Curated Collection

Date Night London

Discover handpicked date night in London, with what to order first at each place.

Every place here is handpicked. Signal score shows how strong and consistent the review coverage is, not a star rating.

659 restaurants

1
OMA

Modern Greek · £££ · Southwark

98Signal

Start with

Açma Verde & Salt Cod XO Labneh

The universal consensus across reviews is that the bread program is 'amazing'; specifically, the açma (a garlic-laced Turkish bagel-hybrid) paired with the salt cod labneh, which Nick Lander called the 'highlight' of the spreads.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

2
Bouchon Racine

French Bistro · £££ · Farringdon

98Signal

Start with

Grilled leg of rabbit in a mustard sauce

A 'Harris old-stager' that remains a defining classic; Jay Rayner highlights the 'nose punch of Dijon' and the 'plank of crisped bacon balanced on top.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

3
Wildflowers

Mediterranean · £££ · Belgravia

96Signal

Start with

Gnocco fritto, coppa, gorgonzola, truffle honey

Described as 'phenomenal' and 'the thing to order the second you sit down,' these bite-sized delights are a must-have that 'dissolve' in the mouth.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

4
Barang

Contemporary Cambodian · ££ · Borough

95Signal
✓ Visited

Start with

Diver Scallop with Tamarind Butter

Universally acclaimed; The Observer's critic stated they 'trust Barang with my life' after eating this, while the Standard praised the 'textural triumph' of the fat roe, daikon, and pork crackling 'cut into fries'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

5
Akoko

West African Fine Dining · £££ · Fitzrovia

95Signal

Start with

Smoked Jollof Rice

Regarded as having a 'sacred status' with an 'intense applewood smoke aroma,' critics praise the version served with crispy puffed rice for its deep umami stock and 'intense smokey flavour.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

6
Gloria

Italian · ££ · Shoreditch

95Signal

Start with

Pasta al tartufo

A satisfying, 'dank bowl' of fresh mafalda ribbons littered with black Molise truffle, mascarpone, and button mushrooms that critics call 'downright delicious.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

7
KOKUM

Modern Indian · ££ · Southwark

94Signal

Start with

Raan Utthapam

Universally hailed as 'transcendent' by critics, this dish features kid lamb simmered for 12 hours and served on a fermented rice pancake.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

8
Akara

West African · ££ · Southwark

92Signal

Start with

BBQ Tiger Prawn Akara

The namesake dish of the restaurant, described as 'plump, voluptuous' and 'best tackled with both hands.' It features a spongey black-eye bean fritter stuffed with sweet, spiced prawns.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

9
Ognisko

Polish · £££ · South Kensington

92Signal

Start with

Placki (Potato Pancakes)

Described as 'humble ingredients raised to opulent nobility,' these crisp pancakes are topped with 'velvety and plush' chicken livers and 'sour-sweet little bombs' of dried cherries.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

10
Lucia's

Mexican · ££ · Hackney Wick

92Signal

Start with

Beef Barbacoa Tacos

Universally praised as 'juicy and piping hot,' these tacos feature 'soft, succulent' meat and nixtamalized corn tortillas that are 'vivid in flavour.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

11
Sushi Atelier

Modern Japanese · ££ · Fitzrovia

91Signal

Start with

12 Pieces of Omakase Nigiri

Critics describe this as '£33 well spent', featuring 'unctuous scallop' and 'delicately fatty chutoro' on rice that is 'still just warm' and 'lightly vinegared'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

12
Baccalà

Italian Seafood · £££ · Bermondsey

91Signal

Start with

Roasted octopus with 'colonnata' lard

Described as a 'bonafide home run' by Square Mile, this starter featuring marinated bell peppers and olives is noted for leaving diners 'wanting more.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

13
Janda Diner

Malaysian · ££ · Peckham

91Signal

Start with

Satay Ayam

Universally praised as 'beautifully grilled to tender inside' with 'delicate flecks of char outside.' These skewers are described as 'supremely easy to enjoy' and 'exactly as we'd like it.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

14
Mei Mei

Singaporean · ££ · Southwark

90Signal

Start with

Hainanese Chicken Rice

Regarded as the 'set piece' of the menu, this 'sneakily bewitching' dish is praised for its 'magical qualities' and 'life-changing flavour' where ginger and pandan penetrate 'every succulent atom'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

15
Noble Rot

Modern European · £££ · Bloomsbury

90Signal

Start with

Slipsole with Smoked Butter

Consistently praised as a 'little piece of perfection' and 'dish of the day'; critics describe the sauce as so addictive they wanted to 'spoon every drop' of it.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

16
Catalyst

Modern Greek & Coffee · ££ · Holborn

90Signal

Start with

Merguez Sandwich

Called "spectacular" by critics, it features spiced lamb under a "duvet of melted provolone" and a "rustling avalanche" of paprika-dusted straw potato crisps.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

17
Popolo Shoreditch

Italian · ££ · Shoreditch

90Signal

Start with

Pork Cheek Agnolotti

Consistently praised as 'flawlessly realised,' this pasta is served in a 'buttery porcini sauce ripe with parmesan' and is noted as a dish it would be a 'mistake to ignore.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

18
Berber & Q

Middle Eastern BBQ · £££ · Haggerston

90Signal

Start with

Cauliflower Shawarma

Described as 'vibrating with lusciousness' under a dressing of salt, cumin, pomegranate, and rose, this dish is a signature highlight that even meat-lovers shouldn't miss.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

19
Tsiakkos & Charcoal

Greek Cypriot · ££ · Islington

90Signal

Start with

Hummus

Described as 'the closest thing to a revelation,' this 'homely' version is 'hefty and grainy' because the chickpeas are broken up with a fork rather than blitzed into a paste.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

20
Café Cecilia

Modern British / Irish · £££ · Hackney

90Signal

Start with

Sage and Anchovy Fritti

Described as 'peculiarly delightful' and 'never forget,' these light bites are praised for their 'Italian prowess' and are a staple across critic reviews.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

21
Nandine

Kurdish · ££ · Camberwell

90Signal

Start with

Mezze Dips

Described as a 'vivid rush of saturated tones,' this platter includes lime-brightened hummus and a rust-colored 'sweet and smoky red pepper purée' served with warm, spice-dusted flatbread.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

22
The Barbary

North African / Middle Eastern · £££ · Covent Garden

90Signal

Start with

Cauliflower Jaffa

Described as deep-fried and scattered with a coriander-laced tomato salsa, critics say it is 'enough to gladden any meat-avoider’s heart.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

23
Black Axe Mangal (F.K.A.B.A.M)

Modern Fusion BBQ · £££ · Highbury

90Signal

Start with

Squid Ink Flatbread

The restaurant's visual and flavor icon; topped with smoked cod's roe and often glitter, it is a consistent crowd-pleaser.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

24
INIS

British / Irish · ££ · Hackney Wick

90Signal

Start with

Potato Scallops

These fried slices are served with 'dainty silver jugs of curry sauce' and are a menu staple that highlights the kitchen's 'fresh, hyper-seasonal and absolutely homemade' approach.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

25
The Harwood Arms

British Gastropub · £££ · Fulham

90Signal

Start with

Venison Scotch Egg

Universally acclaimed as the pub's signature snack; Chef Sally Abe notes it is one of the most frequently requested items by loyal customers.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

26
Mauby

Caribbean Small Plates · ££ · Brockley

90Signal

Start with

Smoked Sausage

Described as a 'jolting curtain-raiser,' this dish features a 'crisp-skinned snap' and 'bonfire-wafted spicing.' It is served with a vibrant yellow Bajan pepper sauce that critics praise for its heat and vigour.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

27
Perilla

Modern European · £££ · Newington Green

90Signal

Start with

Yesterday's bread soaked in moules mariniere

This dish exemplifies the restaurant's low-waste ethos, elevating the simple act of dunking bread into sauce 'to the nth degree.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

28
Pravaas

Modern Indian · £££ · South Kensington

90Signal

Start with

Lamb Galouti Kebab

A "melt-in-the-mouth masterpiece" and the "star of the starters," these kebabs are marinated in saffron and secret aromatic spices and served with a delightful flaky bread.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

29
The Palomar

Modern Jerusalem / Middle Eastern · £££

90Signal

Start with

Kubaneh Bread

Described as an 'air-filled, buttery bread from the Yemen' baked in a pot, it is a must-order served with tahini and 'velvet tomatoes'—vines fruits emulsified into a rich, fruity dip.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

30
El Asador At Sabor

Spanish · £££ · Mayfair

90Signal

Start with

Galician Tortilla

This Basque-style omelette is synonymous with Chef Barragán; it is famously runny inside with lots of soft sliced potato and is considered some of the best Spanish food in London.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

31
Kolae

Southern Thai · ££ · Southwark

89Signal

Start with

Kolae Chicken Bamboo Skewer

Described as a 'chicken Magnum lolly' and 'sticks of pleasure', these huge, juicy skewers are the restaurant's signature must-order.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

32
Bar Douro

Portuguese · ££ · Southwark

89Signal

Start with

Croquetes de Alheira

These crisp smoked sausage croquettes are described as "pungent, fatty and garlicky," serving as a standout example of excellent produce beautifully cooked.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

33
Dream XI'AN

Shaanxi · ££ · City of London

89Signal

Start with

Biang Biang Noodles with Beef

The restaurant's signature dish and a 'compulsion' once eaten, featuring thick, chewy belt noodles swimming in a standout chilli sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

34
Pompette

French · £££

89Signal

Start with

Fish Soup

Described as a 'deep, plunging bowl' the 'colour of copper pans' that serves as a 'distillation of the bits of fish and seafood we leave behind,' complete with classic gruyère, croutons, and garlicky rouille.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

35
Homies On Donkeys

Mexican · ££ · Leytonstone

89Signal

Start with

Cochinito (Pork) Tacos

Described as confit pork with dripping and 'wobbling amounts of jalapeño relish,' these are a staple of the menu that critics claim are 'astonishingly good' and full of flavor.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

36
Med Salleh Viet

Vietnamese · ££ · Earl's Court

89Signal

Start with

Prawn Summer Rolls

Critics describe these hand-crafted rolls as having a rice paper case 'stretched tight over fat prawns' and herbs so they appear 'encased in edible polythene' or 'hiding behind a shower curtain.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

37
Lorne

Modern British · £££ · Victoria

89Signal

Start with

Black Pudding

Described as 'seriously memorable,' this loose-grained boudin noir is likened to 'mulch and loam and fudge and blood in the most delicious way,' with reviewers suggesting they could eat it with a spoon like Nutella.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

38
Toklas

Mediterranean · £££ · Covent Garden

89Signal

Start with

Triple-Cooked Chips

Critics describe these as 'crunchy shards and chunks' and 'real crunchy gold.' Accompanied by aioli, they are frequently called the best chips in London.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

39
Marksman Public House

British Gastropub · £££ · Hackney

89Signal

Start with

Beef and Barley Bun

Regarded as Britain’s answer to the char siu bun, this 'glazed dome of soft bread' is filled with rich braised beef and served with a fiery horseradish cream. It is a 'gloriously simple' must-order.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

40
Towpath

Seasonal British / European · ££ · Haggerston

89Signal

Start with

Fried Eggs with Caramelised Sage

Regarded as their 'most popular breakfast,' these eggs are served on toast with 'lashings of butter' and crispy sage, the scent of which defines the morning air at the cafe.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

41
The Ninth

French Mediterranean · £££ · Fitzrovia

88Signal

Start with

Oxtail Croquettes

Described as 'perfect orbs' and a 'classy opener', these contain strands of long-braised meat that critics claim they would happily clear an entire tray of.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

42
Casa do Frango

Portuguese · ££ · Southwark

88Signal

Start with

Piri-Piri Chicken

The 'main event' is wood-charcoal grilled and described by critics as 'salty and spicy in all the right places' with a crisp, lightly charred, fiery skin that elevates it far above high-street chains.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

43
AGORA

Greek · ££ · Southwark

88Signal

Start with

Hummus with Masabacha & Crisps

Described as the 'best £5 you can spend in London,' this 'show-stopping' dish is a multi-layered affair featuring velvety smooth hummus topped with crushed chickpeas and shards of spicy crisps.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

44
The Baring

Modern British · £££ · Canonbury

88Signal

Start with

Quail Shish

This is the Baring's 'must-order' signature dish that has 'swiftly become the dish that's turning up on Instagram' due to its 'amazing' crispy skin and pul biber chilli oil.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

45
Panda's Kitchen

Sichuan · ££ · Angel

88Signal

Start with

Gong Bao Prawns

Described as 'on point' with fresh, 'squeaky' seafood and a sauce that perfectly balances acidity and sweetness.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

46
Noble Rot Soho

Modern European · £££ · Soho

88Signal

Start with

Choux Bun with Duck Liver Parfait & Tokaji Jelly

A signature 'one-bite treat' where the sweet Tokaji jelly is described as 'excellent,' providing the perfect decadent start to the meal.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

47
Nessa

Modern British Bistro · £££ · Soho

88Signal

Start with

Cheese & Onion Croquettes

Universally praised as some of the 'best' critics have ever had, these golden, gooey bites of Montgomery’s Cheddar are described as 'sharp, flavourful and oh-so addictive.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

48
Morchella

Modern Mediterranean · £££ · Clerkenwell

88Signal

Start with

Salt Cod Churros

Universally praised as an 'earthly meeting of fish and doughnut' that is 'so crisp, so hot, so pungent' and a 'jolting reconstitution of a classic idea.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

49
Cafe Japan

Japanese · ££ · Golders Green

88Signal

Start with

Omakase Sushi

The restaurant is owned by fish wholesalers, ensuring exceptional quality; critics highlight the sea bream as a 'benchmark' and appreciate the use of freshly grated wasabi.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

50
Angelina

Itameshi (Italian-Japanese Fusion) · £££ · Dalston

88Signal

Start with

Hokkaido milk bread

Consistently hailed as '100% the right way to start any meal,' this bread is celebrated for its cloud-like texture and unique accompaniments like kumquat and burnt honey butter.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

51
Black Salt

Indian · ££ · Sheen

88Signal

Start with

Tandoori Lamb Chops

Described as 'chunky beasts' and praised by local reviewers as the 'best I've ever tasted', these are a high-quality staple of the restaurant's tandoor menu.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

52
Artusi

Italian · £££ · Peckham

88Signal

Start with

Pappardelle with Lamb Shoulder Ragu

Jay Rayner calls these 'broad, silky ribbons' a 'standard bearer' for the restaurant, featuring meat cooked down until only the 'deep flavor' remains.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

53
The French House

French Bistro · £££ · Soho

87Signal

Start with

Confit Garlic & Goat's Curd

A length of sourdough sourdough toast 'slathered' in curd and olive oil, served with a confit bulb of garlic providing 'soft, translucent pearls' to smear over the bread.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

54
Berenjak Soho

Iranian · ££ · Soho

87Signal

Start with

Jujeh Kabab

A reliable crowd-pleaser consisting of chicken breast that 'does its job' as a perfectly charred 'empty canvas for a squeeze of lime.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

55
The Sichuan

Sichuan · ££ · City (Old Street)

87Signal

Start with

Grilled Fish Special

Jay Rayner calls this 'a masterpiece' and 'a drama full of character.' Served in a deep dish submerged in a 'liquor the colour of a 2p piece,' it triggers a total physiological response with numbing Sichuan peppercorns that make lips 'vibrate and fizz.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

56
Casa Felicia

Italian · £££ · Queen's Park

87Signal

Start with

Aubergine Parmigiana

Not your typical layered dish, this version uses "tempura eggplant" with a batter that is "light and crisp," described as a "molten, cheesy embrace."

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

57
Maremma

Tuscan Italian · ££ · Brixton

87Signal

Start with

Tortelli Maremmani

These cheese and ricotta stuffed dumplings are a visual highlight of the menu; critics who skip them report 'kicking themselves' when they see the dish served at other tables.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

58
Xi Home Dumplings Bay

Northern Chinese · ££ · Spitalfields

87Signal

Start with

Jade Lobster Dumplings

A signature standout resembling a green cabbage leaf, described by critics as an absolute winning dish packed with fresh, meaty lobster that lives up to the social media hype.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

59
Andrew Edmunds

Modern European Bistro · £££ · Soho

86Signal

Start with

Dressed Crab

Described by critics as part of a 'hand-scrawled poem to traditional' bistro cooking, this dish represents the reliable, 'unreconstructed' style the restaurant is famous for.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

60
Kachori

Modern North Indian · ££ · Southwark

86Signal

Start with

Guinea Fowl Tikka

Described by critics as 'melt-in-your-mouth' and 'spice-infused', this dish is praised for its 'spot-on' spicing and unique accompaniment of tempered curd rice.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

61
The Tamil Prince

South Indian · ££ · Islington

86Signal

Start with

Channa Bhatura

Described as a 'giant's pillow of deep-fried dough,' this is the standout dish that Hot Dinners claims you 'won't be able to stop yourself from ordering' when you see it served to everyone else.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

62
Dove

Modern British · £££ · Notting Hill

86Signal

Start with

Raw Scallop, Finger Lime, Chicken Salt, Potato Cake

Reviewers describe the potato base as 'cloudlike' and 'insanely good,' serving as an exquisite foundation for the fresh scallop and citrusy finger lime.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

63
Carmel

Eastern Mediterranean · £££ · Queen's Park

86Signal

Start with

Wild Mushroom & Manouri Flatbread

Described by the Evening Standard as 'some of the very best pizza in the city,' this sourdough flatbread is praised for its puffed dome and 'lusciously complex' finish.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

64
The Blue Stoops

British Gastropub · ££ · Kensington

86Signal

Start with

Beef and Ale Pie

Described as 'fluent pub' fare, this oval dish of beef stew with a pastry lid is a menu essential—as Jay Rayner notes, 'the room would be naked without it.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

65
Peckham Bazaar

Pan-Balkan · £££ · Peckham

86Signal

Start with

Grilled Octopus

Regarded as a 'neighbourhood classic', this dish is consistently cited as a standout and is the main reason many reviewers promise to return.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

66
Ida

Italian · ££ · Queen's Park

86Signal

Start with

Tagliatelle al Ragù Marchigiano

The mainstay of the menu, this dish is made traditionally with chicken hearts and gizzards and simmered slowly into what critics call a 'comforting delight.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

67
Kin Deum

Thai · ££ · London Bridge

86Signal

Start with

Tamarind Crispy Eggs

GQ identifies these as an 'absolute must,' featuring soft-boiled eggs blistered on the outside and 'slathered in fresh tamarind sauce and dried shallots.' They are a family favorite of the owners.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

68
Taste of Chongqing

Sichuan / Chongqing · ££ · Bloomsbury

86Signal

Start with

Fried crispy pork

One of the starters that Giles Coren noted "hit the spot" in a menu he described as "brilliant" and "exciting."

