere make this a truly elegant Italian dining experience. muranolondon.com Abajo, St George Street – for a Colombian fusion chef's table experience Colombian chef Miller Prada cooks over fire in his Japanese-Colombian fine dining restaurant, Humo (see review below). Downstairs at intimate chef’s table experience, Abajo, there’s space for ten diners, who chefs and sommeliers take on an evocative journey through the regions, communities and culinary tapestry of Colombia. The menu is split into five chapters, each spotlighting a hero ingredient. Corn, for example, is baked into a biscuit topped with grilled corn, its silk dried and fried to garnish trout mousse-stuffed morels and the husk fermented to make miso. Elsewhere, Mediterranean blue fin tuna tops a traditional plantain and coconut tamale, pressed East Sussex quail is charred in shallot ashes and Kagoshima beef brisket is slow-cooked in sugarcane honey reduction. To finish, Merinda tomato is presented in a fresh and delicate dessert medley of gels, ice cream, coal-torched meringue and choux buns. A delicate Japanese rice vodka cocktail kicks things off while wine pairings span south America, Spain, Italy and beyond. A velvet pouch of Colombian coffee beans to take away with the menu is a touching souvenir of a special evening. abajolondon.com Bossa, Vere Street – high-end Brazilian cuisine Chef Alberto Landgraf transports his vision of high-end authentic Brazilian cooking from Rio to Mayfair with punchy sharing plates such as seafood moqueca. However wine is equally the star here with one of South America’s best sommeliers, Laís Aoki, ready to guide diners through the perfect pairing. bossa.co.uk Humo, St George Street – cooking over coals with Colombian and Japanese influences Sit at the counter – effectively the pass – for prime interaction with Colombian chef Miller Prada, whose cooking combines his South American roots with the skills and passion he gained for Japanese techniques and ingredients working with mentor Endo Kazutoshi. Fire cooking and dry ageing of fish and meat are at the heart of the restaurant. The laid-back team will introduce you to new discoveries which might include eight-day-aged yellowtail with citrus sauce and the more surprising addition of a Castillo coffee sauce from Miller’s family farm; subtle smoky flavours in everything from the refreshing house salad of smoked Cornish Agria potatoes, wild rocket, Tokyo turnips, miso to Orkney scallop in 20-year-old oaked rum and 31-day-aged Cornish lamb in beetroot sauce. Thrillingly unique. humolondon.com The Connaught Patisserie by Nicolas Rouzaud, Carlos Place – for perfect patisserie French pastry chef Nicolas Rouzaud’s patisserie is a chic cocoon of blush pink, crystal and marble in the heart of Mayfair. Level up on your morning pain au chocolat with Camille Kenny-Ryder’s inventive trio au chocolat, a stunning striped pastry encasing three batons of dark, white and gianduja milk Swiss chocolate. Dip a warm lime madeleine into a coffee for elevenses or pair perfectly formed patisserie with a glass of Billecart-Salmon champagne come afternoon – we love the pistachio-studded éclair, bright apricot cheesecake and crisp, frilly hazelnut paris-brest. the-connaught.co.uk Caviar Kaspia, Chesterfield Street – for caviar decadence Unique in terms of vibe and menu, an international crowd flock to this former private club now open to everyone who can afford its luxe offering. Decadent in every way, the jewel box room with dramatic artwork hums with anticipation as champagne flows and diners browse the menu of caviar-topped dishes. Highlights include tagliolini in a champagne cream sauce and Instagram-friendly, completely indulgent – and delicious – baked potato, designed to savour and share. There’s tableside service in a smoked salmon and blini starter, two oversized blinis draped with salmon and sandwiched together with crème fraîche. Pudding features a cocoa sponge with ricotta, served in a caviar tin and topped with beads of coffee ‘caviar’. caviarkaspialondon.com Taku, Albemarle Street – for omakase dining The capital is currently enthralled by the intimacy and theatre of omakase dining; where, in sleekly designed counter-dining cocoons, highly skilled chefs prepare seasonal tasting menus for attentive diners. Chef Takuya Watanabe bagged a Michelin star within four months of opening this Mayfair 16-seater. Using mainly British produce, he is creating some of the city’s most elegant, flavourful hot seafood dishes and sushi. Tasting menu from £160pp; takumayfair.com Isabel, Albemarle Street – for impressing your date From its luxe grill dishes, including a Galician ex-dairy côte de boeuf or a sharing Cornish dover sole with creamed spinach, preserved lemon and brown butter, to its silk jacquard wall coverings, golden ceiling and bar, this glamorous Mayfair restaurant is guaranteed to wow any date. After dinner, the beats purr, as DJs take guests through until 3am, both in the restaurant and the Dragon Room bar, downstairs. Isabel’s innovative cocktail list includes the Rosetta, a take on the French 75, garnished with a rose petal and dehydrated lychee. isabelw1.london BiBi's Mayfair, North Audley Street – for contemporary Indian sharing plates Head chef Chet Sharma’s selection menu is the must-try at his intimate Mayfair restaurant, comprising a dozen sharing plates using produce from the UK and India created with sustainability at its core. Formerly development chef of the JKS group (Gymkhana, Trishna, Brigadiers, etc), Sharma’s BiBi – an affectionate term for a grandmother in parts of India – is the realisation of his dream to open his own restaurant. To snack on, tangy Wookey Hole cheese papads have a melting yet crunchy texture; creamy Carlingford oyster pachadi is a refreshing segue to sweet, spicy, salty and sour chaats, including nashpati bhel – grains topped with a crunchy frozen pear granita – and Raw Belted Galloway beef pepper fry, hot with lots of black pepper. From the counter, marvel at the theatre of chefs grilling on the sigree: aged Swaledale lamb chops, as soft as butter, with a subtle smokiness. And our star among many stars, Sharmaji’s Lahori chicken: gorgeously tender chicken breast with a delicate creamy sauce made with whey that has been reduced to the point of caramelisation and then mixed with ground cashews and spices. Then finish with choc-ice-on-a-stick-style kulfis. bibirestaurants.com Mount St. Restaurant, Mount Street — for London classics On the first floor of The Audley, the Mayfair landmark pub transformed by Artfarm, Mount St Restaurant has bold, timeless style in its light-flooded dining room. There’s art on every surface, from the floor to laden walls, including feature pieces such as Still Life with