London Food & Drink Guide 2019

9th

annual edition

LONDON

A comprehensive guide to eating out in London Restaurants • Cafés • Bars • Pubs • Hotels

You’ve never experienced dining quite like this before.

Welcome Welcome to the London Food & Drink Guide 2019. On the following pages you’ll find a wide range of options for eating out in the region. To help you make your selection, each review features a coloured tab to denote the restaurant’s location – just reference the map and key on page 77.

Barnet Southgate

Mill Hill

OL

Wembley

NW

Ealing

Walthamstow

N

NE

Camden

E Whitechapel

C

Chelsea

SW

Clapham

S

£25 to

£30

Food & Drink Guide 2019 Canningford House 38 Victoria Street Bristol BS1 6BY t: 0117 927 7167 e: editor@foodanddrinkguides.com w: www.foodanddrinkguides.com Editor Hannah Burton-Grieve Senior Editorial Assistants Robbie Masters, Tori Sharpe

SE

Crystal Palace

Editorial Assistants Elle England, Jess Maples, Oli Bishop, Ella Fisher, Rosie Best

Wimbledon Sutton

London

Croydon

Many of the reviews include a price tab. This is the typical cost per person you can expect to pay for two courses from the à la carte menu, plus a drink (unless otherwise stated).

This is for guidance purposes only and prices may vary.

Restaurants featuring this symbol have both disabled access and a toilet suitable for wheelchair users (this information has been provided by the restaurants in question and should be confirmed prior to visiting).

Restaurants featuring this symbol have accommodation.

You’ll notice that some restaurants in the guide have an 0203 telephone number. Calls cost 5p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.

Just like the weather, ownership, opening times and prices are subject to change throughout the year. Have a look at our website – www.foodanddrinkguides.co.uk – to see reviews of restaurants nationwide and to request other regional Food & Drink magazines.

Contents Foreword ................2

Caribbean .............31

Traditional ............53

Fine Dining .............3

Austrian ................33

World Cuisine .......63

Modern British ........5

German .................34

Japanese ...............66

Modern European....9

Cookery School .....34

Pan Asian .............70

French ....................9

Greek ....................34

Indian & Bangladeshi ...71

British ..................11

Grill ......................36

Thai ......................71

Italian...................19

Steakhouse............37

Chinese .................73

Seafood.................25

Gastropub .............39

Chef Profiles .........75

Brasserie...............29

Bar & Restaurant ...39

Map & Key............77

Argentine ..............30

Café ......................52

Index ....................78

Graphic Designer Jo Ley Photography Noemi Scavo (www.noemiscavo.co.uk) Contributors Maddie Chapman, Catherine Barnes, Chris Russell, Dean Gurden, Anne Gallagher, David Winstanley, Joe Nicholson, Christopher Lennox-Hilton, James Bolton Project Manager Joe Packer Advertising Sales Matt Brentley, Simon Northcott, Emma Filby, Paul Balshaw, Sam Terrett, Tim Hall Published by Food & Drink Guides Ltd Publisher Sam Collins Managing Director Robin Fry

The cost of producing this guide has been met by advertising revenues from the restaurants featured within. We only include restaurants that we know, from either experience or recommendation, provide a quality service, and our journalists review the majority of the establishments. However, some reviews are supplied by third parties, and no review in this guide should be taken as a direct recommendation by Food & Drink Guides Ltd. Printed July 2019.

London Guide 2019

1

Foreword

Ed Baines The evolution of today’s dining scene is extraordinary; London is now home to many great operators who do what they do with integrity and with passion. It is true that every cuisine can be eaten in London now and you can discover restaurants that present authentic, passionate cooking around almost every corner.

The fantastic food scene we see today has been a long time in the making. I grew up in London in the 70s, when great changes were afoot for chefs. Fantastic delicatessens, decent butchers and fishmongers began opening, stocking cured meats and cheeses, and in-the-know greengrocers started bringing in exotic produce from Europe like artichokes and avocados.

Everyone was excited to see these on the high street, although cooking them was still a novelty. Dining out was a different story, too. Pizza chains were probably the go-to spot for dining out, although I do remember going to a Japanese restaurant in Hilton London Kensington where geisha waitresses served beef sukiyaki, which was so unfamiliar at the time.

Since Randall & Aubin opened almost 25 years ago so much has changed, both for us and for London’s foodie scene, but we’ve always held firm to the philosophy of ‘easier is never better’. We believe in reaching for excellence in all the areas that combine to make a great restaurant. We focus on searching for and learning from the best suppliers of premium produce, cooking with creativity and passion, and working with staff who have the same desire for excellence. In striving to offer the perfect experience for customers, we’re able to take real pride in seeing customers enjoy what we have created. I’m sure my fellow London chefs will agree that it is the coming together of all these elements that creates a truly unforgettable experience for diners. It’s heartening to see more and more venues taking on these values every year.

In London we’re blessed with access to the very best produce, an eager food-loving clientele and the opportunity for chefs to develop their skills and broaden their culinary horizons. This is why I think London’s restaurants are at the top of their game, and I’m sure you’ll agree after visiting a few spots in this year’s London Food & Drink Guide.

2

London Guide 2019

Flat Three

Fine Dining

 Location 120-122 Holland Park Avenue, Notting Hill, W11 4UA Holland Park t: 020 3151 4377 w: www.flatthree.london e: info@flatthree.london

C

Enter Flat Three in Holland Park to be greeted by the warmth of the flames from a wood fire oven in the open kitchen, and the inviting aroma of bubbling stocks and intriguing ferments.

£25 to

Expect personable service that is both formal and honest, in a cosy yet roomy space filled with period Scandinavian furniture. Flat Three boasts a convivial atmosphere in surroundings of discreet elegance, with an emphasis on attention to detail.

£40

The generous tasting menu is inspired by the culinary traditions and flavours of Korea and Japan, but don’t expect traditional cuisine. The focus on using British-sourced and -foraged goods allows the chefs to work with ingredients in all their glory, finding flavour and use for every part, from dehydrating beetroots to fermenting and smoking daikon to create a rich sauce. Led by head chef Joe Timarchi, the team appreciates the importance of time as the key to discovering flavours through fermentation and exploring the culinary practices of the cultures that inspire Flat Three. Plant-based, meat, fish and gluten-free diners are accommodated with ease, without the need for a separate menu, which allows for a truly inclusive dining experience for everyone.

Glance at the impressive pickle wall beside the kitchen, and amongst fermenting veggies and house-made misos, you’ll find kombucha for seasonal drinks. From toasted barley and pine juice to parsley stalk kombucha, the non-alcoholic juices can be paired to complement each dish on the menu.

The wine list offers accessibility to rare varieties from independent wine-makers expertly selected to work in harmony with the food. You’ll find everything from memorable Californian pinots to biodynamic Slovenian wine.

Flat Three holds personal relationships with many of these select wine-makers, even hosting exclusive dinners with the producers themselves.

Offering a versatile space, Flat Three is a wonderful venue for intimate gatherings, business meals and is available for private hire for everything in between; with its inclusivity and remarkable flavours, an experience at Flat Three should not be missed.

Open: Tues-Thurs 6pm-9.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9.30pm

London Guide 2019

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Fine Dining

Kona  Location Taj 51 Buckingham Gate, Westminster, SW1E 6AF St James’s Park t: 020 3151 6839 w: www.taj51buckinghamgate.co.uk/kona e: kona.london@tajhotels.com We arrived at the beautiful Taj 51 Buckingham Gate hotel thrilled at the prospect of a themed afternoon tea rated by The Telegraph as the best in London. Delicate sandwiches, comforting scones, delectable cakes; what better way to spend an afternoon? Taking inspiration from the Mad Hatter’s tea party in Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, the team at Kona has created an immersive and unique dining experience you won’t forget. Located within the Taj 51 Buckingham Gate hotel, Kona is an elegant, restful space, perfectly suited to the noble tradition that makes an occasion of enjoying tea and cakes. It draws in tourists from all over the world, keen to try this English institution.

C £40 to

£45

Once seated at our table adorned with playing cards, flowers, a colourful top hat and more, our friendly waiter listed the impressive range of loose-leaf teas. Our choices of classic English breakfast and Earl Grey with blue cornflowers were served in pretty teapots, and were expertly poured into delicate cups and saucers. The main event arrived and we were blown away by the assortment of finger sandwiches, including classic cucumber on beetroot bread, Coronation chicken, and tuna mayonnaise. Three types of delicious scones followed – plain, sultana and chocolate chip – along with inventive cakes such as Queen of Hearts mango tarts, Eat Me white chocolate mousse teacups and Pocket Watch macaroons. It was a delightful afternoon in Wonderland.

Open: Mon-Fri 7.30am-11am, noon-6pm; Sat & Sun 7.30am-11.30am, 12.30pm-6pm

Fine Dining

Corrigan’s Mayfair  Location 28 Upper Grosvenor Street, Mayfair, W1K 7EH Marble Arch t: 020 3390 1801 w: www.corrigansmayfair.com e: reservations@corrigansmayfair.com This remarkable three-AA-rosette restaurant redefines the concept of quintessential British cuisine. Here, honest, no-nonsense cuisine – inspired by Richard Corrigan’s humble, rural upbringing – is served up in one of the city’s most enviable postcodes.

Corrigan’s combines Richard’s distinct culinary flair with unpretentious food and an exciting wine list.

C £55 to

£60

The main dining room offers an ambience of understated luxury. Sturdy, studded chairs and crisp white linen are offset by dark wood floors and the odd playful embellishment. However, it’s the menu that steals the show. The award-winning meals begin with the likes of Carpaccio of octopus accompanied by Seville oranges and bittersweet almonds, and roasted veal tongue with wild celery and truffle.

The robust flavours continue with mains such as shin of beef with peppered bone Open: Mon-Fri noon-3pm, marrow and snails, and saddle of wild rabbit with sweet medjool dates. Showcasing 6pm-11pm; Sat 6pm-11pm the likes of rhubarb soufflé with piquant ginger ice cream, the desserts are also triumphant. These dishes’ heady, unadulterated flavours really deserve celebration, as does their value for money. Visit midweek at lunchtime and indulge in two courses for £28 or three courses for the astonishingly affordable price of £34.

In addition to the stylish cocktail bar and stunning restaurant, there are also four exclusive private dining rooms: the Chef’s Table, the Poet’s Corner, Kitchen Library and the Lindsay Room.

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London Guide 2019

11 Cadogan Gardens

Modern British

 Location 11 Cadogan Gardens, Chelsea, SW3 2RJ Sloane Square t: 020 3151 8064 w: www.11cadogangardens.com e: reception@11cadogangardens.com

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Set in the heart of the prestigious borough of Chelsea, 11 Cadogan Gardens is a luxury five-star hotel in a truly unbeatable location. Set just a few minutes’ walk from Sloane Square and a stone’s throw from the lavish department stores of Knightsbridge, 11 Cadogan Gardens dates back to the 19th century and was originally four separate Victorian townhouses. This accounts for the hotel’s unique and fascinating interior, which is an amalgamation of winding corridors, palatial suites and grand staircases.

£23 to

£48

In more recent years, 11 Cadogan Gardens has housed a private members’ club and, today, it retains that same air of exclusivity that makes every visitor feel like someone special. Rooms range from petite spaces to beautiful signature suites, which have been decked out with antique furniture and four-poster beds.

As well as this, the hotel is home to a fantastic cosmopolitan restaurant that serves both day visitors and residents. At Hans’ Bar & Grill, the day begins with breakfast where there’s a tempting array of freshly made smoothies, cocktails and cold pressed fruit juices to quench your thirst, as well as delicious dishes like coconut granola, egg white omelette and a full English to satisfy your hunger. Later on, allow yourself to be drawn in by the all-day menu. Begin with some indulgent oysters – served with Bloody Mary shots – or try the salt beef ravioli with creamy lobster bisque. The selection of mains encompasses fish, meat and vegetarian dishes as well as lunchtime light bites. The prawn and mussel linguine – served in a mouth-watering chilli, garlic and white wine sauce – is a firm favourite, the vegetarian herb crumpet is a creative fusion of sweet and tangy flavours, and the grilled steaks are always cooked perfectly to your liking. If you’re looking for a way to celebrate a special occasion, Hans’ also offers an exquisite homemade afternoon tea complete with delicate cakes and homemade finger sandwiches.

For those looking to kick back after a day of shopping and sightseeing, there’s no better place than 11 Cadogan Gardens’ beautiful Chelsea Bar. Here, guests can enjoy a glass of wine or a classic cocktail in a bold and seductive setting that boasts the ultimate relaxation and style.

Open: Mon-Sun 7am-10.30pm

London Guide 2019

5

Modern British

The Clink Restaurant  Location HMP Brixton, Jebb Avenue, Brixton, SW2 5XF Brixton t: 0844 502 3308 w: www.theclinkcharity.org e: brixton@theclinkrestaurant.com

S

The Clink Restaurant is a unique dining concept designed to transform the lives of prisoners through work-based training and education. The charity offers a high-end modern British dining experience to rival some of the best in the * £30 city. Exceptional dishes are cooked and served by prisoners who are training towards gaining a City & Guilds NVQ in Food & Beverage Service and Professional Cookery. The Clink Restaurant at HMP Brixton is situated in the old governor’s house dating back to 1819, and consistently places in the top ten restaurants in London on TripAdvisor.

Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the menu champions traditional and seasonal British fare. To start, you might opt for the likes of delicious pan-seared pigeon breast served with hazelnut and radicchio salad and a bitter chocolate sauce. For the main event you can expect to find gorgeous Open: dishes such as roast red-legged partridge served with Parmentier potatoes, Mon-Weds 8.15am-4pm; buttered seasonal vegetables Thurs 8.15am-4pm, 6pm-9pm; and squash and chestnut purée, Fri 8.15am-4pm; as well as charred king oyster Sun noon-3pm mushroom accompanied by truffled fondant potatoes, kale crisps, and porcini sauce. Both vegan and vegetarian options are always available and are truly creative. To experience an outstanding meal and aid a fantastic cause, a visit is an absolute must. *Price represents the cost of a three-course meal.

Modern British

The Table Café  Location 83 Southwark Street, Southwark, SE1 0HX London Bridge t: 020 3390 2183 w: www.thetablecafe.com e: events@thetablecafe.com

C

Buzzy and vibrant, Southwark’s Table Café serves up high-quality, sustainably sourced brunch fare in relaxed surrounds. Dubbed simple food with flair, the menu offers a wide range of enticing dishes from an organic fry-up and traditional fish and chips to decadent waffle and pancake stacks.

£15 to

£25

Open: Mon-Weds 7.30am-10.30pm; Thurs & Fri 7.30am-11.30pm; Sat & Sun 8.30am-4.30pm

We kicked off our meal with two refreshing London beers – a crisp, hoppy Nico lager from Orbit brewery in Walworth, and a satisfyingly bitter Windrush stout. I was in the mood for something vegan, so opted for the V Burger – a hearty and delicious sweet potato, Portobello mushroom and chickpea patty topped with crushed avocado and served with beetroot relish, lettuce, tomato and triple-cooked chips. My dining partner enjoyed the inventively presented Table Caesar salad, for which chargrilled chicken, anchovies and aged Parmigiano-Reggiano were arranged atop a half romaine lettuce, and our platter was complete with side servings of sweet potato wedges and mouth-watering halloumi bites dressed with green sauce and mint.

The staff at The Table Café were friendly and charismatic, the service was attentive and the atmosphere was jovial, with working chefs singing along to the radio as they cooked. A laid-back brunch haven, The Table Café boasts something for everyone.