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

69
Vijay

South Indian · ££ · Kilburn

86Signal

Start with

Masala Dosai

Critics rave about this dish, describing it as 'light and crispy with a lovely buttery flavour' that outperforms versions at other highly-regarded South Indian establishments.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

70
Quo Vadis

Modern British · £££ · Soho

85Signal

Start with

Smoked Eel Sandwich

Consistently cited by critics as a 'must' and a signature of the house, this dish is the cornerstone of Jeremy Lee's 'hearty, British, seasonal cuisine.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

71
The Great Indian

Indian Gastropub · ££ · Archway

85Signal

Start with

Lamb Roti Tacos

Regarded as the 'undisputed star' of the menu by Jay Rayner and 'one-bite umami wonders' by Kentishtowner, these consist of flaky, buttery roti filled with a hot, dry lamb curry and topped with crispy fried curry leaves.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

72
Flour & Grape

Italian · ££ · Bermondsey

85Signal

Start with

Roasted Pork Shoulder Tortelloni

Described as a 'clear winner' that is 'stuffed to within an inch of its life' and served simply with sage butter.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

73
Legare

Italian · £££ · Southwark

85Signal

Start with

Pappardelle with Fennel Sausage Ragù and Cavolo Nero

Described as the 'main event,' these broad, al dente ribbons are wrapped in a rich ragù that critics call 'meaty, carb-laden goodness.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

74
Arthur Hooper's

Modern European Small Plates · ££ · Southwark

85Signal

Start with

Burrata with Samphire & Almonds

Critics describe this dish as "fresh and creamy" and "almost soft enough to swim in," serving as a perfect example of the restaurant's market-to-table ethos.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

75
Berenjak Borough

Persian · ££ · Southwark

85Signal

Start with

Koobideh Kabab

Described as 'outstanding' and a 'must be ordered' dish; reviewers praise the minced lamb shoulder for its delicate spices and a 'soft and tender' texture that 'melt in your mouth.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

76
Honey & Co.

Middle Eastern · ££ · Bloomsbury

85Signal

Start with

Mezze Sharing Menu

Critics advise going 'straight for the sharing menu' to experience the 'vibrant, fresh, and moreish' spread of small plates, including a 'remarkable' peach salad with goat's cheese and hummus with 'pungent green chilli tatbila'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

77
Big Night

British-Japanese Skewers / Izakaya · ££ · Hackney

85Signal

Start with

Chicken and Spring Onion Skewer

Universally praised as a 'jubilation' of charred, juicy thighs that 'practically burst in the mouth' and offer the savoury goodness one craves when 'teetering on tipsy.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

78
Manthan

Modern Indian · £££ · Mayfair

85Signal

Start with

Ghati Masala Prawns

Regarded as a highlight of the menu, these prawns are described as 'delicate but fiercely flavoured' and are a go-to recommendation for those new to Rohit Ghai's cooking.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

79
LEYDI

Turkish · £££ · City of London

85Signal

Start with

Muhammara

Grace Dent insists you 'please, please order' this delicate, glossy 'flavour bomb' made with sun-dried red peppers and walnuts.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

80
Zeret Kitchen

Ethiopian · ££ · Camberwell

85Signal

Start with

Zeret Surprise

The 'undisputed benchmark order'—a massive communal platter described by critics as a 'spectacular spread' of meat, dahl, and salad served on a 'soft bed' of spongy injera bread under a traditional mesob cover.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

81
Mamapen

Cambodian · ££ · Soho

85Signal

Start with

Panko Pork Toast

An 'unalloyed wonder' and a 'filthy snack' praised by all critics; it features golden, breaded cutlets of porcine fried bread topped with a 'drippy fried egg' and savory XO sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

82
Vasco & Piero's Pavilion

Italian · £££ · Soho

85Signal

Start with

Tagliatelle with Beef and Pork Ragu

Regarded as a Soho institution staple, this 'yolk-yellow' handmade pasta is dressed in a 'rich, vinous, slow-cooked' sauce that critics say you'd be pleased to find in Italy.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

83
Gerry's Hot Subs

North American Deli · ££ · Clerkenwell

85Signal

Start with

Reuben sub

The star ingredient is the beef pastrami, which features a pleasing amount of amber fat and is served in rolls that are deep-filled and compression-wrapped.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

84
Imad’s Syrian Kitchen

Syrian · ££ · Soho

85Signal

Start with

Falafel

Unanimously praised by critics; distinctive doughnut-shaped discs that are crispy, sesame-studded, and fluffy.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

85
Papo’s Bagels

New York Bagels · ££ · Dalston

85Signal

Start with

The Classic

A benchmark lox bagel with cream cheese, capers, red onion, and tomato that recently topped Deliveroo's global trending charts.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

86
2210 by NattyCanCook

Modern Caribbean · £££ · Herne Hill

85Signal

Start with

Roti with Scotch Bonnet Butter

Universally praised as the perfect snack to start; described as crisp, thin, and served with 'highly addictive' butter.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

87
Indian Zing

Indian · £££ · Hammersmith

85Signal

Start with

Samosa Chana

This standout starter uses traditional, thick flaky pastry rather than filo, served with tender chickpeas and a tamarind chutney that provides a pleasant kick of spice.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

88
Lucky & Joy

Regional Chinese · ££ · Clapton

85Signal

Start with

Cold Sesame Noodles

Described as 'the proverbial steel fist in the velvet glove,' these are slippery, nutty, and buttery with a building chilli heat that critics insist you 'have to order.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

89
Solis

South American / Iberian Grill · ££ · Battersea

85Signal

Start with

Half Spatchcock Chicken

Reviewers describe it as 'astonishingly succulent and juicy,' highlighted by a 'vibrant orange aji-aji oil' that is smoky, sweet, and fruity rather than hot.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

90
Masters Superfish

Fish and Chips · ££ · Waterloo

85Signal

Start with

Battered Cod and Chips

A favorite of London cabbies, this dish features fish delivered fresh from Billingsgate Market encased in a 'dark, dense batter' that is 'extra crunchy.' Critics suggest detaching the batter to savor it separately while smearing mushy peas over the flaky fish.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

91
Short Road Pizza

Pizza · ££

85Signal

Start with

Short Road Marinara

The National Pizza Awards 2025 'Pizza of the Year,' this thin and crispy pie features tomato, garlic puree, and Sicilian anchovies topped with 'healthy dollops of burrata' that make every messy bite worth it.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

92
Half Cut Market

Contemporary European · £££ · Holloway / Islington

85Signal

Start with

Pointed Cabbage and Comté Custard

Described as a 'masterclass in vegetarian cooking' and a 'visual marvel,' this dish features charred cabbage ribs bathed in a 'heavenly cheese sauce' and topped with crunchy sourdough breadcrumbs.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

93
Bocca di Lupo

Regional Italian · £££ · Soho

84Signal

Start with

Shaved Radish, Celeriac & Pecorino Salad

This Umbrian-inspired dish is a menu staple; critics highlight it as a standout example of the kitchen's 'unfancy charm' and regional focus.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

94
Manteca

Nose-to-Tail Italian · ££ · Shoreditch

84Signal

Start with

Tonnarelli, brown crab cacio e pepe

This is the "dish you'll see most on Instagram" and for good reason. Critics describe the rust-coloured sauce as having a "deep, savoury kick" that is "VERY good."

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

95
Rochelle Canteen

Modern British · £££ · Shoreditch

84Signal

Start with

Whipped Cod's Roe

A signature starter mentioned across nearly every review; served with radishes and bread, it is creamy, smoky, and iconic.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

96
FKA Black Axe Mangal

Modern British / Global BBQ · £££ · Islington

84Signal

Start with

Salt Beef and Sauerkraut Steamed Bun

Described as 'essentially a Reuben sandwich with new tailoring,' this soft bao features a thick wodge of cured meat and the 'crunch sour' of fermented cabbage.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

97
Naru

Korean · ££ · Covent Garden

84Signal

Start with

Seafood Pancake (Pa Jeon)

Consistently praised across reviews as 'compellingly crisp and squishy' and 'delicious,' featuring a mix of spring onions and seafood.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

98
Mriya Neo Bistro

Modern Ukrainian · £££ · Earl's Court

84Signal

Start with

Chicken Kyiv

An impressive roundel of 'soft, garlic-oil-spouting' chicken described as 'satisfyingly squirty' and 'heavy on garlic.' It is served with soft mashed potato and crushed peas.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

99
Suzi Tros

Greek · ££ · Notting Hill

84Signal

Start with

White Taramasalata with Homemade Bread

Critics consider this a 'strong contender' for the best in the city. It is 'reassuringly pale' and 'gently fishy,' served with 'thick, properly charred slabs' of bread dusted with oregano.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

100
Cadet

French Wine Bar · £££ · Newington Green

84Signal

Start with

Pâté en Croûte

An 'architectural' and 'fragrant, thickly rich' masterpiece featuring a 'rum-steeped apricot winking out of the centre like a burning sun.' Critics describe being 'blown away' by the craftsmanship of this signature dish.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

101
Toba

Indonesian · £££ · St. James's

84Signal

Start with

Sate Ayam

Succulent grilled chicken skewers blackened by a 'fierce charcoal grill' and served with a 'heavenly peanut sauce' that critics say is worth visiting for alone.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

102
Osteria Angelina

Itameshi (Italian-Japanese) · £££ · Shoreditch

84Signal

Start with

Tortellini with Truffle & Kombu

This dish perfectly illustrates the restaurant's 'dual culinary inspiration,' blending Italian technique with Japanese depth.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

103
Som Saa

Regional Thai · £££ · Spitalfields

84Signal

Start with

Deep-Fried Whole Sea Bass (Nahm Dtok Pla Thort)

The restaurant's signature dish, expertly fried so 'the bones are crisp enough to be nibbled as a snack' and 'buried under drifts of foliage and smokey chillies, the crunch of toasted rice and the intensity of more fish sauce.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

104
Crisp

Pizza · ££ · Mayfair

84Signal

Start with

Vecna Pie

The fan favourite from the original Hammersmith location is loaded with pepperoni, burrata, and hot honey on a perfectly charred crust. It is a social media sensation that manages to live up to the expectations.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

105
The Plimsoll

Modern British / Pub · ££ · Finsbury Park

84Signal

Start with

Dexter Cheeseburger

A 'legendary' and 'food-scene-famous' burger described as glossy, slightly sloppy, and 'gherkin-blessed' without being 'salad-spoiled.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

106
Ciao Bella

Italian · ££ · Bloomsbury

83Signal

Start with

Spaghetti al Cartoccio

The house signature and a 'greatest-hit' of the menu: a mountain of seafood pasta baked and served theatrically in a greaseproof paper bag.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

107
Duchy

French-Italian (Savoyard) · £££ · Shoreditch

83Signal

Start with

Brown Crab Arancini

Universally praised as an 'easy recommendation' and a 'great, filling start' to the meal.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

108
Sohaila

Lebanese · ££ · Shoreditch

83Signal

Start with

Whipped Labneh with Chilli Butter

Time Out describes this starter as 'airy' and topped with a 'rich and smoky chilli butter,' noting it as a perfect introduction to their 'impeccable seasoning.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

109
Buen Ayre

Argentinian Steakhouse · ££ · London Fields

83Signal

Start with

Rib-eye Steak

Individual steaks like the 10oz rib-eye are noted as being 'very good value' and 'very good' compared to the overwhelming meat platters.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

110
Brutto

Italian · ££ · Farringdon

83Signal

Start with

Penne con Vodka

Regarded as a staple with 'nice things being said' by critics; it remains a reliable, universally praised pasta choice for those new to the menu.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

111
Levante

Turkish · ££ · Lewisham

83Signal

Start with

Lamb Ribs

Described as 'salty-sweet, crisply fatted' and 'viscerally satisfying,' they are sliced to create more surface area and 'happily lubricate the surrounding heaps of rice with tributaries of liquid fats.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

112
Levan

Modern European · £££ · Peckham

83Signal

Start with

Comté Fries

These signature snacks are described as chunks of deep-fried chickpea flour batter with a cheesy center, finished with a layer of powdery Comté and a 'perfect puddle' of saffron aïoli.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

113
Lahpet West End

Burmese · ££ · Covent Garden

83Signal

Start with

Lahpet Thohk (Tea-Leaf Salad)

This 'glorious' and 'delightfully funky' signature dish is a complex mix of pickled tea leaves, double-fried beans, and dried shrimp. Critics warn it is so 'caffeine-heavy' it 'may well keep you up at night,' but is worth every 'enticing bite.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

114
Master Wei

Chinese (Shaanxi/Xi'an) · ££ · Bloomsbury

83Signal

Start with

Biang Biang Noodles

Described as an 'assertive culinary hug' and a 'dish that wants what is best for you,' these wide, hand-pulled strands provide a 'comforting carbohydrate with a kick' that creates an addictive longing.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

115
Hoppers

Sri Lankan & South Indian · ££ · Soho

82Signal

Start with

Mutton Rolls

Universally praised across all reviews as the perfect crunchy, spicy starter; described as 'a thick but crisp spring roll heavily filled with grown-up spiced sheep'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

116
Pahli Hill Bandra Bhai

Regional Indian · £££ · Fitzrovia

82Signal

Start with

Mangalore Bun & Scottish Crab Sukkha

Described as a 'harmonious' combination of delicate, slightly sweet buns and tender crab flavored with fennel and ginger.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

117
Circolo Popolare

Italian · £££ · Fitzrovia

82Signal

Start with

La Gran Carbonara

The viral benchmark dish served tableside, stirred up in and then served from a huge round of pecorino cheese.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

118
Honey & Smoke

Middle Eastern Grill · ££ · Fitzrovia

82Signal

Start with

Cauliflower with Amba & Tahini

A crowd-favorite mezze dish featuring crisp-edged florets paired with a savory mango pickle sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

119
BAO Noodle Shop

Taiwanese · ££ · Shoreditch

82Signal

Start with

Rare Beef Rump Noodle

Referenced as the Tainan-style broth, this light beef soup is a signature interactive experience served with a 400-day-aged soy-cured egg specifically for noodle-dipping.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

120
BAO Mary

Taiwanese · ££ · Marylebone

82Signal

Start with

Prawn Shia Song

Described as "hands down the best bite of the evening" by reviewers, this fried bun features a "pillowy doughnut texture" filled with king prawn, celery, and water chestnut.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

121
Nina

Italian · £££ · Marylebone

82Signal

Start with

Bluefin tuna e melone

Described as a 'real winner' and 'as pretty as a picture,' this dish features a successful combination of seriously sweet melon and raw tuna with Italian ponzu and basil.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

122
Supawan

Southern Thai · ££ · King's Cross

82Signal

Start with

Yum Hoa Plee

A 'well-dressed, piquant salad' of banana flowers and prawns that 'tap dances out into the limelight,' served elegantly in the 'canoe embrace of a purple and white petal.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

123
Dzo Viet Kitchen

Vietnamese · ££ · Islington

82Signal

Start with

Beef Summer Rolls

Described as "exploding with foliage like a peacock’s tail feathers," these rolls offer a "comforting combination of softness and crunch" from vermicelli, bean sprouts, and grilled marinated beef.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

124
Sweetings

British Seafood · £££ · City of London

82Signal

Start with

Dressed Crab

The crustaceans are cooked and dismembered fresh every day on the premises; critics describe the result as 'irreducibly crabby' and needing nothing more than a squeeze of lemon and buttered brown bread.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

125
DALLA

Italian · £££ · Hackney

82Signal

Start with

Tiramisu

Described as 'superlative' and quintessential Italian comfort food, this dish is a staple of the restaurant's nostalgic charm and was even selected for Charli xcx's wedding menu.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

126
Plaquemine Lock

Creole & Cajun · ££ · Angel

82Signal

Start with

Shrimp & Grits

Described as 'proper comfort food,' this dish features 'creamy, slightly coarse grits' topped with sweet prawns and a 'whoppingly savoury and meaty gravy.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

127
SINO

Modern Ukrainian · £££ · Notting Hill

82Signal

Start with

Chicken Kyiv

A refined version consisting of 'two perfect balls of meat' that spurt wild-garlic butter when pierced, served alongside a fragrant bison-grass mash.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

128
Barabba

Italian · £££

82Signal

Start with

Spaghetti with Colatura & Caviar

A 'super-luxe' signature featuring butter, punchy anchovy sauce from Cetara, and a 'healthy whack of caviar.' It is the go-to order for Copenhagen's chefs and restaurant workers who frequent the spot late at night.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

129
Mangal 2

Modern Turkish · £££ · Dalston

82Signal

Start with

Sourdough Pide with Hummus

Jay Rayner describes the hummus as an 'uncommonly rugged affair with a hint of cheesy funk' served with 'lightly blackened, chewy and springy flatbread' that demands to be torn at.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

130
Red Lion and Sun

Modern British Gastropub · £££ · Highgate

82Signal

Start with

Sunday Roast (Pork Belly or Dry-Aged Beef)

Sunday sessions are so popular that spare tables are an 'endangered species.' The roast pork belly is praised as 'the most delicate piece of protein' with 'impressively crisp crackling,' while the beef options feature 'prime cuts of 35-day, dry-aged Aberdeen Angus.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

131
P. Franco

Modern European / Natural Wine Bar · £££ · Clapton

82Signal

Start with

Fresh Pasta

A consistent highlight across residencies, critics praise the 'good firm pasta' found in dishes like 'guinea fowl agnolotti in brodo' and 'mussel, squid and crab tagliolini' with citrus-buttery sauces.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

132
Hoppers Soho

Sri Lankan · ££ · Soho

82Signal

Start with

Egg Hopper

A "beautiful object" that is "friable at the edges" and "irresistible" for tearing pieces off to mop up sauces and chutneys.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

133
Primeur

Modern European · £££ · Stoke Newington

82Signal

Start with

Mackerel

Consistently praised for its freshness; critics describe it as 'slender, blade-like fillets' with crisp skin, often paired with seasonal notes like stewed gooseberries or beetroot and hazelnuts.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

134
Sabiib

Somali · ££ · Acton

82Signal

Start with

Haniid

The restaurant's signature slow-roast lamb shoulder that 'falls off the bone' and is 'incredibly tender,' though critics recommend pairing it with the provided green chutney for an extra kick of spice.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

135
Franzina Trattoria

Sicilian · ££ · Brixton

82Signal

Start with

Tagliatelle Nero di Seppia

Praised as a 'perfectly al dente' and 'creamy bowl of the sea' with generous portions of calamari that hit the right notes for seafood lovers.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

136
FM Mangal

Turkish · ££ · Camberwell

82Signal

Start with

Special Mixed Grill

The ultimate sampler of their grill mastery, featuring lamb chops, ribs, quail, chicken wings, and kofte.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

137
Medlar

Modern French · £££ · Chelsea

82Signal

Start with

Crab Raviolo

The undisputed signature dish, featuring samphire, brown shrimps, and a rich bisque sauce that critics describe as brilliant.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

138
Sorella

Italian · £££ · Clapham

82Signal

Start with

Truffle Arancini

Described as 'small, feisty truffle arancini,' these are a staple starter at this neighborhood joint that are consistently praised for their flavor.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

139
The Shoap

Scottish · ££ · Angel

82Signal

Start with

Glasgow Morning Roll

These house-baked rolls are 'basically a Nessie-level myth' unless you arrive before 10am. They are a comforting, industrial-sized staple filled with square sausage and tattie scones.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

140
Maison Bab

Modern Kebab · ££ · Covent Garden

82Signal

Start with

Doner Beignets

Universally praised by critics as the essential starter. Described as 'a doner kebab in croquetas form' filled with fried lamb and beef, served with chilli and garlic sauces—you'll likely 'need several of them.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

141
Somine

Turkish · ££ · Dalston

82Signal

Start with

Manti

These 'house-special' Turkish dumplings are highlighted by critics as a time-honoured staple that is excellent at any time of day or night.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

142
Marcella

Italian · ££ · Deptford

82Signal

Start with

Seasonal Ragu Pasta

Whether it's ox cheek, beef shin, or venison, the slow-cooked meat ragu pastas (often pappardelle) are consistently rated as rich, comforting, and technically perfect.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

143
Lai Rai

Vietnamese · ££ · Peckham

82Signal

Start with

Bò Lá Lốt (Betel Leaf Beef)

These 'well-knit beef patties' feature a 'medicinal' betel leaf spice and a 'thrillingly unfamiliar' coffee-laden barbecue sauce that The Evening Standard praised.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

144
Ganapati

South Indian · ££ · Peckham

82Signal

Start with

Paratha

Described as a dish of 'flaky, buttery moreishness' so good it prompted a critic to quote the M&S ads: 'This isn’t just a paratha. This is a Ganapati paratha.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

145
Italo

Italian Cafe & Deli · ££ · Vauxhall

82Signal

Start with

Italian-style Sandwiches

Generously filled with seasonal ingredients like mortadella and sweet peppers.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

146
Etles

Uyghur · ££ · Walthamstow

82Signal

Start with

Lamb Cumin Skewers

Tender, fatty, and heavily dusted with a smoky, tingly crust of cumin and chili powder.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

147
Bancone

Italian · ££ · Covent Garden

82Signal

Start with

Silk Handkerchiefs with Walnut Butter & Confit Egg Yolk

The undisputed signature dish; described as 'casually orgasmic,' it features paper-thin sheets of pasta draped in a 'heavenly,' 'sticky, nutty, gritty mess of butter.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

148
Noodle and Beer

Sichuan Chinese · ££ · Chinatown

82Signal

Start with

Super King Braised Beef Ribs with Blanket Noodles

Acclaimed by critics as 'probably the best noodles' in London, this dish features tender beef ribs sprinkled with edible gold dust and expertly cut with scissors table-side over massive blanket noodles.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

149
Oklava

Modern Turkish-Cypriot · £££ · Shoreditch

82Signal

Start with

Chilli Roast Cauliflower

Regarded as one of the 'bright, sunlit spots' of the menu, these hunks of cauliflower are roasted with a mild chilli paste and 'slathered' with red onions, parsley, and crunchy pistachios.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

150
Guido’s

Italian · ££ · Dulwich

82Signal

Start with

Cacio e pepe pasta

The quintessential must-order dish supplied by the editor.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

151
40 Maltby Street

Modern European · £££ · Bermondsey

81Signal

Start with

Seasonal Fritters

Consistently praised as a perfect starter, whether they appear as 'lacy leek tempura' served with piquant mushroom ketchup or 'deep-fried Ardrahan cheese' that spills across warm potatoes.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

