Harlem
A top choice of Greater London restaurants is Harlem, the New Malden high street destination that's got New York-inspired dishes with an Italian leaning on the menu. Think parms, pizzas and pastas, alongside a choice of burgers or steaks.
Looking for the best places to eat in south London? Stop right there and scan your eyes over our hand-picked guide, it’s an eclectic gathering of some of our favourites. Whether you’re in need of an authentic tapas experience, hoping to delve into some dim sum or just looking to wile away the hours at a charming gastropub, our collection of the best restaurants in south London comes out top trumps.
Last updated on 4th May 2023
A top choice of Greater London restaurants is Harlem, the New Malden high street destination that's got New York-inspired dishes with an Italian leaning on the menu. Think parms, pizzas and pastas, alongside a choice of burgers or steaks.
SAMA Bankside in Southwark should probably be on your list of restaurant bars in London. While the contemporary space offers a variety of drinks to enjoy in the 6000 square foot space, they also deliver a variety of tasty Caribbean dishes too.
Regularly topping up Balham's rumblin' tums, The Exhibit serves carefully curated drinks and a hearty menu of fresh British produce. Bag yourself a table and get ready for a festival of eating; there's everything from roasted pheasant to Grilled royal beam and Galloway beef burgers with all the trimmings. There's an eclectic entertainment programme for dessert, too.
This unique Clapham venue is all about the good times as it brings you a great selection of signature cocktails and an extensive beer list, alongside a delicious selection of Persian small plates to feast on.
Making a name for itself as one of South London's best casual dining spots, Meat & Shake in Tooting plates up hearty meat-based dishes with flavoursome, freshly-made shakes. Enjoy a belly-warming brisket, sink your chops into a seasoned steak or enjoy a cheese and sauce topped burger that's full of attitude.
One of the best places to eat in South London, Leadbelly's Bar is contemporary pub with a chilled-out feel that fits any kind of occasion. Check out the menu of British classics next time you're craving a little comfort, with seasonal ingredients placed firmly at the forefront.
Promising "industrial sophistication" just a stone's throw from the Tate Modern, The Refinery is another of our favourite restaurants south of the river. Bright, airy and undeniably sophisticated, the food here is fantastic, but it's the range of innovative cocktails and global wines that really stand out here. Ideal for business brunches, after-work lounging or dinner and drinks with friends.
Dose up on the best of the British when it comes to eating out in South London as The Castle provides the marker for some of the best gastro grub South of the river. Notable for their British bites, head on down for flavour and real ales combined.
Looking for a beautiful new brunch spot? Megan's boasts a number of spots south of the river, as well as East Dulwich with floral decor and fairy lights aplenty. A favourite with bloggers and the MIC crowd, this venue will foodies posting plenty of great content to the 'Gram.
A top choice of Stockwell restaurants, Arepa & Co serves up a whole host of Venezuelan street food for you to tuck into, alongside cocktail happy hours to boot. Venture over here for flavourful meals arepas, cachapas and yuca fries washed down by heady sips.
Gremio de Brixton is a beautiful spot in South London if you're on the hunt for a cool new boozer. Along with fancy tapas and Latin American music, the venue features a basement bar that you'll definitely want to check out.
Found within a stone's throw of the Oval cricket ground, the Fentiman Arms is rightly considered one of the best gastropubs in south London. Homely and snug, the venue has made a name for itself with its glorious range of British cooking; take your pick between sausage & mash, chicken pie and beer-battered fish & chips, available to enjoy in the garden in the summer months.
Located on the famous Atlantic Road of Brixton, DF Tacos is serving up smiles thanks to its delish menu of Mexican grub. They sling out all kinds of dishes, including filled soft tortillas, torta buns, burritos and a tasty selection of sides.
Located in the heart of Brixton, Bellefields is one of our favourite South London eateries. Whether you're after brunch plates such as shakshuka with free-flowing bloody marys or mouthwatering pasta dishes, this laid-back venue is bound to impress.
If you're on the hunt for some of the best chicken in London, Market House on Coldharbour Lane has been taken over by Wingmans. Having made quite the name of themselves in Kilburn and Old Compton Street, these guys have perfected the art of wings, burgers and fries.
Balans Soho Society has come south of the river to deliver their 'too much of a good thing is a very good thing' ethos, with a mix high and low life décor, eccentric touches and a Bohemian attitude.
Head down to the gorgeous setting of Battersea Rise and enjoy some authentic Vietnamese cuisine, with picturesque views. Whether you're in the mood for a healthy salad, noodles that pack a punch or an aromatic curry, Pho has got you covered.
Located on Bermondsey Street, The Last Talisman is a South London hidden gem. This gorgeous Asian grill restaurant and sleek cocktail bar is the stuff of date night dreams, with a tasty brunch menu to boot.
A South London gem, Sea Garden & Grill Tooting is a first-class spot for those of you after a family-style dining experience. Situated on Broadway Market, this venue has a range of seafood up for grabs. If you're feeling thirsty, opt for an ocean-inspired molecular blend.
With an interior reminiscent of an age old Chinese Opium den, The Courtesan is a charming South London restaurant at which to grab a plate of traditional Dim Sum, to enjoy a pot of tea or even to indulge in a few cocktails infused with the taste and spirit of Imperial China.
Head down to Battersea where Japanese hot kitchen Kibou is serving up some of the finest Asian eats in the area. Tuck into steaming bowls of ramen, fresh katsu curries, pillow-soft bao buns and more delicious dishes, washed down with their premium range of sake and shochu.