6

London Guide 2019

Town House

Modern British

 Location The Kensington, 109-113 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington, SW7 5LP South Kensington t: 020 3390 2237 w: www.townhousekensington.com e: info@townhousekensington.com Located in the heart of South Kensington, the recently refurbished Town House restaurant is an all-day dining haven situated in The Kensington hotel. A home away from home, Town House is the perfect place for breakfast, lunch, dinner and delicious afternoon tea. Town House has a menu to suit all tastes, with an emphasis on fresh, season-led produce. A hand-picked wine list complements the excellent cuisine. Designed by Alexander Waterworth Interiors, the building’s natural charm and old English town house aesthetic is reflected in playful patterned fabrics, rugs, and classic rosewood and walnut that blend the traditional and modern elements perfectly.

C £25 to

£50

Town House recently launched the London Landmarks Afternoon Tea. Taking Restaurant Open: inspiration from London’s most recognisable and historic landmarks, this Mon-Sun 7am-10.30pm afternoon tea leads diners on a tour of the capital’s architectural feats and Bar Open: culinary traditions, with tributes to Mon-Sun noon-11pm London’s most famed structures.

Town House’s new skyline of scones, sandwiches and sweets pays homage to the capital’s iconic buildings and is presented on a London Eye-inspired tea stand; it’s a delightful celebration of London.

Everything from the service to the ambience makes this modest space a favourite. Check out Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for regular updates.

The K Bar

Modern British

 Location The Kensington, 109-113 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington, SW7 5LP South Kensington t: 020 3390 0982 w: www.townhousekensington.com e: info@townhousekensington.com

C

Launched in February 2016, The K Bar at The Kensington is inspired by the sophisticated atmosphere of a gentleman’s club – and it’s evidenced in every element of this glamorous venue. Think deep-grained oak panelling softened by racing green and royal blue upholstery. The soft lighting and accents of polished brass create a warm and inviting space in which to truly indulge.

£15 to

£25

‘...sophisticated atmosphere of a gentleman’s club...’

An impressive bar front boasting leather panelling and a rich green marble top accompanies a polished brass bar display and bespoke wine fridges.

Chandeliers glisten as you ponder whether to have a chilled glass of wine, spirit or a contemporary cocktail from the enticing list. The K Bar’s manager has crafted an innovative cocktail menu that features unique recipes created with every sip in mind.

Food Served: Mon-Sun noon-10pm

It’s not all about liquid gratification here though; the unparalleled drinks offering is supplemented by a tempting array of bar bites. Crispy squid accompanied by Lingham’s sweet chilli sauce, hummus with fresh flatbread and crudités, and the irresistible steak sandwich are just a few of the options ideal for sharing with friends.

London Guide 2019

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Modern British

108 Brasserie & 108 Pantry

 Location 108 Marylebone Lane, Marylebone, W1U 2QE Bond Street t: 020 3390 2231 w: www.108brasserie.com e: info@108marylebonelane.com C In the heart of Marylebone you’ll find 108 Brasserie and 108 Pantry. The brasserie houses two distinctive areas: the bar, a chic and sophisticated drinking and dining area; and the main dining space, where a host of modern British dishes £25 take centre stage. Meanwhile, the light and bright 108 Pantry is perfect for to £45 indulging in a spot of lunch or afternoon tea.

108 Brasserie prides itself on being an unfussy local favourite. The interior, designed by Alexander Waterworth Interiors, features a mix of the traditional and the modern – think rich red leather, beautiful parquet, antique mirrors and a dark stained oak bar. The menu showcases produce that’s foraged, farmed and fished from the British Isles. The modern British cuisine is hearty and uncomplicated, and only high-quality seasonal ingredients are used. Appetising starters may include Dorset crab on Guinness brown bread, and steak tartare with crispy Open: capers, a quail egg yolk and sourdough toast, while tempting mains include Mon-Sun noon-10pm Cornish monkfish loin with miso crème fraîche, baby bok choy and lotus crisp, pearl barley risotto with roasted butternut squash Cashel Blue and sage, and, from the Josper grill, rib-eye steak and whole Dover sole. Desserts are heavenly – help yourself to a devilish warm chocolate fondant or a zesty lemon tart.

The restaurant experience, from the service to the ambience, makes this unfussy space a local favourite. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, you can expect nothing less than quality food, great wine and exceptional service. Check out Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for regular updates.

Modern British

Alyn Williams at the Westbury  Location 37 Conduit Street, Mayfair, W1S 2YF Bond Street t: 020 3151 6309 w: www.westburymayfair.com/alyn-williams e: alynwilliams@westburymayfair.com

C

Excitement mounting at the prospect of visiting this Michelin-starred Mayfair jewel, we walked through the splendid lobby and were met at the £80 rosewood-panelled restaurant with a warm welcome. The meal comprised a series of artfully presented tasting plates, each perfectly matched with a glass of fine wine, served by our knowledgeable sommelier. We began swiftly with Champagne and amuse-bouches, intermingling the tastes of only the finest ingredients: scallop, caviar and delicate risotto balls.

The first course was a playful oyster, cucumber and dill granita served in the shell, which was nestled in seaweed. Cornish halibut followed, served on a bed of celeriac mash with onion and truffle, and chicken jus. Then, we marvelled at Open: the lobster tail served with a sauce Jacqueline, which was smooth and creamy Tues-Sat noon-2.30pm, as caramel. Next was the elaborately presented squab pigeon breast – it was 6pm-10.30pm perfectly pink on the inside and paired with grapes, beetroot ketchup and soufflé potatoes. The show-stopping cheese trolley matched with a glass of Port preceded the finale of desserts: blood orange jelly presented atop white chocolate crumb and a striking take on rhubarb and custard. The care and detail taken in every aspect of presentation, food and service was beyond impeccable. The lasting impression of our evening was that we had experienced the handiwork of culinary masters on top form. *Price represents the cost of three courses from the à la carte menu and a drink.

*

8

London Guide 2019

Restaurant Michael Nadra

Modern European

 Location 6-8 Elliott Road, Chiswick, W4 1PE Turnham Green t: 020 3390 0412 e: chiswick@restaurant-michaelnadra.co.uk W  Location 42 Gloucester Avenue, Primrose Hill, NW1 8JD Camden Town t: 020 3390 2182 e: primrose@restaurant-michaelnadra.co.uk w: www.restaurant-michaelnadra.co.uk N Classically trained chef-patron Michael Nadra (chef profile page 75) prides himself on serving high-quality cuisine in a sophisticated yet unpretentious setting; informal fine dining reigns supreme at his restaurant. Boasting a £30 to neighbourhood feel, the ambience of the canalside Primrose Hill restaurant £35 reflects that of the original Chiswick branch, with the added benefit of a garden terrace, raised fireplace and Martini bar. There’s even a Grade II listed horse tunnel at the heart of the restaurant, providing a unique vaulted space * for all occasions. Standards are high in all respects. Creative dishes are Food Served: carefully crafted using the finest ingredients and the menu is ever-changing Tues-Fri noon-2.30pm, to showcase in-season produce. Perhaps begin with salmon ceviche with 6pm-10.30pm; chilli-pickled cucumber, followed Sat noon-4pm, 6pm-10.30pm; by wagyu fillet steak and Sun noon-4pm, 6pm-9pm Welsh braised cheeks with wild (open Mondays in December mushrooms, truffled mashed and Bank Holidays) potatoes and spinach. The wine list comprises 200 bins from around the world. Quality cuisine and stylish surroundings make these hidden treasures well worth seeking out. *Disabled facilities at Primrose Hill only.

Aubaine Kensington

French

 Location 37-45 Kensington High Street, Kensington, W8 5ED High Street Kensington t: 020 3151 8296 C w: www.aubaine.co.uk e: kensington@aubaine.co.uk Located in the heart of London’s most famous and luxurious borough, Aubaine Kensington can be found just a stone’s throw from the beautiful Kensington £24 Palace and a short walk from Harrods, the Royal Albert Hall and the Natural to History Museum. Inside Aubaine, guests are greeted by an elegant interior: £56 exposed pipes, industrial-style lighting and wood-topped tables are combined with large windows and light colours to create an airy space with a vintage feel.

Food is served throughout the day at Aubaine and the restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect place to pause and treat yourself during a day out. Why not pop in for a sumptuous breakfast or brunch? The varied offering encompasses a delicious breakfast salad, French toast with fruit and crème fraîche and a range of brioche sandwiches – there’s something for every palate. Later on, bistro-style dishes like the savoury wagyu burger, the Open: mouth-watering polenta-crusted Mon-Sat 8am-10.30pm; lamb and the creamy green Sun 9am-10pm pea risotto provide the perfect lunchtime or evening meal, while the selection of salads and small plates are ideal if you’re seeking something light but tasty.

Be sure not to skip the desserts at Aubaine either: experienced in-house pastry chefs regularly whip up treats such as traditional French macarons, carrot cake and impressive mille-feuilles – these are not to be missed.

London Guide 2019

9

French

Le Garrick  Location 10-12 Garrick Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 9BH Leicester Square t: 020 3369 5534 w: www.legarrick.co.uk e: info@legarrick.co.uk

C

Le Garrick has seen its fair share of dates, proposals and anniversaries over its 33 years. With a strong following of regular customers, its special and unique atmosphere keeps people coming back to this much-loved London institution. Located a stone’s £22 to throw from Leicester Square tube, in amongst Covent Garden’s theatres, this £32 family-owned restaurant boasts a cosy atmosphere and is festooned with mismatched furniture and authentic French memorabilia. Outside, the restaurant looks like a traditional Parisian brasserie with tables for al fresco dining. Upstairs boasts large windows and if you head downstairs you’ll be greeted by candlelit booths and exposed brickwork, offering the perfect place to unwind. The waiting staff are friendly and helpful, ensuring all who visit are treated to a wonderful experience.

Open: Mon-Sat noon-11pm; Owners Charles and Domi Lepelletier take inspiration from Charles’ hometown of Sun noon-5pm Toulouse for the menu. We began with a glass of Crémant and a charcuterie board, before settling on calamari and escargots to start. The snails were served with their shells removed, making them a friendly prospect for novices. The calamari, a firm favourite with regulars prepared from a family recipe from the Basque region, arrived with a delightful coriander, chilli and ginger sauce that we happily mopped up with fresh French bread. I chose beef Bourguignon for the main course, with new potatoes and vegetables. My dining partner opted for duck confit, pork belly and Toulouse sausage, served on a bed of broad beans. For pudding we sampled an indulgent chocolate fondant and tarte au citron. Le Garrick oozes charm, personality and great food at good value. It’s been here for over 30 years for a reason, so why not discover its charms for yourself?

French

Le Café du Marché  Location 22 Charterhouse Square, Smithfield, EC1M 6DX Farringdon t: 020 3390 0984 w: www.cafedumarche.co.uk e: events@cafedumarche.co.uk

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A passion for providing Gallic charm and warm service lies at the heart of Le Café du Marché. That’s why it comes as no surprise that it has stood the test of time for nearly three decades, showcasing the cuisine of provincial France. Located in a converted warehouse, this gem can be found along a quiet cobbled alley close to Smithfield Market. The ground floor restaurant is bright, airy and full of character, and there is a large private dining room called Le Grenier upstairs.

£40 to

£50

‘...Gallic charm and warm service...’

There’s always plenty to look forward to when visiting, as the carefully drafted menus are guided by the seasons and change every five weeks. The menu promises classically inspired French dishes with a sprinkling of European influences. It delivered on our high expectations when we visited, thanks to superb starters of fish soup with Gruyère, crouton and rouille, and tartlette of crab Food Served: with poached egg and butter sauce.

Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, Mains to revel in include côte 6pm-10pm; Sat 6pm-10pm de boeuf with Béarnaise sauce, braised beef, and le poisson selon le marché. If you have room for afters, the plum tart with coulis framboise, and creamy vanilla and Armagnac panna cotta are bound to impress even the most passionate dessert devotees.

10

London Guide 2019

Randall & Aubin

French

 Location 14-16 Brewer Street, Soho, W1F 0SG Piccadilly Circus t: 020 3369 5598 w: www.randallandaubin.com e: info@randallandaubin.com

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Launched in 1996 on Brewer Street in Soho, oyster bar and brasserie Randall & Aubin has been delighting foodies, fans and celebrities for over two decades – everyone who visits does so looking for an outstanding meal and a fabulous time beneath the glittering disco ball. Thanks to a second venue in Manchester, guests up and down the country can enjoy the relaxed, fun and approachably luxurious atmosphere, in a place where lobster and steak are served with a side of good humour and a wink as sparkling as the Champagne.

£40 to

£45

Co-owners Jamie Poulton and accomplished head chef Ed Baines (chef profile page 75) share a passion for quality ingredients and sustainability, meaning that everything on the menu shines with their love for creating exceptional dishes.

The menu is inspired by French and British classics – moules marinières and French onion soup are always firm favourites, as is the sensational rotisserie chicken – and local, seasonal produce inspires Open: Mon-Thurs noon-11pm; exciting daily specials. Invaluable Fri & Sat noon-midnight; relationships with trusted suppliers, Sun noon-10pm like the trawlermen at Peterhead harbour, have given Randall & Aubin unique access to the freshest produce, meaning guests can enjoy treats such as fresh cod landed less than 24 hours before. Service is accompanied by a lively soundtrack of eclectic music that’s an integral part of the restaurant’s buzzing, effervescent ambience.

The Phene  Location 9 Phene Street, Chelsea, SW3 5NY t: 020 3151 6802 w: www.thephene.com

British Sloane Square C

Set on Phene Street, surrounded by the iconic Victorian townhouses that make up the borough of Chelsea, The Phene is just a short walk from Kings Road, right in the heart of London. The building itself dates back to 1853 and stretches over three storeys. Whether you’re stopping by for a meal with a partner or hosting a large private event, there’s plenty of room for you at The Phene.

£24 to

£43

Inside, the classy saloon bar provides the perfect spot for a drink with friends.

The carefully curated wine list includes bottles sourced from all over the globe, as well as Champagne and refreshing British beer. During summer, the outdoor garden area comes to life too: with twinkling fairy lights and plenty of seating, this is an oasis of tranquillity.

The Phene’s conservatory-style restaurant offers a similarly relaxed atmosphere.

Mains like the coconut and Open: Mon-Fri noon-11pm; chickpea dahl bowl and the chilli Sat 10am-11pm; and garlic linguine are too good Sun 10am-10pm to miss, while meat-eaters will love the succulent hangar steak and the mouth-watering chicken, mushroom and white Burgundy pie. On Saturdays, the menu expands to include a tempting brunch offering and on Sundays The Phene’s famous roast lunch incorporates a delicious vegetarian roast squash dish, as well as classic beef, chicken and pork options.

London Guide 2019

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British

The Red Lion Hotel

 Location Royal Lane, Hillingdon, Uxbridge, UB8 3QP Uxbridge t: 020 3369 5602 w: www.redlionhotelhillingdon.co.uk e: redlionhotel@fullers.co.uk

OL

Imagine a beautiful black and white facade with hanging baskets and vibrant blooms, an interior that balances beautifully preserved traditional character and modern simplicity, and friendly hospitality and you’ll know what to expect from The Red Lion Hotel. The comfortable guest bedrooms provide some of the best accommodation in the area, making this a popular weekend retreat.

Aside from the fantastic hospitality, there’s plenty to love about The Red Lion Hotel. Perhaps most commonly noted is the high standard of food and the impressive selection of drinks, including your favourite Fuller’s tipples. If you’re stopping by for a meal, why not start with tea- and hop-smoked haddock and spring onion fishcake with chive Hollandaise? Tuck into chicken, ham and Honeydew ale pie with mash, greens and red wine gravy and you’ve got yourself a winning meal – just be sure to save room for dessert to avoid envy.

