Where I eat/drink when I am back home…
This is by far not an up-to-date list of the trendiest, newest places to go eat. It is the haunts I like to visit when I am back and that bring me joy.
I will add places as I remember them or visit, so do bookmark this page!
WEST LONDON
Hafez - my favourite Iranian restaurant in London. Do book a table as it can get quite busy. Located on Hereford Road near Portobello/Westbourne Grove.
The Waterway – this Little Venice favourite is on the canal has a nice vibe and is great for whiling away an afternoon with Pimms and people watching on weekends.
Tsiakkos & Charcoal – A West London secret, this little Greek spot is a firm favourite for my sister and I. We head here mid-week, on special occasions or just when we want a hearty meal.
The Shed – This Notting Hill spot has an exceptional seasonal menu with all produce sources from the UK, including their wines. Worth a visit if you are staying close by.
Gold - New to my list, Portobello Road's Gold restaurant serves up some excellent dishes in a cool spot. Choose from the outdoor (street) dining or the airy interiors. The roast peaches and burrata plus the outstanding roast Cornish chicken with nduja and tomatoes are highly recommended.
CENTRAL
Barrafina - my favourite tapas in London! They have a few locations now, but I go to original spot-on Dean St. but be warned keep your group small here (two ideally) as it is a little cramped!
Bancone - for a quick and delicious pasta book here, in their perfect central London location. Do try the silk handkerchiefs with a walnut sauce they are phenomenal (pictured below). The type of dish I dream about.
Kricket – A menu of 'small Indian plates’, the contemporary style dishes are highly creative, you may just want to order the whole menu! (A few locations)
A. Wong - one of the most spectacular dim sum meals I have ever had. This Victoria restaurant is a foodie’s paradise.
Entrecote on Marylebone Lane is always a good idea (no booking, first come first serve) – a classic IMO and perfect for the whole family (well, apart from the vegetarians).
Dean Street Townhouse is great for watching all the media types and having a good meal in Soho.
The Wolsley – this stunning Piccadilly spot is perfect for a decadent breakfast and a spot of people watching. Do book.
The Blind Pig, Social Eating House – A great little ‘speakeasy’ for drinks and catching up with friends. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled as it can be hard to find.
EAST LONDON
Tayyab’s - This place is legendary. Try their lamb chops for sure and make sure to BYOB. It is packed every night, so do book in advance.
NORTH LONDON
Towpath Café – A joy to sit here and enjoy a bite when the weather is decent, then pass the day with a stroll down the canal.
Zia Lucia - if you want a good pizza, from a very chill low-key place. Head here. On your first visit you must have the burrata pizza. (Locations all over)
SOUTH LONDON
Mercato Metropolitano – this fun food market is a great place to sit and eat a good meal, have some drinks, see friends, and feel the spirit of the big smoke. A new location has opened in Mayfair, but do check out this Elephant & Castle one as well.
Casse Croute – you could feel like you’re in France when you visit this South London restaurant. Small, bustling and with delicious dishes you will want to slurp up (in between gulps of your wine, of course!).
Anchor & Hope - the original gastropub and a great spot for a hearty meal in a bustling spot. Grab a drink in the pub then head to the dining room for dinner next year.
The Naughty Piglet (Brixton) and The Other Naughty Piglet (Victoria) – Exceptional food at these two restaurants, I prefer the Brixton spot but if you’re in town or going to the theatre then Victoria is a great one to visit too.
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Looking to do something out of town? Why not head to Nyetimber, the UK’s number one sparkling wine vineyard, or Bombay Sapphire in Hampshire. Both can be visited on day trips are a great way to explore outside of the capital.
Enjoyed these recommendations? Check out my 48 hour itineraries for Singapore, Mumbai and Athens here.