White Carbs by Keith Tyson. Chef Jamie Shears’s menu of London classics includes lobster pie, and lamb and beef are sourced from Durslade, its farm in Somerset. mountstrestaurant.com Pavyllon, Hamilton Place — for modern French cuisine No one does comfort like a five-star hotel, and French chef Yannick Alléno has settled into the Four Seasons in London with the full weight of his 15 Michelin stars. Pavyllon (an outpost of the Paris restaurant of the same name) is run by executive chef Andy Cook when Yannick is away. There’s a huge counter overlooking the open kitchen – sit here for the drama. Try the curry man’ouché; the warm potatoes glazed with lovage mayo, with kombu broth, seaweed and cucumber; and the lamb (recipe, right). Plus, Bar Antoine’s cocktail list by Michele Lombardi can be enjoyed with a bar menu. pavyllonlondon.com Apricity, Duke Street — for low-waste, seasonal cooking Unlike so many box-ready restaurants, chef-owner Chantelle Nicholson wanted Apricity to be “not just sustainable but restorative, a closed-loop of use and re-use”. It’s an aim that requires effort – foraging nettles and hazelnuts in urban London, designing low-waste cocktails, using up-cycled and repurposed furniture – and imaginative flexibility. Day to day, chef Eve Seemann executes dishes such as Cornish mackerel and Shetland mussels with sambal butter and pickled pear, or crispy sprouts with spent-beer vinegar and rosemary. Meanwhile, Chantelle, who first made her name at Tredwells, manages green energy issues, waste-minimal menu planning or gluts of hyper-seasonal produce from suppliers. Many of these hand-picked small producers practise “regenerative farming”, a buzz-term for traditional techniques that nurture diverse, natural landscapes and improve soil health. apricityrestaurant.com Bar des Pres, Albemarle Street — for high-class Asian-French hybrid Leading French chef Cyril Lignac has opened this sleek London outpost of his Parisian Bar des Prés in Mayfair, serving an all-day sharing menu from lunch till late. Key seats are around the counter where sushi chefs prepare Insta-friendly dishes which deliver on flavour, too, such as the signature crunchy crab and avocado galette Madras curry. Other highlights include crispy sushi salmon with chipotle mayo; satay beef fillet with lime and a silky mash potato with vanilla. Desserts, particularly the generous millefeuille with praline, are equally camera-friendly. A lemongrass-spiked margarita, made with mezcal and tequila rimmed with black salt, is the star of the cocktail list. More than two of you? Choose a booth or the high table nearer the entrance. bardespres.com Stork, Cork Street– for Pan-African dishes Situated in the centre of the artistic hub of London’s Mayfair, Stork proudly represents an authentic interpretation of Pan-African cuisine. Its post-pandemic reopening celebrates its reimagined concept, described as “a migration of flavour and culture”. The “flavour” is prepared by a team that boasts a world-class repertoire, led by highly regarded head chef Taalib Adanse and senior sous chef (and former MasterChef: The Professionals finalist) William Chilila. The menu takes you on a culinary journey, having been influenced by cuisines from across the African continent as well as its diaspora. The North African ras el hanout goat beignet, Ghanaian red red with plantain, Jamaican jerk spatchcock poussin and Nigerian puff puff sundae are examples of such influences. An extensive drinks menu supports the food with cocktails from £13 and a wine list featuring Gavi di Gavi at £12 a glass. storkrestaurant.com Madhu's of Mayfair, 21 Piccadilly – for Indian dishes with a Kenyan twist in a sumptuous setting ‘Special occasion’ are the first words that spring to mind when you walk into the ornate dining room of Madhu’s of Mayfair, complete with enormous chandeliers, rococo-style architecture and marble tables. But far from feeling formal, the vibe is fun and friendly, bustling with birthday parties, tourists and after-work businessfolk. The design is the vision of Madhu’s founder Sanjay Anand, who wanted to "create an experience which engages each of the senses – not just taste". The food comes from creative chef Poonam Ball – Sanjay’s sister. She oversees the menus of the Madhu group’s four restaurants. It’s Indian, but with a Kenyan twist, including recipes handed down through four generations from her Nairobi-born mother Krishna and her father Jagdish Kumar Anand (nicknamed Madhu). Choose the signature dishes: palak patta chaat, a pile of crunchy marsh samphire and crispy spinach with warming spices and tangy chutneys; nyamah choma, succulent prime cut lamb ribs marinated in chilli and lemon; and Madhu’s machi's – whole seabass in an onion and carom seed marinade – which is ‘special occasion’ luxurious. madhus.co.uk José Pizarro at Royal Academy of Arts, Burlington Gardens — for daytime tapas in central London gallery Chef José Pizarro’s beautiful new Mayfair outpost is a reflection of the chef’s lifelong love of art. With high ceilings and wood-panelling this light-filled room at Royal Academy of Arts is the ideal daytime spot to enjoy a quick glass of manzanilla and some acorn-fed cinco jotas jamón or a long, lazy lunch. Among José classics such as croquetas, pan con tomate, chorizo al vino and prawns with garlic and chilli are some new additions, including the must-order truffle and Ermenesada cheese toasted sandwich. On the ground floor he has also opened the walk-in Poster Bar, selling delicious bocadillos (sandwiches) and snacks. Both are open during the daytime only, closed on Monday. josepizarro.com Kitty Fisher's, Shepherd Market – for a bistro Red velvet curtains welcome diners into this intimate bistro. A handful of tables sit snugly beside a bar, behind which jars of home-made rhubarb gin, turmeric syrup and fig leaf vodka nestle in amongst trinkets. A creaky wooden staircase in the back corner takes you down past the kitchen into the intimate basement dining room, where dusty-pink banquettes line walls decorated with antique paintings. Start with a round of cocktails. A boozy hanky panky is a more delicate and floral twist on the negroni, while the restaurant's signature Bad Kitty has a subtle sparkle and a syrupy sloegin edge. Order all the bite-sized snacks. A smoky stack of Welsh rarebit is finished on the open grill to make Montgomery's cheddar cheese extra golden; crisp ham hock and jowl croquettes melt in the mouth; fresh, dill-flecked bream tartare is topped with apple slices and grassy green leaves, and a silky-smooth splodge of chicken liver parfait comes with pieces of quince on a seeded cracker. Mains are cooked on a wood-fired grill so take 20-25 minutes to arrive, but it's worth the wait. Pork