Best Restaurants In London Right Now For 2026

• Location: 180 Strand, Temple, WC2R 1EA
• Price: ££££
• Cuisine: West African 
• Why we recommend: co-owned by chef Jeremy Chan, Ikoyi offers a tasting menu that marries West African flavours with British ingredients, resulting in dishes that are both bold and refined. The restaurant's commitment to seasonality and spice is evident in its creations, and we feel it offers a gorgeous dining experience that is both unique and unforgettable, with high-end tasting menus that come in around £350 per person for dinner, or £150 for lunch

Up there with the best Michelin star restaurants London has to offer on our list is Ikoyi, co-owned by Ire Hassan-Odukale and Jeremy Chan. It showcases the complex flavours of sub-Saharan West Africa, skillfully crafted with micro-seasonal ingredients, organic meats, and sustainably sourced British fish.

Dishes like ike jime trout, caramelised plantain, and smoked jollof rice exemplify Ikoyi's commitment to presenting produce at its peak, blending tradition with modern culinary techniques. This contemporary culinary hideaway has firmly established itself as one of London's most exciting dining destinations. In 2024, Ikoyi was honoured as one of the world's 50 best restaurants, cementing its reputation for exceptional food and a unique dining experience that draws food lovers from around the globe.

• Location: 1 Mare Street, Hackney, E8 4RP
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Korean 
• Why we recommend: it's a deeply personal, family-run reinterpretation of Korean cuisine, where chef‑father Hyun Sang Ko, trained in Seoul and Japan, brings to the table recipes stretching back to his own mother's legendary ox‑bone broth in 1970s Seoul, served now in a minimalist, welcoming space by his sons Jae and Jae in front of housee. This BYOB, minimally decorated restaurant is hard to book, but utterly worth it

Miga is a soulful, family-run Korean restaurant that's taken East London by storm. After relocating from New Malden in 2024, it quickly established itself as one of the city's most sought-after dining destinations. Owned by a father-son trio, the restaurant blends a rich culinary heritage dating back to the 1970s Seoul with modern, high-calibre Korean cooking. 

We adore their landmark dishes like yughwe, a daring beef tartare served with crisp Asian pear batons and a vibrant egg yolk, and the soy-braised short ribs, slow-cooked to a caramelised richness with pear and shiitake mushrooms. Pan-fried pork belly glazed in a glowing apple-and-mustard sauce is another must-try, delivering layers of flavour and texture that embody the restaurant's innovative spirit.

• Location: 42 North Audley Street, Marylebone, W1K 6ZR
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: Indian 
• Why we recommend: BiBi has a string of accolades to its name, from GQ to the National Restaurant Awards, and rightly so. It offers an inventive and deeply personal take on modern Indian cuisine, helmed by chef‑patron Chet Sharma, whose background at Michelin‑starred restaurants and training as a physicist inform every precise and playful dish

Located on North Audley Street in Mayfair, BiBi is a modern Indian restaurant that delivers bold regional flavours in a stylish, intimate setting. Led by acclaimed chef Chet Sharma, whose background includes The Ledbury and Moor Hall, BiBi reimagines traditional Indian dishes with creative flair.

Expect an open kitchen, rich spices, and beautifully plated dishes inspired by the Indian subcontinent. Tuck into the likes of Texel lamb barrah, an ex-dairy goat galouti kebab, yakhni pulao with maa ki daal and roomali roti, and more. With a Michelin star and a place on the National Restaurant Awards Top 100, this JKS-backed gem is perfect for date nights or solo indulgence. Reservations are highly recommended.

• Location: 4 Redchurch Street, Shoreditch, E1 6JL
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: Basque Country
• Why we recommend: "San Sebastian was one of my favourite-ever holidays (it's honestly a foodie's paradise), and Brat channels the laid-back vibes and culinary culture of the famous Basque city. I headed here on my birthday for a special treat with my other half, and it was the perfect setting, thanks to relaxed gastropub-style interiors and intimate lighting. The dishes served here feel effortless, but you can tell a lot of thought and skill has actually gone into each - evident by their awarded Michelin star. Though the whole turbot is their speciality, I couldn't help but go for the Hereford beef sirloin, which had been grilled to perfection over live-fire, with a side of those simple-but-stunning smoked potatoes - not to mention a delightful glass of chilled red helpfully suggested by our knowledgeable server" - Jasmine Lee Kennedy

One of the best restaurants in Shoreditch, London, with a second venue in Hackney, Brat is an intimate, stylish Michelin-starred restaurant that specialises in authentic Basque cuisine. Run by former Kitty Fisher head chef Tomos Parry, the kitchen cooks up wood-fired dishes like whole roasted turbot, beef sirloin and leeks with fresh cheese, alongside a dreamy burnt cheesecake for dessert. Of course, there's an extensive wine list to wash it all down too.

Make sure to book this gem in advance, as it's soared in popularity over the years thanks to its frequent celebrity diners (Paul Mescal and Charli XCX, we're looking at you). It's easy to see why this restaurant is adored by many - it's striking from the onset, with a charcoal grey exterior, and its candle-lit tables make for an intimate dining experience.

• Location: Newson's Yard, 57 Pimlico Road, Chelsea, SW1W 8NE
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: Mediterranean 
• Why we recommend: the restaurant, led by chef Aaron Potter, a former senior chef at both Michelin‑starred Trinity and Elystan Street, does it all - offering a split-level restaurant with a wine bar upstairs, perfect for evening drinks, and a cute courtyard serving coffee during the day 

Wildflowers Restaurant is a hidden gem in West London, offering a delightful dining experience that's perfect for any occasion. With a Mediterranean menu focused on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, every dish is a work of art that showcases the best of what's fresh and in season.

Wolf down Sicilian tomatoes with sun-sweet melon gazpacho, basil, and mojama, or chalk stream trout with peas, lardo, girolles, Amalfi lemon, and a red prawn bisque. Then, finish off with green figs alongside milk gelato, honey, and pistachios for dessert. The minimalist yet warm interior provides the ideal backdrop for enjoying beautifully crafted dishes, whether you're there for a casual meal or a special celebration.

• Location: Bouchon Racine, Upstairs, 66 Cowcross St, EC1M 6BP
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: French
• Why we recommend: serving up serious French gastronomy above a proper London pub, this place is a brilliant mix of bistro and boozer

Bouchon Racine is a wonderfully intimate French bistro tucked above The Three Compasses pub in Clerkenwell. Created by renowned chef Henry Harris and restaurateur Dave Strauss, this place revives the spirit of Harris's beloved Racine, which closed in 2015.

A former pub function room, the space has been transformed into a cosy, candlelit dining room with vintage French charm - think blackboard menus, soft sconces, and a glass-roofed veranda. As for the food, it it won at the 2026 National Restaurant Awards for a reason. We're talking rabbit with mustard sauce, steak tartare, escargots, and a famously rich crème caramel.

• Location: 3 Bedale Street, London Bridge, SE1 9AL
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Greek 
• Why we recommend: "this Michelin star restaurant lets you dine overlooking Borough Market on its terrace, or among cool grey interiors. The menu features moreish clay pot dishes cooked over an open fire, some of the best potatoes I've ever had in my life (a real underdog on the menu), and perfectly cooked fish. It's a real highlight on London's culinary scene" - Kiera Chapman

At OMA, one of the best restaurants in London Bridge, every dish offers something new, from the raw bar to the charcoal grill. Chef Jorge Paredes brings bold Levantine influences to Greek tradition, creating a menu that's both rustic and refined, in a modern-looking dining space, complemented by concrete accents.

Start with raw scallops with fermented chilli and citrus, then move to coal-roasted lamb ribs with anchovy yoghurt and pickled onions, or clay pot-cooked chickpeas with confit garlic and lemon zest. The open kitchen adds a sense of theatre, while the ever-changing seasonal plates keep even the most seasoned foodies on their toes.

• Location: 1 Club Row, Shoreditch, E1 6JX
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: French-American 
• Why we recommend: we love the New York-meets-London energy this spot exudes. The space - set above The Knave of Clubs in a beautifully restored Grade II-listed Victorian building - is styled with original 19th-century panelling, a fireplace, and bold artwork by Joy Yamusangie, and you can't go wrong with tempting sharing plates from culinary director Patrick Powell (formerly Allegra) alongside head chef Attila Gellèn
  

Tucked behind a graffiti-splashed door on Whitby Street, just a short walk from Shoreditch Overground, One Club Row is a stylish sanctuary above the lively Knave of Clubs pub. Founded by hospitality veterans James Dye and Benjy Leibowitz, alongside acclaimed chef Patrick Powell, this intimate spot fuses the buzz of New York bistros with the timeless charm of Parisian brasseries.

The space shifts effortlessly from light-filled and airy by day to a moody, candlelit hideaway by night. With elegant interiors of warm wood and soft lighting, here you can enjoy beautifully crafted British dishes like lobster and country ham croquettes or comforting mussels frites, all paired perfectly with the bar's signature Club Row martini, with bookings going until 10pm. 

• Location: 18 Phipp Street, Shoreditch, EC2A 4NU
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Modern European 
• Why we recommend: it was sad to see Leroy go, but we're thrilled to see Alex Grant and chef Simon Shand, who both met at the former Michelin-starred restaurant, take the space and give it a reboot with their French-Italian restaurant. It's one of our top picks for a first date spot, thanks to its soft lighting, vinyl music, and a cool ambience - it'll definitely show that you're in the know

As evening falls, Duchy transforms into a cosy, golden-lit retreat where soft lighting enhances its warm, minimalist décor. Located just off Great Eastern Street, this intimate restaurant, crafted by Alex Grant and chef Simon Shand, delivers a fresh take on the culinary traditions of the Duchy of Savoy, fusing French and Italian influences with Alpine nuances.

The ambient sounds of full vinyl albums from Gary Numan to Fine Young Cannibals add character to the space. For an unforgettable experience, the counter seats offer a front-row view of the open kitchen, where rustic yet refined dishes like veal tonnato and handmade pastas come to life. The carefully curated European wine list completes this elegant, immersive dining experience.