£22 to

£27

Open: Mon-Thurs 7am-11pm; Fri & Sat 7am-midnight; Sun 8am-10.30pm British

The Hand & Flower

 Location 1 Hammersmith Road, Hammersmith, W14 8XJ West Kensington t: 020 3369 5515 w: www.handandflower.co.uk e: handandflower@fullers.co.uk Dating back to the Victorian era, this elegant pub and hotel is a longstanding fixture of buzzing Hammersmith. The historic establishment has a long and colourful past, having been opened in 1822 by Edwin Hand – a notorious figure in the infamous Quality Street gang. Today’s visitors will find The Hand & Flower a delightful place in which to while away the hours with a pint of Fuller’s cask-conditioned ale and a bite to eat from the tempting bill of fare. The ever-changing menu may feature starters such as the flavoursome goat’s cheese and walnut salad with chargrilled squash, or Fuller’s London Porter-smoked salmon with celeriac remoulade and sourdough toast. Follow with a hearty portion of vegan chilli with basmati rice and fresh guacamole, and round things off with one of the sumptuous puddings like apple and blackberry crumble with crème anglaise.

W £19 to

£27

Open: Mon-Fri 7am-11pm; Sat 8am-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm British

The Fox & Goose

 Location Hanger Lane, Ealing, W5 1DP North Ealing t: 020 3151 5945 w: www.foxandgoosehotel.co.uk e: foxandgoosehotel@fullers.co.uk Boasting 80 stylish, well-equipped guest rooms and situated just a short distance from Wembley Stadium, this charming venue is a convenient base for anyone staying in London. Dating back to the 18th century, The Fox & Goose has recently undergone extensive refurbishment, so visitors can be sure of a pleasant and memorable experience. A comprehensive range of great wine and an ever-changing selection of Fuller’s seasonal and craft beers have allowed The Fox & Goose to achieve Master Cellarman status. The award-winning beer garden is especially pleasant, and in warm weather it’s perfect for al fresco dining. Instead of traditional starters, this venue offers social plates; why not share tempura king prawns, potato and leek croquettes and craft beer-battered pickles with sour cream? For mains, you can choose from delicious dishes like tofu pad Thai, and smoked haddock, bacon and leek carbonara. It’s also well worth keeping an eye on the daily specials board.

OL £20 to

£29

Open: Mon-Thurs 6.30am-11pm; Fri 6.30am-midnight; Sat 7am-midnight; Sun 7am-10.30pm 12

London Guide 2019

The Three Crowns

British

 Location 8 East Road, Shoreditch, N1 6AD Old Street t: 020 3151 8073 w: www.threecrownsshoreditch.com

N

You’ll find The Three Crowns conveniently located next to Old Street tube station. A popular spot with locals and tourists alike, this historic pub offers an impressive selection of 18 different craft beers on tap, as well as real ale, fine wine and an enticing array of classic cocktails. During winter, warming cocktails like the hot gin and gingerbread option prove particularly popular.

£18 to

£26

‘...cosy atmosphere...’

Alongside the extensive drinks list, The Three Crowns also boasts a fantastic menu of classic British food, all of which is freshly prepared in the pub’s open kitchen. A tasty starter is the perfect way to whet your appetite and with small plates as varied as tofu nuggets, jerk chicken wings and gooey mac and cheese on offer, there’s something for everyone. The mains list is equally tempting, listing hearty plates like cottage pie, juicy lamb rump with rosemary jus, and traditional beer-battered Open: haddock with chunky chips Mon-Sun noon-11.30pm and pea purée. For veggie and vegan visitors, the Buddah bowl is not to be missed – a colourful combination of tofu, quinoa, Asian coleslaw, edamame beans and sweet potato, this dish is packed with flavour and nutrients. With its cosy atmosphere and relaxed vibe, The Three Crowns is the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Temple Brew House  Location 46 Essex Street, Westminster, WC2R 3JF t: 020 3151 8072 w: www.templebrewhouse.com

British Temple C

Established back in November 2014, Temple Brew House is a haven for beer-lovers and foodies alike. As London’s most central micro-brewery, the Essex Street Brewing Company sits at the heart of Temple Brew’s bar area, meaning that drinkers and diners can watch as their pint travels fewer than 15 feet from tank to glass – you can’t get any fresher than that. House brewer Vanesa is constantly adding new picks to the pub’s taps too, so you are always guaranteed a varied assortment to choose from.

£20 to

£28

Once you’ve ordered your beer, select some tasty food to go with it. Starters include mini macaroni cheese, sumptuous vegan jackfruit bites, crispy maple and chilli bacon and a traditional Scotch egg. The mains list is equally impressive: for vegans and vegetarians, the selection includes a delicious roasted vegetable burger with harissa and an indulgent nacho bowl Open: topped with re-fried beans, Mon-Weds noon-11pm; guacamole and jalapeños, while Thurs noon-11.30pm; meat-eaters are offered the likes Fri & Sat noon-midnight; of a barbecue pulled pork bun Sun noon-10.30pm and a flavoursome garlic chicken burger. Each day, the kitchen team also puts together a new daily specials list but if you prefer something lighter, there’s a tasty array of freshly made sandwiches available too, with fillings ranging from roasted mushrooms and garlic hummus to tender chilli beef brisket.

London Guide 2019

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British

The Rose & Crown

 Location Church Place, St Mary’s Road, Ealing, W5 4HN South Ealing t: 020 3369 5605 w: www.roseandcrownealing.co.uk e: roseandcrown@fullers.co.uk The Rose & Crown occupies a prime position in South Ealing, just behind the arresting St Mary’s Church. This charming traditional pub is the perfect spot in which to enjoy a pint of cask-conditioned Fuller’s ale. The popular menu bursts with seasonal delights. You might enjoy a jerk chicken burger with gem lettuce, tomato, red onion, gherkins and fries, or perhaps Chalcroft Farm sirloin steak with triple-cooked chips, watercress and peppercorn sauce. For vegetarians we’d have to recommend the tasty spinach and mushroom lasagne accompanied by garlic bread and salad. The team also offers excellent Sunday roasts with seasonal vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and delicious gravy served alongside your choice of lamb, beef, chicken, pork or Brie and mixed nut Wellington. It’s also well worth checking out the pudding menu and sampling a sweet treat or cheeseboard.

W £21 to

£25

Open: Sun & Mon noon-11pm; Tues-Thurs noon-11.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-midnight British

The Bell & Crown

 Location 11-13 Thames Road, Chiswick, W4 3PL Chiswick Park t: 020 3369 5697 w: www.bell-and-crown.co.uk e: bellandcrown@fullers.co.uk Situated in the heart of Chiswick, a few minutes from picturesque Kew Gardens, this charming pub commands stunning views across the Thames. Admire the scenery over a refreshing pint or a watermelon and feta salad with spiced cashews. The team at The Bell & Crown brings a touch of luxury to traditional cooking – why not treat yourself to leg of South Coast lamb steak with braised peas, lettuce and mint, or Thai beef salad with glass noodles, peanuts and pak choi? This historic pub became part of the Fuller’s family in 1814; the pub has undergone considerable changes since then, including several extensions and a recent refurbishment, but today’s visitors can still expect an excellent range of Fuller’s real ale and a comprehensive wine list. These can also be enjoyed in the attractive Cobblers Bar, which can be hired for private events and accommodates up to 40 guests.

W £21 to

£29

Open: Mon noon-11pm; Tues-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm British

The Drayton Court Hotel

 Location 2 The Avenue, Ealing, W13 8PH West Ealing t: 020 3151 3515 w: www.draytoncourtlondon.co.uk e: draytoncourt@fullers.co.uk Occupying a beautiful building in West Ealing, The Drayton Court Hotel is one of the oldest pubs in the area and boasts a rich history. 27 beautiful guest bedrooms are equipped with all the luxuries you could require for a comfortable stay, including quality mattresses, Egyptian cotton bedding and en-suite bathrooms, so you can enjoy a fine standard of comfort in stylish surrounds. When it comes to entertaining pub guests, The Drayton Court Hotel relies on nothing more than top-quality food and a wide selection of first-rate drinks to wow its patrons. However, the spacious beer garden certainly sets the venue apart in summer. Seasonal food menus showcase the freshest local ingredients, so whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch or dinner you’re sure to find something to tempt you. You might sample Thai prawn, noodle and peanut broth, or tuck into the likes of seared venison with black pudding croquette, kale and Port jus.

W £25 to

£30

Open: Mon & Tues 7am-11pm; Weds-Fri 7am-midnight; Sat 8am-midnight; Sun 8am-10pm 14

London Guide 2019

The Roundhouse

British

 Location 2 North Side, Wandsworth Common, Clapham, SW18 2SS Clapham Junction t: 020 3369 5606 w: www.theroundhousewandsworth.com e: info@theroundhousewandsworth.com Customer-focused service lies at the heart of this Clapham pub. The chefs follow food trends to keep diners on their toes and always listen to customers’ needs, meaning gluten-free beer and alcohol-free drinks make an appearance, as well as veggie and vegan dishes.

The seasons dictate the menu that changes regularly to feature the best-tasting produce and to keep ideas fresh. Grilled halloumi sticks accompanied by spicy harissa sauce and flatbread makes for a tasty starter, while the jerk chicken breast with spinach, sweet potato, plantain and pineapple and mango salsa is a clear main-course favourite. When it comes to pudding, the classic sticky toffee pudding paired with vanilla ice cream wins hands down. Tables quickly fill for the legendary Sunday roasts, so it’s worth calling the venue to book in advance.

To top it all off, there’s an extensive selection of wine, spirits and beer to choose from.

S £22 to

£30

Open: Mon-Thurs noon-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-9.30pm; Sun noon-9pm

Just as much attention is paid to the interior as the food – leather banquettes, exposed brick and vintage lampshades create an inviting atmosphere. With a whole host of exciting events ranging from movie and murder mystery nights to beer tastings, the team isn’t afraid to try something new and place fun at the forefront for visitors old and new.

The Cock & Bottle

British

 Location 17 Needham Road, Notting Hill, W11 2RP Notting Hill Gate t: 020 3390 0416 w: www.cockandbottlew11.com e: info@cockandbottlew11.com

C

If you want to retreat to a friendly, traditional pub, you can count on The Cock & Bottle to provide you with all you need. There’s a wide selection of wine, plenty of comforting food and a laid-back vibe, making this venue an inviting place in which to hang out. Head upstairs to the dining room and enjoy homemade fare from the season-led menu. The space is also perfect for private functions, special occasions, meetings, networking events and more.

£15 to

£30

If you’ve opted to go all-out with a three-course feast, perhaps begin with pan-seared scallops with oak-smoked chorizo and apple, or smoked salmon, pickled baby courgettes, deep-fried duck egg and chervil sour cream. Main dishes include pheasant paired with bacon, haggis, Scotch quail egg, celeriac purée, wild mushrooms and grilled pear, which demonstrates the chef’s talent. The orange and blackberry posset with almond and filo shards is a real hit with sweet-toothed fiends, and if you’re kicking about the area on Sunday, book a table for lunch and choose from roast Open: Mon-Thurs noon-11pm; chicken, slow-cooked pork belly and Fri & Sat noon-11.30pm; 28-day-aged beef sirloin with all Sun noon-10.30pm the trimmings. The honey-baked figs, toasted almonds and strawberry ice cream will leave you feeling somewhat smug. The team here knows how to strike the balance between friendly and professional, so you’ll always feel welcome at this cosy spot.

London Guide 2019

15

British

The Chamberlain Hotel Bar Kitchen

 Location 130-135 Minories, City, EC3N 1NU Tower Hill t: 020 3151 2535 w: www.thechamberlainhotel.co.uk e: chamberlain.events@fullers.co.uk Located just north of Tower Bridge, The Chamberlain is an ideal base from which to discover London’s major attractions and architectural curiosities like the iconic Gherkin. This welcoming venue has much more to recommend it than just location. Be it grape or grain, spirits or artisanal soft drinks, the drinks menu has something for everyone. Beer connoisseurs are sure to appreciate the excellent range of cask-conditioned ale. For oenophiles, the wine list includes some exceptional delights, particularly Sicilian Nero d’Avola. It’s not just the bar that makes The Chamberlain so noteworthy – visitors can sample mouth-watering dishes like orecchiette with broccoli pesto, pine nuts, spinach, and dried cherry tomatoes. We’d have to recommend following this with a Brewer Street coffee and a slice of classic apple pie.

C £20 to

£33

Open: Mon-Fri 7am-11pm; Sat & Sun 8am-11pm British

The Lamb & Flag  Location 33 Rose Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 9EB Leicester Square t: 020 3369 5531 w: www.lambandflagcoventgarden.co.uk e: lambandflag@fullers.co.uk Centrally located amongst the shops and eateries of Covent Garden, this historic pub has been welcoming patrons for centuries, including the likes of Charles Dickens; it’s easy to see why this charming spot was one of his favourite watering holes. The excellent cooking and wide selection of Fuller’s seasonal ale continues to draw crowds today. Inside, the cosy traditional decor provides the perfect setting for a pint with friends. The excellent selection of ale includes Seafarers, a delicious fruity bitter with spicy hop notes. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, you won’t be disappointed by the fare on offer. Tempting classics include beer-battered haddock and chips and Fuller’s London Pride ale, steak and mushroom pie, while the pumpkin gnocchi with kale, toasted pumpkin seeds and sage butter is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on the tastebuds.

C £21 to

£26

Open: Mon-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm British

The Wellington Hotel

 Location 81-83 Waterloo Road, Waterloo, SE1 8UD Waterloo t: 020 3369 5674 w: www.wellingtonhotelwaterloo.co.uk e: wellington@fullers.co.uk This historic pub and hotel provides the perfect base from which to explore central London, thanks to its convenient location opposite Waterloo station and tastefully decorated bedrooms. The decor has an air of traditional grandeur – think wood panelling, exposed brick and a classical fresco filling the arched ceiling above the bar. A sea of tables, comfy sofas and high-backed Chesterfield armchairs afford the large rooms a cosy feel, so visitors feel right at home. Expect a satisfying menu of updated British classics and pub favourites. Start with Buffalo chicken wings with blue cheese dip or seared Owton’s dry-aged skirt steak with salsa verde and pecorino. To follow, tuck into a plate of Frontier-battered haddock and chips with mushy peas, a hearty burger or the mushroom risotto, which is finished with extra-virgin olive oil. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to find an excellent accompaniment among the selection of traditional and seasonal cask ale on tap.

C £18 to

£25

Open: Mon-Weds 8am-11pm; Thurs & Fri 8am-midnight; Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm 16

London Guide 2019

The Antelope

British

 Location 87 Maple Road, Surbiton, Kingston upon Thames, KT6 4AW t: 020 3151 2491 w: www.theantelope.co.uk e: hello@theantelope.co.uk The Antelope is a welcoming and homely pub set a few minutes’ drive from Kingston upon Thames. Renowned for its great atmosphere and sumptuous home-cooked food, this lively pub is a great place to bring friends and family at the weekend and a fantastic spot for a few drinks after work. The garden provides a popular suntrap that’s perfect for al fresco dining or cooling down with a refreshing pint.

OL £16 to

£25

Inside, a cosy and traditional pub awaits, complete with comfy leather seating, wood panelling and roaring open fires during the winter. The chefs are passionate about using local ingredients and the meat is smoked in-house – this helps to maximise the flavour and freshness of every dish. Begin your meal by ordering an appetising starter: there are crispy fried courgettes, barbecue chicken wings, squid and kimchi tacos, or opt for one of the sharing platters.

Moving on, the list of mains is just as tempting. As well as classic British plates like juicy sausages with mash and greens, you’ll be offered creamy chicken tikka masala, a light butternut squash salad and an American-inspired chilli hotdog served with caramelised onions. There’s also an impressive array of burgers. Tuck into the crispy fried chicken burger with chilli mayonnaise, opt for the sumptuous beef and bone marrow burger or sample the lightly spiced vegan bean burger. At the weekend, the Sunday roasts are especially popular – enjoy your favourite meat or vegetarian option along with all the classic mouth-watering trimmings.