152
Santo Remedio

Mexican · ££ · Southwark

81Signal

Start with

Guacamole with Grasshoppers

This is the restaurant's 'signature' dish and 'famous' starter. The freshly chopped guacamole is topped with deep-fried insects that offer a unique salty 'crunch' and texture.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

153
Tacos Padre

Mexican · ££ · Southwark

81Signal

Start with

Beef Short-rib Suadero Taco

Consistently praised across reviews for its rich flavor, featuring aged beef fat and often paired with burnt onion.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

154
Belly

Filipino Bistro · £££ · Camden

81Signal

Start with

Tempura Cod Pandesal

Described as an elevated 'Filet-O-Fish' that won the lottery, this 'sensational' dish offers a 'goody bag of textures' with a sweet bun, crispy cod, and popping salmon roe.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

155
The Tamil Crown

South Indian Pub · £££ · Angel

81Signal

Start with

Robata Lamb Chops

A signature staple brought over from the original sister restaurant; they are widely considered the menu's masterpiece for being blackened, crusty, and tender.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

156
Chet's

Thai-Americana · ££ · Shepherd's Bush

81Signal

Start with

Fried Chicken Khao Soi

Described as the 'perfect contrast of crunchy, creamy and fragrant,' this dish of curried noodles with katsu-style chicken is a definitive example of the restaurant's Thai-American fusion.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

157
The Spread Eagle

Vegan Pub Classics · ££ · Homerton

81Signal

Start with

Lentil Pie and Mash

An East End classic translated beautifully into a hearty, satisfying plant-based dish with traditional liquor.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

158
Med Salleh Kopitiam

Malaysian · ££ · Bayswater

81Signal

Start with

Chicken Satay

These are big chunks of spiced, turmeric-yellow grilled thigh served with a coarse-cut sweet and oily sauce that the critic insists cannot be allowed to go to waste.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

159
Holborn Dining Room

British · £££ · Holborn

81Signal

Start with

Hand-Raised Pork Pie

Jay Rayner describes this as a 'bold expression of pig' and a 'noble' example of the craft, served hot with a rich gravy made from calves' feet and reduction.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

160
Barrafina

Spanish · £££ · Covent Garden

81Signal

Start with

Tortilla de txistorra

Described as legendary and 'oozy,' this version is made with a paprika-flavoured Basque sausage and served with an 'almost-illegally strong aioli.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

161
Bala Baya

Israeli · ££ · Southwark

80Signal

Start with

Crispy, Sticky, Crunchy

Universally praised as 'posh KFC,' this addictive dish of fried chicken with bitter orange, harissa, and kimchi is described as 'everything it promised to be.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

162
Cay Tre

Vietnamese · ££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

Bone Marrow Pho

Recognized as the restaurant's 'signature Pho,' it is noted as 'incredible value' on the lunch menu. While some critics find the broth itself lacking fragrance, the 'incredibly thin slices of beef' are widely praised for their quality.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

163
Hoppers Marylebone

Sri Lankan · ££ · Marylebone

80Signal

Start with

Black Pork Kari

Consistently cited across reviews as the winner; a dark, roasted spice curry with immense depth of flavor.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

164
The Brave

Modern British / Gastropub · £££ · Canonbury

80Signal

Start with

Crisp Hash Browns

Described as 'Heaven' and 'impeccable' by critics, these are served with chip shop curry sauce, batter scraps, and malt vinegar for the ultimate comfort snack.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

165
Cafe Deco

Modern British / European · £££ · Bloomsbury

80Signal

Start with

Egg Mayonnaise with Anchovy

Explicitly called a 'mainstay' on the menu, these are praised for their 'sunset yolks' and generous dollops of silky homemade mayo.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

166
Quality Wines

Modern European · £££ · Farringdon

80Signal

Start with

The Gilda

Universally cited as the essential starter; a perfect Basque pintxo of olive, guindilla pepper, and anchovy that complements what critics call a 'brilliant wine list by the bottle and glass'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

167
Fish Central

British Seafood · ££ · Clerkenwell

80Signal

Start with

Cod and Chips

Described as the 'best fish and chips in Zone 1 by some distance,' featuring a 'light, delicate batter' and 'superbly moist' fish.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

168
Oren

Israeli Mediterranean · £££ · Dalston

80Signal

Start with

Jerusalem Mixed Grill

Described as 'deservedly lauded' and a signature street-food style pita stuffed with chicken thigh, livers, and duck hearts that provides a sensory overload.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

169
Tayyabs

Punjabi · ££ · Whitechapel

80Signal

Start with

Lamb Chops

Served 'dark and sizzling on a furiously hot iron skillet,' these are 'the sort of chops you eat twice' according to Jay Rayner—first to eat the meat, and then to 'chew away at the crusty bits' on the bone.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

170
Oyster Shack & Seafood Bar

Seafood · ££ · Epping Forest

80Signal

Start with

Oysters on Ice

A staple of the shack that 'goes down a storm' according to The Good Food Guide; they are typically served simply to highlight the quality of the fresh seafood.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

171
Dean Street Townhouse

British · £££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

Mince and Potatoes

Commonly cited as the restaurant's signature dish, it is a comforting British classic that embodies the 'thoroughly soothing experience' noted by critics.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

172
Blacklock Soho

Chophouse / Steak · ££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

The All In

Regarded as the 'main purpose of the place,' this mixed pile of beef, pork, and lamb chops is 'vigorously seasoned' and served over flatbread that acts as a 'treat' by soaking up all the juices.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

173
Kissa Wa Café

Japanese Café · ££ · Islington

80Signal

Start with

Udon with Aubergine

Described as a 'really nice bowl to chew and slurp on,' this dish features gooey aubergine slices and puffed tofu in a 'gentle but umami-rich' soy-based broth.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

174
Monohon Ramen

Japanese Ramen · ££ · Shoreditch

80Signal

Start with

Abura Soba

Reviewers praise this 'soupless ramen' for its 'thick, bouncy ramen noodles' served on a 'sesame-oil based tare.' Time Out notes it is a 'unique variation' worth 'ticking off your list at least once.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

175
Uzbegim

Uzbek & Uyghur · ££ · Leytonstone

80Signal

Start with

Uyghur Laghman

The restaurant's 'signature priority' featuring 'addictively chewy' hand-pulled noodles with the 'bounce of someone on their fourth espresso.' Critics suggest the beef version to 'soak up the aromatic peppery sauce.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

176
The Camberwell Arms

British Gastropub · £££ · Camberwell

80Signal

Start with

Scotch Bonnet Pork Fat on Toast

Universally acclaimed as the pub's signature snack; a rich, spicy 'Bat-Signal' calling you to eat.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

177
HIMI

Japanese Neo-Izakaya · £££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

Nigiri Selection

With chefs from the acclaimed Roji, the sushi is technically flawless—expect fatty tuna that evaporates in your mouth and perfectly sweet squid.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

178
Korean Dinner Party

Korean-Mexican Fusion · ££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

KDP Corn Dog

The restaurant's signature street snack—half mozzarella, half hot dog, battered and dusted with sugar and ketchup/mustard.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

179
Bottarga

Greek · £££ · Chelsea

80Signal

Start with

Saganaki Tapioca Bites

Universally praised across reviews; a masterclass in texture with sesame and thyme honey.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

180
Eat Vietnam

Vietnamese BBQ · ££ · Deptford

80Signal

Start with

Cánh Gà (Chicken Wings)

Described by reviewers as some of the best in the city—huge, crispy, and coated in a addictive, boozy 'bar-b-grill' sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

181
Canton Arms

British Gastropub · £££ · Stockwell

80Signal

Start with

Six-hour Braised Shoulder of Blackface Mutton

This hearty sharing dish is described as being taken to the point where it can be 'carved with a spoon,' creating a 'virtuous interplay between aromatics and meat.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

182
Babur

Modern Indian · £££ · Forest Hill

80Signal

Start with

Steamed Shoulder of Lamb

A signature dish marinated for 100 hours in Punjabi masala; consistently praised for its tenderness and depth of flavor.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

183
Imone

Korean · ££ · New Malden

80Signal

Start with

Pa Jaeon Seafood Pancakes

This classic dish is noted by critics for 'ticking all the boxes' for a seafood fix at this long-standing New Malden institution.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

184
The Eagle

Gastropub · ££ · Clerkenwell

80Signal
✓ Visited

Start with

Steak Sandwich

The 'Bife Ana' marinated rump steak sandwich has been on the menu since day one and is universally cited as the venue's defining dish.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

185
Mr Bao

Taiwanese · ££ · Peckham

80Signal

Start with

Mr Bao (Pork Belly)

The namesake bun and a 'classic' that critics agree the restaurant gets right; it features sticky sweet, tender pork belly with an 'unctuously fatty rind' and peanut powder.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

186
Namak Mandi

Pashtun · ££ · Tooting

80Signal

Start with

Namak Mandi Lamb Karahi

This signature dish features tender lamb simmered with tomatoes, ginger, salt, and pepper in a black wrought iron wok, resulting in a depth of flavor that critics call 'peerless.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

187
The Knave of Clubs

British Pub · £££ · Shoreditch

80Signal

Start with

Prawn Scotch Egg

Described as a 'genius choice' and a 'contender for Scotch egg of the year,' this seafood twist on the pub classic features a sweet chilli jam that perfectly complements the prawn.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

188
Yanji

Korean BBQ · ££ · Shoreditch

80Signal

Start with

Cumin Lamb Skewers

A signature speciality of the restaurant where 'cubes of cumin lamb' rotate on charcoal grills, 'dripping and popping with chilli-infused flavour' as they cook.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

189
Ara

Global Fusion · £££ · Aldgate

80Signal

Start with

Grilled Potato Bread & Burrata

A 'warm and glistening' paddle of potato bread served with wobbly burrata, apricot purée, and crispy chilli peanuts; critics call the sweet and sour combination an interesting and successful twist.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

190
Daddy Bao

Taiwanese · ££ · Tooting

80Signal

Start with

Shiitake Mushroom Bao

A highly-praised game changer filled with teriyaki shiitake mushrooms, smoky yellow bean sauce, and sharp pickled onions.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

191
Mamuśka!

Polish · ££ · Waterloo

80Signal

Start with

Ruskie Pierogi

Universally praised, these classic dumplings are a crowd-pleaser, especially when served fried and dusted with crispy bacon.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

192
Halepi

Greek-Cypriot · ££ · Bayswater

80Signal

Start with

Kalamari & Grilled Lounza

Critics highlight the mezedakia here, specifically praising the 'freshly, crisply fried' kalamari and the grilled lounza (smoked fillet of pork) for its 'agreeable traces of the flavour of charcoal.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

193
Farang

Thai · £££ · Highbury

80Signal

Start with

Gai Prik

An irresistible crispy IPA-battered chicken coated in a sticky fish sauce and green chilli glaze, widely considered the restaurant's signature dish.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

194
Turpan

Uyghur · ££ · Fitzrovia

80Signal

Start with

Pitir Manta

Described as 'phenomenally good' packages of glistening goodness, these steamed lamb dumplings are adroitly crimped by an expert hand and served with an addictive vinegary chilli sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

195
Colombo Kitchen

Sri Lankan · ££ · Worcester Park

80Signal

Start with

Black Pork Curry

The absolute must-order item that delivers deep, richly spiced comfort.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

196
Lahori Nihaari

Pakistani · ££ · Upton Park

80Signal

Start with

Haleem

A glossy, rich, and deeply earthy slow-cooked barley and lamb dish best mopped up with fluffy kulcha naan.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

197
Red Lion Cafe

British Gastropub · ££ · Highgate

80Signal

Start with

Pastel de choclo

The editor's essential must-order pick, offering a comforting and uniquely delicious twist despite the traditional British setting.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

198
Lebanon Grill

Lebanese · ££ · London

80Signal

Start with

Half chicken with rice

The absolute must-order item, perfectly grilled and incredibly satisfying.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

199
49 Cafe

Modern European · ££ · Bloomsbury

80Signal
Hidden Gem

Start with

Daily pasta

A comforting, reliable choice that stands out as the ultimate must-order item supplied by the editor.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

200
Arcade Food Hall

Global Food Hall · ££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

Food hall selection

A diverse array of top-tier London kitchens all under one roof, ensuring there is a high-quality option for every craving.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

201
Miga

Korean · £££ · Hackney

79Signal

Start with

Soy-braised beef short rib

Described as a 'monument to patience and skill', this dish features meat that 'pulls apart perfectly' with 'silvery strands of fat' that break with a gentle pluck.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

202
Singburi

Thai · ££ · Shoreditch

79Signal

Start with

Aubergine Pad Phet

An 'absolute standout' and a 'must-have dish' that is double-fried in tapioca flour for a specific texture before being tossed with oyster sauce, wild ginger, and holy basil.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

203
Hainan House

Southern Chinese · ££ · Angel

79Signal

Start with

House-style Poached Poussin

Pair it with the fat-enriched chicken rice, which critics describe as having a 'profound, fathomless savour' that belies its plain appearance.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

204
The Wolseley

Modern European · £££

79Signal

Start with

Omelette Arnold Bennett

Regarded as 'impeccable' by critics, this signature dish is layered with smoked haddock and creamy hollandaise, serving as a pillar of their famed breakfast menu.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

205
Anchor and Hope

Modern British · £££ · South Bank

79Signal

Start with

Terrine with Gribiche

A menu staple that defines their robust, rustic style; critics praise the kitchen's 'full-bore gutsiness' and 'rudely rustic' approach to traditional fare.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

206
Saikei

Chinese · ££ · Greenwich

79Signal

Start with

Char siu pork puff pastries

These are highlighted as a standout choice that you typically won't find at smaller dim sum eateries in London.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

207
Trullo

Italian · £££ · Islington

79Signal

Start with

Pappardelle with Wood Pigeon

Described as the 'true stars of the piece,' these wide, butter-yellow ribbons of pasta are served in an earthy stew and a ripe gravy that 'insinuates itself into every corner of the dish.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

208
Saltine

Modern European · £££ · Highbury

79Signal

Start with

Sticky Toffee Apple Cake

Described as 'the best sticky toffee pudding currently available in the city' and an 'undeniable constant' that is 'impossibly squidgy, rich and molasses-dark.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

209
Kutir

Modern Indian · £££ · Chelsea

79Signal

Start with

Tandoori Lamb Chops

Consistently cited as a standout; Andy Hayler rated them 17/20, calling them succulent with 'none better'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

210
Sichuan PoPo

Sichuan · ££ · Earl's Court

79Signal

Start with

Prawn and Scallop Dumplings

Part of a dedicated dim sum menu that reviewers describe as 'pillowy' and frequently 'inhaled' by diners.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

211
Mazi

Modern Greek · £££ · Notting Hill

79Signal

Start with

Spicy Tiropita

This deconstructed cheese pie is served in a jar as a 'luscious pot' of spicy cheese and caramelised leeks with shards of filo pastry; critics note they could 'just feast' on this and the other dip jars.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

212
The Hero

British Gastropub · £££ · Maida Vale

79Signal

Start with

Cheese and onion pie

This dish 'steals the show' with a rich filling of Red Leicester, West Country Cheddar, and Colston Bassett Stilton encased in a 'gorgeous miracle' of shortcrust pastry.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

213
Hanbaagaasuuteeki

Asian-inspired Burgers · ££ · Victoria

79Signal

Start with

Another Double Cheese Burger

A 1950s-style, 'boldly simple' smash burger with patties thin as supermarket ham and a soft potato bun that is 'wimpish under pressure'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

214
Hiba Express

Palestinian and Lebanese · ££ · Holborn

79Signal

Start with

Shawarma wrap

The quintessential grab-and-go option that perfectly hits the spot whether you are grabbing a quick lunch or dinner on the move.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

215
La Fromagerie

French Deli · ££ · Marylebone

79Signal

Start with

Alpine toasted cheese

The ultimate melted, comforting classic supplied by the editor as the absolute must-order item.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

216
Turo Turo

Filipino · ££ · Tooting

79Signal

Start with

Grilled Chicken Inasal

The restaurant's signature dish, offering a perfectly executed staple of Filipino barbecue.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

217
The Park

American / Modern European · £££ · Queensway

79Signal

Start with

The Park Monkey Bread

This tearaway, buttery bread is praised by critics as the 'perfect start' to any meal at the restaurant.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

218
Koya

Japanese Udon · ££ · Soho

78Signal

Start with

Smoked mackerel with fresh herbs and leaves on a bed of udon with a sensationally good sauce

A cold dish that was 'so vividly flavoured, and yet also so fresh and (thanks to the veg) so sharply green-tasting, that it added up to a perfect winter cheerer-up.' The noodles had 'a mystifying depth of flavour and a perfect texture'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

219
Khao-So-I

Northern Thai · ££ · Fitzrovia

78Signal

Start with

Moo Ping

These grilled pork belly skewers are served with an egg for dipping and benefit from a genuine charcoal grill; critics say the dish is 'just as good as it sounds.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

220
The Gladstone Arms

Anglo-Indian Gastropub · ££ · Southwark

78Signal

Start with

Chicken Tikka Masala Pie

Regarded as the definitive dish of the 'desi pub' genre, this pie is widely praised for its flaky pastry and authentic Anglo-Indian filling.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

221
Banook Bagels

Bagels · ££ · Southwark

78Signal

Start with

The Fish One

A 'well put together concoction' served open-face to showcase smoked trout, which is 'meatier and less chiffon-y' than salmon. It is piled with capers, pink pickled onion, and a 'metric shitload of dill.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

222
East West

Indian-Italian Pizza · ££ · Tufnell Park

78Signal

Start with

C.T.M

Winner of 'Britain’s Top Takeaways', this reimagined classic is a 'perfectly balanced' mix of savory, smoky, and tangy flavors that manages to feel 'both familiar and exciting'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

223
The Pig and Butcher

Modern British / Gastropub · £££ · Angel

78Signal

Start with

Sunday Roast

Renowned for 'meat-mountains' butchered on-site; the Windsor pork belly is described as 'faultless: tender and perfectly-cooked' and stacked as high as Christmas lunch.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

224
Oi Vita Pizzeria

Neapolitan Pizza · ££ · Newington Green

78Signal

Start with

Siciliana

A standout among the 'interesting' vegetarian selections, this pizza features tender aubergine and salty grated ricotta on a chewy crust that has earned the restaurant 'very strong local support'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

225
Parsons

Seafood · £££ · Covent Garden

78Signal

Start with

Potted Shrimp Croquettes

Regarded as one of the best uses for nutty brown shrimp, these 'massive flavour bombs' feature a light béchamel inside a crisp panko shell.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

226
The Blues Kitchen

Southern American BBQ · ££ · Shoreditch

78Signal

Start with

Buffalo Chicken Wings

Described as a "must-have" and a dish the restaurant is "justifiably proud of," these are a consistent staple for any visit.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

227
Zen Mondo

Japanese · ££ · Islington

78Signal

Start with

Zanmai Chirashi

A 'visually stunning' bowl described as having a 'superb' taste; it features high-quality ingredients including snow crab, scallop, yellowtail, and marinated mackerel on mixed vegetable sushi rice.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

228
BAO

Taiwanese · ££ · Soho

78Signal

Start with

Classic Pork Bao

A must-order signature described as 'top-dollar' by critics, featuring tender pork, peanut powder, and fermented greens in a fluffy, pillowy bun.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

229
La Banchina

Seasonal Pescetarian & Natural Wine · ££ · Refshaleøen

78Signal

Start with

Fish Burger

Cited by multiple sources as the perfect dockside meal: delicately deep-fried cod wedged inside a golden bun.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

230
Darjeeling Express

Indian · £££ · Soho

78Signal

Start with

Tangra Chilli Garlic Prawns

Drawing influence from Kolkata’s Chinatown, these are described by critics as accurately cooked with 'punchy' spicing and 'plenty of garlic'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

231
Chourangi

Indian (Kolkata) · £££ · Marylebone

78Signal

Start with

Banana Flower Croquettes

Critics highlight their "delightful crunch" and "real meatiness," noting the clever blend of banana florets, coconut, and cinnamon served with a delicate mint-kasundi dip.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

232
The Bull & Last

British Gastropub · £££ · Highgate

78Signal

Start with

Sunday Roast

A 'classic' of the house and widely considered the 'best post-Hampstead-Heath-yomp feed' in Highgate.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

233
Flor

Modern European / Bakery · £££ · Borough

78Signal

Start with

Lardo & Anchovy Toast

An early standout described as a 'salt-on-salt' dish that defines the restaurant's inspiration from the pintxo bars of San Sebastian.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