presa is soft and pink with charred edges, accompanied by a pig-cheek sausage, candied heritage carrots and plums, while meaty monkfish comes on a rich bed of aubergines and tomatoes. Get involved with the sides, too – crunchy layers of deep-fried pressed potatoes or wood-fired Hispi cabbage lifted with mustard seeds, described correctly by the owner as “buttery wonderfulness”. For pudding, try the hazelnut and chocolate ganache with brown butter ice cream, covered in a dome of fluffy hazelnut mousse and dusted in cocoa powder. kittyfishers.com Kanishka, Maddox Street – for regional Indian Focussing on the Seven Sister States as well as nods to Nepal and Bangladesh Kanishka is a modern Indian restaurant it serving a series of tasting menus or, as we went, a la carte. Start with the Gantok momos (steamed Nepalese dumplings), proudly billed as made ‘in-house’ which was telling by the skins being light but still with some bite to them. We also had chef’s Chicken Tikka Pie which wasn’t accredited to a region but still an exemplary piece of proper pie making with well-cooked puff pastry encasing juicy chunks of long marinated chicken. For mains we went with the lightly spiced and coconut sauced Kanishka Seafood curry and underutilised goat cooked slowly until fork tender in a Roganjosh style. Once we added generous serving of puffy paratha, fresh kachumba and signature black dhal to our order we were too full for dessert but the Dark Chocolate Sphere with orange chocolate cream and spiced caramel sauce seemed to be impressing our neighbours with its table-side server theatrics. kanishkarestaurant.co.uk Scott’s, Mount Street – for seafood Celebrity haunt Scott’s has been a resident of Mount Street since 1967 but it actually dates back to 1851 when it was opened as an oyster warehouse, making it one of London’s five oldest restaurants. This Mayfair establishment has welcomed the great and the good for decades, and it’s where James Bond creator Ian Fleming is said to have discovered his ‘shaken not stirred’ dry martini. Since 2005, Scott’s has been owned by Richard Caring, who has retained the restaurant’s character, right down to the bowler-hatted doormen. Eat in either the oyster and champagne bar or the stylish dining room, where blackened miso salmon and goujons of Cornish sole and tartare sauce are among the signature dishes. scotts-restaurant.com Dickie’s Bar, Upper Grosvenor Street – for late-night Irish cocktails Head to Dickie's Bar for an elegant late-night cocktail bar within Corrigan’s Mayfair. Dickie’s Bar oozes Irish charm and, naturally, Irish whiskies feature heavily in cocktails – Jameson Black Barrel is combined with peach, bergamot, vanilla and lemon to create soft and smooth Stage Door Johnny; while dark and punchy Professional Stalker showcases Powers John’s Lane 12-year-old whiskey along with allspice and fig. Illustrations and anecdotes in the menu showcase ingredients picked and shipped over daily from Richard’s 100-acre Virginia Park Lodge in Ireland. Sit on burnt-orange leather stools at the wood-panelled, marble- topped bar and sniff at the various infusions that the team conjures up. corrigansmayfair.co.uk/dickies Sketch, Conduit Street – for contemporary afternoon tea Aside from the other-worldly surroundings, the highlight of afternoon tea at Sketch has to be the tea itself. Waitresses scoot golden tea trollies around the room, each one stacked with glass jars of aromatic loose leaf teas – there are at least 40 to pick from, including whole rosebud, matcha, white peony and Taiwan red jade. Feel free to sniff before you choose, and refills are complimentary. Sketch’s caviar afternoon tea begins, as expected, with a spoon of rich, creamy Oscietra caviar (from Russian sturgeon) – vegetarians get little pearls of cold cauliflower as a clever substitute. Even more enjoyable was the accompanying take on boiled egg and soldiers: a 63 degrees egg yolk nestled inside a deeply flavoursome ‘egg white’ made from comté cheese mornay. Utterly indulgent, and one of the most exciting, innovative ways to kick off an afternoon tea that we’ve ever seen. sketch.london For more afternoon teas in London click here Bentley’s Oyster Bar and Grill, Swallow Street – for oysters Richard Corrigan (see Dickie’s Bar) is chef-owner of Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill, open for more than a century. World-famous for its seafood and shellfish, Bentley’s is also revered for its exceptional service. The oyster bar at Bentley’s is one of the things Richard is most proud of, and during the native oyster season from September to April, his staff will shuck more than 1,000 oysters a day. “There’s always an element of fun,” says Richard. bentleys.org The Ritz, Piccadilly – for traditional afternoon tea The Ritz is as iconic as the Queen, and this institutional British hotel keeps up tradition by serving 350 afternoon teas every day. It’s only fitting that afternoon tea at The Ritz is a lavish affair; the formal dress code requires men to wear shirt and tie, doors are opened for you by folk in top hats, and the resident pianist, Ian Gomes, who flutters away most days during afternoon tea service, used to play with Frank Sinatra. Afternoon tea at The Ritz is taken in the Palm Court, an area raised up from the rest of the hotel’s lobby like a marble-floored stage. The Louis XVI-style set is beautifully ornate, with pristine white tablecloths laid out beneath intricate chandeliers, giant palms and gold-gilt mirrors. Choose from the 18-strong tea menu that has been curated and exclusively blended by The Ritz’s tea sommelier, Giandomenico Scanu. There are black tea blends, fermented Oolongs, herbal fruit teas and even The Ritz’s own Chai. We tried The Ritz Royal English, a classic black tea blend, combining aromatic Ceylon orange pekoe and rich Assam. theritzlondon.com For more afternoon teas in London, click here Cubé, Blenheim Street – for sushi and Japanese 'tapas' This sleek, intimate restaurant brings sushi and Japanese ‘tapas’ with a fine dining twist to Mayfair. Butter-soft scallops are a must if you’re a seafood obsessive; perfectly cooked, they came drizzled with an intense sea urchin butter so delicious we nearly drank it directly from the scallop shell it was served in. The soft, tender lamb with a bronzed, crisp ribbon of fat was another hit; the sour, refreshing oroshi a clever spin on a classic mint sauce. cubemayfair.com Ginza Onodera, Bury Street – for high-end Japanese The menu is extensive and detailed at this Mayfair institution, starting with kobachi (little snacks) followed by starters, sashimi and sushi, tempura, soups, robata and teppanyaki. Ginza Onodera’s prestigious Mayfair location is reflected in the liberal use of high-end, luxurious ingredients, from Kobe beef to Norwegian king crab. The best way to sample a little of everything is to try one of the sushi platters; from plump slices of butter-soft, fatty marbled tuna and luscious scoops of sea urchin to (predictably good) slices of Kobe beef and creamy seared yellowtail. ginza-stjames.com Check out more London restaurant guides here: Best restaurants in Chelsea Best restaurants in Marylebone Best restaurants in Kings Cross Best restaurants in Fitzrovia Best restaurants near Oxford Street Best restaurants in Brixton Best restaurants in Notting Hill Best restaurants in Battersea Best restaurants in Shoreditch Best restaurants in Camden Best restaurants in Covent Garden Best restaurants in Soho Best restaurants in London Bridge Best restaurants in Hackney Best restaurants in Paddington
