Peter’s London Restaurant Guide
London calling! And if it’s the UK capital’s food scene dialing in, you’ll want to pick up, because the range and scope of choices in the The Big Smoke is so massive it’ll leave you gobsmacked. From Portobello Road gastropubs, to high tea in Mayfair, to Indian food in Islington, to Turkish in Thornton Heath— one could eat at a different restaurant every day for a year in this sprawling global village and still miss many culinary gems. So that being said, here’s a totally subjective and very opinionated list of favorites to look out for next time you say ‘Cheers, love’ to beautiful London town.
In the heart of London's iconic Piccadilly, this all-day cafe-restaurant is the go-to for the best high tea. Its beautiful interiors, classic offerings and a glamorous crowd make for a perfect afternoon—but, don't forget it's perfect for any time of day (including late-night, try the ice-cream coupe!).
Photo Courtesy of The Wolseley
This acclaimed and family-owned eatery in London's Soho neighborhood started small in the home of chef Asma Khan. Inspired by her royal Mughlai ancestry and the busy streets of Calcutta where she grew up, you can feast on a mix of street food like channa chaat and slow-cooked tamatar gosht—and, it's run by an all-women team.
Photo Courtesy of Darjeeling Express
This brasserie in Picadilly Circus boasts beautifully plated delicacies, an extensive wine list, and a basement bar - Frank's. Flag down the pudding trolley or order from their all-day menu of charcuterie, salads, pâtes and more. Wild garlic, chili and stracciatella flatbread? Oui, oui. Bone marrow beef tartare and pommes frites? Order up!
Photo Courtesy of Maison Francois
Modern Italian cuisine housed in the Brabican Estate, where one can enjoy music concerts, theater performances, film screenings and art exhibitions. Open for lunch and pre-theater dining, the restaurant features British classics mixed with modern European dishes. Head Chef Clifton D'Souza serves up roasted pork cutlet with apple purée, wild mushroom risotto, and popular seafood dishes like the pan-seared stone bass. Save room for a dark chocolate and matcha cannoli!
Photo Courtesy of Barbican Brasserie
11. The Wheatsheaf
12. Gymkhana
A modern Chinese restaurant in London's Paddington neighborhood serves up speciality dim sum and creative interpretations of classic chinese cuisine. Steamed Scottish Hand-Dived Scallops, Deep Fried Soft Shell Crab and Mixed Seafood Noodles sit alongside traditional specialities of Peking Duck, Beef Sirloin in Black Bean Sauce and Sweet and Sour Pork.
Photo Courtesy of Pearl Liang