• Location: 22-24 Seymour Place, Marylebone, W1H 7NL
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: British, Thai
• Why we recommend: AngloThai continues to go from strength to strength, serving clever fusion dishes made with high-quality British produce. The space is elegant yet accessible, with the tasting menus costing a pretty penny but not too out of the realm of possibility. The interiors, realised by Thai-American designer May Redding, come together to create an enticing, pretty place to eat, which also happens to be one of the hottest in town

Located in the heart of Marylebone, the one Michelin-starred AngloThai has swiftly risen to become one of the best restaurants in central London for 2025. This debut permanent venue from chef John Chantarasak and wine expert Desiree Chantarasak celebrates Thai flavours with a modern British twist, showcasing fresh, seasonal produce from Desiree's family farm.

With a minimalist, warm interior, AngloThai offers an inviting yet refined atmosphere where you can explore layered dishes like Isaan-style grilled meats and native British game curries. The set lunch menu begins at £65 per person and includes dishes such as beef tongue with jungle curry and brioche, while the dinner tasting menu comes in at £125 each, featuring the likes of British octopus with chilli jam and courgette Ryall Farm hogget, or Câr-y-Môr cockles and herb curry.

• Location: 16-18 Beak Street, Soho, W1F 9RD
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: Spanish
• Why we recommend: "with a Michelin star to its name, Mountain is an inviting split-level restaurant with low lighting, and a menu designed to share (but I'll take a whole custard ensaimada with rhubarb for myself, please). The beauty of the open kitchens means that you can watch desserts slide into roaring fires to be finished off, and silky cured meats and fluffy breads plated meticulously in front of you. Prepare to try things you never have before, as well as some familiar comforts" - Kiera Chapman

From the Michelin-starred team behind Brat and Brat x Climpson's Arch, Mountain on Beak Street brings chef Tomas Parry's signature fire-cooked style to the heart of Soho. Inspired by his travels across Spain and rooted in British produce, this wood grill and wine bar focuses on bold, smoky flavours, with seasonal dishes cooked over open charcoal and ingredients sourced directly from Welsh and Cornish farmers.

Spread across multiple floors, Mountain combines rustic elegance with a vibrant dining atmosphere. The open kitchen energises the ground-floor dining room, while the basement offers a more intimate, softly lit experience. Expect sharing plates like grilled mackerel with peas, Dover sole, or langoustines, paired with inventive sides such as smoked potatoes or anchovy-dressed bitter leaves. Desserts lean into European indulgence with pecan choux, custard-filled ensaimadas, and flame-kissed strawberries, all complemented by a wine list curated by Keeling and Andrew of Noble Rot.

• Location: 105-107 Talbot Road, Notting Hill, W11 2AT
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: modern European, wood-fire cooking 
• Why we recommend: Dorian blends unpretentious, buzzy bistro vibes with top-tier ingredients and theatrical open‑kitchen energy, making it a neighbourhood spot you'll book months in advance. Look forward to Michelin-starred modern British cooking under head chef Max Coen (formerly of Ikoyi, Kitchen Table and Frantzen), where standout dishes like signature caviar rösti, liver parfait toast, and of course, the beef, lead the menu

One of the best restaurants in Notting Hill, London, Dorian combines high-energy vibes with exceptional culinary skill. Founded by Chris D'Sylva and brought to life by chef Max Coen, the eatery reinvents brasserie dining with an emphasis on open-fire cooking and outstanding British ingredients. From indulgent liver parfait to lobster tail with chilli jam, every dish is crafted with precision and flair.

The stylish counter seating offers a unique, immersive experience, while an expertly curated wine list completes the picture. You won't find the food menu online; however, you can expect an evening of pure decadence, reinvented, if you decide to treat yourself to a delicious meal there.

• Location: 4 Bedale Street, London Bridge, SE1 9AL
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Greek
• Why we recommend: "it's fantastically good value for money, Bib Gourmand restaurant, located in the heart of Borough Market. You can watch the meat be cooked on a spit over open fire, and the pillowy flatbreads come to life in the open kitchen - the chicken skewers are a melt-in-the-mouth highlight. Fortunately, it now accepts only a small number of bookings, though this doesn't seem to stop the two-hour queues from building up" - Kiera Chapman

Discover the essence of Athens' street food scene at AGORA, a Bib Gourmand-awarded souvla bar tucked beneath OMA. Chef Jorge Paredes serves up slow-roasted pork, lamb, and chicken from a massive charcoal rotisserie imported from Greece, paired with fluffy flatbreads and rustic sides like braised beans and sage-dripping potatoes.

The warm, stripped-back interiors and open kitchen create an inviting space that feels like a lively Greek market stall, making AGORA a standout destination for an authentic souvla bar in the heart of the city. 

• Location: 8 Patriot Square, Bethnal Green, E2 9NF
• Price: ££££
• Cuisine: modern European 
• Why we recommend: the elegant dining location of the Town Hall Hotel adds to a memorable culinary experience at Da Terra. Make sure to set aside a sufficient amount of time, as you'll be embarking on a three-hour-long dinner with two-Michelin-starred tasting menus crafted by Chef Rafael Cagali, whose Brazilian‑Italian heritage and London training under the likes of Heston Blumenthal, Martin Berasategui and Quique Dacosta result in uniquely creative dishes

One of the best restaurants in East London and nestled inside the historic Town Hall Hotel, Da Terra is a two-Michelin-starred gem offering an intimate fine dining experience where elegance meets warmth. The contemporary interiors blend sleek design with Edwardian grandeur, creating the perfect backdrop for Chef Rafael Cagali's inventive tasting menus.

Drawing on his Brazilian and Italian roots, Rafael crafts dishes that artfully fuse tradition with creativity, delivering a culinary journey full of surprises and deep storytelling, with dishes like tortellini with black truffle, Herdwick hogget with courgette, girolle and broad beans and more. With expertly paired wines and a cosy pre-dining lounge, Da Terra promises an unforgettable feast for all senses.

• Location: 320 Old Street, Shoreditch, EC1V 9DR
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: plant-based 
• Why we recommend: "we heard about this exceptional vegan fine dining restaurant, just by Old Street station, from watching Great British Menu, and it honestly didn't disappoint. Initially drawn in by that dark chocolate cherry dessert that made chef Kirk Haworth a champion of champions, this seven-course tasting menu (with optional wine pairings) was a masterclass in flavour. We were blown away by the barbecued maitake mushroom and can totally see why it was awarded a Michelin star" - Lisa Moore

A Michelin-starred restaurant on Old Street, and the first plant-based one with a star to its name in the city, Plates London is a haven for plant-based diners. The innovative destination is all about sustainability, created by chef Kirk Haworth and his sister Keeley.

The venue features earthy tones and rustic decor, reflecting the pared-back, seasonal nature of the menu. From maitake mushrooms with black bean mole to a raw cocoa gateau, their regularly changing dishes offer something totally unique. Delve into its tasting menu-style format, starting from £90 per person for lunch, and make the most of the experience by opting for a wine pairing for an additional £70 per person. 

• Location: 127 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill, W11 2AQ
• Price: ££££
• Cuisine: modern European 
• Why we recommend: head to The Ledbury in Notting Hill for its sublime and refined modern European tasting menus crafted by chef‑patron Brett Graham (joined by Tom Spenceley). The three Michelin star restaurant is a masterclass in top-tier hospitality and innovative menus, with its very own Fungarium too. We feel this beauty should be reserved for a special occasion, and it's utterly worth it 

The Ledbury in Notting Hill is a three Michelin-starred culinary destination where nature, seasonality, and innovation converge. Led by chef-owner Brett Graham, the restaurant offers a stunning experience that features a £285 tasting menu, spotlighting ultra-local ingredients - many of which are reared or foraged by Graham himself.

Dishes like Kimmeridge Bay lobster with bergamot and cherry blossom, and veal sweetbread with Basque peas and kaffir lime, are artfully crafted by head chef Tom Spenceley, showcasing modern British cuisine at its most refined. The interior mirrors its culinary philosophy - textured walls, dark wood accents, and dangling foliage create an earthy, elegant atmosphere, further elevated by the restaurant's unique in-house Fungarium, used to cultivate speciality mushrooms. 

• Location: 310 Portobello Road, Notting Hill, W10 5TA
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: Italian 
• Why we recommend: chic from the outset, when you walk around Westbourne Park, you'll find that on the cusp of Portobello Road, there's a cool-looking Italian spot on the corner with clusters of friends drinking Campari spritzes on the streetside tables. Canteen has a beautiful, airy feel to it, and the menu changes regularly, encouraging more than one visit. Be prepared to wait for a space, though, as the restaurant is walk-in only

Perched just off Portobello Road in Notting Hill, Canteen has swiftly earned a place as one of the best new restaurants in London. From the team behind The Pelican, this buzzy, walk-in-only Italian spot blends casual charm with serious culinary credentials.

The open kitchen is led by River Café alumni Jessica Filbey and Harry Hills, and it shows in every seasonal plate, from girolle risotto to courgette ravioli with nasturtium. With deli-chic interiors, warm service, and a menu that feels both comforting and refined, Canteen is effortlessly cool and endlessly craveable. 

• Location: 29 Poland Street, Soho, W1 F8Q
• Price: ££-£££29 Poland Street, W1 F8Q
• Cuisine: international, open-fire
• Why we recommend: there's a quiet hum of excellence about this place, that's evident in their brilliant wine list, put together by co-founder and sommelier Anna Dolgushina, spanning crisp, dry Sancerres to richer and more fruity reds. The food is light and moreish, with anything topped with a cured egg yolk being a firm favourite. Firebird know you will indulge in the mains, which is why the refreshing desserts offer the perfect amount of sweetness to finish your meal

Nestled on Poland Street in the heart of Soho, Firebird is an intimate female-founded restaurant that boasts a stunning produce-led menu and a natural wine bar. Founded by Anna Dolgushina and Madina Kazhimova, it feels like a special hideaway built for feasting among cave-like interiors and earthy tones.

The Mediterranean-inspired menu has multiple dishes that have earned themselves their own following - they are that spectacular. Particularly the tuna tartare with ponzu and cured egg yolk, which sings of umami, and the potato and sourdough focaccia, built and encouraged for mopping everything up. If you're to book Firebird for your next meal, you will undoubtedly have a brilliant time and leave very full and happy indeed. 

