Restaurants & dining – All our local tips

Abeno Too is a fantastic find in the centre of London next to Leicester Square tube station. The small restaurant has a few tables but the best seat is at the large circular bar. While most people associate Japanese food with sushi, Abeno Too serves the other side of the cuisine. You won’t have heard of many dishes, but that’s part of what makes this sweet simply decorated restaurant so intriguing.

Their speciality is the delicious ‘Okonomi-yaki’, a savoury pancake made of cabbage, egg, dough, spring onions, ginger and a ‘tempura’ batter. You can choose extra ingredients such as tofu or prawn, and it’s fried right in front of you on metal hot grills.

They also have a great selection of hot and cold sake which is served in a ‘masu’, a traditional wooden box. The staff are very friendly and welcoming, and eager to advise on food choices and answer questions.

Details about this spot
Abeno Too | Snacks, Restaurants (Japanese) | Prawn Okonomi-yaki £ 9.80
17-18 Great Newport Street | Central (area map) | +442073791160
Mon – Sat 12:00 – 23:00, Sun 12:00 – 22:00

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A friend and I stumbled across Bangalore Express quite by mistake while looking for another restaurant, but we were so intrigued by what we saw, that we just had to go in. On offer is affordable, modern Indian food in a vibrant, informal setting.

The big draw here is the dining experience. Most of the floor is taken up by canteen-style seating, but along one side of the restaurant are, what I can best describe as, bunk-bed style booths with access to the upper level via steel ladders. Staff climb up to take you order, and the food is brought up carefully balanced on large trays.

There’s an option to have Indian Tapas dishes to share, such as: golden fried tiger prawns with chilli jam; chicken tikka and baby corn sticks and lamb meatballs in tempered mint yoghurt. If that doesn’t take your fancy, perhaps a Dosa (Southern Indian savoury crepe) will. If mixing it up is more your thing, then give the Indian Fish and Chilli Chips a try, or Calzone, Indian-style. If that sounds a bit much, there is the choice of Big Plates; where you pick meat or vegetable option, rice, curry cooking style and side vegetables all for a reasonable £8.50.

Bangalore Express is definitely worth a visit for the elevated dining experience alone. Just don’t forget where you are and step out too quickly at the end of the meal!

Details about this spot
Bangalore Express | Restaurants | Mains from £ 8.50
103-105 Waterloo Road | Central (area map) | +442070210886
11:00 – 00:00 daily (last orders 23:30)

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Located in the heart of Soho on Frith Street, Bar Italia has become quite the Soho institution since it opened its doors in 1949. It serves great coffee and a range of simple, but authentic Italian food 24 hours a day, which is always a preferable option as opposed to the 03:00 visit to the kebab or fried chicken shop.

The interior walls are plastered with pictures of black and white Soho along with the occasional legend or two.

The food counter is well stocked with traditional Paninis made with ingredients such as coppa, mozzarella, basil and tomato. There is also a mouth watering cake display, complete with Italian dolce such as Sicilian favourite Cannoli (custard or sweet ricotta filled pastry). And the best way to enjoy your Cappuccino and Cannoli is alfresco.

If you manage to get yourself a seat at one of the little tables on the pavement sit back and enjoy the buzzing and animated atmosphere of Soho. And just when you think Bar Italia can’t get anymore Italian, it broadcasts football and has its own scooter club which meets every Sunday at 17:00!

Despite Soho’s transformation over the years, Bar Italia has maintained its simple old school Italian charm.

Details about this spot
Bar Italia | Coffee & tea, Relaxing, Snacks, Restaurants (Italian) | Cappuccino £ 2.50
22 Frith Street | Central (area map) | +442074374520
24 hours daily

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On a street where there are four Indian restaurants practically next to each other, Bawarchi stands out as the top quality contender. Recently reopened after being redesigned into a sleeker and seemingly more upmarket restaurant, but the prices hardly reflect it. I ate here with another person and we each had a drink and the total was only £24. We ate vegetarian, but still, the prices are very low for the quality of the food.

I recommend the Begun Fry, whole baby aubergine cooked whole in a spicy tomato and onion sauce. Their Bhindi Jeera, stir-fried okra with cumin seeds and onions is the greenest okra I’ve seen in an Indian restaurant. Usually you can’t distinguish the vegetable due to overcooking and excess sauce. Their side rice dishes are delicious. The garlic rice has fresh and cooked pieces of garlic with onions and spices.

The service is fast and mains range from a reasonable £4 to £10. No wonder they were a winner of the Archant London Food & Drink awards in 2008 for best restaurant.

Details about this spot
Bawarchi | Restaurants (Indian) | Begun Fry – vegetable side £ 2.50
68 Chamberlayne Road | North-West (area map) | +442089609608
Sun – Thu 12:00 – 14:30 & 18:00 – 00:00, Fri – Sat 12:00 – 14:30 & 18:00 – 00:30

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The area around Liverpool Street Station in East London was once associated with poor slums and the scene of the crime for the Jack the Ripper murders. Whilst the Ten Bells still stands, the pub that Jack’s victims drunk at, the area itself is now very popular with London’s edgy and artistic crowd.

After a short walk from Liverpool Street Station, you’ll come across the Old Spitalfields Markets (105a Commercial Street) which are open every Sunday. Whilst these markets are definitely worth a peak, keep wandering towards Bricklane where you’ll find the Old Truman Brewery (91 Bricklane).

These are one on my favourite markets as this is where up-and-coming designers set up shop every Sunday selling a unique variety of handbags, clothes and jewellery. There’s also a few vintage clothing stores and chic boutiques dotted around the area, which is a refreshing change from the usual high street clothing stores.

Whilst Bricklane has always been synonymous for its many curry restaurants, it now has a reputation for its warehouse art exhibitions and trendy clubs and bars. So, before your East London experience is complete, be sure to head to the Vibe Bars beer garden for a drink or two before stumbling across the road to 93 Feet East (150 Bricklane) for some late night groovin.

Whilst this place is sweaty and jammed, it has become an East End institution well known for its eclectic mix of live music and its intimate atmosphere.

Details about this spot
Bricklane | Art & culture, Bars, Music, Shopping, Restaurants (Various, however mainly Bangladeshi) | Average meal £ £5.00-£20
Bricklane | East (area map)
Markets open Sun, most clothing stores daily, 93 Feet East: Mon – Thu 17:00 – 23:00, Fri 17:00 – 01:00, Sat 12:00 – 01:00, Sun 12:00 – 22:30

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‘Pan Asian’ cuisine has come to be the norm in London, with chains like Wagamama, Tampopo and various spin offs the somewhat recent craze has created. While Busaba Eathai calls itself Thai, the menu begs to differ, with items like ‘Chinese broccoli with garlic and shiitake mushrooms’ it definitely spans further than Thailand on the culinary map. Jasmine smoothies and asparagus fried rice are a couple of the unique combinations you can find at this buzzing Soho eatery.

The stylish low-lit restaurant has large square wooden tables that fit 8 people, operating in a shared table policy. The service is quick. If you are alone or with a friend and want a great view people watching, take a seat in the front and watch Soho’s rich demographic walk by.

Located in the centre of Soho on Wardour street, Busaba Eathai celebrates its 10^th anniversary this year. Its overwhelming success has also spurred two fellow central locations off Totencourt Road and Oxford Street.

Details about this spot
Busaba Eathai | Restaurants (Pan-Asian) | Pad Thai £ 7.20
106-110 Wardour Street | Central (area map) | +448712238021
Mon – Thu 12:00 – 23:00, Fri – Sat 12:00 – 23:30, Sun 12:00 – 22:00

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During the day people bring their laptops or books and work, read and drink coffee sprawled over one of the many mismatched sofas or lounge chairs. At night tea candles are lit and hot drinks are swapped for alcoholic drinks as people unwind and meet friends in what was once the Old Truman Brewery in Brick Lane (check the Brick Lane article). Now that it’s wintertime, people who swamped to the outside picnic benches and the alleyway still venture out, but there is a much more cosy feel inside.

The boho and versatile venue opens at a very early 06:00 for breakfast and soups, jacket potatoes and sandwiches are on offer for lunch and dinner. Live music attracts a younger crowd with indie bands on Tuesday and jazz on Wednesday. Bands play in the smaller room at the back on Sunday and a dj spins tunes on Friday and Saturday.

Cocktails made with fresh fruit are available on the weekend and all year round you can grab a burger or corn on the cob from the grill stand outside. Tables and benches outside in front are great for people watching or smoking.

