LONDON – one huge supper club
Nowhere else (bar New York) is there such a level of imagination when it comes to food, or an exciting new restaurant opening every few minutes. The variety of cuisine and experiences we have on offer in London is immense. Not just on the restaurant side, but I love all the food markets and foodie festivals like the Marylebone Summer Fayre, Taste London…. and random pop-ups such as Beirut’s street food joint Yalla Yalla which is now on South Bank until September, as is Wahaca. London makes food more interesting, different and it’s always inventive. Living here, I’m ALWAYS on the lookout for the next new opening or just hot recommendations. I thought I’d highlight a few of my current favourites but if you have any great tips of where to go, let me know so I can add to my never-ending list!
A few to try out below….
Starting with my absolute favourite, Hawksmoor…. the old brewery exudes a mouthwatering aroma of raw and grilled meat as you walk into this industrial compound. Here the steak is the best I’ve had in Lodon and even the desserts are incredibly tempting… salted caramel tarts, peanut butter shortbread…
Polpo – da Polpo – Polpetto – Spuntino – Part of the same group, these are all effortlessly cool, it’s all about sharing plates in these Venetian style outposts, although sister restaurant Spuntino has more of a speakeasy vibe to it
Pollen Street Social – Jason Atherton’s first venture. It’s contemporary, not too formal and serves creative and refined interpretations of classic dishes. I suppose it’s modern British but definitely has a Mediterranean influence
Fino – As the name translates into English, Fino is elegant … distinguished Spanish dining in the heart of foodie Charlotte Street
Zuma and Roka – Asian-Fusion trendy restaurants where the food is delicious and you’re likely to spot a VIP… expect to break the bank
Dishoom – A reinterpretation of an Indian restaurant. Dishoom serves small sharing plates, tapas-style, and you can find anglicised versions of dishes – cheddar naan!
Yauatcha – A little try-hard judging by its slick modernist look but it seriously is dim sum heaven
Hush – Tucked away in Lancashire Court this is a real hidden gem, the food is great and the terrace – amazing! It’s the cutest alleyway in London with a couple of chic bars so it’s a mini social-hub that not many know about
Opera Tavern – Spanish tapas and wine bar with an NYC, Lower East Side bar twist. And… gorgeous Argentinian waiters (yes this is a reason to go here)
Bar Boulud – Where surprisingly the staff consists of savvy Europeans on their gap year. Come for the laid-back atmosphere and the best burgers in town – try the Piggie, the Frenchie or the BB… the latter had a layer of short ribs braised in wine, foie gras and a truffle garnish…. numnumnum
Franco’s – A fancy Italian on Jermyn Street – the burrata here is so creamy and the pasta so fresh
Boho Mexica – Forget Wahaca, this is real Mexican food, and the best chili-rimmed margaritas I’ve ever had
Next of my hit list is Dabbous… where I’ve booked a table in October (having made the reservation back in April). I hear they have no space for mid-week lunch until November and no weekends available until April 2013……………. It has raving reviews from the even the harshest food critics so it must be good!
My Local Favourites – Fulham Road
Aglio e Oglio – A real Italian! No gimmicky decor consisting of crap gondolas painted on the walls, just simple delicious pasta and meat dishes…. generous portions is an understatement.
Suksan – Now my favourite Thai restaurant in London. I’ve never seen such intricately presented steamed dumplings, that’s one reason to come here.
Patara – Always excellent, especially the lamb shank. It’s also located on Maddox Street near Oxford Circus
Riccardo’s – Tuscan specialities. Grab a table in the covered terrace