234
Max’s Sandwich Shop

Sandwiches · ££ · Stroud Green

78Signal

Start with

Ham, Egg ‘N’ Chips

An immediate front-runner for the title of 'London's Best Sandwich,' this 'crunchy, moreish, crumb-dribbling delight' features slow-cooked ham hock, a fried egg, shoestring fries, and acidic piccalilli.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

235
Koya Soho

Japanese · ££ · Soho

78Signal

Start with

Beef Atsu-Atsu

The tender brisket and perfectly balanced hot broth make this a comforting, benchmark bowl for first-timers.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

236
Tandis

Persian · ££ · Finchley Road

78Signal

Start with

Kabab Barg

Reviewers consistently praise the lamb fillet for being "not over cooked at all, tender and juicy," serving as a benchmark for the restaurant's authentic grill quality.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

237
Officina 00

Italian · ££ · Shoreditch

78Signal

Start with

Pappardelle with Pork Ragu Meatballs and Burrata

Regarded as 'among the best' ever had by critics, this dish features 'lovely lively pasta' and a 'big dollop of cooling burrata' on top.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

238
Donde Carlos

Colombian · ££ · Shepherd's Bush

78Signal

Start with

Beef Empanada

Described as 'delicious' and 'great' by MyLondon, these are filled with a traditional pulled beef and served with a 'lightly spicy coriander and chilli sauce'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

239
Mari Deli and Dining

Italian · ££ · Chiswick

78Signal

Start with

Homemade Pasta with Crab Meat and Cherry Tomatoes

Described as a 'feast for the eyes' with 'tender, succulent pieces of crab meat' that pair beautifully with the 'bright, tangy notes' of fresh tomatoes.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

240
Fatt Pundit

Indo-Chinese · £££ · Covent Garden

78Signal

Start with

Crackling Spinach

Universally praised as a 'textural delight,' this dish features crispy spinach covered in sweet yoghurt, date, and plum sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

241
The Fox and Pheasant

Modern British · £££ · Chelsea

78Signal

Start with

Sunday Roast

A fixture of the local Chelsea weekend scene where 'roasts run all day' with no risk of the kitchen running out of beef early.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

242
Archway Battersea

Italian · £££ · Battersea

78Signal

Start with

Flatbread

Fresh from the wood-fired oven and 'full of life and crunch,' specifically recommended when topped with the 'poetry' that is brown crab meat butter.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

243
Darby's

Irish-American · £££ · Nine Elms

78Signal

Start with

Dooncastle Oysters

A cornerstone of the menu; Grace Dent highlights the popular deal of six oysters and a pint of Guinness for a tenner, while Andy Hayler notes they are central to the restaurant's Irish theme.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

244
Kruk

Thai · ££ · Peckham

78Signal

Start with

Aromatic Fried Chicken Gai Prik

Consistently praised as 'top tier' and 'a lot of fun,' this dish features a savory fish sauce glaze and is served with a house-fermented yellow sriracha.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

245
081 Pizzeria

Neapolitan Pizza · ££ · Peckham

78Signal

Start with

The 081 Pizza

This house signature 'essentially a buffala' features a rich tomato base and creamy mozzarella that allows the 72-hour naturally fermented dough to really sing.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

246
Lord Southampton

British Gastropub · ££ · Gospel Oak

78Signal

Start with

Spatchcock Poussin

Undeniably the highlight of the menu, it is described as one of the 'juiciest chickens' with 'golden skin charred' and a marinade of 'sweet harissa and confit garlic' that elevates the flavor.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

247
24 The Oval

Modern British · £££ · Oval

78Signal

Start with

Mushroom Ravioli

A "magical" and "nourishing" dish where a chef pours bone marrow broth "over it at our table, lifting his tiny jug high" for a "perfectly judged combination of distinct flavours."

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

248
Burnt Smokehouse

Barbecue · ££ · Leyton

78Signal

Start with

Smashburger

An impossibly juicy double patty that earns universal praise from critics and social media alike.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

249
Arôme Bakery

Bakery · ££ · Covent Garden

78Signal

Start with

Honey Butter Toast

This signature slice of Japanese shokupan features a crunchy, caramelized honey crust that snaps when you bite into it, revealing the "fluffiest soft inside." Critics describe it as "a creation of wizardry" that tastes like a heavenly sticky toffee pudding.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

250
Patron Kentish Town

French · ££ · Kentish Town

78Signal

Start with

Duck Confit

Universally praised and 'absolutely heavenly,' this duck 'falls off the bone with the press of a fork.' Critics highly recommend pairing it with truffle fries and dipping them into the 'sweet red wine reduction sauce.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

251
Berners Tavern

Modern British · £££ · Fitzrovia

77Signal

Start with

Macaroni Cheese

A signature twist on comfort food that uses 'fat paccheri pasta' and 'fried cauliflower' for crunch; it is so well-regarded that reviewers who miss out on it express genuine regret.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

252
Texas Joe's

American BBQ · ££ · Bermondsey

77Signal

Start with

USDA Beef Brisket

Regarded as the signature dish that 'sets the standard for smoked brisket in London,' it is described as moist, tender, and expertly rendered with a woody bark.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

253
BAO City

Taiwanese · ££ · City of London

77Signal

Start with

Classic Pork Bao

Regarded as "outstanding" and a "top notch" signature, this bun offers the perfect mixture of sweet and savory with a cloud-like texture and crunchy peanut topping.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

254
BAO Kings Cross

Taiwanese / Yoshoku · ££ · King's Cross

77Signal

Start with

Steamed Dough Sausage Roll

A 'certified genius' bakery exclusive available at the cafe's take-away counter that perfectly bridges the gap between Western comfort and Asian technique.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

255
Mama's Kubo

Filipino · ££

77Signal

Start with

Pancit Guisado

Described as one of the unpretentious and satisfying stir-fried noodle dishes you shouldn't miss.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

256
Jugemu

Japanese · £££ · Soho

77Signal

Start with

Omakase

Andy Hayler recommends letting the chef decide on the food to experience high-quality selections like bonito with spicy soy and uni chawanmushi.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

257
Moro

Spanish / North African · £££ · Clerkenwell

77Signal

Start with

Wood-Roasted Pork

Described as a dish 'you find yourself pining for later,' it is a masterclass in the wood-fired style, often served with braised peas and jamón.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

258
O Tino

Portuguese · ££ · Camden

77Signal

Start with

Gambas à Tino

Universally praised as a 'must', these fat, juicy prawns come swimming in a silky, garlicky tomato sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

259
OMBRA

Modern Italian / Venetian · £££ · Hackney

77Signal

Start with

Gnocco Fritto with Wild Boar Mortadella

Ombra has perfected this classic, serving golden, lightly fried dough that offers a "gratifying crunch before almost melting away" under peppery slices of mortadella.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

260
Mambow

Modern Malaysian · ££ · Clapton

77Signal

Start with

Lor Bak

Acclaimed by critics as 'snax4eva,' these five-spice pork and prawn bean curd rolls are a crunchy, essential start to the meal.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

261
Dilpasand

Pakistani · ££ · Whitechapel

77Signal

Start with

Gola Kebab

Soft, herby patties served with flaky lachha paratha and green chutney. A compelling reason to visit even solo.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

262
50 Kalo

Neapolitan Pizza · ££ · Trafalgar Square

77Signal

Start with

Margherita con Bufala

Recognized as a prize-winning pizza, reviewers highlight the 'generous, gooey pulls of cheese' and a 'gorgeously fluffy and airy' crust that lives up to the restaurant's name (meaning 'good bread').

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

263
Real Beijing Food House

Northern Chinese & Hot Pot · £££ · Chinatown

77Signal

Start with

Red Chilli Oil Noodles with Lamb

Broad, ragged-edged ribbons slicked with just enough crimson oil to be 'comfort food for when you’re caught in a winter storm.' Critics praise the 'tongue tingling' Sichuan pepper and 'friable pieces of long braised lamb.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

264
Orient

Chinese · £££ · Chinatown

77Signal

Start with

King Prawn Cheung Fun

Described as a 'paragon of the genre,' these are made from scratch on-site rather than brought in from a wholesaler.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

265
Jincheng Alley

Sichuan · ££ · St Giles

77Signal

Start with

Crisp, Sliced Aubergine with Yu Xiang Sauce

Acclaimed by Nick Lander as the 'star of the meal,' these aubergines are noted for having a 'definite sweetness' and being expertly prepared.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

266
Royal Opera House Cafe

Modern European / Italian · ££ · Covent Garden

77Signal

Start with

Quiche and salad

The reliable, editor-mandated must-order choice for a quick and satisfying bite before a show.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

267
Happy Lamb

Mongolian Hot Pot · ££ · Bloomsbury

76Signal

Start with

Lamb & Beef Platter

Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the meats, specifically noting that 'Dann really loved the lamb' and the 'slice beef' was a personal favorite.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

268
Luce e Limoni

Sicilian · £££ · Bloomsbury

76Signal

Start with

Bucatini con le Sarde

Pronounced 'superb' by critics, this Sicilian staple features sardines, sun-dried tomato, capers, sultanas, and toasted breadcrumbs for a perfectly balanced flavor profile.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

269
Bistro Freddie

British-French Bistro · £££ · Shoreditch

76Signal

Start with

Dorset Snails Flatbread

This dish is propelled to the top of critics' hit lists thanks to the 'amazing tarragon butter' and the addition of crispy chicken skin.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

270
On The Bab St Paul's

Korean Street Food · ££ · City of London

76Signal

Start with

Yangyum Fried Chicken

A 'must-visit' dish described as 'crispy and moreish.' Reviewers consistently name it the standout of the menu, recommending the 'sweet spicy' sauce for a 'naughty' and authentic 'Chimaek-style' experience with beer.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

271
Jin Kichi

Japanese Izakaya · £££ · Hampstead

76Signal

Start with

Tsukune

Hardens reviewers consistently praise the 'wonderful' yakitori prepared at the grill bar; these chicken meatballs remain the gold standard for their authentic robata style.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

272
Kipferl

Austrian · ££ · Angel

76Signal

Start with

Wiener Schnitzel

Critics praise the 'sheer size' and 'great value' of this dish, describing it as 'classic, dry pan-fried veal, just as it should be.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

273
Antepliler Doner

Turkish · ££ · Harringay

76Signal

Start with

Iskender

Described as 'life-changing' and 'epic,' this specialty features doner meat that is 'silky in one bite and crispy in the next,' served over bread soaked in tomato sauce and 'generously slathered with melted sheep butter' at the table.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

274
Beza

Ethiopian · ££ · Elephant & Castle

76Signal

Start with

Mixed Platter

The consensus best strategy is to 'get the lot'—a colorful array of every stew served on injera, sized specifically for your group (1, 2, or 4 people).

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

275
Brawn

Modern European · £££ · Shoreditch

76Signal

Start with

Parmesan Fritters

Cited as a menu classic; crispy balls of white-hot cheese under a snowfall of parmesan.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

276
The Winemakers Club

Wine Bar · ££ · Farringdon

76Signal

Start with

Cheese & Charcuterie Board

David Crossley of Wide World of Wine recommends pairing their wine selection with these 'tasty small plates,' which include high-quality cheese, salami, pâté, and rillettes.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

277
Bubala

Vegetarian Middle Eastern · £££

76Signal

Start with

Confit Potato Latkes with Toum

Regarded as a 'must-have' by critics; Hot Dinners insists you 'don't leave without trying this' and The Guardian describes them as delightful, deep-fried concertina’d spuds served with a puddle of Lebanese garlic sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

278
Ô Gourmet Libanais

Lebanese · ££ · Battersea

76Signal

Start with

Mezze Spread

Reviewers describe the spread as "some of the best mezze... outside Lebanon," specifically highlighting the "rich, textured homemade hummus," fresh vine leaves, and "excellent flatbreads."

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

279
SUDU

Malaysian · ££ · Queen's Park

76Signal

Start with

Beef Rendang

Consistently praised as 'flavourful and authentic' with tender meat and a 'gentle but noticeable kick of spice' that stays true to the family's heritage.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

280
BAO Soho

Taiwanese · ££ · Soho

76Signal

Start with

Classic Bao

The signature fluffy bun with braised pork, peanut powder, and fermented greens that started the craze.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

281
Mangal 1

Turkish · ££ · Dalston

76Signal

Start with

Lamb Chops

Described as 'excellent' and 'smoky, spicy and incredibly tender,' these are served with a generous plate of mixed salad.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

282
Llewelyn's

Modern European · £££ · Herne Hill

76Signal

Start with

Market Fish

The kitchen excels at seafood, from 'excellent' roast bream with lentils to 'crunchy-skinned' grilled plaice, always served with fresh, seasonal accompaniments.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

283
Paradise Cove

Caribbean · ££ · Battersea

76Signal

Start with

Ital Curry

Described as 'extraordinary' and a 'scotch bonnet-laced wonder,' this vegan stew features chickpeas and sweet potato coaxed to 'compliant softness.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

284
Leo's Restaurant & Bar

Italian / Sardinian · £££ · Clapton

76Signal

Start with

Tiramisu

A beautifully constructed, weightlessly fluffy marvel of cream with the pronounced, leavening bitterness of sprinkled ground coffee, hailed as an unequivocal high point.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

285
Chick and Beers

Korean Fried Chicken · ££ · New Malden

76Signal

Start with

Half and Half (Whole Chicken)

Expertly dismantled and fried until the craggy batter becomes golden and the flesh within steams, this 'wonder of culinary engineering' offers a virtuous combination of snap, crunch, and rendered skin.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

286
Sodaeng

Korean · ££ · Putney

76Signal

Start with

Pork Bone Soup

A nourishing, milky broth championed by critics as the ultimate comfort food.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

287
LAO DAO

Xinjiang Chinese · ££ · Walworth

76Signal

Start with

Cumin Lamb Skewers

Charred, perfectly caramelized, and heavily spiced with cumin—an essential and highly devourable staple.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

288
The Cleveland Arms

Gastropub · ££ · Paddington

76Signal

Start with

Chicken Liver Pate

Described as the 'smoothest' pate served with a 'mountain of toast' and cornichons, it is considered an absolute 'snip' for the price.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

289
Speedboat Bar

Thai · ££ · Chinatown

76Signal

Start with

Chicken Skins with Zaep Seasoning

These 'irresistible salty-sour' snacks are 'shaken up with zeap seasoning in a cocktail shaker to order' for a moreish, punchy start to the meal.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

290
Tandoor Chop House

Indian · £££ · Covent Garden

76Signal

Start with

Seekh Kebab Roll

A favorite of critics and diners alike, this 'robustly spiced' minced lamb kebab is served on a well-blistered naan with pomegranate seeds and a mint sauce that helps 'tame the dish'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

291
The Begging Bowl

Thai · ££ · Peckham

76Signal

Start with

Deep-Fried Whole Sea Bass

Explicitly recommended as a 'don't miss' dish, this showstopper is crisp, sweet, spicy, and flavourful, typically served with physalis, green mango, and tamarind.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

292
Mugen

Japanese · ££ · Clerkenwell

76Signal

Start with

Matsumae sushi

Mugen's signature dish features rich, fatty Norwegian mackerel cured overnight with vinegar and topped with a layer of transparent konbu seaweed.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

293
Namaaste Kitchen

Indian · £££ · Camden

76Signal

Start with

Tandoori Portobello Mushroom

Regarded as a signature dish, this 'unusual and successful medley' is stuffed with figs, cashew nuts, and raisins, setting the tone for the restaurant's creative approach.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

294
64 Goodge Street

French · £££ · Fitzrovia

75Signal

Start with

Truffle-cream gougères

Described as 'absolutely, extraordinarily wonderful' and 'silky smooth,' these warm snacks pack a heady truffle punch and are topped with shaved Comté.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

295
Luso

Portuguese · £££ · Fitzrovia

75Signal

Start with

Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato

Consistently praised as 'shellfish’s answer to Jewish penicillin,' these clams arrive in a deeply comforting liquor of garlic, coriander, and white wine.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

296
FIERY FLAVORS

Hunan · ££ · Southwark

75Signal

Start with

Steamed Fish Head with Chopped Chillies

The restaurant's signature dish and the pride of Hunan cuisine, utilizing fresh chillies for a creeping, aromatic heat.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

297
Rambutan

Sri Lankan · ££ · Southwark

75Signal

Start with

Gundu Dosas

These light, cakey fried dough balls are universally recommended as a snack, served with a "ferociously spicy" and "vividly colored" coriander and green chilli sambol.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

298
Elliot’s

Modern European · £££ · Southwark

75Signal

Start with

Isle of Mull Cheese Puffs

Regarded as 'indescribable' and a 'must-order' snack; one regular critic admits to losing count of the number of times they've stopped by specifically for these 'gooey' cheesy puffs.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

299
MukBap

Korean (Vegan) · ££ · Shoreditch

75Signal

Start with

Bibimbap Beef

Described as the ideal 'first date' with the menu, this dish is praised for its flavor which is enhanced as you 'stir, merge, and fuse' the components together.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

300
Smoking Goat

Thai BBQ · ££ · Shoreditch

75Signal

Start with

Chilli Fish Sauce Wings

The restaurant's 'undisputed signature' featuring a 'crackly, caramelised exterior' and 'steaming, succulent, salty flesh' pungent with garlic and fish sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

301
Koya City

Japanese · ££ · City of London

75Signal

Start with

Kinoko Udon

A staple choice featuring 'famed handmade udon' in a deep, nutty mushroom broth. Foodism notes that as soon as these noodles slide in front of you, you'll feel like it's just you and the bowl.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

302
Colaba

Indian · ££ · West Hampstead

75Signal

Start with

Yellow Dal

Eater London describes this dish, made from split moong beans and bengal gram, as 'much superior' to the black dal, praising its 'austere, stripped-down flavours of onions, browned garlic, and cumin seeds.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

303
Yuki Bar

Japanese Wine Bar · £££ · Hackney

75Signal

Start with

Beef Rump Tataki

Described as 'rosy sheafs of obliging, raw rump steak,' this dish comes with an 'effective activity centre of dips and intensifiers' including hot mustard and soy.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

304
Tatar Bunar

Ukrainian · £££ · Shoreditch

75Signal

Start with

Spicy Pickled Tomatoes

Grace Dent describes these as 'show-stopping' and 'so sweet, so powerful,' making them a highlight of the meal.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

305
Yipin China

Hunan & Sichuan · £££ · Angel

75Signal

Start with

Chairman Mao’s Red Braised Pork

Universally praised and 'famed' for its jellified skin the colour of an old lacquered screen; it is a dish described as the star of the show for those serious about food.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

306
Empire Empire

Indian (Punjabi) · £££ · Notting Hill

75Signal

Start with

Old Delhi Butter Chicken

Described as a "gloriously lively, but light and zesty" plate, critics appreciate that it delivers classic richness without the heavy, weighted-down feeling typical of the dish.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

307
St. John Bread and Wine

British · £££ · Spitalfields

75Signal

Start with

Welsh Rarebit

Described as the ideal savoury landing pad and as inviting as a freshly made bed.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

308
E5 Bakehouse

Bakery & Cafe · ££ · London Fields

75Signal

Start with

Hackney Wild Sourdough

The bakery's signature loaf since 2010, made using heritage cereals grown on their own off-grid farm and stoneground on-site.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

309
Leroy

Modern European · £££ · Shoreditch

75Signal

Start with

A Plate of Smoked Trout

Hailed as a "world-class dish of smoked magic" by The Guardian, this gorgeously understated plate is served with a simple pickled red onion salad.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

310
The Brass Rail

Jewish Deli · £££ · Soho

75Signal

Start with

Salt Beef Sandwich

The institution's signature dish, described as 'as good as ever.' Expect 'pink lumps of steaming animal' sliced thick onto the board.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

311
Bubala Soho

Middle Eastern Vegetarian · ££ · Soho

75Signal

Start with

Confit Potato Latkes

Described as 'delightful, deep-fried concertina’d spuds' served with a 'puddle of toum' (Lebanese garlic sauce), they remain the restaurant's most essential order.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

312
Prawn on the Lawn

Seafood · £££ · Islington

75Signal

Start with

Prawn on the Lawn

The eponymous signature dish: prawns and smashed avocado on toasted homemade soda bread with chilli and lime.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

313
Heritage (Soho)

Swiss / Alpine · £££ · Soho

75Signal

Start with

Maple Glazed Swaledale Pork Belly Rösti

Acclaimed as a 'nutritional outrage and therefore completely marvellous', this dish features a 'crust of golden fried potato' with lardons that are perfectly 'salty and sweet'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