Details about this spot
Café 1001 | Bars, Coffee & tea, Music, Snacks, Restaurants (intern.)
1 Dray walk, 91 Brick Lane | East (area map) | +442072479679
Mon – Sat 06:00 – 00:00, Sun 06:00 – 23:30

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There are few places in London where you can see quality classical or jazz music for a decent price. You may find some little den of iniquity outside the city walls, but the quality of music is likely to be more second-rate than a Ronaldo dive.

Thankfully, largely overpriced Trafalgar Square has a trick up its sleeve, for buried in the catacombs of St. Martin-in-the-Fields church lies the Café in the Crypt; a vaulted subterranean fusion of good food and even better music. The place alone is striking; the up-lit vaults provide the perfect acoustic backdrop to some elegant dining. The last time I went I caught an excellent jazz trio, though classical sets are the meat and cheese.

The staff are incredibly kind and friendly, the clientèle passive and warm, and the food – whilst not exactly Michelin starred – is good enough to come back to many a time. Served on a buffet basis, there are various salads, roasts, pies and other dishes to satisfy almost every taste.

It’s fantastic value, too – lunch or dinner. Compared to other jazz venues like Ronnie Scott’s of Camden’s imposing Jazz Café tickets are fractional. Some nights you can even catch a concert and meal for £20. For the sheer quality the Café oozes this is a great offer. Other night tickets may range from as little as £8 to the bigger classical concertos breaking in at the £20 – £25 mark. Either way, you’d be a fool to miss one of central London’s most beautifully best-kept secrets.

Details about this spot
Café in the Crypt | Bars, Music, Festivals & events, Restaurants (English)
St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church | Central (area map) | +442077661158
Mon – Tue 08:00 – 20:00, Wed – Sat 08:00 – 22:00, Sun 12:00 – 18:00

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On the corner of Mill Lane and West End Lane, David’s Deli is one of those West Hampstead legends, as far as anyone can remember it’s always been there, and there’s a good reason for that; great Israeli hospitality.

The Deli is run by a band of brothers, led by Wassim, and also Has, Danny and Sam. Apologies guys if I have missed anyone out!

I like to drop in for one of Has or Danny’s excellent cappuccinos or a fresh mint tea.  Customers are die-hard regulars who have come to know the place well, parents and kids, tradesmen and office workers.

The food and attentive service is the selling point here. Bagels and rye bread sandwiches, or better still try the daily special, usually a filling chicken schnitzel with rice and salad, or on Sunday, the lamb shawarma.

Let’s not forget the classic Israeli Boreka, a light crispy pastry roll filled with spinach and soft cheese, served warm from the oven. Then there are the many other salads, baklava, cakes…oh hell, just take a look at the photo and you can see the mouth-watering display on offer.  Easy ladies, I’m talking about the food.

I dropped in again recently and went off-menu with a daring Turkish coffee, medium sweet, served in a stove-top enamel pot with pouring handle.  Very thick, very sweet, very caffeinated, I was jacked-up all afternoon! Yeah, loving my brothers at the deli!

Details about this spot
David’s Deli | Snacks, Restaurants (Israeli/Middle-Eastern) | Main meal £ 7.50
341 West End Lane | North-West (area map) | +442074338383
08:00 – 18:30 daily

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If you’re looking for a genuine East End caff with hearty food and a warm welcome, then look no further! This family run café has been the social hub and favourite place of locals, cabbies, old-school gangsters (apparently the Kray brother’s favourite), and many a famous face for decades. Whether long-standing regular or first time visitor, you’ll always receive the warmest and friendliest welcome in London and be made to feel at home.

E. Pellicci has been open since 1900 after the Pellicci grandparents moved over from Tuscany in the late 19th century. Owner Nevio Pellicci was born in a room above the café and worked from boyhood until he passed away in 2008; very much missed, his photo hangs above the counter. Pelliccio’s is now run by son Nevio Pellicci Junior with the help of all the family on the counter and Mamma in the kitchen. The café closes in August when the family all head back to their roots for a month in Tuscany.

The atmosphere at Pellicci’s is brilliant, with good-natured banter between staff and customers. Inside is a Grade II listed, wooden art-deco interior; it gets pretty cosy with all the tables close together and you’ll end up sharing yours with fellow customers, but that’s all part of the fun. Choose from delicious fry-ups, roasts or proper home-cooked Italian dishes; and of course there’s espresso based coffees and mugs of tea aplenty. Mamma also makes all the puddings, which include jam roly-poly and cherry and apple pie.

Come for breakfast and you’ll want to keep topping up your tea and stay all afternoon!

Details about this spot
E.Pellicci | Restaurants (Italian/British) | Main course from £ 5.00
332 Bethnal Green Road | East (area map) | +442077394873
Mon – Sat 07:00 – 17:00

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Located along ubér cool Upper St in Islington, the Gallipoli Bizarre restaurant is a combination of Lebanese, Turkish and Mediterranean cuisines, offering a huge variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

The restaurant is one of the ‘Gallipoli’ branded restaurants along Upper Street, and offers a reasonably priced menu with all the traditional favourites such as kebabs, tangines and cous-cous. The set menu is fantastic value at £16 per person, which includes a vegetarian starter followed by any main, dessert and a coffee.

The restaurant is split on two floors, however still manages to illuminate a very warm and inviting feel to its customers. Deep red fabrics line the chairs and sofas and beautiful coloured glass fittings hang from the ceiling, creating a cosy atmosphere.

However if word gets out it’s your birthday, be prepared to partake in some forced chair dancing whilst gyrating to excitable Turkish music. Fortunately, they sell a good selection of alcohol which in my experience, made the chair dancing exercise slightly less horrifying.

To complete your experience, take a seat outside and choose from a variety of fruit flavoured tobacco before lighting up a traditional shish pipe and watch the world go by.

It’s Gallipoli Bizarre’s authentic food and lively atmosphere that keeps the regulars coming back, always ensuring for a romantic night evening or great night with friends.

Details about this spot
Gallipoli Bizarre | Coffee & tea, Restaurants (Turkish/Lebanese) | Mains £ 9.00
107 Upper St | North-East (area map) | +442072265333
Mon – Fri 18:00 – 23:00, Sat – Sun 13:00 – 00:00

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Gilgamesh was the son of the greatest King in biblical times, and is believed to have lived a heroic and adventurous life. To his tribute, the Gilgamesh restaurant encapsulates his greatness by creating a breathtaking visionary restaurant. The construction of the place alone appears to have been bigger than Ben Hur, as it hosts the worlds longest bar, which was hand carved in India, by an impressive 10,000 men! Needless to say, this venue is definitely worth the visit!

The food is Asian fusion, everything ranging from Dim Sum at lunch to a large selection of Sushi followed by a few Thai favourites. The prices are also varied, ranging from £8 for Scallop Sashimi, to £24.80 at the higher end of the scale for the Hoba Miso Chilean Seabass. Gilgamesh also caters for larger groups and offers the exclusive chef’s table for groups of 8-12 people, where you will be served a range of dishes from Grilled Wagyu with Spicy Ponzu and Truffles for £75 per head.

Gilgamesh also boasts a glass tea room which is lit with candles at night, in addition to a private bar, the Babylon Lounge Bar. Whilst the bar length is significantly smaller than its sister in the main restaurant, the sophistication in Babylon still continues. As where else can you sip your cocktail whilst dangling on a hanging sitting chair?

Gilgamesh’s grandeur is in keep with the biblical King’s reputation, therefore if you’re after a bit of magnificence you’ll really enjoy the Gilgamesh experience.

Details about this spot
Gilgamesh | Bars, Coffee & tea, Restaurants (Asian) | Dim Sum £ 8.00
The Stables Market Chalk Farm Road | North-West (area map) | +442074284922
12:00 – 15:00 & 18:00 – 00:00 daily

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Just off the bustling Oxford Street is Hari Krishna run Govinda, a delicious and healthy vegetarian Indian cafe. While there are posters everywhere inviting you to “join the party”, luckily there is no other type of religious propositioning, and the focus is just on delicate flavours and fresh food.

Aside from the salad bar, food ranges from veggie or paneer (Indian cheese) burgers to onion bhajis, mango lassis and sesame covered spinach rolls. The best deal is the Thali though. Thalis are a selection of little dishes on a tray. For £7.50 you can choose two curries, a rice, bread roll or popadoms and sweet chutney.

Service is efficient and fast and the place offers a nice respite from the chaotic nature of London’s biggest shopping street.

