If you've been in London for a while you are sure to have heard of the restaurant legend that is Padella in London Bridge. Situated right next to Borough Market, arguably the most foodie market in town, this gem is potentially my favourite eatery in the city.
This is a place that keeps it simple - the main course menu is limited to pasta, a few regulars and a changing list of specials. But this is not just any ordinary pasta. Freshly made in front of your eyes with eye-watering skill and mouth-watering fresh ingredients, they manage to make the best pasta I've eaten outside of Italy.
I would recommend going in a small group and sharing as many dishes as you can eat. Some personal favourites of mine are the nutmeg butter gnocci and the chili tagliarini. Their 8-hour beef shin ragu also attracts fans from far and wide.
Beware, the popularity of this joint usually makes for a guaranteed queue. No bookings are allowed, though in the evenings they take your name and give you a callback when your table is ready, meaning you can relax over a pint in one of the many local boozers while you wait.
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our London guide.
Walpole spent most of his life transforming the building into his own ‘little Gothic castle’, with battlements, arched doorways and stained glass windows.
By
Aside from its compelling history, what really sets Fitzrovia Chapel apart is its extraordinary gold mosaic ceiling. So don't forget to look up!
By
Twice a week, all the tables are pushed to one side, and the bookshop is transformed into an intimate venue for author talks, film screenings and debates.
By
What really sets Book 28 apart, is their commitment to sourcing intersectional literature that would be unlikely to appear in your average public library.
By
Designed in 1822 by Thomas Cubitt (the architect behind large parts of Belgravia & Pimlico), Woburn Walk retains many of its original Georgian shopfronts.
By
Savour your food, indulge in good conversation and when you’ve scraped your plate clean, go out onto the patio for a long, drawn-out coffee in the sun.
By
Everything I’ve tried in this restaurant is delicious and plentiful. I love the bread, the dips and I can guarantee that their saffron rice is to die for!
By
I immediately fell in love with Redemption Roasters for their strong mission, big social impact, and great coffee of course. Plus an excellent brunch menu!
By
At the ground level - a quirky interior, cosy seating areas, and a great selection of drinks and food! But if you go upstairs though you will discover...
By
An a family-owned independent cheese shop that opened in 1994 and has been going strong since then. Their selection of cheeses is outstanding and varied.
By
"Tottenham Green Market" in London is a tiny food & drinks market that shows up every Sunday. One of my favorite things there is the Greek Souvlaki stall!
By
"Love Walk Cafe" in South London's Camberwell: a friendly cafe in line with the neighbourhood around it. I would recommend their quality English breakfast.
By