Want to support your local pub? We’ve got you covered with our round-up of London boozers, from Michelin-starred gems to trendy gastropubs and chophouses
Take your pick from our guide to London’s best pubs, including classic British pub food, stuffed vegetarian sarnies and south Indian cuisine. Then, check out the best new restaurants in London, the best dining experiences in London and for somewhere to stay, the UK’s best boutique hotels and the UK's best spa hotels for food lovers. Check out our London food guides, including the best restaurants in Soho, best restaurants in Mayfair and best restaurants in London Bridge. Also looking for the best brunch to visit in the city? We've narrowed our favourites down in our guide to the best brunches in London. For more pub inspiration, take a look at the best country pubs, best pubs with rooms. Fancy a trip out of London? Discover the best restaurants in the Cotswolds. Best London gastropubs The Guinea Grill, Mayfair W1 Tradition dictates starting with a starter to begin a meal but at The Guinea Grill, one of Mayfair’s most characterful pub-restaurants, the meaty mains beg to be experienced, so we plumped for beef, Guinness and oyster Pie (to share) to kick off proceedings (though the devilled kidneys on toast, and seared scallops on the table next to us, looked very appetising). Topped with a crispy oyster and melted cheese, it set the tone for the next grand entrance – a magnificent côte de boeuf, presented at the table before being flamed on the grill and served with brandy peppercorn sauce, crispy layered pancetta confit potatoes and parmesan-creamed sweetcorn. For pudding, the crème brûlée crackled satisfyingly under the spoon, while the bread and butter pudding was surprisingly light and fluffy. Olive tip: If you’re visiting in the evening, try to skip lunch to take full advantage of the meaty fare. As well as starters, salads and mains, add-ons include lamb cutlet, calf's liver, lamb kidneys, black pudding and haggis. theguinea.co.uk The Althorp, Wandsworth The Althorp in Wandsworth is a gem of a pub that balances charm, comfort and quality with ease. Located just across the road from Wandsworth Common it offers a beautiful setting that’s perfect for relaxing after a walk or catching up with friends. The recent renovation has been thoughtfully designed, blending modern touches with classic pub warmth, creating an inviting space that feels both stylish and welcoming. What truly sets The Althorp apart, though, is the incredible service. The staff are consistently friendly and make you feel at home. The menu includes some pub classics like burgers, pies and steak but there are also plenty of other well-executed options including pork T-bone and citrus-dressed anchovies. The sharing steak is a real highlight: perfectly cooked, generously portioned and ideal for pairing with a good bottle of wine. Whether you’re in for a casual pint, a family meal or a weekend treat, The Althorp is a standout spot that gets everything right. thealthorp.co.uk The Newman Arms, Fitzrovia Tucked in the backstreets of Fitzrovia, this historic pub (it dates from 1730) has had a recent glow-up and a new menu, and the result is a warm, friendly spot that still feels like a proper pub at heart. Downstairs the bar has a fun, buzzy atmosphere but make your way up the winding wooden staircase and you’ll find a cosy dining room (or pie room as it’s billed) with a smarter look – think white linen tablecloths, wood panelling and plush velvet furnishings. The pies here are a bit fancier than your regular pub grub. A rich fish pie comes garnished with a large langoustine (clutching a tiny bottle of Tabasco in his claw) and a generous dollop of salmon roe. From the starters don’t miss the lamb scrumpets – slow-cooked lamb belly, breaded and fried to a perfect crispy morsel which is served with creamy tartare sauce. If you can fit dessert there’s only one and it’s a winner: a generous chunk of dark chocolate torte – rich and very shareable. The cocktail list is short and classic – try the twist on a black velvet made with Murphy’s stout and crémant, and served in an old-fashioned pewter tankard. Service is warm and friendly, and the vibe hits that sweet spot between old-school London pub and a modern neighbourhood favourite. thenewmanarms.co.uk The Engineer, Primrose Hill A stone’s throw from the Regent’s Canal towpath at Primrose Hill and away from the full hustle of Camden Town sits locally loved pub The Engineer. If you’re a fan of Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the engineer in question, then there’s even more reason to visit. This is an all-weather friendly venue with a cosy, wood-panelled dining room and bar inside, and a shady, upmarket beer garden for warmer months. The menu is a top of the pops of must-order dishes, from crab toasts – well picked Devon crab on a square of brioche with a slick of chive oil – and beef tartare, this version with a cured egg yolk sitting in the centre, to harissa cauliflower with spiced grains, crisp beer battered fish and chips, steaks and a pie of the day (creamy rabbit with a puff pastry crust when we visited). This is the kind of venue where everyone will be pleased with the menu choices, the fist-sized monkfish scampi with cured lemon tartare sauce is a good way to start. Finish with three British cheeses or a salty-sticky pineapple tatin with coconut sorbet. The cask ale is Timothy Taylor’s Landlord, there’s an excellent selection of cocktails and wine by the glass, and plenty of no-alcohol choices. A real crowd pleaser. theengineerprimrosehill.co.uk Angel Inn, Highgate Perched at the top of Highgate Hill, The Angel is the new sister pub of the award-winning (and often tricky to get a table at) The Red Lion & Sun but with a slightly different offering – a breakfast/brunch menu served from 8am and a casual no-bookings policy. The room is light and airy, and, unusually for a