‘...locally brewed beer...’

Over the years, The Antelope has become renowned for its sumptuous homemade pies. The fillings change regularly but you can expect to find traditional combinations such as steak and ale, chicken and chorizo or pork. To accompany your meal, there’s a fantastic variety of drinks available. The bar offers a fantastic selection of ten real ales and five different ciders, including locally brewed beer from Big Smoke Brew Co.’s newly opened brewery in Esher and other small-batch producers across the UK. The impressive offering combined with The Antelope’s excellent service makes this pub a must-visit.

Food Served: Mon-Sun noon-9.30pm

London Guide 2019

17

British

The Albion  Location 45 Fairfield Road, Kingston upon Thames, KT1 2PY t: 020 3151 2435 w: www.thealbionkingston.com e: hello@thealbionkingston.com

OL

The Albion in Kingston upon Thames is a thriving establishment with a relaxed and jovial atmosphere that ensures everyone is made to feel at home. The friendly staff at this traditional British pub are passionate about great food and drink and eagerly welcome guests who share their enthusiasm. Stop by and enjoy a couple of drinks – order a few bar bites to snack on too – or indulge in a full three-course meal that’s been homemade with the finest locally sourced ingredients.

£14 to

£26

The bar at The Albion boasts an impressive array of drinks, with a choice for every palate. The collection of beer includes ten real ales, 20 different keg beers and several special one-off brews from independent breweries. There’s also high-quality stout, lager and pale ale from the pub’s own brewery. If none of these options tickle your fancy, why not order a refreshing glass of cider or treat yourself to a glass of your favourite wine? On sunny days, refreshing tipples are best enjoyed in the terrace garden, complete with their own gin distillery which can be hired for private events.

‘...friendly staff...’

Open: Mon-Thurs noon-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-11.30pm; Sun noon-10.30pm

18

London Guide 2019

When perusing the food menu, you’ll find yourself feeling spoilt for choice by the mouth-watering range of fare on offer. Starters include piping-hot soup of the day with white bloomer toast, crispy haddock goujons and edamame beans with soya chilli sauce. If you’re dining in a small party or simply looking for a tasty accompaniment to drinks, why not order a sharing plate? The vegan nachos with guacamole, salsa and jalapeños are packed with flavour and the Big Smoke meat board is an irresistible combination of barbecue ribs, chicken wings, paprika sausages, lamb kebab and homemade pickles. Although the seasonal menu changes regularly, visitors to The Albion are always guaranteed a tasty and varied selection of mains. Burgers and hotdogs range from a juicy bone marrow beefburger to a sumptuous vegan chilli dog, and the range of pizzas includes a traditional Margherita, along with toppings like chicken and pancetta, and delicious smoked brisket. If you fancy a more traditional British dish, why not order one of The Albion’s famous homemade pies? Each one is encased in buttery pastry and comes with seasonal vegetables, gravy and your choice of chips or mashed potato.

Daly’s Wine Bar

British

 Location 210 Strand, Westminster, WC2R 1AP Temple t: 020 3151 8065 w: www.dalyswinebar.co.uk e: info@dalyswinebar.co.uk

C

Set in the heart of London, Daly’s Wine Bar occupies an enviable central location that’s a short walk from both Covent Garden and London’s famous Theatreland, and just a stone’s throw from the river. Inside, a laid-back atmosphere makes this the perfect place to unwind after work and a fantastic spot to enjoy a tasty lunch or dinner.

An impressive array of international wine complements the frequently changing food selection. Whether you fancy a classic chardonnay from Burgundy, a strong New World contender, a new experience with something unfamiliar or a decadent glass of English fizz, there’s something to suit your needs.

The drinking opportunities don’t end here – there’s also a carefully selected gin offering at Daly’s and beer-drinkers will love the unique brews provided by the on-site microbrewery.

£19 to

£45

Open: Mon-Weds noon-11pm; Thurs noon-11.30pm; Fri noon-midnight; Sat noon-11pm

The ever-changing food menu is equally varied, with staple British classics sitting proudly among those inspired by the multicultural metropolis within which Daly’s resides. Be it for a quick bite, work lunch, lavish feast or a large group booking with up to 180 guests, there’s enough to satisfy all tastes and requirements. Various rooms are also available for private hire.

Franco’s

Italian

 Location 61 Jermyn Street, St James’s, SW1Y 6LX Green Park t: 020 3151 6254 w: www.francoslondon.com e: reserve@francoslondon.com

C Franco’s has been a landmark in the heart of St James’s since the 1940s, and it’s believed that it was one of the first Italian restaurants in the capital. Open from breakfast until dinner, Franco’s has wide appeal. The relaxed, friendly £30 to service often turns first-timers into loyal regulars while the inviting pavement £50 tables bring a Continental feel to the venue. Through the café and into the dining room is an elegant mix of dark wooden tables dressed in white tablecloths, art and soft lighting, making it a setting to savour.

Dishes are rooted in Italian classics with Sardinian, Sicilian and British influences peppered throughout. Octopus Carpaccio with fennel, orange and lemon dressing, and Parma ham with celeriac and capers are satisfying ways to begin.

Main courses may throw your decision-making skills into a frenzy with the likes of linguine with lobster, tomato, garlic and chilli, and strozzapreti with prawns, Open: broad beans and lemon to choose from. Pan-fried wild sea bass teamed with barba Mon-Fri 7.30am-11pm; di frate, cherry tomatoes and caper Sun 8am-11pm sauce, and roasted hake with peas, leeks and mussels are winning choices for fish-lovers. From the grill, the swordfish and veal chop are notable options. Desserts are just as impressive – the likes of affogato and Sicilian cannolo with pistachio ice cream are sure to leave a lasting impression. Just like the food, the wine list is splendid and includes vintage options. The private dining space can accommodate parties of up to 50 guests, making Franco’s the ideal spot for your next get-together.

London Guide 2019

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Italian C

‘...fine Italian cuisine that’s full of flavour...’

£30 to

£40

Bolton’s  Location 13 Cullum Street, City, EC3M 7JJ Bank t: 020 3369 5712 w: www.boltonsrestaurant.co.uk e: enquiries@boltonsrestaurant.co.uk This fine Italian restaurant has been a favourite with the bankers and businesspeople of the local area since it opened over three decades ago.

The interior is timeless and the atmosphere unpretentious – just like the food served. Rich red carpets, gleaming glasses and stained glass all add an air of class, while the menu takes diners on a journey through the regions of Italy.

The menus showcase exquisite Italian cuisine that’s full of flavour, featuring the likes of Parma ham sourced from a small family business in Italy. Those looking to dine will not be disappointed by Bolton’s. Highlights from the pasta selection include lobster spaghetti, penne with duck ragu, and pappardelle with meatballs, cep mushrooms and a dash of cream. From the main menu, chicken cooked with cream and mustard, strips of prime beef fillet in rich red wine Open: and mushroom sauce, and sea Mon-Fri 11.30am-3.30pm, bass in clam and shrimp sauce are 6pm-9.45pm much-loved favourites. You can also choose the meat of the day from the carving trolley. Finish by choosing a delectable dessert from the tempting selection available.

The cosy bar calls for lingering over a glass of wine from the carefully chosen selection of perfectly matched Italian tipples. There’s also a separate private dining room available for up to 22 people.

Italian

Gatti’s

 Location 2b Citypoint, 1 Ropemaker Street, City, EC2Y 9AW Moorgate t: 020 3390 0523 w: www.gattisrestaurant.co.uk e: citypoint@gattisrestaurant.co.uk This elegant restaurant brings the authentic flavours of Italy to a central setting that’s not far from Liverpool Street station. Crisp tablecloths, gleaming £30 to cutlery and pristinely polished glassware exude a sense of quiet sophistication £35 that you’ll want to savour, whether you pop into Gatti’s for a hearty breakfast, lunch or dinner.

The menu offers a wonderful assortment of classic Italian dishes, simply cooked by the head chef using only the freshest ingredients. A frequently changing specials menu allows regulars to relish something new every visit. Kick off with a starter of calamari or gooey Camembert served with gooseberry preserve.

In true Italian style, the pasta dishes are generous, so if you’re peckish opt for homemade ravioli parcels packed with chicken and veal with butter Open: Mon-Fri 8am-11am, and sage, or the vegetarian-friendly ricotta and spinach parcels. Otherwise, 11.30am-3.30pm, you can’t go wrong with choosing 6pm-9.45pm from the carving trolley, which serves daily items such as salmon en croute and rib of beef. Finish your feast in style with a glass of wine and cheeseboard, or choose from the selection of delicious desserts.

The large ground-floor wine bar is the perfect place for pre- or post-dinner cocktails and bar snacks. A private dining room for special events means you should look to Gatti’s for your Italian-inspired celebration.

C

20

London Guide 2019

Il Pagliaccio

Italian

 Location 182-184 Wandsworth Bridge Road, Fulham, SW6 2UF Fulham Broadway t: 020 3151 8235 w: www.paggs.co.uk

SW

Il Pagliaccio is that rare breed of restaurant that boasts a big reputation, yet retains the ambience of a hidden gem. It’s easy to see why it’s beloved.

The staggering quality of Neapolitan food and the charisma of the staff keeps people coming back for more. Plenty of famous names have made a visit throughout the venue’s history, including Princess Diana. Il Pagliaccio has a joyful atmosphere, which swept us up immediately.

£15 to

£25

‘...joyful atmosphere...’

Accomplished bartender Ramush expertly prepared us cocktails before we were seated. My partner plumped for a Mojito while I sipped the delectable red berry Spring Punch. Once seated, the challenge began: the extensive menu is far too tempting for anyone who, like me, has an indecisive streak. Happily, chef Aaron Craze was on-hand to help. Trained under Jamie Oliver, Aaron is now a TV personality in his own right – and after he talked us through the specials, we were sold. I started with the frittura di calamari, which was raised to greatness by delicious homemade tartare sauce. My partner devoured the flavourful bruschetta.

‘...diverse wine list...’

For mains, we chose two of Aaron’s masterpieces. My partner was blown away by the sumptuous lamb shank, which was served on a bed of polenta. I opted for the star of the show: the steak Florentine. This magnificent T-bone was cooked to medium-rare perfection and seasoned with cracked pepper, garlic and rosemary.

Alongside my main, I enjoyed a glass of the Sannio Coda di Volpe, just one tipple from the diverse wine list. Owner Teo sources all his wine and cheese from an old friend in Italy, who he grew up with in Avellino.

For dessert, I couldn’t resist the chocolate soufflé, which came gloriously presented with a generous scoop of vanilla gelato. It was a perfectly decadent end to the meal. My partner, fully satisfied with her first two courses, enjoyed a fresh mint tea to round things off. We left eager for our return to sample more of the menu.

Open: Mon-Sun noon-midnight

London Guide 2019

21

Italian

Sale e Pepe  Location 9-15 Pavilion Road, Knightsbridge, SW1X 0HD t: 020 3390 2316 w: www.saleepepe.co.uk

C

Knightsbridge

Sale e Pepe is situated along a discreet street, just two minutes’ walk from the hustle and bustle of Harvey Nichols and Harrods in Knightsbridge. This elegant Italian trattoria has been a firm fixture on Pavilion Road for over 40 years, and has gained a loyal following. In fact, devoted regulars were called by their first names as they arrived. It’s not difficult to see the appeal of this intimate, cosy restaurant. Our warm and inclusive welcome from Toni, the manager who’s been there for nearly four decades, was genuine and we instantly relaxed within the convivial atmosphere of the restaurant.

£25 to

£40

Mario, our entertaining waiter, handed us a glass of chilled Prosecco before he seated us in a snug corner. He appreciates that choosing from the extensive list of rustic Italian staples is no mean feat, and assisted in making those all-important choices. The kitchen team either sources ingredients as locally as possible or imports them directly from Italy. I had my eye on the vast wine list that includes both Italian and French wines.

‘...some of the best Italian cuisine around...’

From the antipasti selection, my friend opted for the beautifully soft octopus Carpaccio with avocado – a delicious way to begin. I kicked off with a mozzarella salad, followed by a main dish of stone bass. The fish, complemented by piquant capers, had delicate, crispy skin, and was soft and fresh inside.

Across the table, my friend silently tucked into her main dish – a sign she was captivated by the veal escalopes cooked in cream, brandy and mushrooms.

For dessert there was creamy panna cotta with berry coulis, and Mario’s recommendation of sublime chocolate and coconut cheesecake, followed by a classic cappuccino. Mario was thoughtful throughout our meal, giving us a break between courses, as the Italians believe a meal is to be slowly savoured.

Open: Mon-Sun noon-11.30pm

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London Guide 2019

Sale e Pepe serves some of the best Italian cuisine around, and there’s no doubt I’ll be returning to lap up the friendly atmosphere and Italian values.

I’ve already earmarked the famous Dover sole and mushroom ravioli to try next time.

Amerigo Vespucci

Italian

 Location 25 Cabot Square, Canary Wharf, E14 4QA Canary Wharf t: 020 3390 2319 w: www.amerigovespucci.co.uk e: info@amerigovespucci.co.uk

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The owner of this beloved independent Italian eatery loved sailing on the Amerigo Vespucci ship so much he named his restaurant after it. Characterised by its delicious Italian cuisine, classic list of cocktails, and jovial service, Amerigo Vespucci is a wonderful restaurant that leaves a lasting impression.

£20 to

£25

‘...delicious Italian cuisine, classic list of cocktails, and jovial service...’

Since opening over 24 years ago, it has had many face-lifts to keep things fresh and offer loyal followers something new; today you’ll find soft lighting and neat black tables and grey chairs, lending a tranquil atmosphere. Meanwhile, the stylish al fresco bar terrazzo, complete with its own bar and heating, has a more upbeat vibe, and is available to hire privately for special occasions and events. Now open from 9am, a selection of fantastic Italian coffees, pastries and fresh juices are on offer every morning.

‘…showcasing the diversity of Italian cuisine…’

The cooking is suffused with passion and the seasonal menu hops around the regions of Italy, showcasing the diversity of Italian cuisine. Start with lobster Monte Carlo or seared scallops served with mint purée, topped with bacon and parsnip crisps. Mains of creamy saffron risotto served with Parmesan and poached pear, and linguine served with a selection of seafood merit sampling.

‘...you’ll certainly leave satisfied...’

Desserts stay true to this restaurant’s Italian heritage and include tiramisu and chocolate brownie topped with toasted almonds and drizzled with hazelnut liqueur. At Amerigo Vespucci you can eat light or you can indulge – whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll certainly leave satisfied.

Al Fresco Bar Open: Mon-Sun 9am-11pm Food Served: Mon-Fri noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm; Sat 6pm-11pm

London Guide 2019

23

Italian

Spaghetti House  w: www.spaghettihouse.co.uk e: info@spaghettihouse.co.uk Open: Mon-Sat 11.30am-11pm; Sun 11.30am-10pm (hours may vary) Spaghetti House on Goodge Street is a culinary oasis. The restaurant is located just off Tottenham Court Road in the famous and historical Fitzrovia area. Once you’ve been welcomed by the charming restaurant team, it’s difficult to believe you’re nestled just north of Oxford Street and Soho, and besides Bloomsbury and Marylebone.

Serving busy workers, relaxed tourists and sated shoppers alike, Spaghetti House provides welcome respite from the hustle and bustle and offers a dose of convivial Italian hospitality.

My partner and I shared a generously heaped plate of delicate, crispy zucchini fritte as we perused the menu. My partner went for the avocado bruschetta for a light starter, which comprised hearty sourdough with a creamy layer of smashed avocado, sundried tomatoes and a boiled egg scattered with sunflower seeds and lemon juice.