Details about this spot
Govinda Restaurant | Snacks, Restaurants (Indian) | Thali £ 7.50
9-10 Soho Street, | Central (area map) | +442074374928
Mon – Sat 12:00 – 20:00

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Curiosity made me discover this little gem of a restaurant in my local vicinity. Flyers with the words “fine Nepalese cuisine” intrigued me. What is Nepalese cuisine?

The menu is full of rich and succulent dishes, cooked with herbs and spices that is smooth to the palate. A recent favourite is the Khasar Chicken, which is “tender pieces of breast chicken delicately flavoured with saffron and pan-fried in coconut milk.”

Gurkhas Diner offer both dine-in and take-away eating experience. The interior of the restaurant is simple – nothing ostentatious – with photos of Nepal on the walls. The chef is Nepalese but has been in London for at least 15 years now, as are most of the friendly staff.

When you go to order for take-away, they give you a portion of the spicy prawn crackers while you wait. Plus, there are several books about Nepal, which they kindly let you read while waiting.

There are already many places in London that serves Indian food but not so with Nepalese. If you want something different, then I urge you to try and highly recommend beginning your culinary journey of this mountainous kingdom at Gurkhas Diner.

Details about this spot
Gurkhas Diner | Restaurants (Nepalese) | Main dishes from £ 7.25
1 The Boulevard | South-West (area map) | +442086751188
Tue – Sat 18:00 – 23:30, Sun 12:00 – 22:30

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If visiting Queen’s Park and need a big breakfast to cure your hangover, Jack’s is the perfect spot. It’s a small café in the style of an American diner which serves all-day breakfasts, sandwiches, burgers, soups and salads. What makes Jack’s stand out from most cafes is the bottomless cups of coffee and tea; only a handful of places across London offer it.

Thick ice-cream milkshakes, pancakes made from imported batter mix and real maple syrup make it distinctively Yankee and it’s no wonder, as the owner’s wife is half American. At night candles are lit, alcohol is served and burgers, salads and daily specials are served. It has recently expanded to include a back room and will soon have a patio to be used when the weather gets warmer.

The prices are reasonable and the location, just down the road from Queen’s Park means you can walk off your fry-up in a picturesque setting.

Details about this spot
Jack’s | Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants (Breakfast) | English breakfast £ 4.95
101 Salusbury Road | North-West (area map) | +442076248925
Mon – Fri 07:00 – late, Sat 08:00 – late, Sun 09:00 – late

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When dining out, you expect someone would be cooking your meal and it isn’t you. What if you had to do it?

At Koba, when you order from the barbeque menu, you will be told that you will do the cooking. A really hot plate sits at the middle of your table that is fired up by a gas hob underneath. Not so good for any under-the-table mischief, if I may say!

They bring your selection of meat and/or seafood, raw, which you then grill on the hot plate. When you order the modeum (assortment), it is quite tempting to grill everything at the same time but I recommend that you don’t. Put only what you will be eating immediately. The staff at Koba will happily recommend the sequence of what you grill and eat. For some people who haven’t experienced ‘hotpot,’ dining at Koba’s could be quite an experience.

But apart from the cook-it-yourself concept, you also get to enjoy the delights of Korean cuisine. If you don’t fancy the barbeques, there are other dishes on the menu that the Koba’s chefs will gladly prepare for you. My personal favourites are the Korean pancakes.

‘Hotpot’ can be likened to fondue. But instead of cheese, a pot with simmering stock sits at the centre of the dining table. The ingredients are placed in the pot and cooked in situ. Typical ingredients are meats, seafood, vegetables and egg noodles. Even though hotpot is widely available in restaurants in Asia, there are few places (to my knowledge) in the UK offering this kind of dining experience.

At Koba’s, instead of a simmering pot, you get a hot plate/grill. The pendant lamp also acts as extractor of smoke so the room doesn’t get, well, smoky. But at times, it sticks to your clothes, which could be a good thing because you’ll savour the fruits of your grilling labour even longer!

Details about this spot
Koba | Restaurants (Korean) | BBQ dishes from £ 6.50
11 Rathbone Street | Central (area map) | +442075808825
Mon – Sat 12:00 – 15:00 & 18:00 – 23:00, Sun 18:00 – 23:00

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For most people, the food you like is either influenced by your roots or by your travels. Sadly, this means that there are types of cuisine that you might never get to experience unless you travel there or someone introduces you to it. Fortunately, London is such a big melting pot of cultures where one can find a good variety of food. And my latest foray into the not-so-popular cuisine did not disappoint.

Lalibela is an Ethiopian restaurant. Most reviews I’ve read says that they serve authentic Ethiopian dishes but as I’ve never been to Ethiopia, I wouldn’t know. All I know is that they serve quite a selection of delicious semi-dry stews – predominantly with lamb but there are vegetarian variations, too. My ignorance with this type of food almost made me miss the injera – a tangy pancake where you soak/wrap your main food with – as I ordered rice to go with my lamb stew. Luckily, the injera they serve is big enough to share with at least 3 other persons so I got to taste it, too.

A fitting finish to this wonderful experience is the coffee, which is, as a coffee-lover, about the only thing I knew about Ethiopian food. Now, of course, I know better, thanks to Lalibela.

Table booking is highly recommended so as not to disappoint.

Details about this spot
Lalibela | Restaurants (Ethiopian) | Main dish £ 9.99
137 Fortress Road | North-West (area map) | +442072840600
18:00 – midnight daily

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Little Bay calls itself a bistro, which fits well with the cosy tavern-like setting. The décor is faux royal – gold painted banisters and ornate picture frames are ubiquitous. But there is no pretension. Red dripping candles in wine bottles adorn every table and copies of centuries’ old masterpieces have been lacquered on to the tabletops.

The layout of the restaurant is very unique. There are semi-hidden tables, some which are suspended in the air with their own staircase. You can find very intimate seating and romantic coves, but also open wooden booths. There are two other larger rooms attached next door so the restaurant can accommodate large groups.

While the atmosphere is great – the place was packed on a Thursday night – the food is even better. Or perhaps the price of the food is. If you dine before 7pm a two-course meal only sets you back a measly £7.50. Dishes range from pan-fried fillet of salmon with crashed new potatoes and avocado coriander salsa to char-grilled lamb steak with honey-glazed vegetables and green peppercorn sauce. There are plenty of vegetarian options too.

There are four Little Bay restaurants in London. Check out their website for more information.

Details about this spot
Little Bay Kilburn | Restaurants (European) | Pan-fried fillet of salmon £ 5.25
228 Belsize Rd | North-West (area map) | +442073724699
Mon – Sat 12:00 – 00:00, Sun 12:00 – 23:00

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Finding this hidden delight came down to a turn of the head. Wandering down to the Young Vic theatre from Blackfriars bridge I saw an obscure street on my left and then spotted Mar Terra, a traditional Spanish tapas restaurant and bar, beaming like a beacon of light at the end of an ally. To stick around in such difficult-to-find surroundings is a testament to its success.

There are plenty of Spanish tapas places in London but they can often be overpriced or poor quality. Mar Terra has a delicious range of authentic tapas made with the freshest ingredients. The décor is unpretentious, with just a few images of pretty Spanish destinations, staff are very attentive and prices are reasonable.

If it’s busy, it’s nice to sit at the broad wooden bar and sip on a sangria before being seated. And the building has a past. It was originally called the ‘Hop Pole’, built in the mid 19th century for the Southern Railway Company and was a pub before it became Mar Terra in 2000.

Details about this spot
Mar Terra | Restaurants (Spanish) | Tortilla £ 3.70
14 Gambia Street | Central (area map) | +442079287628
Mon – Fri 12:00 – 23:00 (cold food only 15:00 – 18:00), Sat 17:00 – 23:00

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This family-run Italian ice cream parlour and restaurant has been serving an extensive range of delicious own-made ice creams and sorbets in London since 1931. I have enjoyed many a trip here for my ice cream fix, either takeaway from the window in the summer and a stroll over to nearby Primrose Hill, or eating in the parlour in the colder months. Clearly I’m not the only one, as the walls inside are adorned with framed testimonials from numerous minor celebrities, and the queues outside on sunny days speak for themselves.

Inside is an informal affair, with relaxed chatter and a family friendly atmosphere. There is a simple, no-frills approach to décor which somehow lends itself to the whole experience; specials are written casually on whiteboards, pictures of family members decorate the walls and the black up-lighters and mirrored walls give a hint of its 1930s beginnings.