pub, there is air con – perfect on a blazing summer day. Brunch is served until 4pm so ideal for the end of a leisurely weekend walk. Start things off with the kimchi bloody mary, punchy but balanced with a nice kick of heat. Hearty options include an elevated full english with game-changing, extra-thick smoky streaky bacon and a whopper of a croque stuffed with thick cut ham and melty gruyere, the edges gorgeously crispy from the grill (with a shaving of truffle on request). Other dishes include a thick tranche of smoked haddock on toast with a poached egg and a blanket of hollandaise or, for a healthier option, try the veg-packed superfood bowls. There’s also an evening menu of pub classics (including a superior wagyu burger) and on Sundays the pub serves the same legendary roasts as the sister pub but with the bonus of no bookings. The cult frozen margaritas have also made it down the hill from The RLAS – get one to go for a post-meal walk in next door Waterlow Park. theangel.pub The George, Fitzrovia Tucked just behind Oxford Circus on the edge of Fitzrovia, the George serves the same menu upstairs and down though it’s a very different vibe in each space. Downstairs a dark wood classic London pub, buzzing with drinkers spilling out onto the pavement. Upstairs is much quieter with plush, soft green velvet seating and a calmer feel. The menu is a mixture of elevated pub classics with some modern touches. The black pudding scotch egg is perfectly done with a nicely runny-ish yolk – and comes with an addictive Oxford sauce (brown sugar, vinegar and mustard, according to our server). The highly recommended fish and chips doesn’t disappoint – a shatteringly crisp batter piled with extra shards on top, perfectly golden fat chips and an extra order of curry sauce. It also comes in two sizes which is great for smaller appetites, although the small portion is still very generous. Desserts are comfortingly retro (banana split, sticky toffee pudding) or, if you’re too full, there’s an ‘Afters’ drinks section choose from, including a sticky toffee old fashioned or the famous George Irish coffee (the twist is the addition of a Guinness reduction which gives a deep malty edge). The beer selection is also well thought out and varied, with taps from Verdant, Northern Monk and Harbour Brewing. thegeorge.london The Carpenter's Arms, Hammersmith Set down a side street this is as perfect a neighbourhood pub as you could wish for. Originally opened by the Thomas Salt and Co brewery, it been a pub since 1871 and is now one of the Wren Pubs group. It is properly ‘pubby’ inside, with plenty of wood, a smart red ceiling and, on chillier days, a roaring fire. In summer there's a garden to while away time in. The menu is pub-plus with some 'of the moment' flavours such as crispy squid with saffron aïoli and charred limes, trout tartare and ribeye with beurre de Paris, as well as classics like fish and chips and a burger made with Wiltshire beef. There may be a Creedy Carver chicken schnitzel that's hard to pass up, especially as it's been Holsteined with the addition of a fried egg, or a pork tomahawk with silky smooth mash. Ingredients are top notch with meat from Wiltshire butcher Walter Rose & Son and fish from Cornwall-based Flying Fish Seafoods. The wine list includes English sparkling and a good selection of wine by the glass from the Coravin system. thecarpentersarms-w6.co.uk Kerfield Arms, Camberwell The brains behind Islington pub, The Baring, has flown south of the river for the latest project. Breathing new life into local spot The Crooked Well, and restoring its original name, the team has kept things simple in the new Camberwell spot. There's plenty of space to play with in the Victorian-era building, including a large area for pints and walk-ins by the well-stocked bar and taps. In the dining room proper, the house cocktail is a silky martini combining olive oil fat washed gin and fennel-infused vermouth. Pillowy fried pizza dough fingers are excellent vehicles to scoop up taramasalata while perusing the menu of seasonal stars. The first of the always-on shish kebabs is a squiggly skewer of squid and lardo, barbecued and served in spiced pul biber butter. For mains, think grilled monkfish with tiny Jersey Royals and bitter friarielli greens in a rich shrimp bisque, and Yorkshire hogget chops nestled into a plate of violet artichokes, creamy bagna cauda and rich hogget reduction. The short but strong dessert menu includes strawberry and chamomile custard doughnuts and chocolate olive oil mousse with rustic brownie and crème fraîche. thekerfieldarms.co.uk The Brave, Islington Taking over the site from the former The Engle Field this year, The Brave bills itself as a pub bistro and, although it looks like a pub from the exterior and signage, it definitely leans more towards the bistro end of the scale with its light-filled, airy dining room and elevated menu. Stephen Bunch (ex-London Shell Co) has recently taken over as head chef bringing more of a seafood focus with him. From the gently spiced cuttlefish arancini with curry emulsion to a spankingly fresh cured stone bass with a zingy passion fruit, tequila and miso jalapeño dressing, and a main of perfectly cooked Brixham hake with artichokes and smoked haddock chowder, the fish dishes here really sing. For those who just fancy a pint and a bar snack there are some real gems – try the deep-fried beef nugget topped with Russian dressing, cheese and gherkins, or the incredible confit potato ‘chips’ (like those viral thousand-layer potatoes) served with a punchy black garlic mayo. There’s also a delicious Baron Bigod gougère, which is like eating a cheese cloud. Puddings are on the indulgent side – don’t miss the sea salt caramel tart served simply with ice cream, and perfect for sharing. thebravelondon.co.uk The Knave of Clubs, Shoreditch The Knave of Clubs is back on the East End pub scene with a proper old-school flourish. Originally serving the bird market traders on Club Row in the 1880s, this local continued life as an East End boozer until the 1990s when it underwent a full transformation into French restaurant Les Trois Garçons for a decade or so. The pub has been lovingly restored on the ground floor, huge wall mirrors have been unearthed and polished, the bar revamped and a toastie, oyster, snack and rotisserie chicken menu installed. The driving force behind this redo are Benjy Leibowitz (ex NYC’s NoMad), James Dye (The Camberwell Arms) and Patrick Powell (ex Allegra) all of whom are committed to the local feel of the pub – it’s one big room with the rotisserie kitchen at the end open. The upper floors will open from April with a clubby (members, not disco) NY dining feel and menu, keeping pub and restaurant