• Location: 315A Fulham Road, Chelsea, SW10 9QH
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: French 
• Why we recommend: chic and cool, Josephine Bouchon does a brilliant job of transporting you to France without the air miles, thanks to its swish brasserie-style decor and menu. If you post a picture on Instagram while you're here, you can bet your friends will be asking where you are. Make sure to order a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc and a portion of fries (to yourself, of course)

Take a trip to the heart of Lyon without leaving London at Josephine Bouchon, a cosy French restaurant in South Kensington from Michelin-starred chef Claude Bosi and his wife Lucy.

Inspired by Bosi's grandmother and the lively bouchons of Lyon, the space is warm and nostalgic, with vintage French posters, tightly packed tables, and a menu full of comforting bistro classics such as Cornish cod wth shallot butter beurre blanc, or veal sweetbread with a morel mushroom sauce. Chef Matteo de Degola leads the kitchen with finesse, delivering rich Lyonnaise dishes that have earned the restaurant a Bib Gourmand. 

• Location: 17 Denman Street, Soho, W1D 7HW
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: British 
• Why we recommend: The Devonshire is the go-to destination when it comes to drinking a proper pint of Guinness in the capital, as well as tucking into classic, British food. We love how diverse it is here, how you can be cosied up, tucking into pork chops or basking on a sun-trap rooftop terrace overlooking Piccadilly Circus. You know you're in for a brilliant cut of meat, especially when the team behind Guinea Grill and Flat Iron have something to do with it

While The Devonshire might be recognised as one of the most popular pubs in the city, it also happens to double up as one of the best restaurants in Soho, London, too. Founded by hospitality heavyweights Oisin Rogers, Charlie Carroll, and Ashley Palmer-Watts - the talent behind institutions like Guinea Grill and Flat Iron - this two-storey pub masterfully combines the charm of a traditional British boozer with the sophistication of a top-tier gastro restaurant.

Downstairs, you can expect expertly poured pints, an outstanding selection of beers, and elevated bar snacks in a lively, welcoming setting. Upstairs is where you'll find the restaurant. With its own in-house butchery and bakery, it takes pride in crafting a menu that celebrates the best of British produce, offering the likes of hand-dived scallops from Devon, Scottish seafood, and expertly aged cuts of UK beef.

• Location: 72 Highbury Park, Highbury, N5 2XE
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Thai
• Why we recommend: genuinely some of the best Thai food our Lead Editor Jasmine Lee Kennedy has eaten all year. Sebby Holmes' passion and masterful skill were evident throughout every single dish she tried on the restaurant's tasting menu; the spicy prawn miang bites offered beautifully balanced layers of flavour and delightful textures, while the butterflied seabream came in a pool of fragrant, creamy coconut curry - perfect for mopping up with the butteriest of roti

Formerly of Smoking Goat and Begging Bowl, two iconic Thai restaurants, Sebby Holmes took his masterful culinary expertise and passion for Thai cooking to Highbury - opening Farang in 2017. This now sits as one of the best places for Thai food in London, boasting a Michelin Bib Gourmand award for many years running, very impressive indeed.

What makes it stand out is Holmes' skill and love for the cuisine; using years of experience in Thai kitchens and high-quality ingredients fresh from Bangkok and across the UK, he and his team create beautifully prepared dishes with layers of complex, perfectly balanced flavours. Whether you go for the a la carte or their tasting menu, you can expect dishes such as a gorgeous spicy green papaya salad, spicy prawn miang bites, whole butterflied sea bream with coconut, turmeric and citrus sauce, and so much more (though plates often changes with the seasons).

• Location: 42 Albemarle Street, Mayfair, W1S 4JH
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: Indian 
• Why we recommend: not only is Gymkhana one of Charli XCX's favourite restaurants, but it's also one of ours. Step inside and you'll be met with gorgeous, dark wooden furnishings beckoning you in to feast on two-Michelin-starred curries available via various tasting menus, or a tempting a la carte. It offers you a taste of fine dining without stepping far away from traditional recipes and ideas 

Inspired by the elite Indian gymkhana clubs of the Raj era, where high society came together to eat, drink, and unwind, Gymkhana brings a refined take on Indian dining to the heart of Mayfair. Awarded its second Michelin star in 2024, it sets the benchmark for modern Indian cuisine in London, with a focus on tandoor and chatpatta (tangy, spiced) sharing dishes that are as bold as they are elegant.

The menu is rooted in regional Indian flavours, crafted using the finest ingredients and complemented by a creative cocktail list that reimagines classic drinks with subcontinental flair. You can expect to devour the likes of lasooni wild tiger prawns with a red pepper chutney, tandoori broccoli with a chilli and green mango raita, lamb shank roganjosh, and so much more.

• Location: 12a Berkeley Square, Mayfair, W1J 6BS
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: Indian 
• Why we recommend: "I found Benares' unique dishes to be a delicious, creative expression of Indian fine dining. Every course told a story, and wasn't just something incredible to eat, but also astonishing in its presentation. The street snacks came served on a bonsai tree, while one of the desserts was the spitting image of an autumnal leaf, served on a dainty branch lying on a bed of grass. Whether you're looking for remarkable flavours or just a unique dining experience, I can't recommend Michelin-starred Benares enough" - Jasmine Lee Kennedy

Located on Berkeley Square in Mayfair, Benares Restaurant & Bar has been redefining Indian fine dining since 2003. Named after India's sacred 'City of Lights,' Benares blends the vibrant spirit of traditional Indian cuisine with the finesse of modern British gastronomy, with a Michelin star to its name.

Each dish is a masterful expression of heritage and innovation, from bird seekh kebab and goat's milk paneer tikka with grape murabba, to mains like murg makhani, Welsh lamb and chickpea masala, and beetroot kofta korma - all accompanied by rice, dal tadka, bread, and vegetables of the day. Finish with exquisitely plated desserts such as rasmalai rose tres leches, tapioca with charentais melon, or the much-loved alphonso mango kulfi.

• Location: 35 Heddon Street, Soho, W1B 4BP
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Spanish, Basque Country 
• Why we recommend: this is one for an exuberant journey through Spain's regional flavours - under the stewardship of chef‑owner Nieves Barragán Mohacho, who earned Sabor its Michelin star in 2018 for delivering punchy, joyful cooking grounded in Andalucían tapas and Castilian and Galician asador traditions. Take a seat at the lively counter bar, and you'll perch inches from the chefs creating magic 

In the mood for some award-winning food? Located on Heddon Street in Mayfair, Sabor - the Michelin-starred creation of Nieves Barragán and José Etura - offers a journey through regional Spanish cuisine. Split across two floors, the ground level features a bar, counter seating, and an open kitchen, serving bold, flavourful dishes from Andalucía, Catalonia, and the Basque Country.

Upstairs at El Asador, a communal dining space centres around a traditional asador-fired oven, where signature plates like suckling pig and Galician seafood shine. From tapas and grilled meats to fresh seafood and killer desserts, Sabor celebrates the depth and diversity of Spanish cooking. The experience is rounded out with a bar pouring sherries, txakoli, and regional wines, plus an al fresco terrace for sunny days.

• Location: 15-17 Blandford Street, Marylebone, W1U 3DG
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: Indian 
• Why we recommend: we love the approachability of Trishna, which is why you should head here for a relaxed, fine dining experience. You'll find a Michelin-starred celebration of south‑west Indian coastal cuisine, with chef Karam Sethi (joined by head chef Rohit Ghai) serving natural seafood flavours elevated by precise spices and technique
  

Head down to Marylebone Village where you'll find Trishna, a pretty restaurant offering a refined take on contemporary coastal Indian cuisine, blending bold regional flavours with global flair.

Known for its relaxed, neighbourhood atmosphere and charming terrace on Blandford Street, as well as having a Michelin star to its name, it whips up dishes like Hyderabadi subz kofta, Dorset brown crab with curry leaf and coconut oil, and lobster cafreal with goan choris pulao - each expertly paired with wines from an extensive, globally-curated list that highlights boutique producers and emerging regions.

• Location: 30 Bruton Place, Mayfair, W1J 6NL
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: British 
• Why we recommend: we love The Guinea for its old-school charm and unbeatable steaks - it's a Mayfair institution where white tablecloths meet perfectly grilled British beef. Whether you're after a date night with Champagne or a Sunday roast with all the trimmings, this place never misses

A true Mayfair institution, The Guinea Grill has stood proudly on its historic site since 1423, with its iconic grill restaurant opening in 1952. Inside, original features, dark wood panelling, and a welcoming atmosphere create the feeling of a classic London club.

Famed for its dry-aged, grass-fed British beef, cooked over an open flame, the menu is a celebration of timeless British fare - from beef Wellington and devilled kidneys on toast, to the show-stopping chateaubriand and hearty Guinness and oyster pie. You can look forward to your meal being complemented by an expertly curated wine cellar by sommelier Vladimir, or perhaps you'll be more tempted by a classic Young's ale or pint of Guinness.

• Location: 3 Great Titchfield Street, Fitzrovia, W1W 8AX
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: West African 
• Why we recommend: Chishuru is warm, homely, and buzzing with Afrobeat and conversation. Joké's cooking is a bold reflection of her Nigerian Yoruba‑Igbo‑Hausa heritage. It's good value for money too for a Michelin-starred eatery, with the lunch menu coming in at £45 per person, and dinner for £105

Chishuru is a celebrated West African restaurant now located in the heart of Fitzrovia, London, following its acclaimed beginnings in Brixton. Led by Michelin-starred chef Adejoké 'Joké' Bakare -  the first Black female chef in the UK to receive the honour - it offers a bold, modern interpretation of traditional West African cuisine. Expect inventive dishes layered with flavour, such as cassava salad with plantain ash, rich pepper soup with torched mackerel, and slow-cooked hogget in a vibrant green pepper and irú stew.

The warmly lit, earthy interior and open kitchen create a relaxed, intimate atmosphere that complements the complex, beautifully presented tasting menu. Recently named 'Chef of the Year' at the 2024 National Restaurant Awards, Joké Bakare continues to push boundaries while staying rooted in heritage.