I kicked things off with a serving of squid accompanied by aioli. For the main event, I chose the beautifully presented courgette spaghetti with shrimp, juicy cherry tomatoes and king prawns dressed in spicy tomato broth. The restaurant lives up to its name with its twist on classic Italian cuisine. Following the manager’s recommendation, I paired my dish with a glass of Orvieto that complemented the seafood excellently.

My partner ordered a comforting pasta dish with succulent meatballs and paired it with refreshing homemade Sicilian lemonade. From an enticing dessert menu, I devoured the homemade crème caramel dessert. My partner took a fresh mint tea for a tranquil end to the meal, while I sipped a decadent limoncello digestif. With such attentive staff and a friendly ambience, Spaghetti House is a truly special hideaway.

C W £15 to

£25

 Location 15 Goodge Street, Fitzrovia, W1T 2PQ Goodge Street t: 020 3390 1581  Location 74 Duke Street, Mayfair, W1K 6JZ Bond Street t: 020 3390 1579  Location 12 Woodstock Street, Mayfair, W1C 2AF Bond Street t: 020 3390 1583  Location 24 Cranbourn Street, Covent Garden, WC2H 7AB Leicester Square t: 020 3390 1572  Location 9 Kensingston High Street, Kensington, W8 5NP High Street Kensington t: 020 3390 1574  Location 20 Sicilian Avenue, Bloomsbury, WC1A 2QD Holborn t: 020 3390 1576  Location 47 Bryanston Street, Marylebone, W1H 7DN Marble Arch t: 020 3390 1582  Location 66 Haymarket, St James’s, SW1Y 4RF Piccadilly Circus t: 020 3390 1587  Location Palladium House, 1-4 Argyll Street, Soho, W1F 7TA Oxford Circus t: 020 3390 2312  Location The Loft, Westfield, Shepherd’s Bush, W12 7SL Shepherd’s Bush t: 020 3390 1584

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London Guide 2019

Prawn on the Lawn

Seafood

 Location 292-294 St Paul’s Road, Islington, N1 2LH Highbury & Islington t: 020 3151 1697 w: www.prawnonthelawn.com e: hello@prawnonthelawn.com Prawn on the Lawn was first opened in 2013 by Rick Toogood and his wife Katie, with a focus on seasonality and sustainability. Gaining a fantastic reputation in a short space of time, the owners decided to open a second restaurant by the sea in Padstow, Cornwall.

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This seafood bar, restaurant and fishmonger provides the perfect spot to snap up something tasty for dinner, or sample dishes prepared by the talented kitchen team. Everything is sourced as locally as possible and changes regularly, making for the ultimate taste of Cornwall in the capital.

Why not start by tucking into a selection of small plates such as whole mackerel with n’duja and fennel; seared tuna with soy, mirin, spring onion and chilli; and Porthilly mussels with clams and manzanilla? Also up for grabs are delicious Porthilly oysters, which can be served raw or deep-fried with garlic crème fraîche. A relaxed, sociable Open: dining experience is encouraged Tues-Sat noon-10pm; with the flavoursome sharing Sun 11am-4pm platters – look out for the fruits de mer, which includes bountiful portions of crab, mussels, cockles, clams, crevettes, langoustines, oysters and scallops. Perhaps you’ll be tempted by the mouth-watering whole grilled lobster or crab with lime and coriander butter. All of the dishes are complemented by micro-brewed beer and wine from local vineyards. A visit is a must.

Wiltons Restaurant

Seafood

 Location 55 Jermyn Street, St James’s, SW1Y 6LX Green Park t: 020 3151 6273 w: www.wiltons.co.uk e: reserve@wiltons.co.uk C Since 1742, when George William Wilton supplied the finest oysters to the traders at London’s Haymarket, Wiltons has been renowned for impeccable plating, timeless elegance and serving fine oysters, seafood and game. This £50 to thriving institution is the epitome of fine British dining, offering a charming blend £100 of traditional dishes and modern service to match.

Ever since Wiltons received its first royal warrant for supplying oysters to the royal household in 1836, it has been a purveyor to the aristocracy. Green velvet chairs, crisp white linen, and golden walls capture understated sophistication.

The customer-centric approach to service sees meals seamlessly glide from one course to the next and quiet conversations flourish, providing an air of calm throughout the well-groomed, unstuffy restaurant.

Open: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, A grand wine list provides endless exquisite options, while beautiful produce 5.30pm-10.30pm; takes the lead on the classic menu. Spectacular caviar, cured salmon, native Sat 5.30pm-10.30pm lobster cocktail, and dressed crab complement the oysters, while meat dishes such as lamb cutlets, and vegetarian options like morel mushroom, truffle and wild garlic risotto are also on offer. At lunchtime, a silver carving trolley works its way around the restaurant, offering the likes of roast leg of Romney Marsh lamb and Loch Duart salmon coulibiac. Desserts are classic and nostalgic. Exclusive private dining facilities offer more motivations to explore this venue; dining at Wiltons is a one-of-a-kind experience that won’t be forgotten.

London Guide 2019

25

Seafood

Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill

 Location 11-15 Swallow Street, Mayfair, W1B 4DG Piccadilly Circus t: 020 3390 1794 w: www.bentleys.org e: reservations@bentleys.org C Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill first opened its doors for business in 1916, in the same beautiful Victorian building it occupies today. From the outset, this famous oyster bar and grill has captured the vibrant mood of a metropolis about to embrace the £45 roaring ’20s. Bentley’s now proudly serves more oysters than any other UK restaurant, to £50 and the all-weather al fresco dining terrace is a stylish area in which to dine.

In addition to the Oyster Bar, the Grill Room and the Terrace, Bentley’s also benefits from two beautifully decorated private dining rooms. The sophisticated and intimate Crustacea Room, with select pieces from chef Richard Corrigan’s own Oyster Bar Open: Mon-Sat art collection, will accommodate up to 14 guests, while the larger Swallow Street 11.30am-11.30pm; Rooms accommodate up to 60 guests for dining, or 100 guests for a standing Sun 11.30am-10.30pm canapé reception. Boasting a private lounge bar and separate entrance, it provides Grill Open: Mon-Fri the ideal space for business lunches, dinners, private celebrations and cocktail noon-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm; parties. If required, entertainment can also be arranged in the form of DJs, pianists, opera singers and magicians.

Sat 5.30pm-11pm Whether you choose to dine in the gorgeous Champagne and Oyster Bar, located on the ground floor, or the Grill Room, where you’ll find delights such as stuffed baby squid with chorizo and feta, you can be sure that only the freshest produce will arrive at your table. Desserts are every bit as good as you might expect, too – try the fig roll with saffron ice cream or Bentley’s tipsy trifle.

Bentley’s is sheer indulgence. Seafood-lovers take note: this gem of a restaurant is a real treat and not to be missed.

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London Guide 2019

fish! And fish! kitchen

Seafood

 w: www.fishkitchen.com e: info@fishkitchen.com Situated in the heart of foodie mecca – Borough Market, fish! shines like a beacon thanks to its glass and steel design. Established in 1999 and recently refurbished with a new menu to match, it’ll lure you in with its tempting menu and cheery ambience.

From classics like beer-battered fish and chips and fishcake with beurre blanc to ceviche and chargrilled squid, fish! offers a variety of seafood and fish (grilled, steamed or battered), quick bites and dinner options to linger over. If you’re not a fish-eater, there are vegetarian and meat dishes available.

To begin, I chose ceviche – a South American speciality of raw fish marinated in citrus juices. Ceviche requires fresh, quality fish and mine was delicately complemented by coriander, red onion and avocado. My partner’s starter of dressed Dorset crab and mayonnaise on sourdough was wonderfully rich and creamy. Our friendly waitress advised that we try the popular smoked haddock fish! dish, and it certainly won me over – haddock perched on a bed of spinach and bubble and squeak, topped with a poached egg, and creamy Hollandaise sauce on the side was soon demolished.

It was both elegant and comforting. Meanwhile, the Scottish langoustines prompted an excited gasp as they arrived at our table, prettily arranged, grilled with chilli and garlic, and served with a simple tomato and onion salad. Like the ceviche, the dish showcased the freshness of each ingredient and let the flavours shine through.

There’s always a stream of guests that visit for brunch, lunch and dinner, as fish! appeals to all. It’s family-friendly, with choices like fish finger sandwiches to keep little ones happy. There’s also a fish! kitchen in Kingston, so those south west of the river can sample the delicious fare a little nearer to home. It comes as no surprise that fish! won Best Food Service Provider at the National Fish and Chip Awards 2017. It certainly gets my vote as the best fish restaurant in London, with its winning combination of fresh food and warm atmosphere.

C OL £25 to

£30

 Location Cathedral Street, Borough Market, Southwark, SE1 9AL London Bridge t: 020 3390 1031 Open: Mon-Thurs 11.30am-11pm; Fri 11am-11pm; Sat 10am-11pm; Sun 10am-10.30pm Takeaway Open: Sun-Weds 11am-6pm; Thurs-Sat 11am-8pm  Location 58 Coombe Road, Kingston, KT2 7AF Norbiton t: 020 3390 1032 Open: Tues-Sat noon-10pm  Location Jarvis the Fishmonger, 56 Coombe Road, Kingston, KT2 7AF Norbiton t: 020 3390 1034 Open: Tues-Sat 7am-4pm

London Guide 2019

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Seafood

The Seashell of Lisson Grove  Location 49-51 Lisson Grove, Marylebone, NW1 6UH t: 020 3151 8071 w: www.seashellrestaurant.co.uk

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Marylebone

A true north London landmark, The Seashell of Lisson Grove can be found seven minutes’ walk from Baker Street station and is the seafood restaurant of choice for locals, professionals, tourists and even visiting celebrities. Its outstanding reputation has earned this eatery a loyal customer base: for many guests, The Seashell was a fixture of their childhood and they continue to bring their own families today.

£24 to

£46

Founded after the First World War as a set of dining rooms, this unique privately owned institution has seen the Swinging 60s, the 70s, the 80s and the turn of the millennium. Now, it is a quality takeaway and dine-in destination that offers outstanding service and the very finest traditional British fish and chips.

The Seashell’s dual offering as both a takeaway – you can eat in the takeaway area or outside at no extra cost – and a restaurant gives it an exciting and bustling atmosphere unlike any other venue in the area. The takeaway’s decor, with its open, customer-facing kitchen and ample seating, is authentically retro and the restaurant is elegant and stylish, with its uniformed waiters. Both sections have a welcoming and friendly vibe, making customers feel well looked after and completely at home.

The Seashell prides itself on the quality, affordability and sustainability of its food. Chips are lovingly cut from locally sourced potatoes and the signature dish of fried fish is cooked to order and lightly coated in batter before being fried in pure groundnut oil. All fish can also be fried in matzo or panko breadcrumbs and the restaurant itself is halal-friendly. Throughout the year, The Seashell hosts special offers on Mother’s Day and at Easter and Passover.

Open: Mon-Fri noon-3pm, 5pm-10.30pm; Sat noon-10.30pm; Sun noon-6.30pm

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For diners in the restaurant, the whitebait starter comes highly recommended, as does the crispy fried calamari, which comes with a tangy homemade sweet chilli sauce. To follow, sample the delicious main course of fresh, flaky cod and chips with tartare sauce and mushy peas, or perhaps you’ll opt for the delicately flavoured salmon. The whole team at The Seashell is committed to doing what they do best, so why not pop in and try it for yourself?

Brasserie Blanc

Brasserie

 w: www.brasserieblanc.com Brasserie Blanc’s aim has always been to offer a relaxed environment where family, friends and colleagues can enjoy wonderfully cooked dishes inspired by Raymond Blanc’s childhood in France. The Brasserie Blanc name has become known for the fresh, seasonal and home-cooked dishes served across its six London sites. Each is a top choice for leisurely lunches, laid-back seasonal suppers and relaxed drinks. Fantastic service and wonderful interiors complete the experience.

The menu showcases a superb selection of ingredients sourced from trusted suppliers and cooked with care to ensure that only the tastiest food reaches your table. Fine, fresh dishes are packed full of flavour. Expect to see the likes of moules frites, slow-roast pheasant breast, and a hearty duck leg cassoulet. There are also burgers, steaks and fishcakes, available any time of day. Vegan options include harissa-glazed aubergine with butternut squash, accompanied by baba ganoush, pine nuts, pomegranate seeds and flatbread. Set menus and children’s menus, along with gluten- and dairy-free options, ensure that there is something on offer for everyone. Desserts come in the form of pistachio soufflé, chocolate delice and pear amandine tart, to name a few.

Brasserie Blanc excels in every aspect, which makes each London site perfect for private parties and special events. They can accommodate large groups and have various diverse private dining rooms where you can hold all manner of events such as meetings, presentations and dinners.

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£30

 Location 9 Belvedere Road, Southbank, SE1 8YP Waterloo t: 020 3369 5717 Open: Mon-Sat noon-10.30pm; Sun noon-8.30pm  Location 119 Chancery Lane, Holborn, WC2A 1PP Chancery Lane t: 020 3369 5713 Open: Mon-Fri noon-10pm; Sat 4.30pm-9.30pm  Location 14 Trinity Square, Tower Hill, EC3N 4AA Tower Hill t: 020 3369 5719 Open: Mon-Sat noon-10pm; Sun noon-4pm  Location 60 Threadneedle Street, City, EC2R 8HP Bank t: 020 3369 5718 Open: Mon-Fri 7.30am-10pm  Location Goldhurst House, Parr’s Way, Hammersmith Riverside, Fulham Reach, W6 9AN t: 020 3369 5716 Open: Mon-Fri 11am-11pm; Sat 9am-midnight; Sun 9am-10pm

Hammersmith

London Guide 2019

29

Argentine

La Patagonia  Location 31 Camden High Street, Camden, NW1 7JE Mornington Crescent t: 020 3390 2361 w: www.lapatagonia.co.uk e: mail@lapatagonia.co.uk

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For a taste of Argentine cuisine, it’s worth venturing to one of London’s most distinguished restaurants, La Patagonia. The brains behind La Patagonia have recreated the charm and character of the barrio restaurants of Argentina in England’s capital. Once inside, guests will discover a rustic interior, comprising brick walls, wooden flooring and splashes of artwork, where they can fully relax and linger.

£20 to

£30

‘...one of London’s most distinguished restaurants...’

Born in the city of Cordoba, head chef and co-owner Adrian Cocco has brought the essence of Argentina’s culinary tradition with him as well as the flavours and Open: Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, products of the nation, ranging from meat to pasta. Meat plays a lead role on 6pm-10.30pm; the menu with tempting options including various steaks cooked on the charcoal Fri-Sun noon-11pm grill. Specialities include skewered beef with bacon, Spanish sausage, pepper and onion, and half a chicken with tomato chilli sauce – both served with chips and salad. The team also caters for vegetarians with dishes such as spinach and ricotta ravioli. Freshly made desserts like homemade caramel cream served with dulce de leche, and cremoso de chocolate are worth saving room for. To accompany the fare is a range of imported beers and a wine list, which includes bottles from Mendoza – the famous wine region in the foothills of the Andes.

CALLING ALL BLOGGERS, WRITERS AND JOURNALISTS WE NEED YOU! We’re always looking for exceptional talent to join our UK-wide network of writers, so if you’re passionate about great food and are a talented wordsmith, get in touch. We need top-notch writers to help us out across a broad spectrum of creative projects that includes printed guides, our blog and a number of exciting websites.

Drop us a line at writers@foodanddrinkguides.com for more information 30

London Guide 2019

Ayanna’s London

Caribbean

 Location 2 Yabsley Street, Poplar, Tower Hamlets, E14 9RG Blackwall t: 020 3151 6279 w: www.ayannaslondon.com e: reservations@ayannaslondon.com Delicious, traditional Caribbean dishes with a modern twist and a warm welcome can be enjoyed at Ayanna’s London. Ayanna’s is a hidden gem in the East End, offering a high-end dining experience with exciting, heartening flavours and a wonderful choice of drinks. The restaurant is very close to Canary Wharf and is only a short walk from the DLR station at Blackwall.