I love delicious mango or fruits of the forest sorbet to take away on a hot day, or classic chocolate with whipped cream and sprinkles for eating in. All products are GM free and also free from artificial flavouring, colouring and preservatives, so maybe you can feel slightly better about ordering that extra scoop!

If you want something more substantial than ice cream, the restaurant serves generous portions of good quality, freshly prepared Italian food at affordable prices, too.

Go and try these mouth-watering ice creams for yourself. Your taste-buds will love you forever!

Details about this spot
Marine Ices | Snacks, Restaurants (Ice Cream) | Ice cream (per large scoop) £ 2.10
8 Haverstock Hill | North-West (area map) | +442074829003
Ice Creams Tue – Sun all day | Restauran Tue – Fri 12:00 – 15:00, Sat 12:00 – 23.00, Sun 12:00 – 22:00

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Misato is one of those few places in Central London that offers good food at a cheap price. For under £10, you can get a meal that you can probably share with another person, if you are a light eater. Might be thinly stretched if you are a big group.

Actually, if you plan to go dining at Misato, you are likely to get a table quicker if you have a small group – three being the maximum. See, there is always a queue at Misato, where you and your party could be waiting for up to 45 minutes! So here’s my little tip, if you have a dining party of more than 3 then go and ask to be sat in pairs. That way, you could get a table quicker.

Service here is quite fast (remember, this is a cash only restaurant) and you’ll be gone quicker than you had standing in the queue so you really won’t miss the rest of your friends.

Details about this spot
Misato | Restaurants (Japanese) | Main dishes £ 5.60
11 Wardour Street | Central (area map) | +442077340808
Mon – Fri 12:00 – 14:45 & 17:30 – 22:30, Sat – Sun 12:00 – 15:00 & 17:30 – 22:30

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To say I love mashed potato would be a significant understatement, so it’s not hard to imagine my delight on discovering the existence of this little wonder. Just round the corner from Carnaby Street, serving up freshly made-to-order mash and top quality sausages and pies, Mother Mash is perfect for a quick bite to eat pre-evening out or for a mid-shopping lunch break.

The menu is simple: choose your mash; then sausages or a pie; and finally pick which gravy to go on top. Of course, you may find deciding which of the array of delicious options to go for a little more challenging! Choose whether you want your mash bashed (lumpy) or mashed (smooth) and there are options for vegetable side dishes, too. I love the pork and leek sausages and Farmer’s gravy, oh and smooth mash every time! There are both sausage and pie options for vegetarians; and the menu also has a choice of salads, but really, this is not the place for exercising restraint!

The restaurant itself is modern, with bench style wooden seating, marble table tops and suitably trendy wall art, and I love that because of its small size, it still always feels cosy. A takeaway option is also available and proves very popular with the local creative types on lunch break.

Details about this spot
Mother Mash | Restaurants (English) | Main from £ 6.95
26 Ganton Street | Central (area map) | +442074949644
Mon – Fri 08:30 – 22:00, Sat 12:00 – 22:00, Sun 12:00 – 17:00

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Years ago I frequented a Mr Jerk restaurant, which then changed it’s name to Jerk City and a new Mr Jerk appeared a few doors down. Turns out, this was the result of a business management split. Now after legal action, the new place is called Savannah Jerk, and Jerk City has returned to being Mr Jerk. You still with me?  Both places have similar menus, but after sampling both, my loyalty is with the original, smaller, less expensive Mr Jerk.

The holy grail for me is a mutton roti, tender chunks of meat and potato in a spicy gravy, all wrapped up in roti, the traditional Trinidadian flatbread which is buttery, floury, elastic and crumbly. Seemingly hard to describe, but incredibly moreish.

It’s a great place to try other traditional Caribbean food. Brown-stew chicken with rice and peas, the meat so tender it falls off the bone, jerk chicken, a spicier alternative, and saltfish and ackee, a creamy fish and vegetable dish. Try the ‘hard’ food as an alternative to the rice: boiled yam, banana, dumpling, and sweet potato. Also get a taste for soup specials, fried chicken and Jamaican pattie appetisers. Take away is also available.

Details about this spot
Mr Jerk | Snacks, Restaurants (Caribbean) | Main meal from £ 8.00
189 Wardour Street | Central (area map) | +442072872878
Mon – Wed 10:00 – 22:30, Thu – Sat 10:00 – 23:00, Sun 12:00 – 20:00

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Traditionally dim sum is never served past 15:00, so for anyone who has craved the Chinese delicacy at night, look no further.

The main difference between Ping Pong and most dim sum restaurants is that there is plenty of options for vegetarians. An assortment of baked, steamed and fried puffs, rolls, buns and dumplings arrive at your table as they are ready in circular bamboo vessels, stacked on top of one another.

Drinks wise, the non-alcoholic coolers are rejuvenating, particularly refreshing is the pineapple juice, coconut puree and fresh lime combo.

A wooden lattice theme runs throughout the restaurant with a brown and beige décor. Upstairs, hanging orange cylindrical lanterns engraved with Chinese characters create a warm soft glow. While there are some private tables, much of the restaurant operates in a shared table policy, creating hubs of bustle, chat and consumption.

Through the giant glass walls you can watch theatre goers, tourists and commuters rushing to catch their trains at Waterloo.

While you can find other Ping Pong branches dotted around London, this location is perfect for a post-dinner wander along the south bank, my favourite part of London.

Details about this spot
Ping Pong | Restaurants (Dim sum) | Spinach & beef dumplings £ 3.39
Festival Terrace Belvedere Road | Central (area map) | +442079604160
Mon – Sat 12:00 – 00:00, Sun 12:00 – 23:00

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Located just up the road from the debauchery that is Camden, lies Primrose Hill, a quaint village like area that is known for its celebrity residents in addition to some of the best views of London.

The most picturesque way to get there is by walking along the canal from Camden, where you’ll pass house boats and buskers before popping out at the Primrose Hill exit. The streets are lined with beautiful mansions and perfect gardens, leaving you feeling like you’ve stumbled across a quintessentially English film set! This is quite fitting considering many English film stars have made this little area their home.

The high street (Regent’s Park Road) has a distinct village like feel to it, complete with a continental food store, cafes, specialty stores and restaurants. Come the weekend in summer, alfresco dinners and punters from the pub spill out onto the pavement, creating a lively yet relatively relaxed atmosphere.  However if a picnic in the park sounds more like your cup of tea, be sure to pass by Shepherd’s continental food store. Shepherd’s has tables set up outside selling delicious French pastries, bread and tasty Italian favourites.

From there, head up to the park, where you’ll be welcomed by fantastic views of the city in addition to the usual sites of a London park in summer; girls in bikini’s, ball games, picnics and people drinking cider in the sun. All in all, a very English way to spend an afternoon!

Details about this spot
Primrose Hill | Coffee & tea, Relaxing, Snacks, Restaurants (Various)
Primrose Hill | North-West (area map)
24 hours daily

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Pizza was born in Napoli, but this is Princi pizza, served with the style and elegance of Milan.

This is the brainchild of Alan Lau, creator of the highly successful Wagamama and Hakkasan Chinese restaurants.

The store is clad entirely in white stone and black granite table-tops, a trough of water runs at eye level down the entire length of one wall, with ribbons of light that project from underwater and play against the stonework.

Wholemeal, organic bread is baked fresh every day of the week, cakes and pastries glisten under enormous glass display cabinets as if in a jewellery store, hot meat and pasta dishes appear for lunch, and if you fancy an early pick-me-up, there’s always the cocktail bar!

Princi is now open even earlier for breakfast, from 07:00 Monday to Saturday, and from 09:00 on Sunday.

At a price of about £3.50 for a slice of hot, fresh pizza from the wood-fired oven, it’s worth a break from your shopping.

Details about this spot
Princi | Snacks, Restaurants (Italian) | Slice of pizza £ 3.50
135 Wardour Street | Central (area map) | +442074788888
Mon – Sat 07:00 – 00:00, Sun 09:00 – 23:00

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Kebab.  A word rife with all kinds of associations, an indistinct meat drowned in hot chilli sauce that is as likely to end up on the pavement as in your stomach.

That all ends here, as long as you are within reach of classy Lebanese restaurant, Ranoush Juice.

The first thing you’ll notice is how clean everything is, the floor, the surfaces, the food preparation areas, everything is done to a high standard.  The chefs wear proper paper chefs hats, the waitresses to the small eat-in dining area are in black.  The decor is tastefully middle-eastern, nothing gaudy, just black marble surfaces and light wood with soft lighting.  This is a takeaway shop with the outlook of a classy restaurant.

