London Restaurants

Historically London may not have the best reputation for top cuisine, but the last 15 years or so has seen many changes, with London considered one of the most exciting gastronomic destinations in the world, although it does still help to have some recommendations.

Local cuisine

In a city as large and multicultural as London it is difficult to pin down exactly what qualifies as being Local Cuisine, with a wave a modern British restaurants with strong Mediterranean and South East Asian influences, and many people considering the Anglo-Indian dish, chicken tikka masala, to be the national dish these days! However, there are still plenty of opportunities to sample good British pub grub, a Sunday roast, or the old favourite, fish and chips.

Some of the best places to sample good local cuisine can be found outside the city centre. There are a large number of gastro pubs popping up over many areas of London with excellent quality food taking precedence over beer and drinks. Many of these will have their own version of the traditional sausages and mash, or fish and chips, focusing on high quality local ingredients.

Borough Market is a must to visit for anyone with an interest in food, with a huge range of fantastic produce ranging from local cheese, fruit and vegetables to Spanish Serrano ham, olives, and much more. The nearest tube station is London Bridge.

Where to eat

Its possible to find good restaurants covering almost every imaginable cuisine all over London and its suburbs, and it generally follows that in the centre of London you pay a little bit more than other areas.

The UK has a host of celebrity chefs these days, and their restaurants are among some of the most exclusive and popular in the city. These include Jamie Olivers Fifteen, which was the subject of a TV programme, giving disadvantaged young people the opportunity to train as chefs. The food here is excellent with a vibrant atmosphere and they also open early for great breakfasts.

Gordon Ramsay at Royal Hospital Road is the only restaurant in London with three Michelin stars, and as you would expect its expensive and bookings are essential. There are plenty of good and trendy restaurants to be found in areas around Soho, Chelsea, and Clerkenwell.

For something much cheaper, Brick Lane is worth a visit. Once the heart of Londons Jewish community, and with a bagel bakery still surviving today, Brick Lane is now often known as Banglatown. Alongside a number of popular night clubs, you will find many restaurants serving Indian and Bangladeshi food. Prices are generally very cheap, as competition is so high and you can usually bring your own wine or beer. There is a great bustling atmosphere and a good evening with good food is virtually guaranteed.