• Location: 16 Playground Gardens, Shoreditch, E2 7FA
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: British, modern European 
• Why we recommend: you'll feel just like home at Rochelle Canteen - there's something tremendously joyful and comforting about dining in a walled garden at a restaurant that truly does serve only the best of British produce. It's a humble yet magical eating experience, and you can tell that each detail is carefully considered, from the wine to the food 

Tucked behind a discreet gate in the heart of Shoreditch, Rochelle Canteen is a true East London treasure. Founded in 2004 by Margot Henderson and Melanie Arnold, this beloved eatery began with just a single communal table and a simple cash box. Today, it stands as a celebrated hub of British seasonal cooking, surrounded by a walled garden that offers a tranquil escape from the urban hustle.

Housed in a former school bike shed within the Rochelle School, the canteen has grown organically over the years, nurturing a talented roster of chefs, many of whom have gone on to open acclaimed kitchens of their own. The daily-changing menu highlights impeccable ingredients from some of the UK's most respected producers and importers, including Neal's Yard Dairy, Swaledale Farm, Brindisa, Keeling Andrew, and Fine Cider Co. Think chilled cucumber and kohlrabi soup, stuffed vine leaves with lamb, grilled lamb leg with beans and green sauce, or cod with courgettes and lentils.

• Location: 49-51 Curtain Road, Shoreditch, EC2A 3PT
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Italian 
• Why we recommend: "the nose-to-tail cooking approach adds heaps of flavour to dishes, especially the amazing beef ragu and deep-fried olives that I can't get enough of. David Carter and Chris Leach's Bib Gourmand-awarded restaurant is a staple among the East London dining scene, and it's fun to watch your food come to life in the open kitchen (a personal favourite is seeing metre-long trays of focaccia reoccurringly appear" - Kiera Chapman
  

One of the best Italian restaurants London has to offer, Manteca is a boundary-pushing Italian restaurant that brings together rustic tradition and contemporary edge. Co-founded by David Carter (of Smokestak) and Chris Leach (previously of Petersham Nurseries and Sager + Wilde), Manteca began life as a pop-up in Mayfair and swiftly earned a Bib Gourmand from the Michelin Guide.

Now settled in a permanent, stylishly pared-back space in East London, it offers a dynamic, ingredient-driven menu inspired by the team's travels across Italy. This is nose-to-tail cooking at its finest, where nothing is wasted. Expect house-made ricotta topped with chilli and fennel pollen, hand-rolled pastas like brown crab cacio e pepe or mafaldine with hogget ragù, and show-stopping fire-cooked meats to share, including whole wood-roasted fish and aged Dexter beef.

• Location: Soho, London Bridge, King's Cross, the City, Marylebone, Shoreditch and Battersea Power Station 
• Price: £
• Cuisine: Taiwanese 
• Why we recommend: "if the idea of a deep-fried bao bun filled with ice cream isn't enough to reel you in, then how about the promise of an affordable, delicious meal? This is what BAO does well all over London, and a few of its venues have the added charm of a karaoke bar too - perfect for something a little different with your friends" - Kiera Chapman

If you're looking to budget and therefore need some cheap best restaurants in London, BAO's scattering of outposts will do the trick, satisfying both your belly and your bank account. It's renowned for its iconic Taiwanese-style steamed buns, inventive small plates, and welcoming atmosphere. Since opening its first site in Fitzrovia, BAO has quickly expanded to multiple locations across London, including Shoreditch (as a noodle shop) and Soho.

Founded by restaurateur Joe Ng, it draws inspiration from the street food culture of Taiwan, combining traditional recipes with modern techniques. The star of the menu is, of course, the soft, pillowy bao bun, famously filled with tender pork belly, but also available with options like fried chicken, mushroom, and tofu, appealing to a wide range of tastes. Alongside the baos, you can wolf down shareable dishes such as fried chicken wings, pork dumplings, and seasonal vegetable sides.

• Location: 24 Clerkenwell Green, Farringdon, EC1R 0NA
• Price: ££ 
• Cuisine: modern European 
• Why we recommend: this restaurant is more than a place to dine on moreish seasonal plates among a rotating, curated selection of artworks. It doubles up as an event space, wedding destination and utterly gorgeous first date spot if we say so ourselves. Gaze into each other's eyes, surrounded by textured pastel green and pink walls, stunning light fixtures and cascading staircases and pretend you're in a regency drama 

Hidden behind a discreet red door in Clerkenwell's iconic Old Sessions House is one of the best restaurants in Farringdon, London. Set within a beautifully restored 18th-century Grade II-listed courthouse, Sessions Arts Club mesmerises with soaring ceilings, faded jade walls, crumbling pink plaster, and arched windows that flood the room with natural light by day and cast an intimate glow by night.

Under the expert leadership of chef Abigail Hill, who took the reins in 2023, Sessions Arts Club serves a thoughtful, seasonal European-inspired menu that is as refined as its surroundings. Each dish - from delicate scallop with kumquat and chilli to rich pork with apple, celeriac, and mustard - celebrates the finest ingredients with deceptively simple yet deeply satisfying flavours. The venue also regularly hosts art installations, live performances, and intimate gatherings that spark creativity and connection. 

• Location: 115 Chancery Lane, Holborn, WC2A 1PP
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: French
• Why we recommend: we love the gorgeous interiors here, thanks to the restaurant being housed in a former auction house and Chef Julien Carlon does a briliant job of whipping up tempting, traditional French plates

Nestled in a beautifully restored former auction house on London's historic Chancery Lane, Cigalon offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience inspired by the sun-soaked flavours of Provence and the Mediterranean coastline. Led by chef Julien Carlon, the kitchen crafts elegant, highly seasonal dishes using produce sourced from independent growers and trusted producers.

The à la carte menu, which changes monthly, showcases the very best of land and sea - from delicate salads and small sharing plates to expertly grilled meats and line-caught fish, all prepared over a wood-fired Josper grill. Signature dishes have included grilled stone bass with braised fennel and bouillabaisse jus, cuttlefish and squid ink risotto, and baked aubergine with goat's cheese and rocket.

• Location: 300-302 St Paul's Road, Islington, N1 2LH
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: Italian 
• Why we recommend: "A few years ago, Padella made waves by bringing affordable, handmade pasta dishes to the city (on a walk-in only premise that caused queues round the block). But before Padella, there was Trullo, which opened 6 years prior in Highbury by the same owners. I love the laid-back, white tablecloth aesthetic and the friendly, laid-back atmosphere that would make it ideal for pretty much any occasion (on my instance, a birthday dinner with the girls), as well as their regularly changing menus of comforting Italian dishes. I highly recommend sharing a few plates of their expertly created pasta (you can't go wrong with the pappardelle beef shin ragu) – it's also worth mentioning they have an extensive wine list organised by Italian regions" - Jasmine Lee Kennedy

One of London's best restaurants, Trullo has become a cornerstone of Islington's food scene. Since opening its doors in 2010, the restaurant has built a devoted following for its rustic Italian cooking. The atmosphere is effortlessly warm and welcoming, with a split-level layout, wooden floors, and an open kitchen that adds energy and intimacy to the space. Under the guidance of chef Tim Siadatan, a founding alumnus of The River Café and St. John, it brings together classical technique and Italian soul in every plate.

The daily changing menu is rooted in tradition but shaped by seasonality. Expect handmade pasta like pappardelle with beef shin ragù and fettuccine with fennel sausage, alongside dishes from the charcoal grill such as roast Anjou pigeon or the show-stopping 40-day-aged Hereford T-bone for two. With the menu updated twice daily, there's always something new to discover.

• Location: 275 High Road, Tottenham, N15 4AJ
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Nigerian 
• Why we recommend: not only does this spot do one of the best brunches around, but it's also a great place to devour Nigerian tapas. A colourful, family-run restaurant with a cosy feel, Chuku's is one of our favourites - we love how a homely vibe is translated through its food

Chuku's is one of the capital's best-kept secrets - a hidden gem in the form of the world's first Nigerian tapas restaurant, born from brother-sister duo Emeka and Ifeyinwa Frederick's creative minds. Step foot through its glass doors and enter a contemporary coral-coloured space, inspired by adobe clay, decked out in vibrant artwork alongside minimalist light fixtures.

As soon as you get your chops around the jollof rice, honey suya prawns and plantain waffles, you'll soon see why it's one of the best eateries our city has to offer. And if that doesn't seal the deal? Have a pint of Nigerian Guinness. 

• Location: 26 St John Street, Clerkenwell, EC1M 4AY
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: British 
• Why we recommend: a favourite of the late Anthony Bourdain, St. JOHN is the focal point of nose-to-tail cooking using British ingredients, and looking at the menu, we must stress that this is not one for vegetarians and vegans. You can find everything here from cheeks to hearts of the animal, all lovingly prepared, cooked and served in its flagship Clerkenwell restaurant

Since opening its doors in 1994 near Smithfield Market, St. JOHN has become a global beacon of the nose-to-tail movement. Founded by Fergus Henderson and wine expert Trevor Gulliver, it championed the use of every part of the animal long before it was fashionable, reshaping modern British cuisine with boldness, honesty, and integrity.

At its original Smithfield location, the restaurant continues to serve deeply comforting and often daring dishes that have earned it a cult following, including the late Anthony Bourdain, who famously called it one of his favourite places to eat. Signature plates include crispy pig's cheek, grilled lamb heart, and the iconic roast bone marrow with parsley salad, a dish that defines the St. JOHN ethos: simple, striking, and unforgettable. Desserts are just as nostalgic and deeply satisfying - bread and butter pudding in butterscotch sauce is a must.

• Location: Stoke Newington Road, Dalston, N16 7XN
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Turkish 
• Why we recommend: chef Sertaç Dirik has transformed the family-run Ocakbasi into a modern culinary destination. After taking over the restaurant in 2021, Sertaç introduced innovative dishes such as mackerel with grilled peaches, lamb köfte with schmaltz, and börek filled with beyaz peynir and fermented wild garlic, earning widespread acclaim, and we simply can't get enough 

Sometimes the best places to eat in London aren't always the most expensive: case in point, the fabulous Mangal II on Stoke Newington Road. Inside, it offers a bright, airy interior adorned with authentic Turkish art, crisp white walls, and deep blue detailing. Founded by Ali Dirik after moving from Istanbul to London in 1987, the restaurant is the evolution of a legacy that began with the original Mangal Ocakbaşı in Dalston. Today, it's run by his sons, Ferhat and Sertaç Dirik, who have redefined the space as a modern-day Turkish institution.