I always go for a lamb shish with chunks of fresh veg, cooked above the fire (from memory, the meat doesn’t touch any metal grill), then wrapped with salad and sauce in a soft, warm flatbread.  I could eat two or three at a time, and at only £3.50 a go, it’s been tempting!

There’s sooooo much other really great Lebanese food to try here as well, hot and cold mezza, salads and baklawa, the intensely sugary-sweet pastry.  It’s a really affordable way to sample middle-eastern food if you’re not too familiar with it.

Check out Maroush TV for some cheeky TV advertising!

Details about this spot
Ranoush Juice | Snacks, Restaurants (Lebanese) | Wraps from £ 3.50
86 High Street Kensington | West (area map) | +442079382234
12:00 – 02:00 daily

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Located in Elys Yard, just before you reach Bricklane (see the Bricklane article), is an old red double decker bus. From a distance this bus may appear to be illegally parked, however closer up you’ll notice that the bus has been converted into a fully fledged vegan restaurant.

There is seating outside the bus, however the best seat in the house, or in this case, the bus, is on the top deck. Surprisingly the ambience is quite romantic up top, with candles and coloured cushions strategically placed whilst chilled- out music plays through the bus.

I went on a rainy night which made my visit even nicer as the rain poured down the windows my friend and I both agreed that it would have been a nice if we were on a date! To add to the novelty, the bus shakes when people move around and our extremely tall waitress was unable to stand upright whilst taking our orders. However she didn’t appear to mind.

Being a vegan restaurant, meat lovers will probably want to head elsewhere, however in saying that, everything was tasty, particularly the vegetable tempura.  Definitely worth a visit, even just for a drink and to enjoy the unusual novelty of being at a restaurant on a bus.

Details about this spot
Rootmaster | Restaurants (Vegan) | Bottle of wine £ 12.00
Bricklane | East (area map) | +447912389314
Mon – Sat 11:00 – 23:00, Sun 11:00 – 22:30 | Kitchen closes at 21:30

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It’s a constant dilemma. London has so many fantastic pubs and clubs, however often it’s so hard to find a funky bar where you can go dancing which doesn’t close when the clock strikes twelve. However the Ruby & Sequoia restaurant bar, which is located near the fabulous Portobello Road, offers just that.

The main bar is a great place to stand around with a cocktail and catch up with friends, whilst the small downstairs area plays a mixture of dance and funk, which incidentally will have you dancing until the wee hours of the night.

The only downside about this place is that it has recently turned into a members bar, which means non members need to call ahead to get their names at the door. However entry is still free.

The restaurant is also open for brunch and offers the perfect hangover cure for £10 – any main course, a Bloody Mary, the morning papers and of course coffee and juice. Therefore, with Portobello Road less than a one minute walk away, Ruby & Sequoia restaurant bar is a great place to either start or end a day out in the area.

Details about this spot
Ruby & Sequoia | Bars, Coffee & tea, Music, Snacks, Restaurants (European)
6-8 All Saints Road | West (area map) | +4402072436363
Mon – Thu 18:00 – 00:30, Fri 18:00 – 02:00, Sat 11:00 – 02:00, Sun 11:00 – 00:30

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So, it’s that wonderful time of year when families are brought together, love is shared by society and happiness finds solace in the hearts of the many. Yes, it’s sales time and there must be about a million-and-a-half gormless androids shuffle down Oxford Street’s urban highways in search of bargain t-shirts. I can’t profess to possess any sort of moral high ground today though, because I too am shuffling between the masses, Selfridges bags and jubilant girlfriend in tow. Sales in central London is bad enough, but sales in sub-zero temperatures is enough to get even the most feverish shopper turning the air bluer than a £1 alcopop.

Still, just a minute away from the crush on Davies Street is the elegant Running Horse – a solace of solitude and radiators a million miles away from the bargain-hungry muppets. Wood panels and kitch clockery make the pub out like a 1970s smoking club, while the modern lighting and meagre beer choices are a purely naughties affair.

What does dazzle, however, is the food. Usually, ‘Toulouse sausages and creamed mash’ equate to ‘bangers and mash (with parsley) – but this was different. And my partner’s haddock dish looked like something straight out of Claridges. Both less than a tenner, both delicious, hearty pub grub. Never mind the barman was about as friendly as malaria, or that the cheese selection was made for Trumpton, or even that the last time I visited my father got the wrong dish – the warm interior and superb food make this place an oasis in an otherwise hellish area this time of year. God bless the holidays.

Details about this spot
Running Horse, Mayfair | Bars, Restaurants (Pub) | Main meals from £ 9.00
50 Davies Street | Central (area map)
Mon – Sat 12:00 – 23:00, Sun 12:00 – 22:00

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Due to a fire in August 2009, the Sea Shell is currently closed, but hold on there, I walked by just the other day and a sign says they hope to be open again in 2010. Can’t wait!

Try taking a look at this other great fish and chip Spot, The Rock and Soul Plaice

I found the Seashell many moons ago when I worked for the now extinct Woolworths head office that was just around the corner from this place near Marylebone station.

It serves what must be the finest collection I’ve found of traditionally fried fish in London, largely due to the fact the take-away is attached to the classy Sea Shell restaurant.  I go for the balled fishcakes, breaded calamari and crispy whitebait with a side of chips and a pot of their tartare sauce.  Aside from the usual cod and plaice, you can also get halibut, lemon and Dover sole, plus loads more.  Eat standing or sitting at the bar inside, or if the weather’s good, take a table outside in the sunshine and watch the world go by.

I had the most surreal experience of my life here one working lunch-hour, when a friend and I dropped in to get some take-away, and saw that the normal staff behind the counter had been replaced by people of a more, shall we say, mature age, all dressed in black and being filmed by TV cameras.

Strange, I thought.

Had the management decided to do a promo??  No, I realised it was even more surreal as my friend nudged me and said “that’s Ruby Wax, and David Gest and Liza Minelli!”.

Not sure who looked more scared, myself or Liza.  I managed to collar a sane staff member and got my chips straight, rather than served Cabaret style.  Lucky escape there, no offence Ruby

Details about this spot
Sea Shell of Lisson Grove | Snacks, Restaurants (Fish & chips) | Meal £ TBC
49-51 Lisson Grove | North-West (area map)
TBC

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For the perfect combination of glamour and eccentricity, head to Sketch, off Regent St, Mayfair. Sketch is made up of a few bars and restaurants, one of which has a Michelin star, however the main attraction of Sketch is its quirky interior. Each room is unique, however the design is consistent; opulent, edgy and alluring.

For a traditional but chic English experience, the Parlour room does a great High Tea in the afternoon from 15:00 – 19:30. For £30, you get a sample of scrumptious cakes, traditional sandwiches, tea and a glass of champagne to wash it all down.

The Gallery, which has various cultural exhibitions by day, converts into a restaurant at night with a live DJ playing until 02:00. Whilst there, be sure to wander down to the East Bar at the back of the Gallery. This intimate bar is the perfect place to sip on a delicious Tai Tai or Lovely Bubbly cocktail.

Above the East Bar, two staircases lead up to a floor that has randomly scattered white cubicles which resemble a cross between giant eggshells and space ships: naturally, these are the toilets. Once you enter your spaceship cubicle you are greeted by some interesting sounds such as cows mooing, people laughing or X rated screams.

Needless to say, after being at Sketch for only a short while you’ll begin to feel as if you have stumbled across a secret and unusual little world – a world where you won’t want to leave!

Details about this spot
Sketch | Art & culture, Bars, Coffee & tea, Music, Restaurants (English)
9 Conduit Street | Central (area map) | +442076594500
Mon – Sat

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Located not so far from the bustling Oxford Street is St Christopher’s Place. Its proximity to London’s most popular shopping street makes it easily accessible to tourists but there is always a fair amount of locals who frequent the place. Here you’ll find a collection of places to eat and drink like Carluccio’s (an Italian restaurant), Sofra (bit of Middle Eastern cuisine) and my favourite, Café Creperie (to satisfy my French cravings). There is also a traditional pub, Lamb & Flag, in one corner, if cosmopolitan dining is not your cup of tea. There are other places to eat, drink and shop all the way up to Wigmore Street.

From time to time, there are buskers who provide the musical entertainment. But there is always a party atmosphere with or without the music.