vibes on different levels. You can book for lunch (advised, it’s popular) and evenings are walk-in, dogs are welcome and the vibe is buzzy. Try the prawn scotch eggs and venison sausage rolls to start. There's only one dessert, a very good chocolate mousse. theknaveofclubs.co.uk Molly Mc’s, Southwark Good craic is in abundance at this wood panelled Irish singing pub in Southwark. This is the third pub from the Mc Elhinney family, a tribute to granny Molly, with the original Mc & Sons going strong down the road. Beer taps feature crisp Mc & Sons Helles lager and, as expected, a couple of Guinness options, while Irish spirits such as Gunpowder gin, Muff vodka and Jameson Black Barrel whiskey are namechecked on the cocktail list. Palo Cortado sherry gives the signature Molly’s Sour a nutty twist, while a margarita gets the Irish treatment with aromatic, citrusy Mad March Hare Poitín in place of tequila. Headlining the food menu, classic Irish ‘spice bags’ combine all the good stuff – popcorn chicken, spiced chips, peppers and curry sauce for dipping. Contemporary twists on Thai classics include glossy prawn pad thai, sliced tamarind duck and braised beef curry topped with crisp roti to create a rendang-style pie. There’s live Irish music Thursdays through Saturdays or have a go yourself and book a session in one of the karaoke rooms. Decked out with original memorabilia from the family’s history, one is an ode to Molly’s front room haberdashery she opened back in 1936, while another is a replica of family friends the Guinan sisters’ place, lined with salvaged wallpaper and a knick-knack filled dresser. mollymcs.com Rake at The Compton Arms, Islington Compton Arms has a reputation for launching careers with its kitchen residencies (including Four Legs, which then went on to take its legendary Dexter burger to The Plimsoll, and Dara Klein’s Italian comfort food at Tiella). The latest, Rake, comes from a duo of chefs who’ve worked at cult spots like Acme Fire Cult, Brat and Quo Vadis. The cosy pub is hidden away down an Islington side street so is a proper neighbourhood joint – legend has it that it was the inspiration for George Orwell’s perfect imaginary pub, The Moon Under Water. The menu celebrates nose-to-tail eating and sustainable Cornish fish, and dishes are simply prepared but packed with punchy flavours. The battered and deep-fried cockles and clams are perfect as a beer snack, along with the melt-in-the-mouth Cumberland lardo – the sprinkle of spice on top giving it the flavours of the classic sausage. There’s lots of playful touches, too. A smoky sausage ‘hot dog’ comes covered in mayo, crispy onions and (optionally) doused with a rich umami gravy. There are generous ray wing pieces, battered and piled onto on a homemade crumpet, then drizzled with golden syrup in a homage to fried chicken and waffles. A marinated winter tomato and radish salad is enlivened with a sprinkle of black olive crumb for a savoury/salty kick. For dessert, the deep-fried berry pie served on a puddle of crème anglaise is a nostalgic delight. This is perfect pint food but there’s also a great wine and cocktail list on offer. comptonarms.co.uk The Audley Public House, Mayfair The dark polished wood and interior of The Audley scream traditional Victorian pub (and this one has been on the site since 1888) but look closer and you’ll see quirky artworks and pops of vibrant modern colour from the recent refurb, including a specially commissioned mosaic artwork from Phyllida Barlow which covers the ceiling in a riot of hot pink, orange and turquoise. It’s walk-in only here which gives the place a buzzy atmosphere, even in this quite fancy bit of Mayfair. The casual vibe extends to the ordering (no table service) – just order your food at the bar alongside drinks. All the usual pub favourites (fish and chips, sausage and mash, chicken pie) are present and correct but elevated with meat sourced from the owners’ farm in Somerset and Cornish day boat fish. There are also some fun surprises like the London Dip – a hearty sandwich of slow roasted, thinly sliced beef served with a pot of gravy for dipping – and bowls of cheesy chips with curry mayo sauce and jalapeños. The wide beer selection includes brewers like Deya, alongside more traditional cask offerings from Battersea brewer Sambrook’s. theaudleypublichouse.com William IV, Old Street This 200-year-old pub had a makeover with the addition of a first-floor dining room but thankfully the ‘pubby’ elements (open fire, solid wooden tables and decent beer selection) have been left intact. Downstairs is buzzy (and packed) with a focus more on bar snacks but the cosy, candlelit dining room is where you want to be on a chilly winters evening. Start with the Guinness soda bread served with a dish of soft butter spiked with just the right amount of Marmite, or a dish of creamy burrata with sweet-sharp pickled figs and olive jam. Guinness appears again in a deep, umami glaze for a fall-apart beef rib, served with creamy mash and braised baby carrots. The cooking is assured and simple, letting ingredients like Scottish lemon sole with samphire, a buttery tarragon shallot sauce and new potatoes, shine. Puddings are generous and classic – the sticky toffee pudding is easily enough for two to share. For beer fans there’s plenty on draught from Verdant, Lost and Grounded, and Siren, or there’s a quirky cocktail list – try the 2:1 Coastal Martini with Boatyard gin and Vault Coastal vermouth. You can also order it as a mini shot accompanied by an oyster as a fun appetiser. william-iv.com \ The Hero, Maida Vale The Public House Group has made a real name for itself on the UK pub scene in recent years, with The Bull at Charlbury drawing Londoners to the Cotswolds and smart punters consistently spilling out of the The Pelican in Notting Hill (see below). The team’s third venture down the road in leafy Maida Vale comes with their trademark buzzy crowds and stunning interior design, breathing new life into a four-storey Victorian building (previously The Hero of Maida and The Truscott Arms). It’s pub chic at its most striking – elegant olive-green banquettes cling to brushed plaster walls, ceramic wall lights cast a warm glow and large windows pull back to provide ledges for punters to congregate outside. The zinc-topped bar is a beauty, with a cabinet of pickle jars, oil paintings and bottles of liquor behind and a list of cask ales chalked up on the board. There’s also a strong wine list and a selection of classic cocktails. On the food menu, hearty pub classics are elevated. Golden battered monkfish cheeks are dipped into a curry-laced aioli, lamb ribs are coated in treacly sweet and sour sauce and molten cheese and onion pie is encased in the crispiest