The menu honours its Anatolian roots while embracing the diversity and creativity of London's food scene. Dishes are made with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from UK-based suppliers, resulting in plates that are both comforting and contemporary. Standouts include börek with beyaz peynir, fermented parsley and courgette, and lamb loin with rump beyti and grilled sivri biber. 

• Location: London Bridge and Shoreditch 
• Price: £
• Cuisine: Italian 
• Why we recommend: "it's rare to find such affordable pasta that doesn't compromise on quality - it's almost impossible to just visit here once. We also love the relaxed nature of the restaurant; the fact that you can almost always grab a walk-in table makes this place a perfect choice for a spontaneous day out that doesn't have to revolve around a restaurant booking" - Scarlett Welch 

Since opening its doors in 2016 at Borough Market, Padella has become a pilgrimage site for pasta lovers across London. Founded by Jordan Frieda and Tim Siadatan - the duo behind acclaimed Italian restaurant Trullo in Islington - the Bib Gourmand-awarded Padella is their more laid-back, fast-paced counterpart, offering freshly made pasta at exceptional value, with dishes priced between £9.50 and £16.50.

At the original Borough Market location, it's walk-in only, and yes - the queue is real. But the reward? Perfectly al dente pasta, silky sauces, and bold flavours, all served in a buzzing, open-kitchen setting. The 2020 Shoreditch outpost, while accepting bookings, still draws eager diners lining up for a taste of what many consider one of the best affordable restaurants London has to offer. Tuck into the iconic pappardelle with slow-cooked Dexter beef shin ragù, rich and decadent after eight hours of cooking, or the bright, aromatic fettuccine with pistachio, mint and basil pesto - both of which are DesignMyNight favourites. 

• Location: 158 Sandringham Road, Clapton, E8 2HS
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: international 
• Why we recommend: since opening in 2019, Casa Fofò has garnered acclaim for its ever-evolving six-course menus that blend European and Asian influences, all within a cosy, minimalist setting. We'd thoroughly recommend visiting to try the affordable, globally inspired tasting menus crafted by chef-owner Adolfo De Cecco, on more than one occasion, as they're always changing with the seasons

Just off Dalston High Road, Casa Fofo is a quietly brilliant neighbourhood gem. Helmed by chef Adolfo De Cecco, this Michelin-starred spot forgoes the traditional à la carte menu in favour of a seasonal, ever-evolving tasting menu that puts full trust in the kitchen.

Inside, the vibe is warm and understated, with a cosy dining room and an open kitchen where chefs prepare each course with visible precision and passion. With no printed menu, you're taken on a thoughtful journey of flavour that blends European technique with global influences - think fermentation, pickling, and elegant butchery all at play. A typical dinner might include dishes like crab with nori and daikon, pollock with bergamot and chanterelles, or ex-dairy cow with sourdough miso and frigitelli - all elevated with inventive flourishes and a keen sense of balance. At £73 for the full tasting and £54 for a considered wine pairing, Casa Fofo delivers high-concept dining at an accessible price.

• Location: 10 Argyle Street, King's Cross, WC1H 8EG
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: Spanish, Mexican 
• Why we recommend: "not only does the red pod-style lift experience make you feel like you're going to an exclusive club, but Decimo's interiors impress too. Peter Sanchez-Iglesias's restaurant sports cool cacti, deep red furnishings, and beaded curtains. Meaty tacos are a main part of the menu, but you'll also be pleased to find tender cuts of steak and some chunky patatas bravas. Keep an eye out for their chef collaborations and super clubs too" - Kiera Chapman 

Decimo is a vibrant, trendy hotspot where Mexican culture meets Spanish heritage under the expert guidance of chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias. This intimate and stylish restaurant is the perfect setting for date nights or lively gatherings, with deep red interiors, elegant tiled walls, unique sculptures, and lush greenery.

Arrive hungry and start with crowd-pleasers like manzanilla olives, manchego nachos, or hamachi ceviche, and dive into hearty mains such as lamb chop birria, Iberico pork chop, or the delicate black cod wrapped in banana leaf. For something lighter, the grezzina courgette with lime or burnt leek with romesco make perfect accompaniments. Don't miss the inventive tacos, such as suckling pig carnitas or Baja Newlyn cod, or unique ceviches like tuna with yuzu and octopus with salsa macha.

• Location: 9 Seymour Street, Marylebone, W1H 7BA
• Price: ££££
• Cuisine: Mexican 
• Why we recommend: "as soon as you arrive, the Michelin-starred KOL feels like a very special experience as you're greeted with such warm hospitality and led into a striking sunset orange-coloured dining room decorated with clay pots and plants. The menu is a fascinating journey where each dish's story is explained, and you're able to really get a feel for how the British ingredients translate in Santiago Lastra's clever cooking. He never steers too far from his roots and dares you to try something new" - Kiera Chapman 

It's funny how you can go from refurbishing your kitchen in a rented flat to being head chef of a Michelin-starred restaurant, which is something co-owner Santiago Lastra experienced on his trajectory to Mexican restaurant dominance in London. Located on Seymour Street, his eatery KOL offers a cutting-edge take on Mexican cuisine, brilliantly reimagined through the lens of British ingredients - especially humble, 'low-end' staples like cabbage (kol in Spanish).

The stylish, urban space features exposed stone walls, rustic clay pots, and lush greenery surrounding an open kitchen where the magic happens. As for dinner? Expect flavours from regions like Yucatán, Baja California, and Oaxaca in the form of adventurous plates such as tacos topped with langoustines and smoked chilli, scallop ceviche with hints of pear, and other creative dishes showcasing local and native ingredients.

• Location: 380 Old Street, Shoreditch, EC1V 9LT
• Price: ££££
• Cuisine: British 
• Why we recommend: striking from the get-go thanks to being housed in the grand-looking old Shoreditch Town Hall, The Clove Club is a must-visit on our list of London restaurants. Chef-owner Isaac McHale, who brings a wealth of experience from esteemed establishments such as Noma and The Ledbury, whips up refined tasting menus that have earned him two Michelin stars here

Located in the elegant surrounds of the old Shoreditch Town Hall, The Clove Club is one of the capital's most acclaimed restaurants, renowned for its innovative tasting menus, thoughtful sourcing, and cool, understated charm. Since opening in 2013, it's earned two Michelin stars and consistently ranks among the World's 50 Best Restaurants, thanks to the vision of chef Isaac McHale and his team.

The Clove Club offers a modern take on British cuisine, using seasonal UK produce to craft dishes that are precise yet playful. Diners can expect refined tasting menus that may include highlights like raw Orkney scallop with hazelnut and clementine, Aylesbury duck with lavender, or Cornish lobster with cultured cream, each plate reflecting McHale's signature balance of elegance and inventiveness.

• Location: 3-5 Great Scotland Yard, Westminster, SW1A 2HN
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: Nordic 
• Why we recommend: "for a taste of foraged ingredients and compostable coffee (you read that right), this restaurant is the perfect starting point. The interactive element to it, where diners are led into the kitchen to watch their butter-drenched oysters being created as well as eat them, is a fun touch, and the presentation of plates is always on point" - Kiera Chapman 

If a fancy meal where ingredients have been foraged sounds up your street, then you'll love this pick. Located inside the historic Great Scotland Yard Hotel, Ekstedt at The Yard brings the drama and depth of open-fire cooking to the heart of Westminster. It marks the first London outpost of renowned Swedish chef Niklas Ekstedt, where gas and electricity are swapped for flames, embers, and smoke in a theatrical take on Nordic-inspired cuisine.

In the open kitchen - a striking centrepiece - you'll find a fire pit, wood-fired oven, and traditional stove working in harmony to create dishes that are as visually stunning as they are flavourful. The menu celebrates bold, elemental cooking using seasonal British ingredients, with signature dishes such as oyster flambadou with smoked apple and beurre blanc, ember-baked leeks with charcoal cream, and reindeer with smoked celeriac and black pudding.

• Location: 98 White Post Lane, Hackney Wick, E9 5EN
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: British
• Why we recommend: "I can't recommend Barge East enough – it truly celebrates sustainable cooking, serving gorgeous, seasonally changing dishes (don't sleep on the Sunday roasts, my favourite in London), often using produce from their own garden, in a unique boat-turned-restaurant setting. Service is warm and friendly, with a great knowledge around wines too, and you don't often have the chance to dine on a 125-year-old Dutch barge" - Jasmine Lee Kennedy

Moored on the River Lee in the heart of Hackney Wick, Barge East is one of London's most unique dining destinations - an award-winning floating restaurant aboard a 125-year-old Dutch barge, combining seasonal, sustainably sourced cuisine with a one-of-a-kind waterside setting.

Led by Executive Chef Gavin Gordon, the restaurant's à la carte menu, super sustainable specials, and a standout Sunday roast menu celebrate the very best of British produce, with ingredients grown in Barge East's very own on-site gardens and sourced from trusted local suppliers. Head to the lower deck to check out the open kitchen, or the upper deck: a heated, semi-covered terrace with 360° views of the river and London's skyline - ideal for al fresco dining year-round.

• Location: Hamilton Place, Mayfair, W1J 7DR
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: French 
• Why we recommend: "I love the intimate nature that comes with watching your dishes be made right in front of your eyes and interacting with the chefs, and this was a well-oiled operation that was impressive to behold, with whisks going at ferocious speeds and obedient "yes chefs" calling out in the background. The restaurant itself was utterly gorgeous, with soft, natural but undeniably upmarket decor, mixing visual textures throughout - a striped carpet somehow harmoniously paired with a marble-style wall and partitions made of bronze beads" - Jasmine Lee Kennedy

Pavyllon London is the first UK restaurant from Yannick Alléno, one of the most celebrated chefs in the world. Set within the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane, and earning a Michelin star within its first year, it brings Alléno's signature reimagining of modern French cuisine to Mayfair in a setting that blends elegance with intimacy.