314
Levant Book Cafe

Syrian · ££ · Park Royal

75Signal

Start with

Nabulsia Knafeh

This dish is served warm and features 'spun pastry, soaked in a sweet, sugar-based syrup, layered with cheese.' Reviewers praise the 'divine' balance of sweet and savoury flavours and the gooey melted cheese.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

315
Bab al-Yemen

Yemeni · ££ · West Kensington

75Signal

Start with

Lamb Mandi

Chef Asma Khan describes this dish as 'outstanding' and it is a highlight of her go-to restaurant for an authentic Yemeni experience.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

316
O Cantinho De Portugal

Portuguese · ££ · Stockwell

75Signal

Start with

Porco à Alentejana

Described as "unusual, enormous and delicious," this dish features pork cubes, fried potatoes, and clams with a flavorful sprinkling of chilli and pepper.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

317
LIMA

Peruvian · £££ · Fitzrovia

75Signal

Start with

Otoro Tuna Nikkei

A favorite 'bite' that perfectly demonstrates the Japanese influence on Peruvian cuisine with soft tuna and crunchy shiso tempura.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

318
Lao Café

Laotian · ££ · Covent Garden

75Signal

Start with

Sai Gork Lao (Lao Sausages)

Described as consistently coarse, meaty, and tangy, these fermented sausages are a standout introduction to the menu, offering a flavor profile almost like a herbal black pudding.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

319
ADOH!

Sri Lankan Street Food · ££ · Covent Garden

75Signal

Start with

Mutton Roll

Described as the 'G.O.A.T on social media,' these crisp, breadcrumbed snacks are brimming with a slow-cooked mutton filling that is rich with 'garlic and ginger and chilli powder' yet sweeter than they are hot.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

320
La Gelatiera

Gelato · ££ · Covent Garden

75Signal

Start with

Honey, Rosemary & Orange Zest

Described as a 'gorgeous unusual' flavor, it is praised for the expert balance between the hint of rosemary, the sweetness of honey, and the 'bright freshness' of the orange zest.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

321
Arponnar

Burmese · ££ · Willesden

75Signal

Start with

Shan Khao Swe

A popular rice noodle dish with tomatoes and tender chicken that tastes as if it had been cooked and served at a Burmese kitchen table, unmodified for Western palates.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

322
L'oro di Napoli Ealing

Neapolitan Pizza · ££ · South Ealing

75Signal

Start with

Lucio Dalla

Acclaimed as 'the best pizza in London' by reviewers, this white base pizza features N'Duja, peppers, salami, and 'gooey and creamy' cheese without tomato sauce, served on a thin, supple crust.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

323
A Braccetto

Italian · ££ · Earl's Court

75Signal

Start with

La Piccante Pizza

Universally praised for its thin, crisp Roman base and 'uncommon subtlety' in toppings, specifically the addition of lemon zest which adds a 'lofty top note' to the Calabrian sausage.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

324
Tomoe

Japanese · ££ · Putney

75Signal

Start with

Spider Roll

Called the 'must have dish,' this roll combines soft shell crab, avocado, and fish roe with a touch of spicy sauce for what critics call the 'ultimate sushi roll.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

325
DOPI 도피소

Korean · ££ · Bethnal Green

75Signal

Start with

Korean Fried Chicken

Praised for its exceptionally rigid, crunchy batter and clean pickled radish pairing.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

326
Tumnan Thai

Thai · ££ · Clapham

75Signal

Start with

Kaeng Massaman

A hearty, deeply comforting staple that has kept locals coming back for over 20 years.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

327
Mandarin Kitchen

Chinese · £££ · Queensway

75Signal

Start with

Ginger and Spring Onion Lobster Noodles

The dish for which they are most famous; featuring whole lobster broken up over a pile of soft, thin noodles in a 'banging' and 'lightly gelatinous' sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

328
Friends of Ours

Australian Brunch / Café · ££ · Hoxton

75Signal

Start with

Matcha & Cherry Brioche French Toast

Labeled a 'Must-Eat' by critics, this fluffy, matcha-infused brioche is paired with a cherry creme patissiere described as 'phenomenal,' 'rich,' and 'fantastically sharp.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

329
Kao Sarn

Thai · ££ · Brixton

75Signal

Start with

Moo Ping

Still smoking from the grill, these pork skewers arrive with a sweet-sour chilli and tamarind dip that 'makes you open your eyes wider.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

330
Breadstall

Pizza · ££ · Soho

75Signal

Start with

Vodka Marinara Slice

Described as a 'clear winner' and 'perky' with a distinct 'freshness to the tomato sauce,' this slice is the most consistently praised option for first-timers.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

331
Carmela's

Pizza (New York-style) · ££ · Islington

75Signal

Start with

Pep Pizza with Fennel Sausage

This combination features what critics call the 'best example' of fennel sausage ever had on a pizza. The base is a 13-inch 'biscuity' crust with a tomato sauce that is 'deep and fruity.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

332
Santa Maria

Neapolitan Pizza · ££ · Multiple Locations

75Signal

Start with

Margherita

Described as "about as authentic as it gets outside of Italy," this pizza is the ultimate test of their craft, featuring a "fluffy crust" and a "soft and supple" base that defines the Neapolitan style.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

333
Dumplings' Legend

Chinese · ££ · Chinatown

75Signal

Start with

Spicy Pork Xiao Long Bao

Described as unmissable and moreish, these dumplings feature a robust, Sichuan pepper-laced filling that provides a characteristic mouth-numbing sensation.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

334
Jin Li

Chinese · ££ · Chinatown

75Signal

Start with

Sichuan Spicy Fried Chicken

A 10/10 benchmark of the cuisine; reviewers praise the 'honest ratio' of visible, deep-fried chicken pieces to aromatics, noting it avoids the common trap of 'smothering' the meat in a pile of dried chillies.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

335
Zipbab

Korean · ££ · Holborn

75Signal

Start with

Kimchi fried rice

A highly recommended, perfectly spiced Korean-style rice dish that packs a comforting, flavorful punch.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

336
El Cenote

Mexican · ££ · Camden

75Signal

Start with

Baja Fish Tacos

Described as extraordinary and beautifully garnished, the battered sea bass is perfectly complemented by a spicy habanero sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

337
The Fields Beneath

Vegan Cafe · ££ · Kentish Town

75Signal

Start with

Tofu Banh Mi

Regarded as one of the best sandwiches in years, it is packed with flavor and loaded with fresh vegetables inside a perfectly fresh baguette.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

338
Duck Soup

Modern European · ££ · Soho

74Signal

Start with

Spring vegetable fritters, isot chilli yoghurt & preserved lemon

Fabulous brittle, crunchy batter...strips of preserved lemon provide both tart acidity and salty tanginess and a dollop of yoghurt topped with a dusting of isot chilli provides a lick of smoky spiciness. Reviewer was 'grateful' for the waiter's suggestion.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

339
Kiln

Thai · ££ · Soho

74Signal

Start with

Aged Lamb & Cumin Skewers

These "charred, cumin-dusted" skewers are the essential way to start the meal, with critics noting they "always order on arrival" and suggesting "it’s worth having two."

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

340
Anima e Cuore

Italian · ££ · Kentish Town

74Signal

Start with

Fresh Ravioli & Malfatti

Harden's describes the pasta as "mostly great," specifically noting that the "ravioli, malfatti, tortellini and so on are of a freshness and stuffed with flavours you would otherwise have to get on a plane to find."

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

341
Koba

Korean BBQ · £££ · Fitzrovia

74Signal

Start with

Dak Galbi

Grace Dent recommends letting the experts handle the grilling of this barbecue chicken to ensure the 'heady marinade of gochujang paste, chilli and garlic' is perfectly executed.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

342
Fischer's

Austrian · £££ · Marylebone

74Signal

Start with

Wiener Schnitzel

A 'beautiful blanket of crisp breadcrumbed meat' that is so large it 'meanders off the plate,' it is the quintessential Viennese staple and a favorite across reviews.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

343
Tamila

South Indian · ££ · King's Cross

74Signal

Start with

Thanjavur Chicken Curry

Consistently praised as a knockout dish, it is described as being laced with turmeric, coriander, and coconut with 'just the right amount of heat.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

344
St. John

British (Nose-to-Tail) · £££ · Farringdon

74Signal

Start with

Roast Bone Marrow and Parsley Salad

The legendary signature dish that defines the restaurant; served with sourdough toast and sea salt, it is a non-negotiable order.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

345
Taste of Pakistan

Pashtun · ££ · Hounslow

74Signal

Start with

Chapli Kebab

The undisputed star of the menu: frisbee-sized, juicy minced meat patties that are crispy on the outside and essential to the experience.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

346
Gunpowder

Indian · ££ · Spitalfields

74Signal

Start with

Kashmiri Lamb Chops

Acclaimed by Andy Hayler as 'one of the best versions' he has tasted, these chops are so popular that CN Traveler notes guests often end up 'fighting over them and ordering more.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

347
Da Moreno Pizzeria

Neapolitan Pizza · ££ · Ealing

74Signal

Start with

Diavola

A sourdough pizza with a 'soft, pliable texture' and 'spots blackened by the heat of the oven,' featuring red onions that are 'nicely sweetened by the heat' alongside nduja and black olives.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

348
Yi-Ban

Cantonese · ££ · Canary Wharf

74Signal

Start with

Pork and Crab Siu Mai

Described as "plump and misted perfectly with steam," these dumplings are a staple that critics suggest eating "as many as your body can handle."

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

349
Laksamania

Malaysian · ££ · Fitzrovia

74Signal

Start with

Melaka Laksa

The Eater-approved favorite; perfectly balanced rich coconut milk with just enough sourness and fresh seafood.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

350
Tukdin

Malaysian · ££ · Paddington

74Signal

Start with

Beef Rendang

Deemed a "real winner" by top chefs, this slow-cooked staple features beef that "beautifully shredded away" in a complex sauce of tart lemongrass, ginger, and "subtle sweet, creaminess from the coconut milk."

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

351
Four Seasons

Cantonese · ££ · Chinatown

74Signal

Start with

Roast Duck (Boneless)

The skin is dark lacquered, with the fat rendered and meat so soft and sensuous it feels braised; it sits in a moat of sweet-savoury liquor that critics say could be sipped neat as a restorative.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

352
Casa Manolo

Spanish · ££ · Strand

74Signal

Start with

Ibérico ham bocadillo

The absolute must-order item, perfectly capturing the restaurant's foundational passion for premium Spanish ham.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

353
The Cheese Bar

Cheese-focused / British · ££ · Camden

74Signal

Start with

Marmite Malakoff

A 'corker' of a dish consisting of a fried cheese ball with a Marmite hit, served in a puddle of romesco sauce which critics call the 'perfect accompaniment' and a 'must order.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

354
'O ver

Neapolitan Pizza · £££ · St. James's

73Signal

Start with

The Paloma Pizza

Regarded as a 'star turn' by critics, this pizza features a seawater dough crust 'as pillowy as marshmallow' topped with smoked mozzarella, pancetta, and leggy chiodini mushrooms.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

355
Blacklock City

British Chophouse · ££ · City of London

73Signal

Start with

All In

Regarded as the 'main purpose of the place' and the 'best deal for sharing,' this signature stack of beef, pork, and lamb is served over charred flatbread that soaks up all the juices.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

356
Diyarbakir Kitchen

Turkish · ££ · Harringay

73Signal

Start with

Lamb Ribs

Consistently cited as a standout on a menu where lamb 'comes diced, minced, from chops to ribs'; they are praised for being tender, smoky, and melting off the bone.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

357
Blueprint Café

Modern British · £££

73Signal

Start with

Jimmy Butler’s Pork Chop

This standout main comes with Chef Mini Patel’s signature 'Bits and Bobs sauce'—a 'tangy, punchy, fascinating concoction' served in its own miniature copper pan that critics find incredibly tasty.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

358
Kricket

Modern Indian · ££

73Signal

Start with

Samphire Pakoras

A 'world away from stodgy' versions found elsewhere, these are 'super-crunchy' spears with a 'top-notch' level of crispiness, served with a tangy date and tamarind chutney.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

359
Kaipiras by Barraco

Brazilian · ££ · Kilburn

73Signal

Start with

Moqueca

This traditional fish stew, made with coconut milk and palm oil, is described as having great fish texture and flavors that are 'pretty good.' A bottle of toasted cassava flour is provided on the side to thicken the sauce to your liking.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

360
La Patagonia

Argentinian · ££ · Camden

73Signal

Start with

Empanadas

Described as "generously portioned and delicious" with "really tasty fillings," these are a reliable, authentic starting point for any meal at La Patagonia.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

361
Blacklock Canary Wharf

British Chophouse · ££ · Canary Wharf

73Signal

Start with

All In Platter

The quintessential order: a stack of lamb, beef, and pork chops piled onto juice-soaked flatbread.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

362
Little Duck The Picklery

Seasonal / Fermentation · £££ · Dalston

73Signal

Start with

Seasonal Ferments & Pickles

The namesake essential featuring daily rotations like 'meat radish' or kohlrabi; critics praise the 'lip-pursing charms' of these sharp, tangy, and 'well worth having' snacks.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

363
Addie's

Thai · ££ · Earl's Court

73Signal

Start with

Pad Thai

This dish is described as being 'well made,' with reviewers specifically praising the 'good' texture of the noodles.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

364
Lemonia

Greek · £££ · Primrose Hill

73Signal

Start with

Minced Lamb Kofte

Described by Jay Rayner as the 'stand-out item' of the meal, these are 'crisp-shelled' and 'bristling with fresh herbs.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

365
Daquise Restaurant

Polish · £££ · South Kensington

73Signal

Start with

Pierogi

Acclaimed as a 'must-order' by critics, these dumplings come as a trio. The cabbage and wild mushroom version is noted for inspiring 'sated murmurs,' while the 'ruskies' (cheese, potato, and onion) are a long-standing favorite.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

366
Old Town 97

Cantonese · ££ · Chinatown

73Signal

Start with

Stir-Fried Duck in Black Bean Sauce

The entire duck section of the menu is a reliable go-to, and this is a standout winner.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

367
Tao Tao Ju

Chinese · ££ · Chinatown

73Signal

Start with

Pork and Crab Siu Mai

Suitably plump and rated as some of the best dim sum available in Chinatown.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

368
Bintang

Filipino / Pan-Asian · ££ · Camden

73Signal

Start with

Pandesal Sliders

Packed with short rib in a soft Filipino bun, this dish is a standout among the small plates and remains a consistent favorite in recent reviews.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

369
Von Crumb

Schnitzel · ££ · Hampstead

72Signal

Start with

Aubergine Schnitzel

To the critic's surprise, this was a favorite; it is described as 'beautifully squashy, sliced through, fanned out and the tail left on prettily.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

370
Plaza Khao Gaeng Borough Yards

Southern Thai · ££ · Southwark

72Signal

Start with

Gaeng Massaman Neua

A 'tender beef shoulder massaman' described as 'creamy and comforting.' It is highly recommended to order 'one of the excellent roti to mop up all the curry.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

371
Tarim

Uyghur · ££ · King's Cross

72Signal

Start with

Lamb Skewers

An absolute 'must-order' that defines the restaurant's atmosphere with the scent of scorched lamb fat; they are expertly grilled with a 'salty crunch' on the outside and remain 'beautifully tender inside'.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

372
Facing Heaven

Vegan Sichuan · ££ · Hackney

72Signal

Start with

Chongqing cauliflower

Universally loved by critics; described as 'craggy, almost southern-fried boulders' and a 'bhaji-lover’s wet dream' that delivers just the right amount of tingly fire.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

373
Hoppers King's Cross

Sri Lankan · ££ · King's Cross

72Signal

Start with

Egg Hopper

The restaurant's namesake; described as a 'beautiful object' of ivory-colored fermented rice and coconut milk that is 'friable at the edges' and 'irresistible' to tear apart and eat with various chutneys.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

374
Noci

Italian · ££ · Islington

72Signal

Start with

Silk Handkerchiefs

The chef's signature dish that he became known for at Bancone, this pasta features jagged-cut sheets in a walnut butter sauce topped with a confit egg yolk. Critics call it 'simply irresistible' and 'simple yet compelling'.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

375
The Cow

British / Seafood · £££ · Notting Hill

72Signal

Start with

The Cow Special

The house signature of six Jersey Rock oysters paired with a pint of Guinness remains the essential order; critics note the pub has a distinct 'Celtic affect' that makes the Guinness a must.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

376
The Ladbroke Arms

British Gastropub · £££ · Holland Park

72Signal

Start with

Steak and Chips

Harden's describes this as an 'excellent choice' and a reliable standout among the pub's 'interesting pub-grub standards.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

377
Khun Pakin Thai

Thai · ££ · Hammersmith

72Signal

Start with

Mu Ping

Skewers of grilled pork with lovely highlights of charring, described as tender, glistening with a complex sweet glaze, and effortlessly easy to enjoy.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

378
Khamsa

Algerian · ££ · Brixton

72Signal

Start with

Meze Selection (7 Salads)

An 'amazingly fresh mix' of seasoned, cold vegetables that 'pack a punch.' Critics claim the restaurant 'really knows how to zhuzh up some carrots and beetroot' in this 'delectable' starter.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

379
Plaza 809 La caribeña

Dominican · ££ · Camberwell

72Signal

Start with

Pica Pollo

A crowd-pleasing classic of fried chicken served with zesty guasacaca sauce.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

380
Le Swine

British / Breakfast · ££

72Signal

Start with

Bacon Butty

Billed as the 'best bacon butty in Britain,' it features thick-cut middle bacon, 'bacon butter,' and a signature mushroom ketchup in a toasted milk and onion bap. Adding a duck egg is highly recommended for the 'perfectly orange, runny yolks.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

381
North Sea Fish

Fish and Chips / Seafood · ££ · Bloomsbury

72Signal

Start with

Battered Cod and Chips

Considered a 'very reliable' staple of this 'venerable chipper,' the cod is praised for being 'carefully cooked' with a thin, non-soggy batter that has a 'pleasing crunch.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

382
Social Dhaba indian

Indian · ££ · Hatch End

72Signal

Start with

Tandoori King Prawns

A highly praised standout dish known for being exceptionally tender with an almost chicken-like texture.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

383
Nipa Thai

Authentic Thai · £££ · Lancaster Gate

72Signal

Start with

Ruam Mitr (Chef's Special Starters)

A generous platter including traditional fishcakes, prawn dumplings, and satay chicken that critics call 'beautifully presented' and 'more than enough for two people.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

384
New Fortune Cookie

Cantonese · ££ · Bayswater

72Signal

Start with

Peking Duck

Roasted perfectly with a balance of sweetness and savouriness, featuring extra crispy skin that is cleverly 'greaseproofed' on prawn crackers to stay crisp and moreish.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

385
From The Ashes BBQ

BBQ · ££ · Hackney Wick

72Signal

Start with

Smoked Pork Bun

A smoky staple featuring pickles, sriracha marmite mayo, and smoked garlic mayo, described as a 'dead cert' for flavor.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

386
Kadiri’s

North Indian · ££ · Willesden

72Signal

Start with

Chicken Biryani

A staple at this biryani institution, traditionally cooked with fragrant saffron-laced rice and layers of flavor.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

387
barra 10

Argentinian Steakhouse · ££ · Tooting

72Signal

Start with

Sharing Steak

Highly praised for its massive portion, tenderness, and exceptional value.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

388
Purezza

Vegan Italian · ££ · Camden Town

72Signal

Start with

Parmigiana Party Pizza

This award-winning pie is described as 'beauts' and 'rich, full of flavour,' loaded with smoked mozzarella, fried aubergine parmigiana, and seitan sausages that critics agree 'totally worked.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

389
74 Charlotte Street

Modern European · £££ · Fitzrovia

71Signal

Start with

Milk Bread with Pumpkin Seed Hummus and Noisette Butter

Universally praised as a 'fabulous' signature dish; it is visually impressive and so fluffy it pulls apart at the lightest touch, served with what critics call a 'perfection' of a butter cube.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

390
CAFFÈ CALDESI

Italian · £££ · Marylebone

71Signal

Start with

Antipasti Board

Described as 'groaning with Italy’s greatest hits', this board includes nocerella olives, silky mortadella, superior pecorino, and ribbons of warm grilled courgette; it is easily large enough to serve three as a starter.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

391
Sushi Show

Japanese · ££ · Angel

71Signal

Start with

Fatty Tuna Nigiri

Praised for 'excellent quality fish' that reviewers claim rivals 'proper omakase counter places' costing well over £100 per head.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

392
Needoo Grill

Pakistani · ££ · Whitechapel

71Signal

Start with

Mixed Grill

While reviews of the lamb chops vary, the seekh kebabs are praised as 'fresh and juicy' with an 'intense' interior, and the chicken tikka is 'tender rather than hockey-puck hard.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

393
Jolene

Modern European · £££ · Newington Green

71Signal

Start with

Fresh Tagliatelle with Capers and Oregano

Described by critics as 'lemon-enlivened' and 'quite wonderful,' this dish represents the kitchen's 'earthy' and 'imaginative' approach to heritage grain pasta.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

394
CheeMc

Korean · ££

71Signal

Start with

Korean Fried Chicken (Honey Butter or Sweet Chilli)

The undisputed star of the menu; shattering crispy batter over tender meat with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

395
Haidilao

Chinese Hot Pot · £££ · Piccadilly Circus

71Signal

Start with

Tomato Soup Base

A comforting, incredibly flavourful and drinkable broth that perfectly balances out the 'spiciest mouth-numbing' Sichuan options.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

396
My Old Place

Chinese · ££ · Spitalfields

71Signal

Start with

Pork Dumplings

Handmade on-site by a specialist in a side booth, these dumplings feature a thick, hearty pastry that stands up to boiling and a savory, 'piping hot' filling.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

397
Tokkia

Korean Cafe · ££ · Soho

70Signal

Start with

Long Matcha

Offers a clean, precise expression (hot or cold).