Head on over to Hannah in Clapham for some tasty grub and bespoke drinks. Choose from delightful small plates ranging from oxtail mac 'n' cheese and gyozas, to mouthwatering braised chorizo in their gorgeous, laid-back space.
If you're looking for places to eat in Balham, head to Bedford Hill where Haché is serving up steaks, katsu chicken and vegan specials with an impressive burger list that's far beyond your usual. Wash it all down with beers, cocktails, wines and alcohol-free sips.
Searching for fabulous pizza restaurants? Situated in Peckham, Voodoo Rays is a great shout for scrumptious slices, alongside zesty cocktails and yummy sides. We're talking mouthwatering wings, frozen margaritas and crispy curly fries.
An excellent restaurant in South London, SW16 Bar & Kitchen is a gorgeous Italian spot on Streatham High Road. Those stopping by for a bite will be treated to handcrafted pasta dishes and a selection of meatier mains.
Sister venue to Notting Hill's The Shed and Chelsea's Rabbit, this unique south west London restaurant offers a delicious selection of plates, from hearty breakfast offerings to sumptuous salads.
A cool restaurant on London's Southbank, Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar is one for poultry fans. Specialising in all things chicken, hungry diners can get stuck into plates of tenders with black truffle mayo and whole-roasted birds served with sides and pickles for sharing.
Nestled only minutes from East Croydon station, this branch of the infamous Breakfast Club is home to a charming interior with the usual dishes and drinks plus boozy bingo come the weekend.
Located in the heart of Brixton in South London, Sea Garden & Grill is a reliable spot for fresh, sustainably-souced eats. Whether you fancy a warm octopus salad with saffron potatoes or surf 'n' turf touting succulent steak, head to this top-notch spot.
For restaurants in Brixton, look no further than Wood & Water. Serving up a mix of modern British cuisine and Jamaican soul food, this swish spot is fronting everything from weekend bottomless brunches to a choice of cocktails or small plates in the evening.
Rich and tender southern goods come slow-smoked on site, with a huge selection of bourbon and rye to help wash it all down. Pig out at one of the best BBQ restaurants in South London but don't go too crazy; there's dancing to be done afterwards, with live jazz bands and DJs playing funk until 2am at weekends.
Situated on North Cross Road, Vits + Kicks is the ideal spot for international street eats and low-key vibes. From protein poke bowls to chickpea and lentil curries, you can expect this laid-back eatery to nail healthy grub. As for drinks? Expect booze-laced smoothies. Yum.
There's no doubt about it, The Skylark Café is one of South London's prettiest restauarnts. But it's not all style no substance here, as this Wandsworth Common staple serves up classic British dishes and a collection of thirst-quenching sips in charming surroundings.
Looking for restaurants near Clapham? The Little Orange Door comes out top thanks to swoon-worthy interiors and tasty offering of bao buns, brunch plates and gourmet desserts; all washed down with handcrafted cocktails.
Expect to experience flavours from the far flung corners of the world at Mommi where the cultures of Japan and South America collide for cocktails and culinary specials. The bar is well versed in punchy piscos and the kitchen will exhilarate your palate with plates that have been crafted with Asian and Latin leanings.
Head down into the Leake Street tunnel where Draughts is bringing you craft beers, classic cocktails and an incredible lineup of board games. Alongside their entertaining offering, the Waterloo restaurant fronts burgers, bites and Mexican snacks.
Get to know one of Sutton's best Italian restaurants, Zizzi. Home to multi-coloured booths, gleaming wooden tables and hanging foliage, it's a pretty place to indulge in delicious eats. What's on the menu? Lasagne, pancetta risotto, lentil ragu and so much more.
This cool and comfortable South London restaurant is a top spot for those oh the search for a classic British meal. With gorgeous, hearty dishes up for grabs and an impressive wine list, it's a great place to chill out with some classic food and drink.
A premier Italian restaurant and wine bar in Croyden, Basil & Grape serves a selection of authentic eats perfectly paired with a varied selection of delicious wines. Should you be searching for a midweek pick-me-up, they offer a Wednesday deals that'll make your mouth water.
When it comes down to top-notch South London restaurants, Kricket Brixton is a real winner. Step inside this quirky Indian eatery, where you'll be met with unique interiors, alongside a flavour-packed menu to boot. Think grilled lamb leg and moreish Keralan fried chicken.
When it comes to Italian food, there's nothing quite like freshly cooked pasta and specially sourced wines. Head to Brixton Water Lane where you'll find just that, in the stunning laid-back setting of Maremma. Grab a seat at the communal table and tuck in.
If you're on the hunt for places to eat in Clapham, we recommend heading to Berberè. Not only does the restaurant knock up some killer pizzas, but also a top-notch selection of cocktails and snacks. When the weather warms, the outdoor terrace is also a great shout.
If you're looking to fill those bellies, head on down to Brixton as this South London restaurant isn't just renowned for its cocktails, their small plates and British flavours courtesy of fodder simply aren't to be missed.
Located on Balham's Fernlea Road, Betto Tapas & Cocktails is a firm choice for those craving Mediterranean eats. Not only does this art-adorned venue serve sharing plates or salads, but also offers a fabulous happy hour and a bottomless brunch event. Need we say more?
Traditional Chinese flavours with a modern twist? Sign us up. Make your way over to The Red Duck in Balham and you'll get just that, including crowd-pleasing favourites like chicken chow mein, salt and pepper squid, and sirloin beef in black bean sauce.