Look forward to being seated along a sleek, velvet-lined counter that wraps around an open kitchen, offering a front-row view of the culinary artistry at work, and tuck into decadent dishes such as whole Dover sole with meunière sauce, seared monkfish tail with black pepper oil, and beef fillet with crispy potato strings.

• Location: 193-197 High Holborn, WC1V 7BD
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Indian
• Why we recommend: "what greets you inside is a canopy of glistening chandeliers, emitting a gorgeous golden glow, against a backdrop of fine art and colourful plates. It's also a homage from the owner, Roop Partap, to his parents - Indian Army officer Manbeer (the eponymous Colonel Saab) and his wife, Binny. As someone who adores shiny things, this 100% sings to me" - Lisa Moore

One spot that's scoring tens across the board is Holborn's Colonel Saab (which also has a sister site in Trafalgar Square's Colonel Saab). Housed in the grand Holborn Town Hall, just minutes from Covent Garden and Holborn Tube, the restaurant is filled with royal antiques and artefacts once owned by Maharajas.

The menu, curated by celebrated food author Karen Anand, features a mix of street food favourites and regional specialities, like huge crisp dosas, tangy chaats, and traditional lunch tiffins, alongside hearty, signature dishes such as slow-cooked lamb shanks, rich butter chicken, and the indulgent Delhi-style butter paneer. Perfect for everything from leisurely dinners to after-work drinks, Colonel Saab also boasts a stylish cocktail bar featuring bespoke creations by award-winning mixologist Anthony Bertin. 

• Location: 30 Wandsworth Road, Vauxhall, SW8 2LG
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: British  
• Why we recommend: we're big fans of Brunswick House, as it's not every day you get to enjoy seasonal British plates in a chandelier-filled Georgian mansion. The antique-filled dining room feels like a secret escape in the middle of Vauxhall, and the food is just as memorable as the setting. It's ideal for a long lunch or an intimate dinner in a very romantic setting

Oozing timeless elegance, Brunswick House is a magnificent 18th-century Grade II-listed Georgian mansion dating back to 1758. Nestled in London, this architectural gem, owned by antiques specialists Lassco, is renowned as one of the city's most prestigious and unique private event spaces.

Inside, each room is thoughtfully curated with exquisite antiques, creating an atmosphere rich in history and character. The award-winning team behind the produce-led restaurant at Brunswick House, brothers Jackson and Frank Boxer, bring culinary excellence and bespoke hospitality to every event. Food-wise, you can expect both a la carte and set menus featuring tempting British plates such as chalk stream trout crudo with green apple and sorrel, Tamworth pork chop with English cherry and mint, and so much more. 

• Location: National Theatre, South Bank, SE1 9PX
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: 'Italian-ish'
• Why we recommend: "with a popular outpost in Peckham too, Forza Wine's Waterloo location offers the same sharing plate ethos but this time with great views of the Thames and South Bank on its terrace. It's easy to get carried away here, munching on light fritters and washing each bite down with a crisp glass of white wine" - Kiera Chapman
  

Ideal for group dinners when you're all just looking to nibble, Forza Wine offers a lively spot for cocktails, natural wines, and a seasonal Italian-inspired sharing menu, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Thames.

Start your visit with inventive cocktails or timeless classics, paired perfectly with cult favourites like the crispy cauliflower fritti. The ever-evolving menu features everything from fresh salads and dips to hearty fish and steak dishes, designed for sharing around the table. Finish on a sweet note with Forza Wine's signature soft serve or the indulgent Custardo® - a unique twist on the classic affogato. 

• Location: Hackney, Soho and the City 
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Japanese 
• Why we recommend: "Koya delivers on thick, authentic udon for an affordable price, and offers a casual dining experience for all, especially at its Soho outpost, where you can sit counterside and watch the noodle-making magic happen. Co-founder Shuko Oda takes her broths seriously here, each as rich and tempting as the next, and there are some fun twists on classics too, such as an English breakfast udon bowl. My personal favourite is the mushroom miso" - Kiera Chapman
  

Wondering where to eat in London? Koya is the go-to spot for authentic Japanese udon since 2010. With three locations across the capital - Soho and the City and Hackney - Koya serves up signature udon bowls, donburi, and small plates crafted by head chef Shuko. The vibe is simple and understated, with minimal interiors and an open kitchen where you can watch your noodles come to life.

The menu ranges from breakfast udon bowls like the 'English Breakfast' with egg, bacon, and shiitake, to rich Atsu-Atsu hot broths featuring prawn tempura, pork miso, or mushroom with walnut miso. For something lighter, cold udon dishes and small plates such as poached egg in chilled fish dashi, braised pork belly with cider, and marinated fried chicken with pickles round out the offerings.

• Location: 26-29 Dean Street, Soho, W1D 3LL
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: modern British 
• Why we recommend: expect to be charmed by Quo Vadis, a Soho institution that blends historic character with some of the most comforting, clever cooking in the city. Chef Jeremy Lee's menu is full of personality, from the legendary smoked eel sandwich to seasonal plates that feel both nostalgic and fresh. It's the kind of place we return to again and again, whether for a long lunch or a pre-theatre bite
  

Located in the heart of Soho on Dean Street, Quo Vadis has been a celebrated London restaurant since it opened in 1926. Owned by renowned restaurateur Jeremy King and chef-patron Jeremy Lee, it combines historic charm with modern culinary excellence. 

Lee leads the kitchen with a commitment to seasonal British ingredients prepared with care, skill, and subtle innovation. The menu is a thoughtful mix of contemporary British and European dishes, constantly evolving to highlight the freshest produce. Signature dishes have included classics such as roast guinea fowl with morel mushrooms and madeira jus, and dry-aged ribeye steak with béarnaise sauce.

• Location: 199 Tooley Street, London Bridge, SE1 2JX
• Price: ££££
• Cuisine: British 
• Why we recommend: Restaurant Story is one of those places that genuinely lives up to the hype; every dish feels like a chapter in a beautifully told tale. We love how chef Tom Sellers blends storytelling with fine dining, creating a tasting menu that's as playful as it is precise. It's a must for anyone looking to experience British ingredients in a completely new light

The two-Michelin-starred Restaurant Story is led by chef patron Tom Sellers, whose impressive pedigree includes training at renowned establishments such as Restaurant Tom Aikens, Noma, and Per Se. Sellers' cooking is a personal expression that celebrates seasonal British ingredients through innovative and evolving dishes. Choose between a nine-course tasting menu for dinner or a five-course lunch menu, both carefully crafted to highlight the best of the local produce.

Signature dishes like English pea custard with N25 caviar and charred spring onion showcase the kitchen's finesse, while hearty plates such as Herdwick lamb paired with Wye Valley asparagus and wild garlic reflect a deep connection to British terroir. The meal often concludes with a delicate dessert featuring English strawberries, perfectly encapsulating the season's freshness.

• Location: 21 Newington Green, Stoke Newington, N16 9PU
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: modern European, Italian 
• Why we recommend: "I love Jolene for various reasons: it's pretty rustic, which gives it a fun charm, especially when you make a reservation and find your name scrawled in chalk at your table. The food tastes fresh too - seasonal ingredients are used well, and this has been one of the only places where I've actually wanted more of a burrata dish" - Kiera Chapman
  

Jolene has captured the hearts of many celebrities - both Harry Styles and Paul Mescal have been seen here, and it's easy to see why as it's a gorgeous, patel coloured eatery perched on Newington Green. Combining a bakery, restaurant, and natural wine bar, it's the creation of Jeremie Cometto-Lingenheim and David Gingell - renowned for their work with Westerns Laundry and Primeur - alongside farmer Andy Cato, who sources their grains from Sussex and Norfolk farms.

By day, Jolene serves a daily changing menu featuring fresh pasta, wholesome stews, and nourishing salads crafted from ethically sourced ingredients. From Thursday to Sunday evenings, the atmosphere shifts as the lights dim and a simple yet refined dinner menu takes centre stage. You can expect dishes such as ethically sourced fish, hand-stuffed fresh pasta, and generous t-bone steaks. To finish, desserts like rich tarts, cheeses, and comforting bread and butter pudding offer the perfect sweet note.

• Location: 115 Hemingford Road, Islington, N1 1BZ
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Indian 
• Why we recommend: The Tamil Prince is the kind of place that turns a casual dinner into a full-blown flavour fest. Housed in a beautifully restored pub, this Islington gem serves up South Indian-inspired dishes that are seriously addictive. From the masala prawns to the lamb chops, everything here is made to share, though you might not want to

The Tamil Prince is a South Indian gastropub in the heart of Islington, located inside a beautifully restored Victorian building. The space features dark wood panelling, brass fixtures, and vintage Indian glassware, creating a warm, communal setting that buzzes with the energy of an open kitchen.

Running the kitchen is chef Prince Durairaj, who draws from his roots in Tamil Nadu and his time at London's beloved Roti King to craft a menu that is both comforting and exciting. Co-founded with Glen Leeson - formerly of JKS Restaurants, the group behind Gymkhana and Trishna - the gastropub builds on the duo's earlier success with their Tamila street food concept. The menu highlights South Indian favourites with a refined gastropub spin, featuring must-try dishes such as tandoori masala lamb chops, crispy okra fries, paneer butter masala, and velvety dhal makhani. Fluffy naan and buttery rotis round out the offering, with thoughtful pairings of craft beers, cocktails, and natural wines

• Location: 16a St Anne's Court, Soho, W1F 0BF
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: international, farm-to-fork
• Why we recommend: Aulis is one of our favourite spots for a truly intimate and immersive dining experience - with just a handful of seats, it feels like you're part of the kitchen. Chef Simon Rogan's tasting menu is a masterclass in innovation, showcasing British ingredients with precision and flair

Tucked away on St Anne's Court in Soho, Aulis is the intimate, twelve-seater Michelin-starred restaurant from acclaimed chef Simon Rogan. Designed as a chef's table concept, Aulis delivers an interactive fine dining experience where you're seated around a single curved counter, allowing for close-up views of each dish being crafted and introduced by the chefs themselves. The space is sleek and minimal - dark wood, cool tiles, and low lighting set the tone for a focused yet welcoming atmosphere. 