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

398
Gold Mine

Cantonese · ££ · Soho

70Signal

Start with

Cantonese Roast Duck

Universally cited as the signature dish; known for its juicy meat, crispy skin, and sweet soy sauce. Also reviewers mention 'Excellent Cantonese roast duck' and 'Some of the best Chinese roast duck'.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

399
Cometa

Mexican Seafood · £££ · Fitzrovia

70Signal

Start with

Ceviche and Aguachile

These raw dishes lead the menu, pairing fresh UK seafood with 'zesty Mexican flavours' inspired by the coastal state of Sinaloa.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

400
Elsa

Modern French / Alsatian · ££ · Fitzrovia

70Signal

Start with

Seasonal Terrine

A staple of the Alsatian-inspired menu, these are described as 'packed with flavour' and highlight the kitchen's focus on 'simple' and 'ingredient-led' cooking.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

401
Terry's Cafe

British Cafe · ££ · Southwark

70Signal

Start with

The Borough Special

A 'Borough staple' described as a 'homage to the perfection of a simple fry-up.' It features thick, smoky bacon and a 'peppery, herby' Cumberland sausage that is 'thick and meaty.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

402
Bread by Bike

Bakery / Brunch · ££ · Tufnell Park

70Signal

Start with

Hippy Sourdough

The bakery's signature, best-selling loaf that kicked off their success and was a "winner at the World Bread Awards in 2019."

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

403
Chamisse

Lebanese · ££ · King's Cross

70Signal

Start with

Mixed Grill

A benchmark for the menu that exemplifies what reviewers call 'fabulous homemade food,' featuring a consistent trio of lamb chops, kafta, and shish taouk.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

404
Koya Ko

Japanese Udon · ££ · Hackney

70Signal

Start with

English Breakfast Udon

The restaurant's iconic dish, tweaked here into a 'kamatama style' where the heat of the noodles 'cooks' a raw egg yolk into a sauce, accompanied by bacon and mushrooms—critics warn 'don't call it a Japanese carbonara'.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

405
Fine Cut Steakhouse

Brazilian · ££ · Mayfair

70Signal

Start with

Picanha

This rump cut is a highlight of the charcoal grill, served traditionally with tropeiro beans—made with crispy kale and bacon—vinaigrette, rice, and fried cassava for an experience that 'could easily be found' in Brazil.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

406
Rossodisera

Italian (Le Marche) · ££ · Hampstead

70Signal

Start with

Olive all’ascolana

The signature snack of the Marche region—deep-fried olives stuffed with meat—praised as the best outside Italy.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

407
Hector's

Wine Bar · £££ · De Beauvoir

70Signal

Start with

Tinned Fish & Crisps

The quintessential snack offering at this Parisian-style cave à manger, perfect for customers whose appetites are stirred by the drinks.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

408
Fish & Bubbles

Italian Seafood · ££ · Notting Hill

70Signal

Start with

Fritto Misto al Metro

An 'impressively long board' served by the metre that provides a 'wow moment' for parties; it features Prosecco-battered catch of the day, plump prawns, and Sicilian-style chickpea panelle.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

409
Mons Cheesemongers

Cheese Shop · ££ · Bermondsey

70Signal

Start with

Brie de Meaux

A signature item described as a 'gigantic, golden-hued, richly creamy classic' that is matured in the company's own disused railway tunnel in France.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

410
Umut 2000

Turkish · ££ · Dalston

70Signal

Start with

Lamb Ribs

Universally acclaimed as the standout dish; described as 'Dalston's finest' with perfectly rendered fat and tender meat.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

411
Udaya Kerala

South Indian · ££ · East Ham

70Signal

Start with

Kerala Chicken Fry

Cited by Eater as potentially the best in London; crisp, light, tender, and fried with sweet onion slivers.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

412
Bright

Modern European · £££ · Hackney

70Signal

Start with

Katsu Sando

Regarded as a future staple that other restaurants will replicate, this signature dish features a panko-crusted pork cutlet and shredded cabbage between slices of soft white bread with a dollop of hot mustard.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

413
Veraison Wines

Wine Bar · ££ · Camberwell

70Signal

Start with

Frog Bakery Bread

Cited by critics as exceptional bread that elevates the classic French bar snacks.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

414
St. John (Smithfield)

Modern British / Nose-to-Tail · £££ · Clerkenwell

70Signal

Start with

Roast Bone Marrow and Parsley Salad

A legendary dish that has been on the menu for 26 years; the deeply fatty marrow is perfectly balanced by the crisp acidity of the parsley, caper, and shallot salad.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

415
DODAM KOREA

Korean · ££ · Shoreditch

70Signal

Start with

Korean Fried Chicken

Celebrated for being crisped to sheer indulgence without the 'grease-soaked regret' often found in lesser establishments.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

416
Miod Malina

Polish · ££ · North Acton

70Signal

Start with

Sour Rye Soup in Bread

This dish is a hallmark of the restaurant's commitment to 'comfort food done brilliantly,' served in a setting that feels like being invited into a 'lovely Polish home.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

417
Mexican Seoul

Korean-Mexican Fusion · ££ · Hackney

70Signal

Start with

Gochu-Gang Wings

Described as a 'match crafted by the food gods,' these wings feature a fermented rice and chili sensation that critics call 'damn good flappers.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

418
Frigideira

Brazilian · ££ · Kensal Rise

70Signal

Start with

Picanha

The undisputed star of the menu; a perfectly cooked rump cap that serves as the centerpiece of the traditional 'churrasco' (grilled meats) selection.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

419
Dishoom Carnaby

Indian · ££ · Soho

70Signal

Start with

Chicken Ruby

Consistently cited as a 'hit' that should be on your table; a rich and reliable curry option.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

420
Crust Bros

Neapolitan Pizza · ££ · Waterloo

70Signal

Start with

Straight Outta Hell

A crowd-pleasing spicy mix of mozzarella, chicken, chillies, pepperoni, and 'nduja that showcases their signature 'soft and chewy' crusts with a 'charred dapple.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

421
Corrochio's

Mexican · ££ · Dalston

70Signal

Start with

Lamb Barbacoa Tacos

Reviewers preferred these over other taco options, noting they are served with beans, pickled onions, and a "great roasted salsa" on "excellent" corn tortillas that are a world away from supermarket versions.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

422
Lulu's

Modern European / Wine Bar · ££ · Herne Hill

70Signal

Start with

Tomato and Seaweed Focaccia

So delicious that reviewers 'finished it and ordered another straight away,' describing it as 'insanely good.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

423
Sichuan PoPo 婆婆面

Sichuan / Shaanxi · ££ · Earl's Court

70Signal

Start with

Prawn and Scallop Dumplings

Part of the dim sum selection that "wins applause" for "delicious and authentic Sichuan cooking"; critics previously described them as 'pillowy'.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

424
Tawa Roti

Trinidadian · ££ · Clapham

70Signal

Start with

Curry Goat with Buss Up Shot

Rich and tender goat curry paired with buttery, shredded 'buss up shot' roti that reviewers call the star of the show and the perfect vehicle for scooping up every last drop of sauce.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

425
New Beijing

Northern Chinese & Sichuan · ££ · Limehouse

70Signal

Start with

Hot and Sour Soup

Described as a 'nostalgic embrace' that 'truly surpasses' expectations by evoking the genuine comfort of 'Beijing's bustling street vendors.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

426
01 Adana Restaurant

Turkish · ££ · Stoke Newington

70Signal

Start with

Adana Kofte

The eponymous dish is juicy, punchy with fat and flavor, and served with a grilled onion salad that is consistently excellent.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

427
Arepa & Co

Venezuelan · ££

70Signal

Start with

Arepa Pabellón

Widely considered 'Venezuela on a plate,' this fluffy cornbread is stuffed with pulled brisket or shredded beef, black bean sauce, and cheese, making it the definitive introduction to the menu.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

428
Daebak

Korean · ££ · Vauxhall

70Signal

Start with

Pa Dak (Spring Onion Fried Chicken)

The absolute benchmark here: crispy chicken doused in honey mustard sauce and topped with a small mountain of thinly sliced spring onion.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

429
Shan Shui Social

Chinese · £££ · Victoria

70Signal

Start with

Har Gao Shrimp Dumplings

Plump, delicately translucent, and packed with juicy prawns, these are described as a masterclass in texture and balance.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

430
Amber Restaurant

Middle Eastern · ££ · Aldgate East

70Signal

Start with

Fried Cauliflower

Described as Amber’s "secret weapon" and "next level," it is served with crispy shallots, green tahini, pomegranate, and dukkah.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

431
Samak Seafood

Egyptian Seafood · ££ · Willesden

70Signal

Start with

Sinjari Seabass

Butterflied and topped with tangy parsley, tomatoes, peppers, and onions, it serves as the perfect benchmark for the kitchen's authentic Egyptian flavors.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

432
Dalchini

Indo-Chinese · ££ · Wimbledon Park

70Signal

Start with

Tofu pepper and salt

Described as a revelation, these fingers of tofu are cooked in the lightest possible batter with chilli and spring onion—finally, a vegetarian option that excels.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

433
Slurp Noodles

Thai · ££ · Spitalfields

70Signal

Start with

Hat Yai Chicken

Universally praised as "better than good," these juicy fried chicken thighs are marinated in coriander and garlic and topped with crispy shallots. Critics recommend using a spoon to clear up every bit of the "delicious shallot debris."

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

434
Patara

Thai · £££ · Soho

70Signal

Start with

Lamb Shank Massaman

The undisputed star of the menu; a hefty, tender leg of braised lamb in a deeply fragrant, rich coconut curry.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

435
The Eight

Hong Kong · ££ · Chinatown

70Signal

Start with

Crispy Pork with Rice

Designated as the 'top menu tip' in reviews, this dish is described as 'fabulous' and 'better than a lot of local competition.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

436
Yen

Japanese · £££ · The Strand

70Signal

Start with

Handmade Buckwheat Soba

Meticulously prepared twice daily by soba specialists, these noodles are a 'painstaking' craft resulting in fine strands with 'just the right amount of bounce and chew.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

437
Seoul Food

Korean · ££ · Ladbroke Grove

70Signal

Start with

Budae-jjigae (army stew)

The quintessential Korean comfort dish, packed with rich, savory, and spicy flavors.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

438
Machan Kitchen

Sri Lankan · ££ · East Croydon

70Signal

Start with

Egg hopper

The essential must-order item to anchor your Sri Lankan feast, as recommended by the editor.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

439
Farina Pizzeria Napoletana

Pizza · ££ · Notting Hill

70Signal

Start with

Margherita

The ultimate benchmark to test their elastic, 48-hour fermented dough—critics describe the base as classy, thin, and light, and it offers change from a tenner.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

440
Mildreds Camden

Vegetarian / Vegan · ££ · Camden

70Signal

Start with

Korean Fried Chick+n Burger

Called 'the don of all vegan burgers,' this signature stack features a plant-based patty glazed in gochujang chilli sesame sauce and topped with golden onion rings.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

441
Babuji

Indian Street Food · ££ · Kentish Town

70Signal

Start with

Vada Pau

Regarded by critics as the 'best dish' on the menu, this Mumbai street food classic is described as 'divine' with a soft yet crunchy texture and an 'electrifying bolt of complex spicing.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

442
Belly bistro

Filipino-European Bistro · £££ · Kentish Town

69Signal

Start with

Tempura Cod Pandesal

Praised as a "goody bag of textures," this bite features cod "cut to the size of a hash brown" with American cheese and ikura that offers a "faint childish pleasure."

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

443
Canton Element

Cantonese · ££ · Holborn

69Signal

Start with

Selection of dim sum

Reviewers note the dumplings are 'thin and delicate' with 'correctly cooked prawns,' specifically highlighting the har gau and scallop and prawn shui mai.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

444
William IV

British Gastropub · £££

69Signal

Start with

Guinness Soda Bread with Marmite Butter

Unanimously praised as a 'honking, ultra-savoury' delight. Critics warn against making the 'rookie error' of not ordering bread to mop up every 'iota' of the garlic butter served with other dishes.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

445
Cafe Kowloon

Cantonese · £££ · London Fields

69Signal

Start with

Prawn Toast

Described as "something to love" and "quickly becoming a favourite," these are served as four soldiers holding a prawn head aloft. The bread is heavily sesamed and crisp, topped with a "thick and fresh" prawn layer that critics insist you order per person rather than sharing.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

446
Toum

Lebanese Rotisserie · £££ · Mayfair

69Signal

Start with

Musakhan Rolls

Stuffed with shredded chicken, caramelized onion, and sumac, these are praised as 'crispy and delicious' and a reliable standout among the starters.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

447
Dough Hands

Pizza · ££ · Hackney

69Signal

Start with

Spicy Tuna

Consistently praised by critics as the standout pie; it balances chilli heat, lemon freshness, and sweet red onion perfectly.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

448
Haringey Corbacisi

Turkish · ££ · Harringay

69Signal

Start with

Sade Paca

This is the consensus favourite: a lamb and yoghurt soup featuring tender meat, a 'paddling pool' of melted butter, and as much garlic as you can handle.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

449
50 Kalò di Ciro Salvo Pizzeria

Neapolitan Pizza · ££ · Trafalgar Square

69Signal

Start with

Frittatina di Bucatini

A flawless, deep-fried Campanian pasta puck filled with bechamel, provola, and ham that makes the perfect starter.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

450
Jiāonest

Chongqing Chinese · ££ · Haggerston

69Signal

Start with

Duck Duck Rice Toast

This signature dish consists of three deep-fried, sando-style slabs so delicious they'll have you "contemplating another round," though reviewers warn that portions are already quite generous.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

451
Chew Fun

Chinese · ££ · Spitalfields

69Signal

Start with

Classic Guilin Rice Noodles (Dry-Mixed)

The Infatuation identifies these as the 'ones to get,' specifically recommending the dry-mixed style over the soup to ensure the chewy texture of the noodles and the punchy gravy aren't 'watered down.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

452
Lahpet Larder

Burmese · ££ · Bermondsey

68Signal

Start with

Tea Leaf Salad

The brand's essential signature and a 'textural masterpiece' of pickled tea, double fried beans, and garlic oil that critics describe as a 'level of impact' dish.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

453
Tokoton Ramen

Japanese Ramen · ££ · Southwark

68Signal

Start with

Creamy Miso Ramen

Reviewers describe the broth as rich, thick, and velvety, noting that the addition of tofu skin elevates the deep umami flavor.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

454
Calabar Zone

Nigerian · ££ · Southwark

68Signal

Start with

Jollof Rice

A Nigerian staple prepared with an 'exquisite blend of spices' that highlights robust flavors 'rather than overwhelming heat.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

455
Lalibela

Ethiopian · ££ · Tufnell Park

68Signal

Start with

Ye-stom Beyaynetu

A vegetarian platter where the tender, moreish lentils and salty peas 'went down a treat', accompanied by a standout coarse, fluffy, and nutty puree of chick peas.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

456
Kkini

Korean BBQ · ££ · Tufnell Park

68Signal

Start with

Bibimbap

Described as a "comforting bowl" where you can choose your protein—from meat to seafood or tofu—to go with rice, seasoned vegetables, an egg, and chilli paste.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

457
Hoa Sen

Vietnamese · ££ · Covent Garden

68Signal

Start with

Vịt Quay Lạng Sơn (Roasted Duck)

The house signature: juicy roast duck flavoured with rare mắc mật leaves. This Covent Garden spot is highlighted by the Evening Standard as a 'good name to know' in the West End for authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

458
Charcoal Champ

Chinese BBQ · ££ · Angel

68Signal

Start with

Lamb Skewers

Cumin-rich and arriving with a hint of chilli heat; critics recommend ordering the small skewers for a pile of slender spears that come out crisp all over with the fat rendered through.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

459
The Petite Corée

Korean · ££ · West Hampstead

68Signal

Start with

Mandu

Critics assert that 'no visit is complete' without these steamed pork and glass noodle dumplings, describing them as the 'delicious stars of the dish' despite their simple European sidekicks.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

460
Tanakatsu

Japanese · ££ · Angel

68Signal

Start with

Pork Katsu

Described as a 'perfect marriage of pork, batter, and evenly applied panko,' this dish features a crispy outer layer and soft panko flakes that melt in your mouth.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

461
Neal's Yard Dairy

Cheese Shop · ££ · Covent Garden

68Signal

Start with

Westcombe Cheddar

Regarded as a favorite for being well-aged with a 'sweet-sharpness' that is described as 'fabulous.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

462
Antepliler

Turkish · ££ · Harringay

68Signal

Start with

Lahmacun

Described as one of the 'biggest bargains west of the Bosphorus,' these paper-thin flatbreads are fresh from the wood-fired brick oven and liberally covered with minced lamb.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

463
Spa Terminus

Bakery & Market · ££ · Bermondsey

68Signal

Start with

Lardy Bun

Recognized as Flor’s signature dish, this enriched dough is rolled with tea-soaked currants and brown sugar before being dunked in a pan of sticky, spiced caramel with a hint of mace.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

464
Moxon's Next Door

Seafood · ££ · East Dulwich

68Signal

Start with

Plymouth Bream

This fish arrives in its full form and can be filleted at your request, resulting in a 'flakey, delicate' dish that reviewers call the perfect summer main.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

465
Fin and Flounder

Seafood · ££ · Hackney

68Signal

Start with

Lobster Roll

Described as a 'classic' and a 'signature' item made with 'fresh Scottish Native Lobster arriving daily', it is the cornerstone of their seafood menu.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

466
The Ham and Cheese Co

Italian Deli · ££ · Bermondsey

68Signal

Start with

Culatello di Zibello

A gem of a meat with a buttery and tender sweetness, produced only in winter in the river plains of Parma where the fog from the Po carries unique moulds.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

467
Pot and Rice (Soho)

Chinese / Pan-Asian · ££ · Soho

68Signal

Start with

Tobiko & Prawn Cheung Fun

Described as a 'coastal tapestry' where every strand sparks with flavor, featuring a combination of soft rice noodle rolls and minced prawns that provide a satisfying 'good bite.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

468
Retsina

Greek · ££ · Belsize Park

68Signal

Start with

Lamb Kleftiko

Consistently praised as a standout for 'wholesome authentic Greek food' by local experts and restaurateurs for its reliable quality.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

469
Le Bab

Modern Middle Eastern · ££ · Soho

68Signal

Start with

Paneer Kebab

Consistently cited as the menu's winner, even by meat-eaters, thanks to excellent grilling and accompaniments like beetroot purée and crispy onions.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

470
Clapton Country Club

British Sunday Roast · £££ · Clapton

68Signal

Start with

Norfolk Gold corn fed roast chicken

Described as being 'cooked to perfection' with lemon, rosemary, and thyme infusions, it is also the most affordable roast option.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

471
SASA

Japanese · ££ · Islington

68Signal

Start with

Nigiri & Sashimi

Reviewers highlight the 'finest cuts of fish' that 'just melt in your mouth.' The tuna is specifically praised for being 'identifiably-fresh' rather than a 'mayonnaise-chili-mash' found elsewhere.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

472
Gurmani

Georgian · ££ · Harringay

68Signal

Start with

Mushroom Khinkali

Highlighted by critics for its fragrance; staff will happily teach you the proper eating technique.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