Alfresco is the main dining theme at St Christopher’s place. Even in winter, people would still sit outside as almost every place offer patio heating. However, I wouldn’t know how it’s like when it is raining — as it almost always does. But when the weather is good, it is a perfect place to catch up with old friends and meet new ones.

Details about this spot
St Christopher’s Place | Bars, Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants (Various)
St Christopher’s Place | Central (area map)
Varying opening times

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After a trip to Tayyabs, it’s easy to see why the wall is plastered with framed awards and rave reviews. Most Londoners know the best curries are not found on self-proclaimed curry capital Brick Lane, and those in the know believe Tayyabs, within walking distance, is one of the best.

The no frills Pakistani restaurant is always bustling with an English and international crowd, truly reflecting the rich multicultural makeup of London. Tables are set close together to accommodate the steady flow of people and waiters seamlessly weave between them, providing efficient and fast service.

The food is less heavy than most ghee-filled Indian or Pakistani dishes and the delicately flavoured lentil and baby aubergine curry (dhal baingun) is a must. The fresh mango lassis come by the glass or in jugs to share and are a delicious accompaniment to the meal. Powerfully spiced sizzling grilled meats are a specialty. Although they don’t serve alcohol, you are free to bring your own. There is no corking charge.

Details about this spot
Tayyabs | Restaurants (Pakistani/Indian) | Dhal Baingun £ 5.00
83 Fieldgate Street | East (area map) | +442072479543
12:00 – 00:00 daily

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If The Bedford was a person, it would be a woman. Why? Because it can multi-task!

It was originally a hotel in the 1830s so it’s no wonder why there more than 1 room. Today, The Bedford is a place where you drink, eat, dance, laugh, listen and see.

This iconic venue in south west London is conveniently located near the Balham rail and tube stations. There is something happening each day of the week whether it be a comedy show, a dance class, a concert or a club night. You can also chill with a pint or two by the fireplace or soak in the lively atmosphere as you sit by the bar. Who knows you might be sitting beside the resident mascot – a huge German Shepherd with quite the fancy for an ale.

I go to The Bedford mainly for 2 reasons, one is to dance Argentine tango (with Tango Fandango) every other Sunday; the other is to learn the lindy hop (with Swingland) every Tuesday. But I’ve since discovered that they also serve great food, which is unusual for pub grubs, especially the chips. Big, fat slices that are oh so tasty! Possibly the best bowl of chips in SW London.

The Bedford is not just your typical local pub. It’s a centre for everything.

Details about this spot
The Bedford | Art & culture, Bars, Music, Restaurants (Pub) | Wine £ 3.00
77 Bedford Hill | South-West (area map) | +442086828940
Mon-Thu 11:00 – 23:00 Fri-Sat 11:00 – 02:00 Sun 12:00 – 22:30

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Just a ten-minute walk from the maelstrom of central Hammersmith, The Dove public house is a haven of easy peacefulness, harking back to a more civilised age of drinking.  Tucked away in a narrow passage on the picturesque banks of the River Thames, this small, 17th Century building is reminiscent of a country cottage, serving hearty food, and ales from the local Chiswick Fullers brewery.

Step through the old, dark front door into a warm and inviting bar no bigger than a front room, panelled in lustrous, dark wood. Head up a few gently creaking steps into the main dining area, minding your head on the low wood beams that truss the ceiling, and you find yourself in another panelled room lit by brass-lamp fittings that pool light over historic black and white photos of Hammersmith.  Well-worn benches, chairs and tables line the walls throughout, and in winter two roaring fires will be nurtured by local river-folk, walkers, a dog or two, and the few lucky tourists who will have stumbled upon this gem.

Summer is equally tranquil; a conservatory to the rear opens out to a terrace overlooking the sparkling river, the opposite bank lined with lush, green trees.  The Oxford & Cambridge boat race can be viewed from here if you’re lucky enough to get a seat.

I really shouldn’t be telling you about this, because it’s one of those places that you want to keep just for yourself.  I feel like a magician who’s revealed the prestige of the magic trick.

Look into my eyes, you have never heard of a pub…called The Dove…

Details about this spot
The Dove | Bars, Restaurants (English) | Main from £ 9.75
19 Upper Mall | West (area map) | +442087489474
Bar 11:00 – 23:00 daily | Food Mon- Fri 12:00 – 15:00 & 17:00 – 22:00 , Sat 12:00 – 22:00, Sun 12:00 – 19:00

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There’s a lot right with Victoria Park village – and there are plenty of drawbacks. Beautiful little bistros lining the street, ample shopping and a glut of gorgeous ale houses are within crawling distance of Victoria Park.

However, as with most upmarket London suburbs you’re going to come across your fair share of la-di-da media middle managers, overpriced food and tardy service. The latter is spectacularly true of the Empress’ illustrious next door neighbours at Fish House – where I’ve waited over half an hour before being served without a hint of a smile.

However the Empress stands head and shoulders above every other establishment in the area. A fantastic food menu is complimented by the intricately art-deco interior, resplendent with grand colonial murals and quirky chandeliers.

The lemon sole was nothing short of spectacular; its crushed potato and in-season asparagus accoutrements work perfectly with the subtle Hollandaise and an added side of cauliflower (real) cheese. The brunette had trout; melted in her and my mouth while still exuding all the tastes of the North Sea. Service was just the right side of smiley, without being smarmy, and quick, too – take that, Fish House: better decor, service – and fish! And for the same price, just over a tenner a meal.

It may not be the most beloved of bank balances, but the Empress of India is more than a gastropub; it’s a first date.

Details about this spot
The Empress of India | Bars, Restaurants (Modern Cuisine) | Main meal £ 12.00
130 Lauriston Road | East (area map) | +442085335123
09:00 – 23:00 daily

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At the south-west tip of the Heath, is a vibrant pub with a gastro ambiance where you can rest your feet after hours of throwing a stick (according to my fellow Spotter, Ben Pendrey says). The Freemasons Arms can be quite posh to someone’s taste but it does offer a cosy atmosphere and a selection of unique and yummy cocktails! Its interiors do fit in nicely with its surroundings as well as its sharply-dressed clientele. There is no dress code but one might feel out-of-place when you’ve just wrestled with your dog on the grounds of the Heath. Unless your dog is a chihuahua, of course.

Kidding aside, this pub is an okay place to hang about especially if you live in the area. Not only can you sample their wide selection of wines and spirits but you can also fill your tummies with superb and freshly cooked food. And if you have something to celebrate, you can never be overdressed for a helping of fine dining and a bottle of fizz.

If you don’t live in the area (i.e. those who live south of the river), The Freemasons Arms is a recommended spot for those lazy weekends where you catch up with friends at a fresh and relaxing location. As for the occasional visitor, it is the perfect companion to your complete your trip to the Hampstead area.

Details about this spot
The Freemason’s Arms | Bars, Restaurants (European) | Pint £ 3.00
32 Downshire Hill | North-West (area map) | +442074336811
Mon – Sat 12:00 – 23:00 (22:00 for food), Sun 12:00 – 22:30 (21:00 for food)

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One of the best ways to spend an afternoon on a cold London day is tucked away in an old pub. And for some true old London charm go to the George Inn in Borough. This pub was rebuilt in 1676 after a fire swept through it, however despite it not being the original building, ye old London is still very present in this beautiful old Inn.

The George Inn was once a coaching terminus, and it’s rumoured that Charles Dickens used to frequent the middle bar which was previously a coffee shop. So you don’t get much more ‘old England’ than this little place.

Hidden down in one of the many alleyways in Borough, the George welcomes you with a huge cobble stoned courtyard area which is always full of punters during summer. Once inside you are greeted by the low beamed ceilings and cosy little rooms, complimented by dimmed lighting. The only downside is that seating is limited inside and it can get very crowded, so best to get in early.

The George also makes its own Ale (logically called George’s Ale) and has a range of other beers and alcohol to send you on your merry way. The licensed restaurant serves up the usual pub favourites such as roasts, mushroom and Guinness pie and a pretty good cheese platter.

Details about this spot
The George Inn | Bars, Restaurants (Pub)
77 Borough High Street | Central (area map) | +442074072056
Mon – Sat 11:00 23:00, Sun 12:00 – 22.30

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One of my all time favourite London pubs; either after a Hampstead Heath afternoon jaunt, or for an evening drink or two in front of the fire. I even dragged my university Romantic Literature group 3/4 of a mile up the hill for a post class excursion tipple once (well, they asked if anyone knew of a nice pub!).