E £45 to

£55

‘...high-end dining experience...’

You may want to peruse the wine list or just dive straight into the Caribbean delights with a mouth-watering and eye-opening cocktail. I opted for the Rum Punch, a delicious fruity masterpiece and a Caribbean classic. The international choices on the wine list emphasise and complement the fine dining menu.

‘...heartening flavours...’

To start, Ayanna’s offers a range of signature dishes to tempt and thrill diners.

My dining partner and I opted for the delicious soup of red kidney beans puréed with coconut cream, coconut milk and dumplings, and the phenomenally tasty cheesy lobster which combined succulent lobster with coconut milk, cheese, salad and onions, resulting in an outstanding dish. Mains were eagerly awaited, and did not disappoint. The brilliantly spicy and flavoursome signature jerk chicken featured perfectly grilled chicken breast seasoned with jerk spices, served with a delightful tomato and sweet pepper garnish.

Complemented by rich rice and peas, and a side dish of sweet fried plantain, this felt like the eye-popping epitome of fine Caribbean cuisine. There are also plenty of tempting options for vegetarians and pescatarians: to start, the vegetable fritters made with sweet peppers, fried dough and mango purée will certainly appeal. Mains include a fabulous vegetable curry, ackee and salt fish, sea bass and much more. We rounded off our exotic feast with a sumptuous rum sponge cake with vanilla ice cream to share.

Ayanna’s London is perfect for a special occasion or just to treat yourself to brilliant Caribbean food made with expertise, pride and tradition. I’ll certainly be returning to sample the much-hyped callaloo pancakes.

Open: Tues-Thurs noon-3pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Fri noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm; Sat 6pm-11pm; Sun 6pm-10.30pm

London Guide 2019

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Caribbean

Ma Petite Jamaica  Location 4 Inverness Street, Camden, NW1 7HJ Camden Town t: 020 3151 2308 e: mapetitejamaica.@gmail.com Ma Petite Jamaica sits in the heart of Camden Town, a stone’s throw from the famous Camden Locks and market, and surrounded by live music venues. From its happy hour to its hearty and authentic Jamaican cuisine, it’s the perfect place to start a night out or wind down an evening.

N £20 to

£28

‘...hearty and authentic Jamaican cuisine...’

Walking in, we were greeted by a colourful and charismatic Caribbean atmosphere. Sitting beneath bamboo and straw umbrellas, once the cocktails started flowing we felt as though we had been whisked away from the hustle and bustle of London. The Port Royal Rum Punch and Killer Doppi are two cocktails that came highly recommended, and definitely had us feeling relaxed and ready to soak up the laid-back atmosphere.

For starters, we opted for a couple of seafood dishes. The chilli-battered squid was light and crisp, and came with delicious jerk mayonnaise, while the ackee and saltfish was a flavoursome and hearty dish that paired very well with our cocktails and was served with fluffy dumplings.

‘...tempting cocktails and exquisite fare...’

The curry goat was a personal favourite. The meat was perfectly tender and tasted rich without being overbearing. The level of spice in the dishes up until this point was relatively mild, but the mixed jerk grill really warmed my tastebuds. The delightfully spiced chicken wings, ribs and pork chops were packed with flavour, glazed with sticky jerk sauce and perfectly accompanied by coleslaw, fried plantain and rice and peas. We loved every bite.

The desserts on offer have a tropical flourish – coconut and raspberry parfait and chocolate cookie cheesecake served with rum and raisin ice cream are just a couple of tasty examples. There’s also a children’s menu, and on Sundays a family sharing meal offers great value.

Open: Sun-Thurs noon-10pm; Fri & Sat noon-midnight

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London Guide 2019

Ma Petite Jamaica is a relaxed and vibrant place to grab some drinks and fill up on tasty Caribbean plates. Once you’ve experienced the friendly ambience, tempting cocktails and exquisite fare, you’ll want to return time and again.

Tiroler Hut

Austrian

 Location 27 Westbourne Grove, Bayswater, W2 4UA Bayswater t: 020 3390 1654 w: www.tirolerhut.co.uk e: reservations@tirolerhut.co.uk

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Don your lederhosen and get down to Tiroler Hut for an Alpine extravaganza.

Step inside and you’ll discover a little piece of Austria in the heart of London.

This really is one of the capital’s hidden treasures.

£24

‘...a little piece of Austria in the heart of London...’

£26

to

Located at the Queensway end of bustling Westbourne Grove, this family-run Austrian restaurant has been going strong for over 50 years and the reasons for its success are clear. The appeal of the lively atmosphere and hearty cuisine has proven to be a recipe for success, and the restaurant remains busy all year round. Owner Josef plays the cowbells during his evening show, as well as entertaining on the accordion, saxophone, keyboard and, of course, with the occasional yodel thrown in for good measure. Whether you’re drinking or dining, you’re guaranteed a warm welcome and a large dose of Austrian hospitality at Tiroler Hut. Diners are also encouraged to join in the fun, making it the ideal destination for group dinners, parties and those looking for a lively evening out. Food ranges from traditional dishes of Wiener schnitzel and Bauernschmaus to vegetarian-friendly fusilli and cheese fondue, all of which are delicious and brought to you by staff decked out in Tirolean costume. After the main course, you won’t be able to resist the classic apfelstrudel, or customer favourite Kaiserschmarrn – a mix of chopped pancakes and raisins and a true staple of Austrian cuisine. As you might expect, there’s plenty of beer behind the bar, so why not wash down your dinner with either the Bavarian beer on tap or one of a selection of bottled beers? If you’re feeling particularly brave, there’s also a variety of schnapps on offer – Obstler and Jägermeister are among the most potent.

Finally, don’t expect to catch the last tube home – once within the recesses of this cosy place you won’t want to leave until it closes, and will definitely be back for more. Visit for the vibrant ambience as much as for the Austrian cuisine and you won’t be disappointed.

Open: Tues-Sat 6.30pm-12.30am (last orders); Sun 6.30pm-11.30pm (last orders)

London Guide 2019

33

German

Stein’s Berlin

 Location 51 Princes Gate, Kensington, SW7 2PH South Kensington t: 020 3369 5633 w: www.stein-s.com e: berlininkensington@stein-s.com Situated in a Grade II listed building, with a terrace overlooking Princes Gardens, this German restaurant is an exciting new addition to the city. All your favourite German dishes, as well as vegetarian dishes and lighter fish options, are served in a breezy, modern chalet-style space that’s been carefully designed to ensure guests feel at ease as they tuck into a tasty feast. Schnitzel, traditional sausages, and a sausage platter accompanied by the team’s famed sauerkraut are highlights from the bill of fare. You can also pop in for breakfast, cake and coffee during the day.

Whatever you choose, it’ll pair well with an authentic German beer or a glass of delicious wine. You can also catch a German film or language lesson, or pop into the German library when you visit Stein’s Berlin, as the restaurant is proudly co-operating with the Goethe-Institut London – the German cultural institute.

C £25 to

£35

Open: please see website for details Cookery School

River Cottage HQ

 Location Trinity Hill Road, Axminster, Devon, EX13 8TB t: 020 3151 2504 w: www.rivercottage.net e: rcevents@rivercottage.net You’ll be greeted with wild hedgerows, tumbling Devonshire countryside and fields full of veg as you arrive at River Cottage HQ. You’re bound to recognise the white cottage from Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s TV shows and cookbooks, from which he has become well-known for his commitment to seasonal food and ethical philosophies. It’s a special place for amateurs and experts alike to immerse themselves in wonderful food, amazing experiences and the good life. River Cottage is rooted in self-sufficiency and wholesomeness, and the dedicated team aspires to connect people to the kitchen and natural landscape through accessible cookery courses. Whether you fancy cheese making, bread making, or want to learn how to keep bees, grow veg or cure meat, there’s something for everyone here. Offering unique dining experiences, memorable events and weddings, you’ll come away feeling inspired, connected and clued-up. Cookery course prices range from £145 to £780.

Open: by appointment only Greek

OPSO

 Location 10 Paddington Street, Marylebone, W1U 5QL Baker Street t: 020 3390 0564 w: www.opso.co.uk e: info@opso.co.uk OPSO is a stylish restaurant and bar that celebrates the flavours, produce and social dining of Greece. Located just off vibrant Marylebone High Street, and a five-minute walk from Baker Street, OPSO offers delicious, modern Greek tapas and great cocktails. In the restaurant, there’s a roomy downstairs space known as The Larder. It can accommodate larger table parties and also boasts two semi-private booths – each of which seats eight – for a more intimate affair. With a tailor-made offering for events big or small, corporate or private, OPSO is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. The focal point of the basement is the two large curing chambers, which house Greek cheeses and a selection of fish and meat. Whether visitors are after a seated lunch or a standing cocktail party, The Larder can meet the requirements with a bespoke catering package. The dining space can house up to 60 seated guests, or 75 guests at a standing event.

C £40 to

£45

Open: Mon-Fri noon-4pm, 6pm-11.30pm; Sat 10am-4pm, 6pm-11.30pm; Sun 10am-4pm, 6pm-11pm 34

London Guide 2019

The Elysée

Greek

 Location 13 Percy Street, Fitzrovia, W1T 1DP Tottenham Court Road t: 020 3390 0729 w: www.elyseerestaurant.com e: info@elyseerestaurant.com

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The Elysée resides in the heart of fashionable Fitzrovia, near London’s West End. Occupying a Georgian townhouse that spans three floors, this venue has been a buzzing hotspot for artists, writers and screen stars since it opened in 1936. Its stream of loyal customers and regular visitors are proof that this family-run venue is still going strong; it isn’t hard to see why.

On the ground floor you’ll find London’s original Greek restaurant. Let the five-piece in-house band, belly dancers and the infamous tradition of smashing plates transport you to faraway shores as you soak up the atmosphere and dine on delicious Greek fare. Sporting 1930s decor with earthy hues of maroon, cream and ochre, the restaurant is charged with energy and class.

£30 to

£35

‘...a buzzing hotspot for artists, writers and screen stars...’

As night falls, the cocktail bar and lounge is a chic hub where guests can delight in aperitifs, post-dinner drinks and dancing. The European wine and innovative bespoke cocktails go down a treat – it’s just the place for your next social soirée.

The inviting 1200-foot roof garden and shisha lounge is an al fresco hideaway ideal for laid-back lunches, business meetings and summer parties and can be hired privately for up to 150 guests. Complete with retractable roof, heated lamps and soft lighting, you can enjoy your get-together come rain or shine.

When it comes to the food, there’s a real commitment to quality and carefully chosen ingredients. Menus are creatively put together by experienced chefs, with authenticity and simplicity at the forefront. Tried-and-tested Greek recipes and methods are brought up to date with modern presentation. Specialities include grilled octopus with split lentil fava, Uncle Melis’ famous taramasalata, and four-hour spit-roasted lamb souvla, along with various delectable vegetarian and fish dishes. Hot and cold mezze include grilled king prawns, traditional Greek avgolemono soup, grilled Cypriot halloumi and baked aubergine stuffed with Mediterranean ragout and crumbled feta.

There is nothing quite like The Elysée for top-notch food, gorgeous surroundings and a feel-good atmosphere, so we suggest you visit this gem to see it for yourself.

Open: Mon-Fri noon-3am; Sat 6pm-3am; Sun 6pm-1am (upstairs restaurant, bar and roof garden only)

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Cast Iron Bar & Grill

Grill

 Location London Marriott Hotel Kensington, 147c Cromwell Road, Kensington, SW5 0TH Earl’s Court t: 020 3151 8301 w: www.londonmarriottkensington.co.uk

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This outstanding restaurant offers a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere to friends, family and colleagues alike. Its stylish, modern decor is smart and refined. The bar is stocked with fine wine and beer, and the easy-going bar area is perfect for everything from quiet drinks to more sociable gatherings before you sit down to dine.

£26 to

£34

The carefully considered lunch and dinner menus change monthly to take advantage of the finest seasonal goods. Dishes are cooked and presented with imagination and immense flair. Chef Kunal Ramtohul is inspired by, and passionate about, only the very best food, and he promotes and adheres to the ethos of ethical sourcing. Under the guidance of Sean Kelly, Marriott’s UK area director of operations, all chefs visit Alec Jarrett’s farm in the West of England – the hotel group’s specialist meat supplier – where each and every portion is cut by hand. Attention to detail sets Marriott chefs and their kitchens apart.

As an appetiser, the hearty beef brisket with home-cooked skillet Yorkshire pudding and horseradish sauce is unsurpassed. Slow-cooked to perfection and superbly presented, its depth of flavour was stunning. A lighter alternative to whet your appetite could be the grilled asparagus and crispy egg. The delicate freshness of the greens combined with the wonderfully flavoursome egg alerts your tastebuds to the fact that the best is yet to come. My main course was a beautifully marbled and wonderfully succulent rib-eye steak. One bite of the exquisitely tender, generously sized serving confirmed everything that I had anticipated: it was vibrant, absolutely delicious and full of rich flavours.

My guest chose the grilled hake on a bed of rocket with broad beans and tomatoes. Its delicate texture and superb composition is testament to chef Kunal’s search for perfection.

Open: Mon-Sat noon-2.30pm, 5.30pm-10pm; Sun noon-2.30pm

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When it comes to puddings, you simply must indulge yourself in the decadent luxuriousness of Cast Iron Bar & Grill’s signature double chocolate brownie.

We shared this outstanding dessert, which ended our meal with a bang.

Offering everything from delightful breakfasts to incomparable lunches and evening meals, Cast Iron Bar & Grill is an exceptional venue at any time of day.

Planet Hollywood

Grill

 Location 57-60 Haymarket, Piccadilly, SW1Y 4QX Piccadilly Circus t: 020 3390 2309 w: www.planethollywoodlondon.com e: london-restaurant@planethollywoodintl.com

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Planet Hollywood is far more than just a restaurant – a truly memorable experience inspired by Hollywood glamour awaits you here. Enter and you’ll discover a world of £20 to fascinating movie memorabilia, with outfits, equipment and models from a multitude £30 of film franchises, including Star Wars, Indiana Jones, James Bond and many more.

The food is of the highest quality and there’s a fantastic assortment to choose from, including delicious pasta, a selection of Oriental dishes, pizzas and salads. To start, the golden-fried Buffalo chicken wings with a spicy coating are a must-try and the gooey five-cheese dip with spinach, artichoke hearts and roasted tomato, served Restaurant Open: with crisp tortilla chips, was simply delicious. For the main event, we couldn’t Mon-Fri 11.30am-midnight; resist trying something from the grill selection – I plumped for the surf and turf, Sat 11am-midnight; with a mouth-watering prime sirloin steak (chargrilled to order), juicy shrimp and Sun 11.30am-11pm crispy fries. My companion’s Mac Attack burger was a real feast, topped with Bar Open: Mon-Fri hickory-smoked bacon, five-cheese 11.30am-1am; Sat 11am-1am; mac and cheese, Cheddar, crispy onion Sun 11.30am-midnight and much more. Warm homemade double-chocolate-chip brownie smothered in chocolate-fudge sauce followed for me, while my fellow diner dived into a rather rich sticky pudding with toffee sauce – we really finished off in style.

For trendy dining in the West End, whether you’re after a pre- or post-theatre meal or are looking to celebrate a special occasion, head to Planet Hollywood.

Manhattan Grill

Steakhouse

 Location London Marriott Hotel Canary Wharf, 22 Hertsmere Road, Canary Wharf, E14 4ED Canary Wharf t: 020 3151 2451 w: www.manhattangrill.co.uk e: info@manhattangrill.co.uk At Manhattan Grill, the dedicated team finds the finest steaks, cooks them to perfection, and serves them with no fuss or gimmicks.