At the culinary helm are executive chef Oli Marlow and head chef Charlie Taylor, who bring Rogan's 'farm-to-fork' philosophy to life using seasonal ingredients sourced directly from 'Our Farm' in the Lake District. The £195 tasting menu is constantly evolving, but previous highlights have included truffle pudding caramelised in birch syrup, seaweed custard with crispy tendons, and braised pork belly served with preserved beans, aerated black garlic, and a lamb fat crumb.

• Location: 28 Rupert Street, Soho, W1D 6DJ
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: modern European 
• Why we recommend: Evelyn's Table is one of those rare spots that feels like a true hidden gem. Tucked beneath a Soho pub, it's intimate, atmospheric, and full of culinary surprises. We love how the chefs blend British ingredients with European and Japanese influences, creating a tasting menu that's both refined and deeply personal

Hidden beneath The Blue Posts pub on Rupert Street in Soho, Evelyn's Table is a Michelin-starred gem. With just twelve counter seats and two sittings each evening, this subterranean space blurs the lines between kitchen and dining room, inviting you into a close-up culinary performance. At the helm is head chef Seamus Sam, whose pedigree includes Restaurant Story, The Clove Club and Muse by Tom Aikens, bringing his meticulous yet emotive approach to seasonal British produce with global inflexions.

The tasting menus change frequently but are always composed with precision and flair. The standard five-course evening menu is priced at £135 per person, while a dedicated vegan alternative is offered at £90. On Saturdays, a more compact four-course lunch menu is available for £95 (£75 for the vegan version), making it an ideal entry point into the Evelyn's Table experience. 

• Location: 64 Shoreditch High Street, Shoreditch, E1 6JJ
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Thai 
• Why we recommend: "an undeniably cool spot in the heart of Shoreditch, Smoking Goat is my go-to for vibrant Thai dishes that expand your flavour horizons. The menus often change, but if the fried chicken or one of their curries is on the list, they're non-negotiables. And though you may need to queue a little for your table, I assure you it's well worth the wait – if you can nab a counter seat, even better" - Jasmine Lee Kennedy

Smoking Goat, the cult Thai-inspired eatery, can often be found with queues out the door on the corner of Shoreditch High Street. You can expect a buzzing, canteen-style dining room that channels the energy of Thailand's open-air food halls while offering a distinctly London edge. 

The menu is rooted in the smoky, fiery flavours of Thai barbecue, with dishes that celebrate both traditional technique and responsibly sourced British ingredients. The kitchen team works closely with Cornish farmers to grow ingredients like lemongrass and kaffir lime, and sources fish directly from local boats to ensure peak freshness. Expect punchy, umami-rich plates like smoked brisket laab, tamarind chicken wings, chilli fish sauce wings, and whole grilled mackerel, all built for sharing and best paired with cold beers or natural wines.

• Location: 27 Uxbridge Street, Notting Hill, W8 7TQ
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Palestinian 
• Why we recommend: "Akub completely redefines what you think you know about Palestinian food - and I'm here for it. Tucked away in Notting Hill, it's stylish yet warm, with a menu that celebrates brilliant flavours, seasonal ingredients, and serious attention to detail. I particulary adore the use of foliage inside and skylight that opens up the flrst floor of the restaurant to make you feel as though you're dining in a secret garden. My favourite dishes have to be the bukjet mousakhan and the airy hilbeh baba for dessert" -  Kiera Chapman
  

Notting Hill is fast becoming a rival to Hackney on London's food scene, with its exceptional range of places to eat, and this one is no exception. Akub is a modern Palestinian restaurant that invites you to experience the warmth of Levantine hospitality through seasonal British ingredients and time-honoured culinary traditions. Founded by renowned chef Fadi Kattan and entrepreneur Rasha Khouri, the name Akub - a seasonal flowering thistle - reflects the resilience and essence of Palestinian terroir, from the coastal herbs to the figs and olives of the Mediterranean hills.

At the heart of the natural-lit space is the tawla - a communal table that encourages guests to share a generous spread of small plates, just as families do across the Levant. Chef Fadi reimagines beloved Palestinian dishes with a contemporary flair, using the finest locally sourced British produce. Expect memorable dishes like Arak-cured monkfish, Labaneh balls rolled in za'atar and Aleppo pepper, bukjet mousakhan, and short rib fatteh.

• Location: 60 Berwick Street, Soho, W1F 8SX
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Spanish, Italian
• Why we recommend: part of the Salt Yard group, Ember Yard offers delicious wood-fired cooking ideal for sharing in groups. We love a Sunday roast here, but the sharing menus, starting from £55, are where it's at, especially if you're looking to try a bit of everything 

Ember Yard is a charismatic tapas restaurant in the heart of Soho, where the bold, smoky flavours of Spanish and Italian wood-fired cooking come to life. Executive Chef Lukasz Kielbasinski crafts exceptional small and large sharing plates using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, such as jamón and manchego croquetas, Josper-grilled Iberico presa, and prawns pil pil in harissa oil. 

Spread over two floors, it offers a buzzing restaurant space upstairs and The Ember Bar below - an intimate, stylish setting for cocktails and small plates. It's perfect for a quick bite to eat or exploring a full tasting menu for £52.50 per person, as well as sipping on signature cocktails post-dinner.

• Location: 78 Lower Clapton Road, E5 0RN
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Malaysian 
• Why we recommend: Mambow is one of the few places in London serving Malaysian food that's both deeply authentic and seriously fun. Chef Abby Lee's menu is bold, fiery, and full of personality, with dishes that change regularly but always pack a punch. Add in the buzzy vibe, natural wines, and a terrace that's perfect for long evenings, and you've got a great Clapton spot that's bound to become a regular 

Mambow in Clapton is one of London's most exciting modern Malaysian restaurants, helmed by chef Abby Lee and co-owner Vanessa Fernandes. Inside, it keeps things casual and buzzy, with counter seating, a semi-covered terrace, and a playlist that matches the food's punch. Abby's cooking is deeply personal, drawing on her family's recipes and her time spent training in Singapore and Malaysia.

The restaurant has earned a Bib Gourmand from the Michelin Guide 2025 for its bold food. The menu is a rotating celebration of Malaysian street food and heritage recipes, with standout items like otak-otak prawn toast, pork belly-stuffed squid, and a great selection of kerabu (herbaceous, spicy salads). The '100+ Sour' cocktail has become a bit of a cult favourite, kicking off meals with a zing.

• Location: 11b Woodfield Road, W9 2BA
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: modern European 
• Why we recommend: "I had a great time tucking into mussels on foccacia by the water at Canal in Notting Hill. The venue nails that sweet spot between design-led dining and laid-back charm. With its Brutalist-chic interiors, open kitchen, and a terrace that spills out onto the Grand Union Canal, it's the kind of place I'd have no trouble spending an evening, making the most of a top-tier cocktail menu curated by the team behind Bar With Shapes For A Name" - Kiera Chapman

Tucked inside the design-forward Mason & Fifth hotel in Westbourne Park, Canal is a sleek addition to Notting Hill's dining scene, blending Brutalist interiors with a laid-back Mediterranean vibe. The restaurant is the latest project from the team behind Crispin and Bistro Freddie, with chef Adrian Hernandez Farina leading the kitchen.

Expect a menu of ingredient-led, modern European sharing plates, such as squid ink tagliolini, and cheeseburgers for the table, all served in a space that's all concrete curves, chrome finishes, and a south-facing terrace right on the Grand Union Canal. Drinks are just as considered, with a cocktail list curated by Haggerston's cult bar A Bar with Shapes for a Name. Highlights include the brown butter old fashioned and the Manhattan oil negroni, alongside a strong lineup of natural wines and spirit-free options.

• Location: 35-37 Greenhill Rents, Farringdon, EC1M 6BN
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: traditional Tuscan, Italian 
• Why we recommend: "I booked Brutto for five of my girlfriends and I, and we couldn't have had a better experience. Not only did the dripping candles, checkered table cloths and duck egg blue cloured walls make for some fabulous, very aesthetic Instagram stories, but the food also had the excellence to match. I felt as though I was dining in the heart of Tuscany, slurping up strands of silky asparagus and egg yolk pasta. It's a truly terrific Italian restaurant that's loud, buzzing and just what London needs" - Kiera Chapman

As soon as you enter the Bib Gourmand-awarded Brutto, you're instantly transported to a rustic Florentine trattoria, where red-and-white gingham tablecloths, vintage wall art, and the gentle spin of ceiling fans set the scene for a lively, no-frills Italian dining experience. Founded by the late Russell Norman, the visionary behind Polpo, Brutto celebrates the soul of Tuscany with every detail, and is one of the top places to eat in London.

The menu champions simple, authentic Tuscan classics. Look forward to slicing your knife and fork through delicate pork and fennel sausages, rich tagliatelle ragù, and the beloved dough ball 'cuddles' with soft cheese and prosciutto. Don't skip the tiramisu - a boozy, light, and deeply satisfying finale. Drinks match the value, with house wine and negronis for just £5.

• Location: 10 Stoney Street, London Bridge, SE1 9AD
• Price: ££/£££
• Cuisine: Sri Lankan 
• Why we recommend: "as soon as you enter Rambutan, you feel the heat from the open kitchen hit your face and you're immediately transported into the restaurants lively world of open fire cooking and moreish Sri Lankan sharing plates. I loved the interiors, particularly the soft, orb pendants that dangled softly above the bar and the low lighting made for a perfect date experience. The food packed a welcome spicy punch, and the saffron chicken with pongal rice was a firm favourite. I scaped that silver bowl clean, mopping up all deliciously creamy evidence of it ever being there with a flaky, buttery roti - sublime"  - Kiera Chapman

Tucked inside Borough Market, Rambutan is founder chef Cynthia Shanmugalingam's love letter to her Sri Lankan roots. British-Tamil by heritage and fearless in her approach, Cynthia has carved out a restaurant that's as fiery and soulful as the dishes she grew up with. On the menu? Think curries licked by flames, sambols that tingle with citrus and spice, and rotis so flaky you'll want to tear them apart by hand. 