The Holly Bush is happily situated on one of Hampstead’s picture-perfect residential streets, tucked away moments from the tube and the bustle of the high street. The building, dating from the 1640s, has been a pub since the early 19th century, and still retains many of its original features – etched-glass windows, gas lamps and oak flooring – and with them an old fashioned charm that is becoming increasingly rare. I love to settle down with a drink in one of the worn, oak booths in the front bar, or perch next to the fire in the adjoining room on chilly days.

A wide selection of beers, wines and spirits are available along with a fine choice of ales. Reasonably priced food (mainly organic and locally sourced) is served in the bar areas and also in the equally charming dining room upstairs. Try one of the excellent pies on offer, or my favourite, sausage and mash!

If you have the luxury of time, come in on a late winter’s afternoon, sit by the fire and pretend not to notice as the day slips away into evening and the gas lamps begin to glow.

Details about this spot
The Holly Bush | Bars, Restaurants (English) | Main from £ 7.50
22 Holly Mount, Hampstead | North-West (area map) | +4402074352892
Bar Mon – Sat 12:00 – 23:00, Sun 12:00 – 22:30 | Food Mon – Fri 12:00 – 16:00 & 18:00 – 22:00, Sat 12:00 – 22:00, Sun 12:00 – 21:30

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A great place to take a first date, the Kensington Creperie is a relaxed French-affair with efficient, friendly staff from all over the world. As you can see from the photo, it was a staff birthday when I dropped in…and somewhere at the back is the manager, Decio.

I first discovered the cafe one summer in 2002, putting up marquees in the parks and gardens of London.  While tidying away for the cafe, our team found we had uncovered a rich vein of authentic French crepes!  The deal was sealed by an encounter with a lovely Caribbean number, filled with melted Belgian chocolate, a shake of coconut and a tot o’ rum.  I’ve been going back ever since.

Local people who have dropped in are pictured in the window, Pierce Brosnan and Bob Geldof, ever heard of them?  Apparently some chaps who play a game called football for Arsenal and Chelsea like to drop in too, for the unassuming, family atmosphere.

The SAS are rumoured to use this restaurant after long endurance tests standing up, browsing exhibitions at the nearby Victoria & Albert, Natural History and Science museums.  If you find you too are close to passing out on parade, then head straight to the creperie for a life-sustaining savoury, then sweet filled crepe.

Be sure to check the specials board for creative concoctions invented specially by the staff, some from classic Portuguese and English dishes, now lovingly wrapped in creperie-magic!

Details about this spot
The Kensington Creperie | Restaurants (French) | One filled-crepe from £ 3.00
2 Exhibition Road | West (area map) | +442075898947
Mon 12:00 – 23:30, Tue – Sun 11:00 – 23:30

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Forget all bad experiences you have had with nasty, greasy breakfasts, this place will set your universe the right way up.

A bit of a well-kept secret, Kitchen Table is tucked away from the bustle of West End Lane, frequented by locals, this child-friendly café has a real homely feel. In fact, proprietors Tom and Jenny want you to feel exactly that, right at home.

A large, solid pine table and benches run the length of one wall, and the kitchen being part of the café space makes it all feel quite cosy.  Flower vases lend the place a slightly rural feel, and an entire wall is decorated with pictures drawn in crayon (available on request) by customer’s children, instead of at your home…on the wall.

On offer are smooth cappuccinos, huge chocolate brownies, and the incredible breakfast of scrambled eggs on thick, brown toast, with sides of crispy bacon, roasted tomatoes, field mushrooms and a tangy dark green leaf salad. Alternatively there is homemade granola with Greek yoghurt or porridge with pistachios, raisins and honey.

If you’re still there a few hours later, why not stay for lunch?  Homemade soups, tartes served with salad and a variety of chunky sandwiches filled with tangy fillings of classic British cheese, ham, hummus, olives, herb-roasted chicken, tuna and salami to mention a few, then there’s afternoon tea and cake as well.

Note, cash payments only are accepted and naturally, children’s portions are available.

Details about this spot
The Kitchen Table | Coffee & tea, Restaurants (Breakfast) | Food from £ 2.50
37 Mill Lane | North-West (area map) | +442072099386
Mon – Fri 09:00 – 17:00, Sat 09:00 – 16:00

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No building in history may have had as bad press as the Millennium Dome – sorry – the O2. But look at it without reeling at all those taxpayers’ pennies and you’ve got to admit – it’s a hell of a sight. London’s most maligned tourist site may be a white elephant, but it’s no lame duck nowadays thanks to the revamp O2 and pals have given it in the last few years.

Name a gastro-pub or popular restaurant chain and it’s here. Name a generic public entertainment facility and it’s here. What’s not to like? Well, everything I suppose – but there are some huge draws to the dome.

Firstly, at night it’s a great fit-inducing menagerie of LEDS, neon and modernism in extremis which at the very least is worth a short ‘ooh’ or ‘ahh’ to the beholder. Secondly, once inside the cavernous dutch cap (and trust me it is HUGE), you can spend a veritably wholesome evening at comparably little expensive when you look at central London’s myriad overpriced, underachieving tourist traps.

Thirdly and waywardly most importantly is its new-found status as London’s premier uber-gig venue. I recently went on a whim, without ticket to see Tennessee’s tremendous Kings of Leon. No chance? No way. £25 on the door – which, as any big gig lover will tell you – is a fair bit under the asking price. And oddly, for a place as big as this, the atmosphere was every bit as tremendous.

Details about this spot
The O2 | Bars, Cinemas, Coffee & tea, Music, Restaurants | Free
Peninsula Square | South-East (area map)
Mon – Sat till 23:00, Sun til 22:00

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My friends and I affectionately call this our local, because while it isn’t around the corner from us, it’s certainly one of the nicest pubs in our area. Inside, a collection of wooden tables and and cushioned chairs are lit by mismatched chandeliers. Palm trees covered in fairy lights and massive mirrors in elaborate frames add to the red burgundy decor.

Traditional tasty pub food is served at reasonable prices and a carnival-like old fashioned popcorn machine provides a steady flow of free popcorn, placed strategically around the circular bar in large bowls for anyone to take.

My favourite part is the beer garden at the back. Half the space is covered and there is plenty of seating. The covered area has comfortable leather sofas you sink in to. Sitting outside in winter is fine too as there is a very efficient heating lamp system.

Details about this spot
The Regent | Bars, Coffee & tea, Snacks, Restaurants (Pub) | Glass of wine £ 3.25
5 Regent Street | North-West (area map) | +442089692184
Mon – Thu 12:00 – 23:00, Fri – Sat 12:00 – 01:00, Sun 12:00 – 10:30

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What can I do when the all the good puns for a piece about a fish and chip shop have been included in its name!

I first found this place years ago when I used to go dancing (a very loose definition of reality there) at Pineapple Studios, just down the road in Covent Garden.  After an exhausting and relentless hour of trying not to look at myself in the studio mirror, we would head through the dark rainy night to a source of salvation…hot, salty, vinegary, chunky chips!

The man in the photo is Astrit, you can find him there most times with the rest of his staff in very bright yellow jackets.  I originally thought that it was a Brazilian joint because of this, but he tells me they are some Brazilian, some Albanian, a mixture.

If you’re are in a large group of ten or more he says he will also throw in free soft drinks, not bad! It’s a very small shop, with some seating in the basement which isn’t ideal, so I’d advise you stay upstairs if at all possible. It’s great in the summer as they have picnic tables outside under the trees, you can slip off for a lazy pint in the Cross Keys pub down the road afterwards.

Details about this spot
The Rock & Sole Plaice | Snacks, Restaurants (Fish & Chips) | Fish & chips £ 9.00
47 Endell Street | Central (area map) | +442078363785
Mon – Sat 11:30 – 23:00, Sun 12:00 – 22:00

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The Gordon Ramsay name is often affiliated with a very expensive menu and a decent wait list to get a table. However the famous four-letter-word chef also owns a string of reasonably priced pubs, one of which is the beautiful Warrington in Maida Vale.

The Warrington was first built in 1857 and is characterised by its lavish interior and exterior. The downstairs section of the pub has been beautifully restored and is as equally as sophisticated as it is cosy. Enjoy the unique selection of bar snacks including a traditional Sunday roast, sausage rolls, fish cakes or a chocolate and marshmallow brownie. And of course, the bar is well stocked with a large variety of traditional real ales, bottled beer, ciders and wine.