473
Cheli

Eastern Chinese (Jiangnan) · £££ · Elephant & Castle

68Signal

Start with

Peking Duck

Described as the 'star dish' with 'beautifully lacquered' skin, these whole roast ducks are 'expertly carved at the table' and 'served in all their golden glory.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

474
Cha Kee

Hong Kong / Cantonese · ££ · Fulham

68Signal

Start with

Hainanese Chicken Rice

Arguably the juiciest chicken in London, it 'completely stole the spotlight' and pairs perfectly with a fragrant garlic shallot sauce.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

475
Sufi

Persian · ££ · Shepherd's Bush

68Signal

Start with

Chello Kebab Sufi

Reviewers describe the charcoal-grilled lamb and chicken fillets as 'very tasty' and 'wonderfully juicy,' especially when paired with the excellent salad option.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

476
Casa MofongoF

Dominican · ££ · Brixton

68Signal

Start with

Mofongo with Crispy Pork

The restaurant's 'classic dish,' featuring a 'tight' texture of mashed plantain served with a 'fresh and chunky' salad. It is highly recommended to use the accompanying garlic sauce to balance the 'very filling' and 'quite dry' nature of the plantain.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

477
The Rosemary

Organic Hungarian · ££ · New Cross

68Signal

Start with

Chicken Paprikash (Csirkepörkölt)

A quintessential authentic classic served with 'delicate and soft' nokedli—traditional egg dumplings that reviewers find exceptional.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

478
Cahchi

Korean BBQ · £££ · New Malden

68Signal

Start with

Pajoen (Green Onion Pancake)

Consistently cited as one of the 'tasty, varied dishes' that makes this family-run spot a 'great place to sample the cuisine.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

479
Tongdak

Korean Fried Chicken · ££ · New Malden

68Signal

Start with

Fried Original

Critics note it nails the 'authentic Korean Fried Chicken taste' with a batter that is perfectly seasoned and crispy while the meat remains juicy.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

480
TAQUIZA

Mexican · ££ · Peckham

68Signal

Start with

Wild Mushroom Barbacoa

Described as 'insanely good' and a 'definite must-order,' this taco is praised for being super meaty and saucy despite being vegetarian, topped with a pumpkin seed salsa.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

481
Cyprus Mangal

Turkish Cypriot · ££ · Pimlico

68Signal

Start with

Lamb Shish

Consistently praised for its 'wonderful seasoning and succulence,' this benchmark dish arrives with plenty of rice and salad.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

482
Oddono's

Italian Gelato · ££ · South Kensington

68Signal

Start with

Pistachio Gelato

Widely considered a best-seller, this flavour is described as 'rich in flavour, creamy, and delicious,' made using premium natural ingredients like pistachios from Sicily.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

483
YUN Cross Bridge Rice Noodles

Yunnan Chinese · ££ · Shoreditch

68Signal

Start with

Yun Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles

Regarded as a signature dish that is 'legit,' this benchmark meal helps transport diners to the 'rich culinary landscape of Yunnan' with authentic flavors.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

484
Aroma Lounge

Indian · ££ · Wembley

68Signal

Start with

Minty Lamb Chops

A highly recommended, consistent crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with a pint.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

485
20ft Chicken

Fried Chicken · ££ · Soho

68Signal

Start with

The 20 FT Burger

The signature buttermilk fried chicken benchmark featuring habanero and honey mayo.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

486
The Scotsman Southall

Indian · ££ · Southall

68Signal

Start with

Mixed Grill

The ultimate benchmark pub-grub dish packed with flavorful tandoori meats, frequently praised by regulars.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

487
Spice Rack Lounge

Indian & Indo-Chinese · ££ · Stanmore

68Signal

Start with

Saag Aloo

A perfectly executed, comforting classic that keeps locals coming back repeatedly.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

488
Master Bun Pastry

Taiwanese · ££ · Shepherd's Bush

68Signal

Start with

Mr Bao

The benchmark classic featuring slow-braised pork, house pickles, and roasted peanuts; the buns are described as perfectly cooked and not too soft.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

489
Mama Li

Cantonese · ££ · City of London

68Signal

Start with

Three Meat Combo

The restaurant is famed for its succulent Cantonese roast meat dishes, which are authentic family recipes prepared in-house using time-honoured roasting methods.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

490
One Rice

Teochew Chinese · ££ · Brick Lane

68Signal

Start with

Seafood Clay Pot Congee

Described as piping hot and silky smooth, this dish is packed with sea-fresh prawn and crab flavors.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

491
The Jolly Butchers

Pub Food / Indian · ££ · Stoke Newington

68Signal

Start with

Paneer Kathi Roll

Grilled cottage cheese and mango mint chutney wrapped in a warm, fluffy naan.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

492
Pentolina

Italian · £££ · Hammersmith

67Signal

Start with

Sausage Ragout

Highlighted by The Infatuation as a standout reason to visit; the meaty pastas are the strength here.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

493
Berenjak

Persian · ££ · Soho

66Signal

Start with

Koobideh Kabab

Universally praised; described as a 'must be ordered' dish. Reviewers say it is 'soft and tender' and 'exceptionally juicy and flavorful'.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

494
Tufnell Park Tavern

British Gastropub & Pizza · ££ · Tufnell Park

66Signal

Start with

Pizza

Served seven days a week, the pizzas are the most consistent and popular option on the menu.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

495
Gold

Modern European · £££ · Notting Hill

66Signal

Start with

Wood-Roasted Sea Bream

Consistently cited as the headline dish across multiple reviews, it is a centerpiece of the 'wood-roasted dishes' that define chef Theo Hill’s menu.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

496
Hala

Turkish · ££ · Harringay

66Signal

Start with

Mixed Grill

The main attraction here; huge platters of charcoal-grilled meats that define the Green Lanes experience and are consistently cited as some of the best Turkish food in the UK.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

497
Grasso

Italian-American · £££ · Soho

66Signal

Start with

Penne Alla Vodka

Known as a staple of Grasso's 'hearty comfort food' menu, this dish is praised for its 'lovely creamy tomato taste' and massive portion sizes.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

498
Pizzeria Pellone

Neapolitan Pizza · ££

66Signal

Start with

Margherita

Regarded as simple yet delicious, this pizza features a perfectly thin and light crust, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy, perfectly melted mozzarella.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

499
Enfes Ocakbasi

Turkish · ££ · Harringay

66Signal

Start with

Adana Kebab

Described as a shimmering mound of meltingly good meat, it is considered the benchmark test for any ocakbaşı.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

500
Maramia Cafe

Palestinian · ££ · Notting Hill

66Signal

Start with

Chicken Musakhan

Explicitly identified as one of the 'specialties of the house,' this dish consists of grilled chicken, onions, pine nuts, and sumac wrapped in a handmade bread.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

501
Sadaf

Persian · ££

66Signal

Start with

Kebab Soltani & Fresh Naan

The benchmark Persian order: a mix of minced koobideh and lamb fillet, perfectly paired with bread baked fresh in their clay oven at a spot cited as one of the best Persian eateries in the capital.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

502
New Loon Fung

Cantonese / Dim Sum · ££ · Chinatown

66Signal

Start with

Char Siu Bao (BBQ Pork Buns)

Consistently hailed as 'fabulously wonderful,' these buns are described as 'little clouds' that taste like 'sweet cloudy goodness' with a savory meat filling.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

503
Mien Tay

Vietnamese · ££ · Shoreditch

66Signal

Start with

Chargrilled Quail with Honey, Garlic and Spices

Described as 'heavenly' and 'sensational,' this dish features perfectly charred, honey-glazed skin with aromatic notes of cinnamon and star-anise.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

504
Kanada-Ya

Japanese Ramen · ££ · Covent Garden

65Signal

Start with

Tonkotsu Ramen

Regarded by critics as the 'best Tonkotsu ramen in the UK,' this 'original, safe-bet' 18-hour bone broth is 'gloriously rich, milky, and salty.' Experts recommend ordering the noodles 'hard' to ensure the 'right amount of bite' for an authentic experience.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

505
Bali Satay House

Indonesian · ££ · New Barnet

65Signal

Start with

Chicken Satay

Described as the 'star of the show,' featuring smoky grilled chunks of thigh under a 'blanket' of sauce that is sweet, salty, and rich with 'spiced caramel tones.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

506
Maria’s Market Cafe

British Cafe · ££ · Borough

65Signal

Start with

Sausage & Bubble Roll

The Infatuation's go-to; a soft floury roll featuring the cafe's legendary, crispy-edged bubble and squeak.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

507
Dishoom Battersea

Indian · ££ · Battersea

65Signal

Start with

House Black Daal

The restaurant's signature dish that people come specifically to eat; it is described as mild, rich, and incredibly warming.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

508
Spice Village Southall

Pakistani and Indian · ££ · Southall

65Signal

Start with

Lamb Chops Karahi

This 'no nonsense' dish hits all the right notes with a flavor profile of chilli, ginger, and garlic, featuring meat so soft it 'demands to be had with either rice or naan'.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

509
Bao Borough

Taiwanese · ££ · Borough

64Signal

Start with

Chicken Nugget Bao

A charcoal-speckled bun featuring a 'crisped mini cutlet concealing whole galaxies of sprawling, spiced complexity.' It is widely considered one of the most successful items on the menu.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

510
The Pelican

Modern British · £££ · Notting Hill

64Signal

Start with

Mince on Toast

A staple of the menu described as a sturdy plank of sourdough topped with a 'rich, profoundly flavoursome ragu' and a 'melting, feathery drift of cheese.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

511
Arros QD

Spanish · £££ · Fitzrovia

63Signal

Start with

Paella Valenciana

Regarded as the 'best in town' by some and the 'star dish' by others, this traditional rice features chicken, rabbit, and garrofó beans with the highly-prized crispy 'socarrat' base.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

512
Berut Bistro

Lebanese · ££ · Marylebone

63Signal

Start with

Hummus Ras Asfour

Widely praised as a 'benchmark' dish, specifically for its topping of 'caramelised beef' which critics consider a crowd-pleasing highlight.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

513
Kolamba

Sri Lankan · £££ · Soho

63Signal

Start with

Parippu (Dhal)

Consistently praised across reviews as a standout comfort dish; red lentils cooked with coconut milk and turmeric.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

514
Noodle Nova

Chinese · ££

63Signal

Start with

Chilli Oil Spill Noodles with Braised Chicken

Described as 'a dream,' these noodles sit 'paddling in an inch of spicy oil' with a 'knockout glut of fiery joy' and enough minced garlic to 'stun Nosferatu.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

515
Rita’s

Modern American · ££ · Soho

62Signal

Start with

Tear-and-Share Garlic Bread

Modeled on Parker House rolls and doused in green-flecked butter.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

516
Golden Phoenix

Chinese · ££ · Chinatown

62Signal

Start with

BBQ Roast Pork Buns

Reviewers found these to be a superior choice among the steamed options, specifically describing the bun as 'soft and fluffy.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

517
Little Georgia

Georgian · ££ · Angel

61Signal

Start with

Khachapuri

This baked-to-order, moreish cheese-filled bread is a national staple of Georgia; critics insist you should not 'even think about not ordering' it.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

518
The Golden Hind

Fish & Chips · ££ · Marylebone

61Signal

Start with

Haddock and chips

Regarded as 'an altogether better affair' than the starters, with crisp batter and fish that is cooked through nicely without skin.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

519
Singapulah

Singaporean · £££ · Soho

61Signal

Start with

Singapore Laksa

The broth is hailed as 'transcendent' and 'complex', anchoring the menu as a must-try even though critics noted the prawn portions can be 'meagre'.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

520
BAO Battersea

Taiwanese · ££ · Battersea

61Signal

Start with

Classic Pork Bao

Reviewers describe these as 'the best-ever bao buns' that are 'so light and fluffy with absolutely delicious fillings,' making them the essential starting point.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

521
Jin Da

Northern Thai · ££ · Hammersmith

61Signal

Start with

Tamarind duck

Consistently a standout dish, noted for duck that is not overcooked and a pleasant hint of bitter sweetness from the tamarind.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

522
Onsu

Asian Bakery · ££ · Soho

60Signal

Start with

Wagyu Beef Curry Bun

A standout savory item mentioned across all reviews, combining high-end ingredients with classic bakery comfort.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

523
Queen of Sheba

Ethiopian · ££ · Tufnell Park

60Signal

Start with

Zilbo Stew

Praised for its tender strips of lamb and a heady, well-balanced mix of ginger and garlic.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

524
Sentosa

Singaporean & Malaysian · ££ · Bermondsey

60Signal

Start with

Satay Chicken Skewers

Cited as the highlight of the meal by locals, served with a generous peanut sauce perfect for mopping up with roti.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

525
Café Amisha

Italian · ££ · Bermondsey

60Signal

Start with

Fiorentina Pizza

Described as 'particularly impressive' and part of a pizza range characterized as 'very real Italian' with a thin, crispy crust and quality ingredients sourced directly from Italy.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

526
Spring Street Pizza

NYC-Style Pizza · ££ · Southwark

60Signal

Start with

New Yorker

The quintessential order here: San Marzano tomato, pepperoni, and hot honey on a 48-hour fermented crust.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

527
Sen Viet

Vietnamese · ££ · King's Cross

60Signal

Start with

Beef Pho

A warming, classic bowl of beef noodle soup described as the perfect remedy for the cold.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

528
Bar Polski

Polish · ££ · Holborn

60Signal

Start with

Pierogi

The menu's reliable staple; Eater advises sticking to small plates like these, and diners specifically praise the fried version with dips.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

529
Cloud Land

Yunnan · ££ · Aldgate

60Signal

Start with

Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles

Praised as soothing and well-balanced, this signature Yunnan noodle broth is the standard order.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

530
Crown & Anchor

British Pub · ££ · Covent Garden

60Signal

Start with

Chicken Supreme

A generous piece of tender meat roasted in lemon and thyme, served as part of a 'feast for the eyes' that includes a Yorkshire pudding and fluffy roast potatoes.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

531
Asakusa

Japanese Izakaya · ££ · Camden

60Signal

Start with

Sushi

Described as 'generous' and one of the 'classics of the cuisine,' this is a reliable staple at what critics call a 'tip-top Japanese' spot.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

532
Bruno

Wine Bar · ££ · Victoria Park

60Signal

Start with

Reblochon and Honey Pretzel

Described as 'pretty much perfect drinking food,' these filled pretzels are a mainstay of the menu inspired by the owner's Swiss heritage.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

533
Claridge's Bakery

Bakery · £££ · Mayfair

60Signal

Start with

Sourdough Loaf

Richard Hart is globally renowned for his sourdough (formerly of Tartine and Hart Bageri), making this the technical benchmark.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

534
Naifs

Vegan · ££ · Peckham

60Signal

Start with

Set Menu

A curated plant-based experience that reviewers describe as 'truly special,' noting that the meal is so impressive you'll likely 'want to eat the whole thing again.'

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

535
Bells Café

Modern British · ££ · Shoreditch

60Signal

Start with

Potatoes and onions on a lovage sauce with melted stinking bishop

Explicitly cited as one of the 'standout dishes of the evening,' featuring a flavorful lovage sauce and rich melted cheese.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

536
Kakki Katsu Kentish Town

Japanese · ££ · Kentish Town

60Signal

Start with

Chicken Katsu Curry

Identified as a staple of this small chain, combining two of the restaurant's namesake menu items.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

537
AUN

Japanese Fusion · ££ · Stoke Newington

60Signal

Start with

Five Course Set Menu

Described as an 'incredibly reasonable price for the number of courses and quality of ingredients,' it is the best way to experience the restaurant's 'Wakon yōsai' (Japanese spirit with Western learnings) philosophy.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

538
KOD PIRKETA

Serbian · ££ · Acton

60Signal

Start with

Cevapi

The grilled minced meat sausages are the benchmark of any Balkan restaurant and consistently praised here.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

539
Delicathe Gourmet

Brazilian (Bahian) · ££ · Brixton

60Signal

Start with

Acarajé

The house specialty available daily: black-eyed-pea fritters stuffed with vatapá (shrimp and peanut paste).

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

540
Bronek's Fish Restaurant

Seafood · £££ · Northfields

60Signal

Start with

Scallops Seared with Smoked Haddock & Mushrooms

Described as 'essentially, a small taste of the sea on a plate,' the cooking of these scallops 'couldn't have been any better,' turning out unbelievably soft and tender.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

541
Haku Café & Izakaya

Japanese · ££ · Ealing

60Signal

Start with

Chicken Nanban

Consistently identified as the standout dish on the menu in reviewer feedback.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

542
Tea House Theatre

British / Tea Room · ££ · Vauxhall

60Signal

Start with

Full English Breakfast

Promoted as 'the best full English breakfast in London' by the venue, reviewers confirm it uses 'quality ingredients' and offers a vegetarian version that keeps locals coming back.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

543
SIKATIO

Ivorian · ££ · Brockley

60Signal

Start with

Deep-fried Tilapia Combo

The crowd favourite: crispy fish served with ripe fried alloco (plantain) and attiéké (cassava couscous).

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

544
KumKang

Korean · ££ · New Malden

60Signal

Start with

Kimchi Pork Tofu Stew

Cited as a benchmark for the kitchen's skill, this stew is tangy, spicy, and packed with silky tofu and flavour.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

545
Morinoya

Japanese · ££ · Victoria

60Signal

Start with

Chicken Katsu Curry

Described as delightfully crisp and solid across multiple reviews, this is the reliable anchor of the hot menu.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

546
Sagamiya

Japanese · ££ · South Bank

60Signal

Start with

Chirashi Bowl

Carved right in front of you with a generous mix of high-quality fish including akami, chutoro, and hot eel; hits everything you want from a lunchtime chirashi.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

547
Aquarium

Persian · ££ · Acton

60Signal

Start with

Mast-o-musir

The famous yoghurt and dried wild shallot dip served with bread is the perfect traditional starter.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

548
Kampai

Japanese · ££ · Kensington

60Signal

Start with

Horenso Salad

Deep-fried rock shrimp covered in a spicy mayo dressing on baby spinach—an essential way to start your meal.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

549
Aloo Tama

Nepalese · ££ · Westminster

60Signal

Start with

Nepalese Dumplings

Critics highlight these as a standout, noting the kitchen "realises its dumpling" with a "light touch" as part of their "tasty home-style Nepalese cuisine."

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

550
Coqfighter

Fried Chicken · ££ · Soho

60Signal

Start with

Original Chicken Burger

The benchmark sandwich featuring succulent deep-fried thigh, crisp iceberg, pickled red onion, and sweet, peppery sambal mayo.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

551
Pad Thai Cafe

Thai · £££ · Multiple Locations

60Signal

Start with

Creative Pad Thai Noodles

The namesake classic, beautifully balanced, deeply flavorful, and highly customizable with fresh ingredients.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

552
Lotus Garden

Chinese · ££ · Earl's Court & Chinatown

60Signal

Start with

Dim Sum

A reliable staple for starting off your meal, drawing on broad Asian influences.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

553
Sha-Xian Delicacies

Chinese · ££ · Chinatown

60Signal

Start with

Black truffle and pork dumplings

Highly recommended by diners and prepared fresh at the front of the restaurant.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

554
Chuan Young

Chinese · ££ · Holborn

60Signal

Start with

Huaiyang Lion's Head Meat Ball with Salted Yolk

A traditional Huaiyang specialty and menu highlight that perfectly showcases the kitchen's authentic chops.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

555
Taste of China

Hunan Chinese · ££ · Holborn

60Signal

Start with

Sizzling Platters

A highly aromatic guest favorite that arrives hot and made-to-order.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

556
Guilin Ramen House

Chinese · ££ · Fitzrovia

60Signal

Start with

Guilin Rice Noodle (Dry)

The namesake classic, loaded with crispy pork, braised beef, char siu, and pickles.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

557
Baba Tang

Cantonese · ££ · King's Cross

60Signal

Start with

Handmade Dim Sum

Freshly crafted daily on-site, with favorites like prawn dumplings, BBQ pork buns, and cheung fun highly praised.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

558
Da Shuo

Chinese · ££ · Euston

60Signal

Start with

Duck

Consistently noted by visitors as a nicely cooked, reliable classic.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

559
Come Back In

Cantonese · ££ · King's Cross

60Signal

Start with

Radish and Beef Flank Stew

A comforting, tender, and flavorful homestyle benchmark highlighted across multiple reviews.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

560
sol’s wine bar

Modern European / Iberian · ££ · Bayswater

60Signal

Start with

Patatas Bravas

Cooked to crispy-edged perfection, making them the ultimate reliable wine snack.

Well-backed by reviews and repeat mentions.

