Best Restaurants in West London

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Potato and Roe

Described by critics as a signature dish that is 'not to be missed,' this iconic creation elevates the humble potato with beurre blanc, herring and trout roe.

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Endo's Business Card

This signature roll of tuna is wrapped in 'very delicate seaweed from Tokyo' and is described by critics as a 'lovely bite' that showcases the chef's precision with rice served at the 'correct body temperature.'

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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.

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Chocolate Soufflé

Described as a 'culinary miracle' and a consistent menu highlight that finishes the meal on a high note.

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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.

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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.

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Veal Sweetbread

A recurring highlight described by critics as light and fluffy, expertly balanced with vin jaune, aged beef sauce, and a gentle vadouvan spice that lifts the dish.

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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.'

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Pistachio Profiterole

A 'massive' and 'jaw-slackening' dessert that critics say is worth visiting for alone—even suggesting you 'maybe just come here for dessert.'

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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.

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Nigiri Selection

Described as 'nigiri of absolute luxury,' featuring 'luscious' kinmedai (splendid alfonsino) and 'delicate and elegant' shimaaji, all served on 'perfect, just-vinegared' rice.

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Irish Soda Bread & Salted Butter

Critics describe the homemade bread as 'fresh' and the accompanying salted butter as 'glorious,' often served alongside a nettle soup that is 'thick as a puree.'

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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.

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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.'

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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.

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Crab with Seaweed Waffles

Described as 'ravishing' and 'brilliant' by critics, these tuile-delicate waffles are flecked green with seaweed and served as a perfect vessel for scooping fresh crab.

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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.

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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.

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Temaki (Hand Rolls)

These "taco-like" rolls feature "glimmering sheets of salmon" or tuna diced into curved nori; they are the "stars of the show" and highlight the restaurant's signature casual style.

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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.

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Tuna & Corn Bun

A standout of the 'sensational' savoury selection, this classic Japanese combination is described by critics as a 'culinary jackpot' that is remarkably 'filling for the price.'

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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.

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Crab Raviolo

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

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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.

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Taramas Cream

Described as 'miles away from the usual pink, whiffy mush,' this version is praised as a decadent bowl of salty, cured roe topped with a runny egg yolk for extra richness.

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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.

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Minced Meat Sandwich

Often referred to as the 'special mince,' this is a core staple of their Algerian spiced meat offerings, cooked on a flat-top grill and chopped together with chips and egg for a 'joy to eat' experience.

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Classic Palestinian Falafel Wrap

Critics call these "eyebrow-wagglingly good" and "probably the best I’ve ever tasted," noting that the "freshly fried" nuggets have become "the stuff of legends."

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Clonakilty Black Pudding Roll

A signature starter wrapped in crispy potato pastry that critics unanimously praise as a sophisticated take on a rustic classic.

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Pork & Sage Scotch Egg

Praised as a 'winner' with excellent crunch and sage flavor; a benchmark pub snack.

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Laksa

The consensus favorite across all reviews; described as rich, humming with coconut and chilli, and the go-to order.

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Saganaki Tapioca Bites

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

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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.

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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.'

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Hot Doubles

Regarded as a "Trinidadian institution," this diminutive street food staple consists of chickpea curry (channa) sandwiched between fried barra bread. Critics call it one of London's "most moreish snacks" and "heaven for £1.50."

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Tandoori Lamb Chops

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

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Prawn and Scallop Dumplings

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

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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.

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The Park Monkey Bread

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

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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'.

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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.

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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.

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Roti Canai with Daal

These "soft, flaky and crumbly sheafs" are buttery and moreish, with an extra thickness that gives them a "gentle tug and chew" that some critics prefer over London's more famous roti spots.

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Plov

The quintessential dish featuring large grains of soft, well-separated rice cooked in a seasoned broth with slow-cooked meat, steamed carrots, and sultanas for a perfect balance of sweetness and moreishness.

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Three-Course Lunch

It is the shop's 'secret formula' where the kitchen 'cooks the books,' testing recipes from the latest titles on display. For a set price that 'cannot be beat,' you get a starter (often soup), a main, and a dessert served at communal tables.

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Crudo di ricciola

Described by The Telegraph as a 'smooth and silky success,' this dish features raw yellowtail tuna in a 'delightful dressing' of cold-pressed tomato juice with a hint of yuzu.

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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.

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Pork Bone Soup

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

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KFC Burger

Described as the 'best in London' by viral food vloggers for its perfect balance of sweetness, spiciness, and saltiness.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.'

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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.

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Whole Wild Sea Bass

Described as 'impeccable' and 'punchy,' this dish is served with a rich amarillo butter and is cited by critics as a primary reason diners return to the restaurant.

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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.

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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.

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Pad Thai

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

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Cornish Crab Salad

Consistently praised as 'delightful' and 'super fresh', often served with tardivo radicchio, lemon mayonnaise, and rye toasts.

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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.

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Crab and Pomelo Rösti

Considered the essential starting point, these are described as 'smart and privileged' with the kitchen showing a 'superb way with a potato,' crème fraîche, and caviar.

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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.

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Celeriac 'Cacio e Pepe'

A playful and satisfying signature dish that uses celeriac ribbons to mimic pasta; critics describe it as a 'bale' of flavour from a 'zen master' of a chef.