For those wanting a more upscale affair, book a table at the restaurant above the pub. The restaurant is more of what you would expect from the F Word chef, with crisp white linen table cloths and smartly dressed wait staff serving delicious fresh food. Whilst slightly more expensive than your average pub lunch, a visit to the restaurant will not break the bank and is perfect for those wanting the experience of going to a Gordon Ramsay restaurant however without spending your weekly wages. The reasonable prices also justifies a few more drinks in the gorgeous pub below!

Details about this spot
The Warrington | Bars, Restaurants (British) | A la carte menu £ 18.50
93 Warrington Crescent | North-West (area map) | +442075927960
Mon – Thu 17:00 – 22:30, Fri 12:00 – 14:30 & 17:30 – 22:30
Sat 12:00 – 15:00 & 18:00 – 22:30, Sun 12:00 – 21:00 | Bar 12:00 – 21:00 daily

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So named because it was previously a wet fish shop, (the term ‘wet’ refers to fish that have not been frozen since being caught) the old cream and emerald Art Deco tiles from this previous incarnation now form part of the tranquil, dark-wood ambiance.  I love the old Oriental sideboard with deep carvings of rural scenery, and the soft, glass wall-lights ease the strain of the day away.

The staff are quite unobtrusive and very courteous. I always feel like I’m in a Zen-forest oasis in here, half-expecting saffron-robed monks to walk through en-route to a temple.

I mostly drop in here for the excellent, smooth and quite punchy cappucinos, complete with barista art, created in the froth by a delicate method of pouring the milk into the coffee.

The raison-d’etre of the café is reassuringly called ‘modern comfort food’.  Brunch, wine and dine describes it adequately, as they cater for the late-rising population of West Hampstead with a range of pastries and hot food for the morning.  Nourishing sandwiches, soups, pasta and tapas are available from lunch throughout the afternoon, then come the evening the feasting begins on lamb shank, steak, fresh fish and pasta.

It’s best to check the menus on the Wet Fish Cafe website as they are updated constantly with regard to seasonal ingredients, something that makes this place quite special, and worth parting with a few more pounds than you usually might.

Details about this spot
The Wet Fish Cafe | Coffee & tea, Restaurants (European) | Main meal £ 12.00
242 West End Lane | North-West (area map) | +442074439222
Tue – Sun 09:45 – 23:00

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Veeraswamy is the UK’s oldest Indian restaurant. It was established in 1926 by the great-grandson of an English General, and an Indian princess, on the same site as the present restaurant just north of Piccadilly Circus.  I first learned about it from my Grandfather, who ate here with his Royal Air Force buddies when they were billeted in London during World War II.

Accessed via a heavy door in Swallow Street, a staff member will greet you to take your coat, then direct you into a small lift that takes you up to the restaurant. Housed on a mezzanine floor overlooking Regent Street, Veeraswamy has a safe, cosy and cosseted atmosphere.

It’s recently had a refit and now positively glows in regal splendour, with engraved-chrome wall tiles, coloured glass chandeliers and deep pile carpets.  I love the row of traditional Sikh turbans mounted under spotlights in on the restaurant wall. I’ve never yet had the nerve to ask to try one on.  The staff have a military efficiency in their service, but never become obtrusive.

I’ve quoted the average a la carte price below for dinner, but less expensive offers are available on the website here.  They’re worth taking advantage of to experience the jewel of curries for a more palatable price. As part of this menu, I recently had a fantastic crab and chilli soup that was just the thing for a cold winter’s day.

Details about this spot
Veeraswamy | Restaurants (Indian) | 3 course à la carte £ 55.00
99 Regent Street | Central (area map) | +442077341401
Mon – Fri 12:00 – 14:15 & 17:30- 22:30, Sat 12:30 – 14:30 & 17:30 – 22:30
Sun 12:30 – 14:30 & 18:00 – 22:00

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Vijay has been serving up cheap delicious South Indian food since 1964. The modest décor – walls adorned with small wooden lacquered panels painted with images of Ganesh and other Hindu gods – isn’t why you come here. Rather, this Kilburn staple is known for consistent and quality made-to-order food.

Ample seating and plenty of staff on hand help keep the regulars coming back. The friendly boss is always swanning about, happy to have a chat. If in the area at lunch time and feel your tummy rumbling, pop in for the buffet. While most buffets follow the ‘quantity over quality’ mantra, Vijay serves up a tasty veritable feast for only £5.99.

South Indian food tends to have more dry dishes than North Indian cooking and this can be seen in the green banana and coconut dish, not often found on Indian restaurant menus. Make sure to also try the sweet coconut peshwari naan.

Details about this spot
Vijay | Restaurants (Indian) | Lunch buffet £ 5.99
49 Willesden Lane | North-West (area map) | +442073281087
12:00 – 14:45 & 18:00 – 22:45 daily

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If you are looking for something vegetarian or vegan or simply good food, Vita-organic is the place to go. It is a treasure amongst the overwhelming plethora of choice in Soho. It’s often easy to get drawn into a familiar chain or think you’ve spotted an appetising cheap eat only to find the food lacks taste and the service is non-existent.  Everything in Vita-Organic is, as you would imagine, organic and you can really taste it.

Food is ordered at the counter, but you don’t specify what you want, but rather how much. Portions come in scoops. You can order anywhere between 1 and 6 scoops on a plate and I would recommend three scoops for a filling meal. Even though it’s vegetarian, it’s very filling as many of the dishes use alternatives, such as coconut milk in place of cream.

Vita Organic opens its doors to allergy sufferers; many dishes are dairy or wheat free. Making the decision of which dishes make the cut on your plate can be difficult – the spread of food is vast, including stews, bakes, curries, stir-frys and salads. Save room for a fresh juice – the list is impressive.

Details about this spot
Vita Organic | Coffee & tea, Restaurants (Vegen) | First scoop £ 3.80
74 Wardour Street | Central (area map) | +4402077348986
Mon – Sat 12:00 – 22:00, Sun 12:00 – 21:00

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British Mexican. Hmm…two contractions sure to inspire suspicion in the even the most bloaty-headed mind. Like Scottish and goalkeeper; or Tory and orgy.

But there may be hope yet. Because Wahaca’s uniquely British – and specifically London – take on Mexico’s national cuisine is a fervent modern marketplace humming with sizzling platters and spicy sauces. If you want Mexican on the go, there’s no better place in the west end, or White City (see the website for both addresses).

For the greener-minded, Wahaca only source their extremely good quality meat from ethical farmers – everything’s free range, well-fed etc. For a tenner a dish you’d pretty much be forgiven in expecting rubbery, fast food Mexico-to-go but no; Wahaca’s forefront dishes are succulent and enjoyable. There’s even a decent drinks list.

The atmosphere may not be to everyone’s dim-lit boudoir tastes, but trust me – you’ll learn to love it as long as you don’t expect a royal buffet. I recommend the Wahaca selection for an affordable bit of everything. You can even but fresh ingredients from their market range. What more do you want? An inexpensive start to what will usually be a wallet-burning evening.

Details about this spot
Wahaca | Restaurants (Mexican) | Two courses & drinks +/- £ 25.00
66 Chandos Place | Central (area map) | +442072401883
Mon – Sat 12:00 – 23:00, Sun 12:00 – 22:30

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Nestled amongst London’s China Town is legendary Wong Kei’s. Rude staff, crammed shared eating arrangements and the ambience of a school canteen. However without a doubt, cheap and authentic Chinese food every time.

Split over three floors and as packed as a train at peak hour in China, even its worst critics haven’t managed to tarnish its reputation. In fact, some people actually come to Wong Kei’s not just to sample the traditional Chinese food, but to experience the main issue that got the critics tongues wagging in the first place.  The rude staff.

Faithful customers of Wong Kei’s are be able to recall the days they were yelled at by the staff, being told to put down their chop sticks, hurry up and leave. Where talking leisurely with friends over a bottle of wine and a three course meal would lead to an outburst from a waiter and your table being cleared just as you were tucking into your Cantonese beef steak. Therefore, I’m slightly disappointed to admit that every time I’ve eaten at Wong Kei’s I’ve never been yelled at – I actually even received a thank you on my last visit!

Regardless of the staff, if you’re looking for a fine dining experience, Wong Kei’s is not the place for you. However if you’re after cheap and cheerful Chinese, potentially minus the cheerful, be sure to stop past on your next night out in the West End.

Details about this spot
Wong Kei | Restaurants (Chinese) | Mains from £ 5.00
41-43 Wardour Street | Central (area map) | +4402074378404
12:00 – 23:00 daily

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