of shortcrust pastry. Sticky toffee pudding has a caramelised outer shell with a quenelle of ice cream to boot. theherow9.com The Cavendish, Marylebone Tucked away on a semi-residential street in Marylebone, the Cavendish is a little oasis of calm just a few blocks back from the buzz of Oxford Street. Downstairs, there’s an airy, high-ceilinged pub with outside pavement seating for sunnier days, and upstairs is a more grown-up dining space with smart blue-velvet banquettes, wood panelling and brass fittings. This is not your standard pub grub: the menu from ex-Oyster Shed chef Laura de Fillipis is full of surprising and inventive small plates, like delicate crunchy pan puri filled with smoked mackerel and mussels, or a starter of jellied beetroot cannelloni stuffed with goat’s cheese and served with a walnut gremolata. Larger dishes, like king prawn tortellini served in a tomato prawn bisque with nori crisps, show there is a real love of fish cookery here. Service is warm, friendly and chatty, and the dog-friendly vibe extends to a canine dining menu, so your furry pal can enjoy a meal, too. Order an ice-cold pint of crisp Cornish Harbour IPA served in a frosted glass, or choose a summery watermelon and aloe vera spritz from the quirky cocktail menu. 35newcavendish.co.uk x Walmer Castle, Notting Hill Notting Hill’s Walmer Castle pub has had an excellent do-over by publican Jack Greenall (also of The Surprise in Chelsea). References to the area, pre-loved furniture and locally made fittings makes for the ideal décor for an area that includes Portobello Road. The ground floor is a proper pubby bar with a fire in the grate, art worth a closer look on the walls and a welcoming vibe. The menu gives you what you want from a modern pub including pork and fennel sausage rolls, braised ox cheek, halibut with smoked tomato and corn risotto, and a dry-aged beef burger. Vegetarian dishes such as celeriac schnitzel and gnocchi with hazelnut pesto are a cut above, and puddings include the crumble, and, of course, sticky toffee pudding. walmercastle-nottinghill.co.uk Brooke, Clapham SW4 Brooke, a neighbourhood restaurant and bar, was opened by Eamonn Manson in late 2023 on Clapham’s Abbeville Road. From the same stable as Brook House and The Brown Cow (both Fulham), and The Sands End in south-west London, this new addition to the area is set to become a firm neighbourhood favourite. With comfy green banquettes, bookshelves and wood panels, the venue bills itself as a place for relaxed drinking and dining, and the interior lends itself to all weathers, both cosy and fresh and bright. Head chef Martyn Young’s daily changing menu gives the traditional pubby meals a modern twist with dishes such as Hispi cabbage with miso, black garlic and pickled walnuts; wild sea bass with lentil velouté and curry leaf potatoes; and buttermilk fried chicken with green chilli miso mayonnaise. Sunday sees the addition of two roasts to choose from and you should leave room for the clafoutis, made to order. brookeclapham.com Parakeet, Kentish Town NW5 Being north Londoners and former Brat chefs, Ben Allen and Ed Jennings are the perfect pair to bring The Parakeet to Kentish Town. With dark interiors, stained glass windows and a warm glow cast over the intimate booths, there’s a church-like feel, which makes sense given the religious following from locals. With Ben at the helm as head chef, the menu is informed by the wood-fired oven and grill, and includes grilled lettuce and shrimp head butter, leeks with pecorino sauce, and smoked mushrooms with mackerel. theparakeetpub.com The Holland, Earls Court W8 Having conquered the pop-up world with Oxalis, chef Max de Nahlik has now turned his attention to this refurbished pub near Holland Park. Sustainability is at the core of The Holland’s ethos and underlines every facet of this homely establishment, from décor using upcycled materials to the sourcing of ingredients. With a seasonal, British-ingredient-led menu, a carefully curated European wine list and a changing list of cask ales, The Holland aims to be both a friendly local and a culinary destination in its own right. Expect snacks and starters such as hot wings and pastrami-cured salmon, and mains such as roast wild duck with bramble sauce. thehollandkensington.co.uk Harwood Arms, Fulham SW6 It’s the attention to detail at every stage that makes the Sunday menu at this Michelin-starred pub so special. Unusual cuts often turn up on the Sunday menu, so expect the likes of braised jowl of Tamworth pork with crushed turnip, roast apple and mustard, alongside the more traditional roast sirloin of 45-day-aged Shorthorn beef with yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, cauliflower cheese croquettes, horseradish cream, root vegetables, bone marrow gravy and greens. harwoodarms.com The Camberwell Arms, Camberwell SE5 A past winner of The Guardian’s 50 Best Sunday Lunches and the Observer Food Monthly Awards, Sunday lunch at The Camberwell Arms is a celebration of family-style eating with sharing main courses being the focal point. Everything is made in-house, including the hot mint sauce with the spring lamb, garlic-braised potatoes, peas and spring onions, and the béarnaise accompanying the dry-aged Hereford onglet, roast potatoes and watercress. As befits a kitchen run by a team that can trace its roots back to influential gastropubs such as The Eagle in Farringdon and the Anchor & Hope in Waterloo, head chef Michael Davies always serves family-size sharing dishes, whether it’s slow-roast salt marsh lamb with dauphinoise potatoes large enough for five people, or a whole spit roast herb-fed chicken with roast potatoes, salad and wholegrain mayonnaise for four. thecamberwellarms.co.uk Blacklock, various locations “Roasts almost as good as your mum’s” is the modest tagline at contemporary chophouse Blacklock, where a starter of pig’s head on toast with gravy might be followed by 55-day-aged beef rump, Cornish leg of lamb or Middle White pork loin cooked over coals with sides of swede and lardo or charred winter greens and chestnuts. All roasts are served with yorkshire puddings, duck-fat roast potatoes, a selection of seasonal vegetables and Blacklock gravy. If there’s a group of you (eight to 10), order the ‘All In’ where everything’s piled onto a platter for the ultimate Sunday banquet. Either way, make sure you book well in advance as reservations for Sunday lunch tend to fill up two months beforehand. theblacklock.com King's Head, Teddington, TW11 The King’s Head in Teddington is owned by The White Brasserie, where Raymond Blanc sits on the board with a mission to bring high-quality, locally-sourced home-cooked food back to British pubs. Based close to pretty riverside walks, the