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Steak and Chips

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

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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.

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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.

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Marinated Sardines

Acclaimed as the 'dish of the meal' by critics, these are perfectly balanced with olive oil, aged vinegar, and lemon, featuring a subtle heat from red chili.

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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.

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Alaskan King Crab (Taraba Kani)

Beautifully presented and already portioned for easy dipping into a 'rich ponzu butter,' this dish is consistently praised as a highlight of the experience.

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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.'

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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'.

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Lahmeh Bi Ajin

Described as a 'must buy' that 'blows away the competition,' this minced beef and lamb flatbread features a perfect 'doughy crust' and rich, home-cooked flavors.

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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.

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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.

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Wood-roasted turbot

Critics praise the kitchen's confidence to not over-complicate dishes, serving this classic main with flowering oregano, anchovy, and capers.

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Char Kuey Teow

Acclaimed as the 'best version' in London, this dish captures the 'breath of the wok' (wok hei), imbuing the stir-fried flat rice noodles with a 'deliciously smoky, charred flavour' that satisfies even the most homesick critics.

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Goan style puri bhaji

Described as 'different and splendid,' this dish is a mix of Patal Bhaji made with dried peas in a coconut and spice paste topped with a gravy-consistency potato bhaji.

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Hainanese Chicken Rice

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

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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.

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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.'

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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.

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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.

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Delhi Tikki Chaat

Crispy and deeply authentic, instantly transporting you to the streets of Delhi.

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Mixed Grill

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

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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.

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Sausage Ragout

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

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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.

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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.

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Haddock and Chips

Fried to order with a golden batter that isn't too thick, paired with crisp chips.

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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'.

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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.'

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Meat and Cheese Manoushe

Regarded as 'man’oushe royalty,' these 'lighter-than-air breads' are the signature draw; they are crispy, fluffy, and widely considered the ultimate reason to visit.

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Arancini

Explicitly recommended as the 'house speciality,' these saffron rice balls come with a variety of fillings including spinach and ricotta, mozzarella, mushrooms, or chicken.

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Tamarind duck

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

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Steamed Seabass with Chillies

Repeatedly praised across reviews for its perfect cooking, tart lime, and unapologetically fiery chilli dressing.

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Cevapi

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

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Chicken Agashe

A highly recommended grilled chicken dish praised for its tenderness and authentic seasoning.

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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.

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Chicken Nanban

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

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Parmigiana

Described as an 'exceptional' version that 'restores your faith in this generally abused dish' by The Good Food Guide.

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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.

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Mast-o-musir

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

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Horenso Salad

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

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Patatas Bravas

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

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Halal Pepperoni Pizza

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

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Culurgiones

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

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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.

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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.

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Jerk Chicken

If you arrive early, you can get it 'straight off the drum and falling off the bone.' The gravy is famously good—so much so that reviewers claim they could eat it 'with rice alone.'

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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.

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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.

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Minced lamb manousheh

One of the standout Lebanese goodies where you can watch staff make the dough fresh before adding toppings and putting it 'straight into the humongous oven'.

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Beef Patty

Regarded as the 'best Jamaican patties you can buy' with 'fresh and flakey' pastry that customers claim is 'on point' and better than commercial brands in Jamaica.

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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.

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Korean Fried Chicken

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

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Humus and Falafel in Warm Pita Bread

This sandwich provides a "musical experience" for the tastebuds with its "crunchy exterior" and "soft, flavoursome interior." Reviewers are pleasantly surprised by the numerous small falafels tucked inside—often counting more than five per sandwich.

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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.

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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.

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Vodka & Pesto Swirl Slice

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

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Chicken Shish

Regarded as a staple of their 'proper Turkish grills,' this dish is a benchmark for what critics call 'consistently good-quality kebabs' that 'can't be beaten for flavour.'

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Spaghetti with Crab

Highlighted by critics as a perfect mass of fresh pasta with a generous amount of crab and parsley.

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Lamb Mandi

The tender meat and aromatic rice are the headline act here, consistently praised for falling off the bone.

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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.

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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.

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Cevapi

The benchmark Balkan dish here—grilled minced beef kebab rolls served in flatbread with onions and ajvar.

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Chicken Tajine

Described as a rich, aromatic, and classic representative of the kitchen's Algerian heritage.

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Manakish

The bakery's signature traditional pastry, praised for its authenticity and fresh preparation.

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Beef Rendang

Highlighted for authentic flavors that resonate with those familiar with Malaysian street food.

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Kaisen Don

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

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Nasi Lemak

A traditional benchmark dish featuring rice, fish, and peanuts.

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Spiced Fried Chicken

Described as an accessible entry point to the cuisine, served with salad leaves and chilli dressing.

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Pupusas

The quintessential Salvadoran street food staple; freshly made, gluten-free stuffed corncakes that are the star of the menu.

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Nasi Lemak with Sambal Sotong

A quintessential Malaysian benchmark dish praised for its vigorous flavors.

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Mirza-Qasemi

Hailed as the MVP of the menu, this thick, smoky aubergine and tomato dip is an absolute best-in-class must-order.

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Crab Curry Noodles

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

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Thai Green Curry

Richly flavoured with nice juicy tofu, acting as a reliable benchmark for Thai classics.