E £25 to

Boasting a modern steakhouse setting overlooking the iconic Canary Wharf quayside, Manhattan Grill offers the ultimate steak experience for hungry meat-lovers. What is it that makes the perfect steak – the breed of cattle? The choice of feed? The way it’s cut? You could talk about it until the bulls come home, so the friendly faces behind Manhattan Grill set off on their very own steak odyssey.

They sampled countless steaks to find the world’s best, and after too many meals to mention, they struck culinary gold, including the wet-aged USDA prime Black Angus from Creekstone in Kansas, and the dry-aged Scottish cuts from Inverurie – the birthplace of the legendary Aberdeen Angus steak. These prime meats are individually cut and freshly cooked on an authentic Montague Broiler in the open kitchen; you’d be hard-pressed to find a tastier steak in the city.

£35

Open: Mon-Fri 6.15am-11am, noon-3pm, 5pm-10.30pm; Sat 7am-11am, 5pm-10.30pm; Sun 7am-11.30am, 5pm-10pm

Executive chef Damian Trejo has a passion for fuss-free food that’s made using quality seasonal ingredients. He inspires his team to deliver the classic steakhouse experience to all of Manhattan Grill’s guests, and certainly succeeds.

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Steakhouse

Omnino

 w: www.omninorestaurants.com Open: Mon-Fri noon-10pm; Sat 5.30pm-10pm Cooking quality meat is an art form at family-run Omnino. The chefs are committed to grilling and settle for nothing less than perfection. The high-end independent Omnino restaurants are synonymous with world-class meat, and each boasts a buzzing atmosphere that draws customers back time and again. The original Leadenhall Street location is a chic Argentine steakhouse, while the St Paul’s sister site has recently taken a step in an exciting new direction as a Brazilian-inspired barbecue restaurant.

Stop by Leadenhall Street and you’ll note that only the highest quality Argentine beef, wagyu, prime US and British beef make the cut and they’re bound to please.

If you fancy sampling a range of cuts, push the boat out and choose the Argentine sampler, which comprises 300g or 500g of rump, sirloin, rib-eye and fillet. For meat-lovers, the Omnino prime collection is one for the hit list – it’s not for the faint-hearted. Otherwise, go for the rib-eye trio: wagyu, prime US and Argentine rib-eye. Sauces take the form of red chimichurri and Béarnaise to name a few.

Make your meal a feast with mouth-watering sides of homemade black truffle gnocchi, and roasted sweet potato with chorizo pincho. There are other items besides steak on the menu such as the corn-fed chicken with sautéed spinach, grilled asparagus and salsa verde, the Omnino burger in a brioche bun served with chips and sea bass with potato purée and roasted cherry tomatoes. The weekly changing vegetarian chef’s choice features consistently tempting options.

The second city-centre venue takes Omnino’s winning recipe of a relaxed atmosphere and top-quality cuisine and adds a unique Brazilian twist. Stop by to enjoy Omnino’s impressive offering of barbecued meats and sumptuous sides, with service inspired

by Brazilian rodizio tradition. The new St Paul’s restaurant is focused on exceptional fare and top-notch service with an efficient and interactive approach to service.

Drinks are given just as much attention as the food. The much-talked-about wine list is filled with quality varieties from around the world and has been carefully curated to suit every palate. Indulge your senses at Omnino in Leadenhall or take a trip to the newly opened Omnino Brazilian Barbecue to see what all the fuss is about.

C £35 to

£50

 Location 78-79 Leadenhall Street, City, EC3A 3DH Aldgate t: 020 3151 8241 e: infoleadenhall@omninorestaurants.com  Location 7-9 St Bride Street, City, EC4A 4AS St Paul’s t: 020 3151 8278 e: infostpauls@omninorestaurants.com

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The Three Stags

Gastropub

 Location 67-69 Kennington Road, Lambeth, SE1 7PZ Lambeth North t: 020 3369 5668 w: www.thethreestags.london e: contact@thethreestags.com

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The Three Stags public house and restaurant is situated opposite the London Imperial War Museum, just a stone’s throw from Waterloo Station. This gastropub is steeped in history and stays true to its roots, maintaining its English heritage. This keeps tourists and loyal locals flooding through the doors at lunchtime and in the evenings, every day throughout the year.

£20 to

£30

‘...steeped in history...’

Inside there are plenty of traditional original features, with a mix of punk art thrown in for good measure. The team is committed to reducing their environmental impact; the venue’s food waste is composted and there are even beehives on the roof that produce the best local urban honey around. The Three Stags was named one of the top seven eco-friendly restaurants in London

by The Culture Trip.

The menu boasts delicious dishes Open: like 40-day-aged grass-fed topside Mon-Sun noon-midnight of Yorkshire beef and Elwy Valley Welsh free-range leg of lamb, in addition to natural nourishing vegan and veggie options made with fresh, seasonal and local ingredients.

The authentic wood-fired pizzas are also a must; they are made daily using the finest grade of flour to create fresh dough that’s hand-stretched and fired to order.

The Jam Tree – Chelsea

Bar & Restaurant

 Location 541 King’s Road, Fulham, SW6 2EB Fulham Broadway t: 020 3151 0951 w: www.thejamtreechelsea.com e: chelsea@thejamtree.com

SW

Whether you’re looking for a delicious weekend brunch, a night of live music, or a chilled evening of drinks with friends, The Jam Tree is delighted to welcome you. Set on the famous King’s Road, this contemporary bar and restaurant is renowned for its fantastic atmosphere – stop by and give it a try.

£13 to

£22

The food selection at The Jam Tree is updated regularly, incorporating as much local produce as possible. The menu lists crispy Buffalo wings and tasty halloumi bites to start, while mains range from a succulent Cajun chicken burger to a nutritious squash, beetroot, roasted chickpea and couscous salad. On Saturday and Sunday, the sumptuous brunch menu never fails to draw a crowd: with dishes such as fluffy American pancakes and a full vegan breakfast on offer, it’s impossible to resist.

Food Served: To accompany your meal, The Jam Tree provides a varied drinks list. Wine Mon-Weds 5pm-10pm; is sourced from all over the Thurs-Sun 11am-10pm world, and there’s a selection of British and European beer as well as a huge array of gin and whisky. Of course, the jewel in The Jam Tree’s crown is their array of cocktails: original creations like the Jam Mojito and the rum and amaretto-based Black Moonshine sit alongside classics including Bloody Marys and Cosmopolitans. There really is something for every palate here.

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Bar & Restaurant

The Poet  Location 55 Baring Street, Islington, N1 3DS Highbury & Islington t: 020 3151 1696 w: www.thepoetofbaringstreet.com

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The Poet is a stylish bar that sits in the heart of Islington. Just a stone’s throw from Shoreditch Park, The Poet boasts a convenient location and is a popular spot with friends meeting for after-work drinks or a relaxed weekend meal.

From Old Street, you can also take the 271 bus route.

£19 to

£31

The food menu comprises a wide selection of tasty dishes. Small plates are perfect for a starter, or for a tasty snack: try the honey and mustard cocktail sausages, the gooey halloumi fries or opt for the barbecue chicken wings with tangy blue cheese mayonnaise. For something heartier, why not order a burger? There’s a succulent beefburger, a Cajun chicken burger and tasty vegetarian burgers to choose from, while other mains include Cumberland sausages with mashed potato, ale-battered haddock and chips, and the amazing Sunday roast is always a hit.

The drinks list at The Poet is similarly varied: guests are offered Open: bottles of wine sourced from all Mon-Sun noon-11pm over the world as well as local beer, a huge array of gin, and various tempting cocktails. On a summer’s day, you could order a jug of Pimm’s to share with your party. For those stopping by on a Friday, there’s a popular live music night and on Thursdays guests can participate in a friendly quiz night.

Bar & Restaurant

The Old Nick  Location 20-22 Sandland Street, Holborn, WC1R 4PZ t: 020 3151 6943 w: www.oldnickholborn.co.uk e: oldnick.london@hall-woodhouse.co.uk

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Holborn

Located in the heart of Holborn, London’s bustling legal and media district, The Old Nick is the sort of pub you wish was your local. Visit on any weeknight £11 and you’ll find the bar packed to the rafters with patrons quenching their thirst to after a long day at the office. Inside, traditional features like dark wood £15 panelling and exposed brickwork are paired with friendly service and a laid-back atmosphere to create a fantastic environment for a post-work pint or a tasty bite to eat.

The pub invites local street food vendors to take up residence in the kitchen on a short-term basis, which keeps the offering fresh and exciting. We visited to sample some of the top-notch fare on offer, and were certainly impressed.

Alongside British favourites like steak and ale pie, fish and chips and a Open: succulent beefburger, we found a selection of German plates. I opted for the Mon-Fri 8.30am-11.30pm Berliner, a hearty bratwurst served Food Served: in a bread roll with fried onions, Mon & Tues noon-3pm; crisp lettuce, cheese and beer Weds-Fri noon-3pm, sauce, bacon and pickles, which 5pm-8pm went down a treat. My partner was just as impressed with his classic currywurst, served atop a pile of chips smothered in curry sauce and topped with crispy onions and sauerkraut – perfectly accompanied by a refreshing pint of Golden Champion ale. *Price range represents the cost of a meal and a drink.

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The Troubadour

Bar & Restaurant

 Location 263-267 Old Brompton Road, Earl’s Court, SW5 9JA Earl’s Court t: 020 3151 1629 w: www.troubadourlondon.com e: info@troubadourlondon.com

C Iconic music venue The Troubadour serves late-night fare along with its fantastic line-up of music seven days a week, and is undeniably an outstanding choice for foodies as well as music lovers. Oozing personality and adorned with memorabilia £25 to of all kinds, the place was buzzing and full to the brim on the Sunday night £30 we visited, complete with a fantastic live jazz band.

Arriving at the tail end of happy hour, we settled in and enjoyed a Bellini each, before kicking off our meal with crispy calamari and a generous plate of sticky halloumi fingers with sweet chilli dipping sauces. The mains followed: a generously portioned rack of slow-cooked beef ribs, served with buttery mash and an array of roasted veg. I also opted for the salad of warm goat’s cheese, which was wrapped in bacon and served on a bed of radicchio, shallot and cherry tomatoes with a white wine vinaigrette. The triumphant dishes thus far were quickly and efficiently served, and we couldn’t resist sharing a warm Open: chocolate brownie with ice cream.

Mon-Weds 9am-midnight; We accompanied our meal with Thurs-Sat 9am-2am; refreshing craft lager and a Sun 9am-12.30am delightful bottled cider.

We lingered, happily chatting over the jazz trio who had taken up in the front room until the pulsating floor indicated that it was time to slip downstairs to see the main band in the club. Top-notch food and great music makes for a thrilling evening time and time again. We will definitely be returning for the weekend jazz brunch.

Shampers

Bar & Restaurant

 Location 4 Kingly Street, Soho, W1B 5PE Piccadilly Circus t: 020 3369 5615 w: www.shampers.net e: simon@shampers.net

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Tucked behind Regent Street in Soho is Shampers, an independent bar and restaurant that has retained its original 1970s feel. The key to the popular spot’s success is its familiar atmosphere and friendly service, which has seen many regulars become friends.

£26 to

£35

Shampers is proud to showcase a wine list that features over 200 varieties from across the world, including organic wine, and there are more than 41 varieties available by the glass. Many of them are hand-picked from small growers, speaking volumes about the quality. There’s also a good range of Champagne, digestifs and whiskies.

The head chef has been at the helm for over 20 years, cooking a range of classic Open: Mon-Sat 11am-11pm British dishes and delicious daily specials, which tend to focus on fresh fish Food Served: and British meats that are delivered to the door daily. Tapas-style dishes can be Mon-Sat noon-11pm enjoyed informally at the bar and table, and the team is more than happy to customise menus to suit diners’ preferences. Quality produce is sourced from trusted suppliers and used in starters like pan-fried squid with chilli and ginger sauce, and main dishes such as grilled venison steak with mash and spinach.

On top of all this, downstairs seats up to 40 people, and is available for private dining. Alternatively, the whole premises can be hired for private parties at the weekend, making Shampers great all round.

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Bar & Restaurant

The Hamptons Bar  Location St James’ Court, 54 Buckingham Gate, Westminster, SW1E 6AF St James’s Park t: 020 3151 6975 w: www.stjamescourthotel.co.uk/dine e: hamptonssjc.london@tajhotels.com Nestled within the splendid St James’ Court hotel, mere minutes from Buckingham Palace, The Hamptons Bar is a picture of understated luxury.

High-backed chairs and dark wood panelling set the tone, while the bar’s gleaming grand piano evokes the cosy ambience of a Manhattan jazz club. The bar boasts live music on a daily basis, ensuring a lively atmosphere every night of the week.

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£15 to

£20

The Hamptons menu covers a wide range of options, from inventive Indian-inspired pizzas to sushi boxes and assorted salads. We were in the mood for sharing and so turned to the tantalising tapas menu, which features dishes from around the globe catering to meat-lovers and vegetarians alike.

The tempura prawns, served with hot garlic sauce and crackers, were Open: Mon-Sun 8am-1am satisfyingly plump and sticky, while the Cajun- and Parmesan-fried chicken bites were crispy, succulent and expertly matched with tangy harissa mayonnaise. Finally, our appetites were well and truly conquered by a plate of richly delicious beef fajitas, spicy and smoky and served with fresh guacamole and sour cream. To round off the evening, my dining partner opted for the sumptuous Earl Grey burnt cream, while I enjoyed a tastebud-tingling trio of sorbets: raspberry, limoncello and gorgeously smooth mango. *Price range represents the cost of a meal and a drink.

Bar & Restaurant

Bistro  Location St James’ Court, 54 Buckingham Gate, Westminster, SW1E 6AF St James’s Park t: 020 3151 6876 w: www.stjamescourthotel.co.uk/dine e: bistrosjc.london@tajhotels.com

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If you find yourself in Westminster looking for relaxed yet classy place for lunch or dinner, look no further than Bistro, a stylish venue situated within the lauded St James’ Court hotel. to £40 There are two enticing lunchtime menus to choose from. The Global Bento express lunch menu offers a choice of six international three-course meal selections, which many of our fellow diners were enjoying when we visited. We opted for the tempting set menu, which presents a choice of three starters, three mains and two desserts and changes with the seasons. My starter of prawn tempura was wonderfully light and came with a spicy baby gem salad, samphire and sharp pickled ginger.

My wife opted for the Indian samosa chaat – Bistro’s take on Indian street food – accompanied by a fresh onion, tomato and coriander chutney. Crispy vermicelli Open: Mon-Fri 6am-11am, gave the dish a satisfying crunch. My partner’s main of chicken tikka masala noon-10.30pm; was superbly spiced, and my more Sat & Sun 6am-11.30am, traditional grilled salmon came with noon-10.30pm creamed potato, seasonal vegetables and a creamy caper sauce. An Earl Grey Cambridge burnt cream and sticky toffee pudding with clotted cream rounded off a superb meal.

During the daytime Bistro is a bright and serene setting in which to dine, while at night the restaurant provides the perfect ambience for a romantic dinner à deux. If you’ve been exploring the city all day, there’s no better place to relax and enjoy superb meal. £26

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0844 625 5679 Axminster, Devon

Bar & Restaurant

Cat & Mutton

 Location 76 Broadway Market, Hackney, E8 4QJ London Fields t: 020 3151 6893 w: www.catandmutton.com E Set in the heart of bustling East London, Cat & Mutton has everything you could ask for from a traditional English pub: a lively and welcoming atmosphere, great drinks and a hearty menu of tasty pub grub. £17 to Step inside and be greeted by a gorgeous, antique-style interior, complete £28 with comfy leather seating, quirky artwork and a winding spiral staircase that leads to the first-floor cocktail bar. The outdoor seating, which overlooks London Fields, is always bustling too; it’s the perfect spot for drinks on a sunny afternoon.