561
Hg Soho

Healthy Mediterranean · ££ · Soho

59Signal

Start with

Salad Bowls

The benchmark of the menu, offering extensive customization with fresh, seasonal ingredients and protein add-ons. Honest Greens offers large salads, grains and pulses.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

562
Din Tai Fung

Taiwanese · £££ · Covent Garden

59Signal

Start with

Crab & Pork Xiao Long Bao

While the classic pork version is described as 'pleasantly inoffensive,' reviewers specifically preferred the crab and pork version for its superior flavor profile.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

563
Plum Valley

Cantonese · ££ · Chinatown

59Signal

Start with

Roasted Pork Cheung Fun

Silky and glossy, this dish is so highly regarded it made The Infatuation's 'Best Cheung Fun in London' list.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

564
Nora

Modern Turkish · £££ · Canary Wharf

58Signal

Start with

Sesame & Caraway Pide

The bread program is universally praised as the foundation of the meal; warm, smoky, and pillowy.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

565
Alley Cats Pizza Chelsea

New York Style Pizza · ££ · Chelsea

58Signal

Start with

Halal Pepperoni Pizza

Highlighted as a specific order recommendation by The Infatuation; a crowd-pleasing classic with a crisp NYC-style base.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

566
Bronzo

Sardinian · £££ · Chiswick

58Signal

Start with

Culurgiones

These traditional Sardinian dumplings filled with pecorino and mint are consistently highlighted as a standout authentic dish.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

567
Angel Above Portobello

Modern British · £££ · Notting Hill

58Signal

Start with

Lamb Rump

Cooked to a perfect point with a crispy exterior and succulent centre, this dish is elegantly paired with a dill yogurt base, bold yellow girolle mushrooms, and peas.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

568
Ria's

Detroit-style Pizza · ££ · Notting Hill

57Signal

Start with

Pepperoni & Soppressata Pie

Regarded as the signature dish by the owner and described by critics as a "winner," featuring Cobble Lane cured meats, hot honey, and aged parmesan.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

569
Ngon Ngon

Vietnamese · ££ · Clerkenwell

57Signal

Start with

Sautéed Beef Pho

Acclaimed for its rich, aromatic broth that is 'packed with flavours' and 'wholesome,' served with tender slices of beef for a wonderfully satisfying meal.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

570
Wingmans

Fried Chicken · ££ · Soho

57Signal

Start with

Bang Coq Wings

The crowd-pleasing signature wings featuring a tangy, sweet, and spicy blend of Sriracha, honey, lime, and Kewpie mayo.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

571
Centre Point

Global Food Hall / Taiwanese · £££ · Fitzrovia

56Signal

Start with

Xiao Long Bao (Pork Soup Dumplings)

This signature dish 'reinforced its long-standing reputation' with critics, who found each dumpling 'perfectly fashioned with just the right flavours and bounce.'

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

572
L'Antica Pizzeria

Neapolitan Pizza · ££ · Hampstead

56Signal

Start with

Pizza Nerone

A solid benchmark for their wood-fired oven, featuring a base that is 'soft and light' with limited blistering, typical of the Caserta region style.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

573
La Tana

Modern Italian · ££ · Tufnell Park

55Signal

Start with

Homemade Sourdough with Chlorophyll Butter

Described as "divine" by the reviewer, this starter is highlighted as a standout way to begin the meal.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

574
Authentique

French Wine Bar · ££ · Tufnell Park

55Signal

Start with

Mixed Cheese and Charcuterie Board

Praised for featuring "excellent artisanal French produce," ranging from "wedges of Comté to jars of foie gras."

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

575
Kangnam Pocha

Korean · ££ · Covent Garden

55Signal

Start with

LA Galbi (Beef Ribs)

Consistently cited as a house favorite and part of the essential grilled meat rotation.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

576
The Hawke Pub

Smoked Meats / Sunday Roast · £££ · Hackney

55Signal

Start with

Aged Beef Rump

Described as 'sexual' and 'seriously tender' with a 'sexily smoky' flavor and fat rendered 'close to perfect.'

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

577
TAKAGIYA

Japanese Izakaya · ££ · West Hampstead

55Signal

Start with

Full Bento

A standout choice that 'actually tastes of Japan' rather than an 'out of a box formula', featuring 'warm and seasoned' rice and high-quality fish like wild seabass or salmon.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

578
Seto

Japanese · ££ · Camden

55Signal

Start with

Miso Ramen

The critics' favorite: a delicate pork and chicken broth topped with chewy chashu and bamboo shoots.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

579
Peumayen Ancestral Food

Ancestral Chilean · £££

55Signal

Start with

Papaya Pie

Hailed as the best dish 'hands down'; it is intensely flavored with meringue that 'helps add some sweetness to the tartness'.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

580
Mali Vegan Thai

Vegan Thai · ££ · Earl's Court

55Signal

Start with

Crispy 'Pork' Stir Fry

This dish was part of a selection described as 'really really delicious!!' by diners who 'loved the food' and appreciated the quick service.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

581
Banh Banh

Vietnamese · ££

55Signal

Start with

Vegetable spring rolls

These are described as 'lovely light' and make for a perfect, fresh start to a Vietnamese meal.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

582
Al Enam

Iraqi · ££ · Park Royal

55Signal

Start with

Falafal

Described as impressive and 'far from the limp, dense versions that we see in supermarkets,' these are crisp on the outside and packed with flavour.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

583
Crossroads

Cocktails & Bar Snacks · ££ · Newington Green

55Signal

Start with

Tomato Cocktail

A surprisingly savoury signature marrying burnt butter gin, gazpacho, oak, and smoked birch.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

584
Chipping Wharf

Fish & Chips · ££ · Bow

55Signal

Start with

Skinless Cod & Chips

A signature item and rarity in the area, owner Mustafa Has hand-cuts 32oz cod to achieve a specific shape and serves it with a complimentary sample of homemade tartare sauce.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

585
55Signal

Start with

Vegetarian Combo Platter

Reviewers highlight this as a favorite, specifically praising the "lentil stew and split pea stews" and noting the "tangy salad was a nice contrast."

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

586
Ong Lai Kopitiam

Malaysian · ££ · Canary Wharf

55Signal

Start with

Nasi Kerabu

The house signature: vibrant blue butterfly pea flower rice served with ayam goreng berempah (spiced fried chicken).

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

587
La Rosetta N16

Italian · ££ · Stoke Newington

55Signal

Start with

La Rosetta

This namesake trademark dish is a mini pizza cooked in a small pan that 'puffs up like a rose.' It features truffle cream, ham, and mushrooms, and is described as being 'crispy on the outside and full of flavour.'

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

588
KiliG

Filipino-Colombian Fusion · ££ · Deptford

55Signal

Start with

Arepa with Pork Adobo

Described as impossible to dislike, this dish perfectly argues for the harmony between the two cuisines.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

589
The WB Yeats N4

Gastropub · £££ · Finsbury Park

55Signal

Start with

Lamb Rump Roast

Described as sensational with perfectly rendered fat, crispy edges, and cooked rare, standing out on a menu that elevates typical Irish pub food.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

590
Darling's Eatery

Italian · ££ · Hackney Wick

55Signal

Start with

Mafaldine

An 'explosion of Italianity at each bite,' this dish showcases the technique of a chef who mastered her craft in Florence to create food that 'comforts the heart.'

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

591
Kuma

Korean / Japanese · ££ · Kennington

55Signal

Start with

Yang Yum Chicken

Medium size Korean crispy fried chicken in a sticky gochichang sauce that is so decadent that 'fingers are required' and you'll need plenty of kitchen paper.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

592
Han Kang

Korean · ££ · Fitzrovia

55Signal

Start with

Soon Tofu Jjigae

This tofu seafood stew is a standout main dish that was 'loved' by diners for its flavor profile.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

593
GO!K-BBQ

Korean BBQ · ££ · New Malden

55Signal

Start with

Aged Pork Belly

Described as "surprisingly flavourful and tasty," this signature aged meat is highly recommended for its ability to transport diners back to memories of Jeju's famous Black Pork Street.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

594
Taca Tacos Peckham

Mexican · ££ · Peckham

55Signal

Start with

Beef Birria

The signature dish features a 'deeply moreish bovine broth tingling with hints of spicy heat and citrus' that makes it worth the visit.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

595
1910 Balham

Mexican · ££ · Balham

55Signal

Start with

Guacamole

A spectacular benchmark classic made with four simple ingredients, best paired with totopos or chicharrones.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

596
Madura Kitchen

Indonesian · ££

55Signal

Start with

Nasi Bebek Madura

The acclaimed house specialty featuring succulent duck in a rich, authentic black sauce.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

597
INYUN

Korean · ££ · Brentford

55Signal

Start with

Korean Fried Chicken

Universally lauded for its crispiness, juiciness, and flavorful seasoning; considered some of the best in London.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

598
CraicBird

Fried Chicken · ££

55Signal

Start with

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

The quintessential baseline for the menu, perfectly crispy and deeply savory.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

599
Madhus indian

Punjabi · £££ · Mayfair

55Signal

Start with

Tandoori Lamb Chops

A signature dish beautifully marinated in spices and cooked on a charcoal robata grill for a perfect smoky flavor.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

600
Monkey & Me

Thai · ££ · Marylebone

55Signal

Start with

Pad Thai

It is described as delicious with a distinct 'sour tang from tamarind' and avoids being 'overly sweet' like many other versions.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

601
Andy's Taverna

Greek · ££ · Camden

55Signal

Start with

Andy’s Special Souvlaki

Tender lamb infused with a strong rosemary flavour and paired with charcoal-grilled vegetables that bring out their natural sweetness.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

602
Dishoom

Indian (Bombay Café) · ££ · Covent Garden

54Signal

Start with

House Black Daal

Commonly regarded as the restaurant's signature, it represents what fans call an 'outstanding' and 'fresher take' on Indian classics that lives up to the hype.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

603
Brilliant Gastro

Contemporary Indian · ££ · Southall

54Signal

Start with

Jeera Chicken

A classic dish from the original Brilliant that maintains its quality here, featuring tender chicken on the bone with a 'punchy cumin flavor' and served on a sizzling iron tray.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

604
Durbar

Indian · ££ · Bayswater

53Signal

Start with

Jeera Chicken

This award-winning signature dish was specifically judged as a triumph for chef Shamin Syed when he was named International Indian Chef of the Year.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

605
Golden State

Californian · ££ · Hornsey

52Signal

Start with

Breakfast Burrito

Often dubbed 'wraps', these feature house-made tortillas, soft eggs, cheddar, salty bacon, and crunchy tater tots.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

606
DAYU Hong Kong Asian Foods

Chinese / Hong Kong · ££ · Finsbury Park

52Signal

Start with

Siu Mai

Described by critics as moist, salty, and 'very plump'—making them an 'easy decision' for any table.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

607
Lauretta’s Pizzeria

Pizza · ££ · Hackney

52Signal

Start with

Vodka Margherita

The 'star of the show' featuring a creamy vodka sauce and a zingy tomato tang that makes it the essential first-timer's order.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

608
Slayer

Pizza · ££ · Notting Hill

52Signal

Start with

Vodka & Pesto Swirl Slice

A heavily teased NYC-style classic combining vodka sauce and red pesto on a crispy base.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

609
Gokyuzu Kentish Town

Turkish · ££ · Kentish Town

51Signal

Start with

Garlic Prawns

Described as a skewer of 'fearsomely large' and 'utterly glorious' prawns fresh off the charcoal, coated in a potent garlic and parsley marinade.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

610
Bleecker Burger Seven Dials Market

American Burgers · ££ · Covent Garden

51Signal

Start with

Double Cheeseburger

Regarded as the flagship item and 'best in the UK,' this burger is praised for its flavorful, 40-day dry-aged beef and simple, high-quality execution.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

611
Bocca Bocca

Neapolitan Pizza · ££ · Leytonstone

51Signal

Start with

Piccante Pizza

A reliable red-base choice that showcases the 'blistered, chewy Neapolitan pizzas' produced in an oven that reaches 450°C by an ex-Pizza Pilgrims pizzaiolo.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

612
Chick n Sours

Fried Chicken · ££ · Covent Garden

51Signal

Start with

K-Pop Burger

The towering, trademark Korean-style buttermilk fried chicken sandwich that helped put them on the map.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

613
Wilton Way Deli & Wines

Italian Deli & Wine Bar · ££ · Hackney

50Signal

Start with

Fresh Sandwiches

The deli focuses on the owner's "culinary heritage" and serves as a "community place" for a quick, reliable meal in what is dubbed one of Hackney’s liveliest hang-outs.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

614
Kami

Japanese · ££ · Kentish Town

49Signal

Start with

Spider Roll

Explicitly recommended 'in particular' as good quality, fresh, and tasty.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

615
Lina Stores

Italian (Fresh Pasta) · ££ · Soho

49Signal

Start with

30-Egg Yolk Tagliolini al Tartufo

The restaurant's signature dish; when executed correctly with vacche brune parmigiano and butter, it is described by critics as absolute 'heaven.'

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

616
The Butcher and Grill

Steakhouse · £££

46Signal

Start with

Barnsley Chop

Described as a 'good piece of meat' and was the only protein noted as being properly cooked and served rare as requested.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

617
Pasero

Modern European · ££ · Tottenham

46Signal

Start with

Homemade Focaccia

Regarded by critics as some of the best in London, making it an absolute must-order to start your meal.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

618
Papi

Modern British · £££ · London Fields

45Signal

Start with

Cheeseburger Tartare

This 'nicely seasoned' dish has a 'good chunky texture' and is served with 'greaseless, crunchy chips,' making it 'definitely worth the order.'

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

619
Sakonis indian

Vegetarian Indian · ££ · Wembley

45Signal

Start with

Chilli Paneer

A crowd-pleasing signature Indo-Chinese dish tossed in green chillies, peppers, and spring onions.

Useful signal, but still lighter than the standouts.

620
Yard Sale Pizza

Pizza · ££ · Finsbury Park

39Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Magic Mushroom Pizza

A heavily praised, reliable fan-favorite showcasing their perfectly stone-baked base.

Less written about, but enough signal to surface it.

621
umut 2000 Harringey

Turkish · ££ · Harringay

39Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Lamb chops

Lamb chops are smoky, tender, and expertly grilled over charcoal. The best in London

Less written about, but enough signal to surface it.

622
Konjiki

Japanese · ££ · Kensington

38Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Prawn Tempura

Described by Tom Parker Bowles as 'gossamer-light' and the 'best I’ve eaten for months,' serving as a highlight in an otherwise mediocre menu.

Less written about, but enough signal to surface it.

623
You Me

Korean · ££ · New Malden

37Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Jajangmyeon

This 'must-order' dish is considered the star of the show, featuring deeply comforting black bean noodles that are highly praised for their rich flavor.

Less written about, but enough signal to surface it.

624
Bleecker Victoria

Burgers · ££ · Victoria

11Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Double Cheeseburger

The undisputed benchmark; 40-day dry-aged beef cooked a perfect medium-rare with gooey American cheese.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

625
Tiwa 'N' Tiwa

Nigerian · ££ · Peckham

9Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Poundo Yam and Meat

The most popular item on delivery platforms, offering a consistent and traditional 'Swallow' experience.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

626
Hyderabadi Spice

Indian · ££ · East Ham

5Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Dum-Style Biryani

The fragrant and expertly spiced rice dish is king, cooked sealed with a pastry lid, though some recent diners have found it inconsistent.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

627
Sonargaon

Indian · ££ · Shoreditch

2Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Sabzi Nan

Described as a 'hallelujah!' moment in an otherwise dismal review, this nan is noted for being large, hot, and well-made.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

628
Bad Boy Pizza Society | Vinegar Yard

Neo-Neapolitan Pizza · ££ · Bermondsey

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Pepperoni

Praised by Eater London for nailing the essentials with crisp cups that pool flavour.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

629
Seoul Tokyo

Korean · ££ · Southwark

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Crispy Seafood Pancake

Recommended by The Infatuation as a standout starter.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

630
Duda Diner

Malaysian · ££ · Southwark

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Satay Kambing

Smoky lamb skewers served in peanut sauce; a classic introduction to their roadside stall inspiration.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

631
Los Chamos

Venezuelan · ££ · Southwark

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Reina Pepiada Arepa

The star of the menu; a juicy, savory mix of chicken, mayo, and avocado that is widely considered the benchmark.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

632
鑫锴 Xin Kai

Chinese (Dongbei & Sichuan) · ££ · King's Cross

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Double Cooked Pork (Guo Bao Rou)

A classic Northeastern dish of crisp fried pork in sweet and sour sauce, highly rated by regulars.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

633
Capiz by Rapsa

Modern Filipino · ££ · Hoxton

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Lechon Kawali

Cited by multiple reviewers as 'cooked to perfection' and a benchmark for the menu.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

634
Gamnamuzip

Korean · ££ · King's Cross

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Gamjatang (Pork Bone Stew)

The restaurant's signature dish; a massive, spicy stew loaded with tender meat and potatoes that serves as a dining centerpiece.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

635
Masigo

Korean · ££ · Angel

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Gangjang KFC Wings

Universally praised as 'to die for' with a crispy, non-oily batter and authentic flavor.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

636
Lucky Skewers

Chinese · ££ · Angel

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

BBQ Skewers

The menu prides itself on these moreish bites, which are an absolute steal at around five pounds a pair.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

637
Rasa Bojun

Sri Lankan · ££ · Harrow

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Hoppers

Acclaimed by recent diners as the 'best' version of this essential crisp pancake staple.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

638
Fındık İbo’nun Yeri

Turkish Street Food · ££ · Enfield

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Istanbul Kokoreç

The namesake signature dish—spiced lamb intestines in bread—which is the primary reason to visit.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

640
Bleecker Burger Soho

Burgers · ££ · Soho

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Cheeseburger

Voted the best burger in the UK and 2nd best in the world; features a 40-day dry-aged native breed patty.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

642
Jambay Kitchen

Caribbean · ££ · Dalston

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Jerk Chicken

Described as richly spiced and a menu staple; marinated for 24 hours.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

643
Salpike

Colombian · ££ · Brixton

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Empanadas

A classic Colombian starter highlighted for its authenticity and flavor.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

645
鮨 Hase-Ya

Japanese Sushi · ££ · South Ealing

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Kaisen Don

The consensus favorite; a bowl of fresh sashimi over perfectly vinegared rice that reviewers claim rivals dining in Japan.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

646
Pear Tree Cafe

Modern British · ££ · Battersea

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

BBQ Burger

Cited as a reliable go-to on the menu alongside their sourdough pizzas.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

647
Fumeiro

Portuguese · ££

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Steak

Explicitly mentioned as tasty and a core part of the menu.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

648
Nonna Maria

Italian · ££ · Honor Oak

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Diavolita Pizza

The #1 most liked item on the menu with a near-perfect rating; a spicy salami staple.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

649
Ni Fon Kitchen

Taiwanese · ££ · Newington Green

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Sesame Oil Chicken Soup

A signature nourishing soup highlighted on the menu and by reviewers as a comfort staple.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

651
Eastern Bloc

Eastern European Fusion · ££ · Clapham

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Sticky Pork Belly

The headline dish featuring blood orange and giant couscous salad, showcasing their produce-led approach.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

652
Seafresh

Seafood / Fish & Chips · ££ · Victoria

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Cod & Chips

The benchmark dish; described as a large fillet, battered and crispy fried, served with mushy peas.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

653
Inihaw

Filipino · ££ · Charlton

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Lechon Kawali

A flawless execution of crispy pork belly with shatter-crisp skin and perfectly tender meat.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

654
Nawrish

Somali · ££ · Whitechapel

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Lamb Shank (Haniid)

Slow-cooked, melt-in-the-mouth tender lamb marinated in traditional Somali spices that easily pulls away from the bone.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

655
Halia

Malaysian · ££ · Bayswater

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Nasi Lemak with Sambal Sotong

A quintessential Malaysian benchmark dish praised for its vigorous flavors.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

656
Mudmee Thai

Thai · ££ · Spitalfields

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Stir-fried Noodles

A classic staple noted among their authentic offerings.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

657
Taste of Siam

Thai · ££ · London

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Pad Thai

The quintessential benchmark dish for checking the balance of sweet, sour, and salty flavors.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

658
Flavour Hubb

Southern Thai and Malaysian · ££ · Wimbledon

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Crab Curry Noodles

Highly praised for its comforting, creamy broth that serves as a perfect benchmark for their rich, house-made curry pastes.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

659
Jugad by Foodhak

Modern Indian · ££ · Camden

0Signal
Light Coverage

Start with

Delhi-style Butter Chicken

A signature dish that perfectly showcases their healthy, dairy-free twist on an absolute classic.

Light coverage. Worth knowing, but not heavily written about.

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