The drinks play in the same bold register, with tropical twists like coconut gimlets and the house signature, the Frozen Rambutang (a take on a margarita). The restaurant itself hums with energy: an upstairs open kitchen that draws you into the action, and a downstairs cocktail bar where the night can easily unravel into something more.

• Location: Level 1, Fulham Pier, Stevenage Road, SW6 6HH
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: modern British 
• Why we recommend: "adjacent to Fulham Football ground, Brasserie Constance has the chance to be surrounded by the hustle and bustle of it all, but instead oozes a serenity thanks to its subtle floral interiors and sprawling views of the Thames. The food is plated pristinely, with the roasted scallop being a real highlight - the addition of pickled grapes carried the saltiness, and there was a hint of smokiness. The baked Alaska is not to be missed, though I'd advise sharing" - Kiera Chapman
  

Nestled in the heart of Fulham, Brasserie Constance is a neighbourhood restaurant. Curated by Michelin-starred chef Adam Byatt and brought to life by head chef Charlie, the menu champions seasonal British produce with French brasserie elegance.

Sleek yet welcoming, the brasserie brings a touch of Parisian elegance to West London with its refined seasonal menus, polished service, and an atmosphere that balances sophistication with warmth. On the menu, you can look forward to beef and tomato tartare with smoked bone marrow to start, followed by clay pot chicken with barley and beer, or a Jerusalem artichoke tart with apple and hazelnuts. The star of the show is the baked Alaska, served from a trolley with a selection of chocolate, chantilly and more.

• Location: 25 Heddon Street, W1B 4BH
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: Indian
• Why we recommend: there are countless Indian restaurants in this city, but if you really want to experience an authentic but high-end version of this cuisine, Ambassadors Clubhouse is a great pick. Plus, the gorgeous decor makes us feel special every time we visit

Situated on Heddon Street in Mayfair, Ambassadors Clubhouse is a stunning Indian restaurant inspired by the traditional mansions of Punjab. Expect opulent interiors throughout, featuring elegant chandeliers, bold patterned carpets and walls covered with mirrors and gold embellishments.

Their menu is just as decadent as the venue itself, ranging from Ranjit Shahi lobster curry to tandoori chicken pilau and paneer samosas with chutney. They also offer set menus that showcase the best of their cooking, starting from £95 and including vegetarian options.

• Location: 1 Montacute Yards, 185-186 Shoreditch High Street, E1 6HU
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: Spanish 
• Why we recommend: "I had a fantastic lunch at Legado; the space felt trendy, full of life and incredibly welcoming. It was a breath of fresh air to see a new opening so buzzing on a Thursday lunchtime, and I was truly blown away by how delicious everything was. Of course, I had high hopes given Nieves' culinary footprint since her days at Barrafina and winning a Michelin star for Sabor in 2018, but this restaurant offered something new and exciting that London definitely has room for" - Kiera Chapman

Every so often, a restaurant opens that shakes London's dining scene awake. Legado - the new Shoreditch venture from Michelin-starred chef Nieves Barragán Mohacho - is one of those moments. Drawing from her Basque roots and decades of London culinary acclaim, Nieves has crafted a menu that's elegant, soulful and utterly original.

Inside, it's a Mediterranean dreamscape of green and walnut hues, anchored by an open kitchen where whole suckling pigs slow-roast in twin wood-fired ovens. Highlights include raw quisquillas de Cádiz kissed with soy and citrus, a melting Legado sandwich of smoked cheese and air-dried beef encased in crisp chard, and her signature rice dishes that balance richness and restraint. 

• Location: 6 Park Street, London Bridge, SE1 9AB
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Thai 
• Why we recommend: "the complexity of spices at Kolae is brilliant, and they don't hold back on the heat levels. The food is playful and inspiring, and I love how affordable it is. I visited for dinner and chose to try the set menu, which offered great value for money and an insight into what Kolae is all about. I sat near the open kitchen, so I was able to enjoy the theatrics of large flames and watch as mussels were carefully charred and curries were sizzled with precision" - Kiera Chapman

Having won a Bib Gourmand in 2025, Kolae is currently thriving in its London Bridge location. From the brains behind som saa, it brings the heat to a beautifully restored coach house just moments from Borough Market. Spread across three floors, this Thai bar and grill blends buzzy counter dining and an open kitchen downstairs with a slick private dining room upstairs for up to 16 guests. 

The menu shines a spotlight on Thailand's Southern Provinces, where bold, fiery flavours rule. The focus is kolae - a traditional grilling technique where ingredients are slathered in coconut-based curry marinades and cooked over open flames. Expect smoky mussel skewers, bamboo-skewered kolae chicken, herbal pepper curries and Phuket-style soy-braised pork belly, all made with top-tier British and Thai produce. Curry pastes are stone-ground in-house, coconut cream is freshly made daily, and the seasonal menu ensures no two visits feel the same.

• Location: 2-3 Stoney Street, London Bridge, SE1 9AA
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: French
• Why we recommend: Dining at Camille feels like taking a trip through the French countryside. With head chef Elliot Hashtroudi at the helm, every dish is simple, elegant and packed full of character. 
  

Camille brings a slice of rustic French charm to the heart of Borough Market. A casual bistro-style spot, it's all about seasonal cooking and soulful plates straight from regional France.

Whether you choose form the a la carte or daily specials board, you can expect bold flavours and fine British produce, be it Carlingford oysters with verjus, smoked ox tongue with trotters or indulgent mains like Dorset skate wing Biarritz. The wine list is just as thoughtful, changing daily by the glass to match the menu.

• Location: Lupa, 73 Highbury Park, N5 1UA
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: Italian, Roman
• Why we recommend: we love Lupa's laidback yet luxurious vibe - with dreamy dishes to match

Effortlessly stylish, warm and welcoming, Lupa brings a slice of Roman charm to Highbury. Guided by the skilled hands of head chef Naz Hassan, formerly of Pidgin and Clipstone, its dishes are a love letter to the Roman way of cooking. 

Expect courgette flowers, supplì and silky carpaccio to kick things off, before moving onto handmade pastas like carbonara, amatriciana and cacio e pepe. There's many more standout mains too, from slow‑roasted porchetta with crackling to the lamb-tastic abbacchio a scottadito.

• Location: 181 Rye Lane, Peckham, SE15 4TP
• Price: ££
• Cuisine: British
• Why we recommend: "Lai Rai transports you to the streets of Saigon without setting foot outside the city. Whether it's the 70s or 80s, it simply doesn't matter at this new Vietnamese restaurant on Rye Lane. It aims to dislocate you from the everyday, with a few addictive prawn lollipops along the way" - Kiera Chapman

All neon lights and playful touches, Lai Rai brings big, bold Vietnamese energy to Peckham's Rye Lane. Expect the buzz of Saigon's street‑food culture with dishes that riff on the classics.

We're talking prawn lollies on lemongrass skewers, sticky pork belly, papaya jellyfish salad and crispy twice‑fried chicken. As the evening turns to night, signature cocktails and stunning small plates take centre stage.

• Location: Great Cumberland Place, Marble Arch, W1H 7DL
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: British, grill
• Why we recommend: not only is this a celebrity restaurant, but it adds a theatrical element to dining with its chef's table - and you can sample quality British meat and seafood too

As of May 2026, Gordon Ramsay's famous restaurant is now in the UK. Hell's Kitchen's first London outpost can be found within The Cumberland Hotel in Marble Arch, promising stylish interiors and even a chef's table where you can watch as a six-course tasting menu is prepared and presented to you.

You can expect the very best of British food here. Get stuck into the likes of wagyu tomahawk steaks, roasted cod and lobster risotto. Plus, you can hire out the venue for special occasions.

• Location: 322-324 Acton Mews, Hackney, E8 4EA
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: European, French
• Why we recommend: Spread across two converted railway arches, Planque is all polished concrete, cobalt blue accents and eclectic furnishings. With a long communal table at the centre of the dining room, it's perfect for long and lively dinners and all kinds of celebration.

Tucked beneath the railway arches, Planque has carved out a distinct identity in the uber cool Hackney. Think part restaurant, part wine bar, part members' club, and wholly committed to low-intervention wine and ingredient-led cooking.

The menu is European with a French accent, packing in delicately cured seafood, nose-to-tail meat dishes and considered vegetable creations. Over on the wine list, there's something to pair with every plate, with low-intervention producers spanning cult favourites and lesser-known bottles.

• Location: 100 Strand, WC2R 0EZ
• Price: £££
• Cuisine: British
• Why we recommend: everything about Simpson's In The Strand is simply timeless. We're talking classic British cooking in a dining room decked out in dark wood panelling, grand finishes and theatrical glitz

One of London's dining icons, Simpson's in the Strand serves up a heavy dose of nostalgia with its delicious British dishes. First opened in 1828 and brought back to life by legendary restaurateur Jeremy King, it sits proudly within the Savoy buildings.

Much-loved signatures include roasts carved tableside from gleaming silver trolleys, alongside pies, grills and heritage dishes. One of the first UK restaurants to receive a Michelin star way back in 1970s, today it's more about pleasurable plates than pomposity.

• Location: 6th & 7th Floor, 12-14 Basil Street, Knightsbridge, SW3 1AJ
• Price: ££££
• Cuisine: modern Japanese
• Why we recommend: CLAP London marries theatrical Tokyo-inspired design with serious culinary pedigree. Helmed by culinary director Renald Epie, the restaurant masterfully pairs nightlife vibes with world-class, Michelin-recognised Japanese dining. From its dramatic flag-draped entrance to its sleek, open-kitchen dining room, every element is designed to dazzle

Perched on the top floors of a grand Knightsbridge building, CLAP has quickly cemented its status as one of London's hottest destinations.

The menu features flawless executions of high-end classics like wagyu beef tartare with biwa caviar, perfectly charred black cod miso, and crispy rice salmon topped with a velvety avocado mousse. Pair the food with a custom highball from their innovative, anime-inspired cocktail list, and you have an unparalleled dining experience that lives up to every bit of the hype.