London, a city of endless surprises, never failed to tantalize my taste buds during my three week visit. As a first time visitor, I took it to myself to embark on a mission to scour only the best of the best restaurants. Boy oh boy did London surprise me with its decadent restaurants. Here is a list that I curated featuring 14 must-visit restaurants in London.
From hearty traditional British roasts in cozy Shoreditch eateries to exquisite Japanese dishes in the ever-trendy Notting Hill, from contemporary American delicacies in buzzing Soho to the aromatic delights of Indian cuisine waiting for you in tucked-away corners, this guide is sure to make your culinary expedition as thrilling as the city itself.
Ready to start drooling? Let’s get right to it.
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Shoreditch’s Traditional Treat: Sunday Roast at The Owl and the Pussycat
Ah, the cherished British tradition of the Sunday roast! Picture this – it’s a beautiful afternoon, you’re sitting in a doll-house cute English pub with a pint of lager and a plate piled high with rich meats, roast potatoes, crunchy veggies, all slathered in shiny, deep-brown gravy and, of course, the crowning jewel – a giant, puffy Yorkshire pudding.
It’s believed that this beloved tradition dates back to medieval times when village folk would gather in households after a long week’s work and the aroma of slowly roasting oxen on a spit would waft through the air. Villagers, once done with their morning prayers, would reward themselves with sumptuous slices from the roast.
Fast forward to the 21st century, you might not have medieval oxen spit-roasted, but I’ve found a prime spot in London where that historic gastronomy lives on gloriously – the Owl and the Pussycat in Shoreditch.
Here, the Sunday roast has been given a modern ambience, the vibe buzzing with the energy of the city, yet every bite rings with the rich history of Old England. Do not miss out on the roasted sirloin of beef with all the trimmings. Deliciously British, it’s the ultimate food and culture fusion for all us aspiring globetrotters and foodies out there.
Cheers to that, mate!
Exquisite Japanese Cuisine at Sumi, Notting Hill
When I think of Japanese cuisine, it’s more than just the mind-blowingly delicious sushi or ramen that comes to mind. Japan’s food culture goes beyond that – it revolves around the artistry, the presentation, the balance of flavors and the passion that goes behind every dish.
Allow me to introduce you to a Michelin-recognized slice of Japan, Sumi in Notting Hill. With an array of eateries popping off on Westbourne Grove, Sumi takes the center stage. It’s the brainchild of the celebrated Endo Kazutoshi and it’s bustling with energy, embracing a youthful charm that is as fabulous as the mouth-watering dishes it serves.
Named after his mother, Sumi is a tribute to Kazutoshi’s roots, but with a modern twist. The menu, though succinct, offers robata dishes that are absolute stunners. Pair them up with a cocktail from their fantastic list and voila, you’re in for a treat! But a gentle heads-up, the delectable dishes might make you lose track of your bill, so keep an eye on that!
The energy, the food, the drinks, and the crowd – it’s a Japanese fiesta, right in the heart of London. So, my fellow aspiring globetrotters and foodies, ready to say ‘Itadakimasu’?
Rita’s in Soho: A Taste of Contemporary American Dining
Inspired by the soulful flavours and hearty portions of American cuisine, Rita’s has created a delectable narrative where the boldness of traditional American fare meets the sophistication of London’s dining scene. Every dish at Rita’s is a nod to the classics but tuned with the volume up. The team pours in their passion into every plate, resulting in food that’s exciting, satisfying and oh-so memorable.
The Best Chicken in Town: Coqfighter in Soho
If you’re in the mood for some finger-lickin’ good chicken, I’ve got a perfect little gem I discovered in London. Nestled in the vibrant streets of Soho, you’ll find the crowd-pleasing Coqfighter.
They are widely celebrated for serving the crispiest, tastiest, and most scrumptious fried chicken in the heart of London. This place has been sending the taste buds of visitors into overdrive, making them come back for more! At Coqfighter, you’ll find a modern twist on classic fried chicken, turning each bite into a foodie’s dream. Besides their amazing chicken, the chill ambiance and incredible service will make your experience even more unforgettable.
Experience Authentic Indian Flavors at Punjab in Soho
Indian cuisine in England has a rich and flavorful history, dating back to the British Empire’s rule over India. In the 1800s, Sake Dean Mahomed opened the first Indian restaurant in England, infusing British culture with vibrant spices and tantalising flavours from India. Fast forward a few centuries, and Indian cuisine is now the beating heart of the UK’s food scene. The delightful mingling of British and Indian cultures resulted in what we now know as ‘curry,’ a staple of the UK culinary scene. Today, Indian food has practically become comfort food for the English.