Kings Head is the perfect antidote to a hectic London weekend; inside you’ll find an open log fire, cosy snugs and a spacious brasserie as well as a generous garden room and a hidden courtyard perfect for summer nights. The Sunday roasts use meat from award winning butcher Aubrey Allen, the grass-fed British beef is beautifully tender and flavoursome, it’s also served with bottomless crispy roast potatoes and gravy. Other must-try dishes are the outdoor-reared applewood smoked pork ribeye and the chalk-stream trout with watercress and toasted almonds. thekingshead.com The Pig’s Head, Clapham SW4 The Pig’s Head in Clapham Old Town is the second coming of the much-loved The Pig and Butcher in Islington. Like its predecessor, it dishes up meat sourced directly from some of the best farms in the UK and butchered on site. Sustainability is the key driver of this 40-cover gastropub, from its décor of secondhand furniture to using 100% sustainable electricity and cleaning with fully biodegradable chemicals. Even the daily changing seasonal menu is reflective of the pub’s ethos, from classics including scotch eggs and playful dishes such as the crispy pig’s head, all the way through to mains that showcase the talent of the kitchen. But vegetarians need not fret. There are some truly divine vegetarian and vegan dishes available, which staff are more than happy to talk you through while you enjoy a glass of wine or two from the double-sided wine list (one side of which is exclusively dedicated to British wines). thepigshead.com Ganymede, South Kensington SW1 From the team behind South Kensington’s The Hunter’s Moon, Ganymede in Belgravia serves a menu of elevated British dishes including rabbit and pistachio terrine, suckling pork belly with parsnip purée, and apricot and hazelnut tart. ganymedelondon.co.uk Check out Ganymede’s recipe for white chocolate crème brûlée. The Coach Makers Arms, Marylebone W1 Chef and cookbook writer Ben Tish – formerly of critically acclaimed Sicilian-Moorish influenced London restaurant Norma – now celebrates classic British pub food at Marylebone’s Victorian pub, The Coach Makers Arms. It’s part of the Cubitt House group of pubs and restaurants, of which Ben is now chef director. cubitthouse.co.uk Try The Coach Maker Arms’ recipe for roasted cod, brown shrimp and parsley sauce. The Tamil Prince, Barnsbury N1 Curries and beer are pretty much synonymous, so The Tamil Prince – a relaxed pub from chef Prince Durairaj and Glen Leeson serving South Indian cuisine in the north London neighbourhood of Barnsbury – is the spice and hops mash-up of dreams. The menu, created by Prince, former chef at Roti King, is a mixture of small and large plates served with sides, and the chicken lollipops are a particular hit. “The lollipops have become a firm favourite, both with diners and hungry drinkers. Spicy, masala-style dishes have long been paired with alcohol, especially with beer. Tasty and easy to eat, the lollipops are the perfect addition to an afternoon pub-side.” thetamilprince.com Check out The Tamil Prince’s recipe for spicy chicken lollipops. The Earl of Derby, Telegraph Hill SE14 Saved by the owners of sister pubs The White Horse (Peckham) and Grove House Tavern (Camberwell) from becoming a block of flats, The Earl of Derby is now a bustling community pub with a buzzing atmosphere. The pub is home to Gengelly's, or chefs George Genn and Laurence Pengelly. On weekdays, they serve a minimal menu of hearty fare – pies with rich, quality fillings, skin-on homemade chips and warming, comforting vegan or vegetarian mains. Weekends are more extensive, with small plates and puddings and a roast on Sundays. With regular quizzes, DJs (or just the old-school jukebox) and a changing selection of local ales, the ambiance is fun and friendly. It's a neighbourhood pub that’s worth a journey. earlofderby.uk The Princess Royal, Notting Hill W2 Pub puds usually go one of three ways: heavy sticky toffee pud, predictable apple crumble or slightly dry chocolate brownie. Ben Tish’s herbaceous bake, fresh with lemon, and light thanks to ground almonds and cornmeal, is a comforting way to finish a meal without feeling like you’ve overdone it. “It’s the lemons that make it special,” says Ben. “Buy the best you can afford, ideally ones from Amalfi or Sicily. They give pure Mediterranean flavour and aroma.” cubitthouse.co.uk Plaquemine Lock, Angel N1 Not content with his offering of Italian flavours from Bocca Di Lupo in London’s Soho, restaurateur Jacob Kenedy added Plaquemine Lock to his repertoire in 2017 – an English pub with some of the best Deep South cooking in London. Keeping locals happy, head chef Tom Clements creates a Louisiana welcome with Cajun cracklins, sugar beignet bacon sandwiches and smoked duck jambalaya with live jazz and classic cocktails to wash it all down. plaqlock.com Try Plaquemine Lock’s recipes for blackened chicken with beans and rice, shrimp maque choux, beignets and Miss Ginny cocktail. The Baring, Islington N1 Chef Rob Tecwyn and manager Adam Symonds met while working at gastro pub The Bull and Last. The Baring, a refurbished (and renamed) pub, is their first venture together. The menu is strongly seasonal, using well-sourced ingredients presented simply with great big punches of flavour. It includes classic mains such as pork loin with greens and desserts like financier with seasonal fruits, as well as a Sunday roast. Dishes like quail shish and lamb rump with kofte are refined twists. Cocktails are seasonal, using the same flavourings as the desserts so nothing goes to waste. thebaring.co.uk Try The Baring’s recipe for financiers with poached plums and pumpkin gnudi. The Pelican, Notting Hill W11 The Pelican has been part of the community of Notting Hill since 1872. It brings old-school British pub dining into modern focus, with confident cooking and a deep-rooted commitment to sustainability. It works with regenerative farms and sources vegetables from its own market garden at Bruern Farms. Menus shift with the seasons but dishes stay generous and gutsy. Snow crab on toast is brightly bound with a lemony mayonnaise, while welsh rarebit arrives thick and bubbling over sourdough. We try two mains: a pan-fried seabass fillet with a sharp salsa verde and sauce vierge, and crisp-edged lamb sweetbreads with braised lettuce and peas – all spot on, and the golden chicken pie to share looks like one to return for. A dark, deeply treacly sticky toffee pudding rounds things off. The Pelican doesn’t overdo it – good produce, cooked with care and a nod to gastro pub classics done properly, something so many other pubs just can’t seem get right. thepelicanw11.com Try The Pelican’s recipe for mince on toast and turkey, leek and bacon pie.