Sitting pretty in Soho, Punjab is a charming emblem of north Indian culinary heritage and a beloved dining spot for locals and travelers alike. With its vibrant atmosphere, excellent service, and simply phenomenal food, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Everything from the Thali to the tandoori chicken comes highly recommended.
Classic British Experience: Fish & Chips at Poppies in Soho
The legendary combo of fish and chips arrived on England’s foodie landscape in the 17th century, but it really caught fire in the 1860s thanks largely to Joseph Malin, a Jewish immigrant who had the genius idea to pair fried fish with chunky chips. Now, it’s as quintessentially British as the Queen’s Guard.
And if you ask any Londoner about the best fish and chips in town, most will lead you straight towards Poppies. This vintage-styled gem of a restaurant is renowned for serving up some seriously mouth-watering fish ‘n chips, with an awesome side of British nostalgia. It’s located in the trendy Spitalfields area.
So, if you’re ready for a little time travel with your meal, Poppies is the perfect spot for reeling in this iconic British dish.
Thai Kitchen inside the Churchill Arms: Kensington’s Hidden Thai Gem
Ever wondered how Thai restaurants inside English pubs became a thing? Well, it started in the 1970’s when a wave of Thai immigrants found employment opportunities in English pubs and introduced their delicious cuisines to the patrons. Soon, Thai food became a popular feature on pub menus, and the rest is history!
Now, I have a special little place for you located in the heart of Kensington – Churchill Arms. This isn’t any ordinary London pub, it’s a London institution, frothing with as much history as a freshly poured pint. Yet, what makes this spot even more noteworthy isn’t just the connection to our famous WWII Prime Minister, but the extraordinary Thai cuisine served at the back. From the flavorful Pad Thai to the sizzling green curry, your tastebuds are going to enter an exotic ride like no other. Seriously, it’s that good!
Churchill Arms isn’t just a hit for its distinct aesthetics, with beautiful flowers enveloping its exteriors like a botanical wonderland, but also for the top-notch Thai food it serves. Just a quick heads up, it gets quite busy, so brace for a bit of a lively crowd.
But take it from me, its diversified charm, steeped in a rich historical background and fed by tantalizing Thai cuisine, makes Churchill Arms a must-visit on your London itinerary.
Dim Sum Duck: A Chinese Culinary Adventure in King’s Cross
Chinese cuisine was introduced in England as early as the 19th century. It first gained traction with the arrival of Chinese sailors to London’s Docklands, and the first noted Chinese restaurant, ‘Chung Kuo Chai’, opened its doors around 1908. However, it was only in the post-war years, with a surge in immigration from Hong Kong, that wider British society truly fell in love with Chinese cuisine. Fast forward to today, London boasts a plethora of Chinese restaurants, but there’s one that stands out above the rest – Dim Sum Duck.
Nestled comfortably in bustling King’s Cross, it’s gained a reputation as one of London’s crowning culinary jewels. Even Michelin has recognized its expertise!
With rave reviews on TripAdvisor, travelers and locals alike laud its brilliant dim sums and succulent roast duck as one of the best in town. Yes, the place is often crowded and you’ll probably have to queue, but given the quality of the food, it’s absolutely worth the wait.
Authentic Thai Delights at Rodfai in Acton Town
If you’re eager to escape into an exotic world of tantalizing Thai flavors, Rodfai has got everything you’re looking for, right in the midst of West London. With its exceptional dishes and cozy ambiance, this spot has earned rave reviews on TripAdvisor and has rapidly become a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
Though relatively unassuming, Rodfai is known for serving consistently stunning and authentic Thai fare. Some fan favorite dishes include the Massaman Curry, Kow Soi, and of course, the vibrant Pad Thai. People praise the impeccable service, attention to detail, and friendly staff that make the Rodfai experience truly memorable.
Italian-Inspired Dishes at Manteca in Shoreditch
With recognition from the esteemed Michelin, Manteca takes us on an enchanting culinary adventure through authentic Italian flavors, right from the streets of trendy East London.
Manteca, known for its brilliant fusion of traditional and innovative Italian cuisine, has deservedly earned its rave customer reviews on TripAdvisor. Be it their savory scallop offering, robust beef dishes or the well-loved Mezcal Negroni, they’ve gone above and beyond to bring a slice of Italy to their patrons.
Adding to this is a fine selection of Italian wines, allowing you to perfectly pair your chosen dish with a glass of liquid gold. The genius blend of innovative flavors tailored with an unwavering commitment to Italian authenticity has made Manteca an absolute must-visit.
Satisfying Greek Cravings at Zephyr in Notting Hill
Hidden away amidst the promises of a cinematic backdrop is a Greek epiphany waiting to be discovered — Zephyr.
Petit yet potent, Zephyr Notting Hill doesn’t just serve Greek food; it’s an unforgettable rendezvous with Greek culture right in London. Tailor-made for food evangelists, Zephyr’s approach is simple yet profound – traditional recipes made with a pinch of innovation and presented with a whole lot of heart.
Revealing the ambitiously flavorsome world of Greek cuisine, Zephyr has become quite the talk of the town. Standing at the apex of their offerings is their seafood selection. The Sea Bass Carpaccio and Octopus are celebrated superstars, renowned for their mouth-watering flavors.
But it’s not just the food that resonates with the diners; the ambiance created is nothing short of a Greek carnival. The warm, welcoming staff and eclectic decor enhance your experience making it a truly immersive delight for the senses. Let’s not forget the cocktails; with a Greek twist on classics, they ensure Zephyr leaves an indelible mark on your palette.
Fine Italian Dining Experience at Allegra in East London
This gorgeous destination for Italian cuisine stirs a sense of sophisticated charm with its vibrant yet chic atmosphere. Set atop a shimmering tower, the sweeping views heighten the ambiance, accompanying your palatable journey into Italian enchantment.
Part of its allure comes from Allegra’s knack for creating divine temptations out of simple Italian classics. Whether it’s their spaghetti vongole or their monkfish dish, the sheer creativity emanating from their kitchen is indeed noteworthy!
Now, let me give you a little heads up – the portions at Allegra may lean towards the smaller side. But it’s all part of the show here – they flawlessly demonstrate that less can, indeed, be more. Every dish is a rich exploration of flavors that leave you savoring each bite. Plus, the smaller portions mean you can try a wider variety of dishes, exploring that menu to the fullest!
It should be no surprise that Allegra has quickly emerged as a top contender on my list of London’s 15 best restaurants.
Exploring Spanish Tastes at Pizarro in Bermondsey
Pizarro is an authentic Spanish extravaganza where the food whispers enchanting stories from the Iberian peninsula. The establishment, brimming with joviality and cordiality, has been lauded by locals and travelers alike.
Much of this high praise can be attributed to the incredible Head Chef, Maya. Maya’s culinary prowess is the wizardry behind the mouth-watering delicacies that arrive at your table, each dish resonating with the robust, vibrant flavors of Spain. Whether it is the traditional Paella rich with succulent seafood or the delicate Levantan Tapas, every bite here is a testament to Maya’s command over Spanish cuisine.
And let’s not forget the affable champion behind this Spanish sanctuary – owner José Pizarro. José’s love for his culinary roots and his commitment to sharing this vibrant gastronomic heritage can be felt throughout the restaurant, from the intimate, snug decor to the warm, welcoming staff. Indeed, his winsome personality and impeccable hospitality elevate Pizarro from a mere restaurant to an unforgettable Spanish experience.
Farm-to-Table Experience at The Shed: Notting Hill’s Premier Sustainable Dining Destination
An embodiment of rustic charm, The Shed bursts with British culinary traditions peppered with creative innovations. The fresh farm-to-Hetable meals here are a feast for the senses. Amidst the cosmopolitan allure of London, The Shed—with its perfect location, relaxed ambience, friendly staff, and utterly delicious food—stands as a slice of bliss you’d want to repeatedly visit.
14 Must-Visit Restaurants in London
London’s culinary scene is a tantalizing array of mouth-watering treasures that cater to a diverse range of palates and preferences. From intimate dining spots to bustling hubs of food fusion, this magnificent city never fails to impress with its broad spectrum of top-notch eateries. Our journey through the 14 best restaurants I’ve tried in London serves as a testament to the city’s rich food landscape. As you embark on your own delectable adventure, let these unforgettable dining experiences inspire you to explore beyond this list because London, my fellow food enthusiasts, has countless culinary tales waiting to be savored and celebrated. Happy feasting!
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