The bar at Cat & Mutton is impressively stocked with a great range of beer – including local craft ale – cider, lager and fine wine. The cocktails list incorporates a tempting array of traditional favourites – think Bloody Mary, Mojito and Long Island Iced Tea – as well as more unusual creations like the Lavender Open: Mon noon-11pm; Clover Club and the Bee Sting.

Tues-Thurs noon-midnight; The food menu is similarly varied, Fri noon-1am; encompassing trusty classics Sat 10am-1am; such as rich steak and ale pie Sun noon-11.30pm slow-roasted lamb shoulder and a succulent beefburger, as well as light bites and vegan options – the Moving Mountains burger is irresistible. On Sundays, the offering expands to include mouth-watering lunchtime roasts: choose from succulent sirloin beef, roast chicken, pork belly, a vegetarian Wellington and a flavoursome vegan pie.

Bar & Restaurant

Waxy O’Connor’s

 Location 14-16 Rupert Street, Soho, W1D 6DD Picadilly Circus t: 020 3369 5673 w: www.waxyoconnors.co.uk/london e: london@waxyoconnors.co.uk Guests receive a warm Irish welcome at Waxy O’Connor’s – London’s biggest Irish bar located in the heart of the West End. Waxy O’Connor’s is a labyrinth £18 to of four unique bars spread out over six levels, each with its own atmosphere, £25 so there’s something for everyone to be found here. Named after the famous candlemaker from Dublin, Waxy’s has gained worldwide recognition for its warm hospitality, friendly staff, traditional homemade dishes and extensive range of beer, spirits and coffee – it’s no wonder it was named Irish Pub of the Year in the UK at the Irish Pubs Global Awards.

With live music four nights a week, including traditional Irish sessions every Sunday night from 8.30pm, you couldn’t ask for a more lively environment.

There are three large screens showing all major sporting events, including the Open: GAA, rugby and football. You can book a table for drinks and dinner or simply Mon-Thurs noon-11.30pm; walk in. You can even hire a private Fri & Sat noon-midnight; area with your very own bar, so Sun noon-11pm if you’ve got a birthday, leaving party or Christmas celebration coming up, get in touch with the team. Waxy’s offers set menus and buffet options as well as bar food.

There’s always something going on at this lively bar and restaurant.

Waxy’s hosts celebrations for New Year, Australia Day, National Irish Coffee Day and Halloween. This year, why not celebrate St Patrick’s Day the Waxy’s way?

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Humble Grape

Bar & Restaurant

 w: www.humblegrape.co.uk Humble Grape, an independent London wine merchant, wine bar and restaurant, occupies four venues across the city, with a fifth site open in Canary Wharf as of summer 2019. Each site boasts a similar rustic interior and warm atmosphere, and over 400 wines to choose from.

First and foremost, Humble Grape is an endlessly welcoming space where guests can enjoy the finest wine at reasonable prices. Those less familiar with the world of wine can be sure of an inclusive, easy-going atmosphere, and knowledgeable, charming and down-to-earth staff. Wine is imported directly from independent and sustainable producers, all of whom are very friendly with the Humble Grape team, and provide training to the staff directly.

Each site’s food offering differs to reflect the head chefs’ individual flair, yet all are united by the theme of social eating. You’ll find a tempting mix of small plates and sharing platters, which pair perfectly with the wine list. Some dishes change weekly, yet the firm favourites remain to be enjoyed time and time again – such as the baked Camembert, which you can choose to garnish with honey and hazelnut, garlic and rosemary, or cranberry, Port and thyme. All are equally delectable and served with homemade bread. The weekend brunch is not to be missed, and includes the likes of buttermilk pancakes and warm banana bread with maple-caramelised banana and mascarpone for the sweet-toothed, alongside a selection of traditional and modern savoury options such as eggs Benedict and smashed avocado on toast.

After experiencing the unrivalled selection of wine, outstanding food and warmth of the team, you’re sure to be planning your return before you’ve even left.

S C N E £22 to

£38

 Location 2 Battersea Rise, Battersea, SW11 1ED Clapham Junction t: 020 3151 2152 e: battersea@humblegrape.co.uk Open: Mon-Weds 4pm-11pm; Thurs noon-11pm; Fri & Sat 11am-midnight; Sun 11am-10pm  Location 1 St Bride’s Passage, City, EC4Y 8EJ Blackfriars t: 020 3151 2196 e: stbrides@humblegrape.co.uk Open: Mon-Weds 7.30am-11pm; Thurs & Fri 7.30am-midnight  Location 8 Devonshire Row, City, EC2M 4RH Liverpool Street t: 020 3151 2419 e: devonshirerow@humblegrape.co.uk Open: Mon-Weds noon-11pm; Thurs & Fri noon-midnight  Location 11-13 Theberton Street, Islington, N1 0QY Angel t: 020 3151 2306 e: islington@humblegrape.co.uk Open: Mon-Thurs 4pm-11pm; Fri noon-midnight; Sat 11am-midnight; Sun 11am-10pm  Location 18-20 Mackenzie Walk, Canary Wharf, E14 4PH Canary Wharf t: 020 3151 2441 e: canary@humblegrape.co.uk Open: Mon-Sun 7.30am-midnight

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Bar & Restaurant

The Belle Vue  Location 1 Clapham Common South Side, Clapham, SW4 7AA Clapham Common t: 020 3151 8056 w: www.bellevueclapham.com

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Situated across the road from Clapham Common tube station, The Belle Vue is a fantastic community hub. Whether you’re stopping by for a pint after work, popping in for the Tuesday quiz night, or enjoying a lively evening out on Friday or Saturday, you can be certain of a friendly and inviting welcome.

£17 to

£27

The bar at The Belle Vue has something for everyone, with a fantastic collection of craft and draught beer sourced from all over the world, fine wine and refreshing British cider. During the day, the bustling bar area transforms into a relaxed and airy space that’s perfect for a casual coffee.

Those feeling peckish will be delighted to find a varied food menu at The Belle Vue. The selection includes an array of gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options as well as tasty classics. If you fancy something light, opt for a small plate: choices range from Padrón peppers to buttermilk-fried squid and you can order three to share for just £15. For heartier appetites, mains like beer-battered fish and chips and gooey macaroni cheese are unmissable, and the vegan Moving Mountains burger is an incredibly popular option too. Every Wednesday sees a very popular vegan night where all plant-based dishes are half price. Popping by on Sunday? Be sure to sample the roast lunch – you’ll find delicious plant-based options on offer alongside more traditional dishes.

Open: Mon-Weds noon-11pm; Thurs noon-midnight; Fri & Sat noon-1am; Sun noon-10.30pm

Bar & Restaurant

Star & Garter

 Location 4 Lower Richmond Road, Putney, SW15 1JN Putney Bridge t: 020 3151 6801 w: www.thestarandgarter.com e: events@thestarandgarter.com Located along the banks of the River Thames overlooking Putney Bridge, the Star & Garter has been gratifying guests for over 140 years. This could be down to the favourable service, feel-good vibe, great location or excellent range of £10 drinks, all of which draw people back time and again. to £15 The bar staff are devotees of the perfect gin and tonic, as indicated in the gin menu, which is split into spicy, floral, citrus and herbaceous gins. There are over 100 different varieties to work your way through, each with handmade * garnishes. Members of The Putney Gin Club can take advantage of exclusive special offers, monthly tastings and much more. If this is your tipple of choice, look out for the gin events taking place every month.

Sophisticated yet unpretentious cheese and charcuterie boards are served in the main bar until 10pm every day, and there’s a larger selection of menus for private functions. Artisan cheese and charcuterie platters, featuring meats Food Served: from Italy, Spain and France, go Mon-Fri 5pm-9pm; hand in hand with a glass of wine.

Sat & Sun noon-9pm Guests are truly spoilt for choice with over 60 varieties including British wine. Corporate events and weddings are the friendly team’s forte; make sure you chat to them about private hire of the ballroom, which boasts lovely views across the water. With attention to detail and a passion for quality, the Star & Garter really shines. *Disabled facilities in the main bar only.

SW

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London Guide 2019

Silk & Grain

Bar & Restaurant

 Location 33 Cornhill, City, EC3V 3ND Bank t: 020 3369 5618 w: www.silkandgrain.co.uk e: reservations@silkandgrain.co.uk

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Located in the heart of the city, Silk & Grain is an independently run steak restaurant serving top-quality 35-day-aged steak in a variety of different cuts.

These range from Tomahawk and Porterhouse, to Chateaubriand and many more. All of the steaks are sourced from accredited farms by master butcher John Gilmour – an independent family-run butcher’s based in the Scottish Borders, specialising in the supply of the top one per cent of Scottish beef, renowned for its full flavour and tenderness.

£30 to

£45

‘...top-quality 35-day-aged steak...’

The wine list is specially designed to complement the variety of food on the menu and boasts grapes from all over the world. The mezzanine area is a fantastic space for you to sample the dishes in an inviting restaurant, or equally, Open: Mon-Fri noon-late the vibrant bar area is ideal for casual dining and great cocktails and drinks, including the famous and widely loved on-site barrel-aged Negroni.

The restaurant is located two minutes away from Bank station on Cornhill. It’s the perfect place for a variety of events, including business meetings, networking, sit-down lunches, dinner, drinks parties and canapé receptions. The friendly staff will make sure your event is one to remember and are happy to discuss availability for weekend hire upon request.

Tell Your Friends

Bar & Restaurant

 Location 175 New King’s Road, Fulham, SW6 4SW Parsons Green t: 020 3151 6652 w: www.tellyourfriendsldn.com e: info@tellyourfriendsldn.com Boasting a sleek and modern aesthetic, Tell Your Friends is a vegan bar and kitchen set in the heart of south-west London. Inside this relaxed retreat, you’ll find a menu brimming with plant-based treats, offering everything from healthy salads and light bites to indulgent comfort food. Whether you’re vegan or not, there’s a dish for you.

SW £18 to

£26

The team focuses on using ethically sourced produce to create their tasty plates, so you can rest assured that whatever you choose to sample will be of the highest quality. Why not start your day with a tasty brunch? Served until 4pm at weekends, options include the likes of a vegan full English, smashed avocado on toast, and fluffy Scotch pancakes with a choice of dark chocolate spread or fresh berries and yoghurt. If you’re stopping by for lunch or dinner, the main menu has you covered.

Open: Mon-Fri 10am-10pm; Start with cashew cream mac and Sat 10am-4pm, 5pm-10pm; cheese before enjoying a delicious Sun 10am-7pm main such as smoked tofu stir-fry or mouth-watering beetroot, caramelised onion and peanut burger.

At the weekends, Tell Your Friends serves a popular vegan Sunday roast. Bring the whole family and choose from lentil loaf, seitan loaf or stuffed Portobello mushroom. Each is served with freshly prepared sides of roasted vegetables, cauliflower cheese, Yorkshire puddings and gravy.

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Bar & Restaurant

Battersea Power Station Location Circus West Village, Battersea, SW11 8AH w: www.batterseapowerstation.co.uk/retailers

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Battersea Park

The first chapter of Battersea Power Station’s development is open and fast becoming London’s most exciting riverside destination. Circus West Village at the foot of the iconic Power Station boasts an unrivalled mix of independent and design-led bars, restaurants and shops.

£25 to

£50

Wright Brothers occupies a prime riverside spot, and offers only the freshest, fish dishes, platters and oysters from around the British Isles. Produce is sourced directly from the company’s own wholesale market at Billingsgate. The restaurant features clean, modern decor with striking artwork. When the sun comes out, head to the outdoor terrace for stunning views.

Battersea Brewery is a must-visit haunt for any craft beer-enthusiast, and boasts an on-site taproom where you can always try something new. A selection of sharing plates, charcuterie, British cheese, small bites and toasties accompany the broad selection of beer. Graze away as you admire the vibrant artwork, chrome tanks and pipes that surround the spacious interior.

If you’re looking for somewhere to rest and refuel, why not stop in at The CoffeeWorks Project? The team offers a warm and friendly welcome, and you can expect to find delicious speciality coffee, tea, sweet treats and tasty lunchtime dishes at this independent family-run coffee house.

Modern Italian eatery Fiume, which means river, sits in a prime location overlooking the Thames. Fronted by talented head chef Francesco Mazzei, this dazzling eatery boasts the likes of spaghetti alla chitarra, blue lobster and pesto lasagne and tempting Roman-style pinsa pizza. In the summer, take a seat on the contemporary piazza, complete with lemon and olive trees.

Open: Mon-Sun 9am-midnight (hours vary, please see website for details)

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Tapas Brindisa boasts over 30 years’ experience crafting authentic Spanish food. Evoking a true sense of Spanish culture, only the finest ingredients are used to craft the authentic, seasonal tapas menu. Dogs are welcome in the bar which overlooks the river, and a cosy private dining area with its own kitchen is available to hire.

Ramen-fans will be delighted with Tonkotsu’s outstanding offering. Named after the kind of ramen served in Japan’s most southern island, Kyushu, this

forward-thinking restaurant focuses on attention to detail. The team’s signature slow-cooked broth is prepared over 16 hours, creating an unforgettable base for each dish. The menu features the likes of mouth-watering gyoza, a wide range of ramen bowls and tempting puddings.

Fresh from the success of their flagship pizza restaurant in Copenhagen, the team behind Mother has brought their highly lauded pizza to Battersea. The first international venture represents the Mother team’s ethos of making everything from scratch where possible, so you can expect to enjoy the team’s very own mozzarella, wine and beer, along with their signature seawater sourdough bases.

One of London’s most revered modern Indian restaurants, Cinnamon Kitchen brings contemporary cuisine to a unique railway arch at Battersea Power Station.

The urban-inspired decor and sleek design makes this the perfect place to enjoy first-class dining and cocktails. Award-winning chef Vivek Singh’s seasonal fare is available for brunch, lunch and dinner, and the tasting menu never fails to impress.

Rare wine from around the world, a relaxed and effortlessly sophisticated setting, and a wonderful range of small plates make Vagabond’s urban winery and kitchen the perfect place for a laid-back evening meal, an introduction to wine-tasting, fun masterclass or private event. Vagabond English wine is available alongside a 100-strong collection from indie winemakers.

Satisfying your need for a relaxed, all-day pub dining experience, No. 29 Power Station West is Circus West Village’s local pub. Part of the Darwin & Wallace collection, the contemporary, minimal pub offers something for everyone. Expect an extensive bill of top-quality drinks and locally sourced food with influences from around the world.

‘...design-led bars, restaurants and shops...’

Circus West Village is the perfect place to while away the day. For more information about the varied and exciting enterprises it houses, be sure to visit the Battersea Power Station website. Wright Brothers t: 020 3151 3493Battersea Brewery t: 020 3151 3496Fiume t: 020 3151 3498 Tapas Brindisa t: 020 3151 3540 Tonkotsu t: 020 3151 3525 Mother t: 020 3151 3546 Cinnamon Kitchen t: 020 3151 3526 Vagabond t: 020 3151 3522 No. 29 Power Station West t: 020 3151 3562

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Bar & Restaurant

The Jam Tree – Clapham  Location 13-19 Old Town, Clapham, SW4 0JT Clapham Common t: 020 3151 1702 w: www.thejamtreeclapham.com e: clapham@thejamtree.com

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Nestled amongst Clapham’s Old Town community and situated across from the famous Common, The Jam Tree is a venue with many strings to its bow. This iconic venue boasts two spacious rooms and a gorgeous secret garden, providing the £22 to ultimate backdrop to any occasion, and hosts an eclectic array of events throughout £28 the year. Be it a celebration with over 100 guests and a DJ, a hen party to top all hen parties, the wedding reception of your dreams, or a date to remember, The Jam Tree has you covered. As well as serving great food throughout the week, The Jam Tree becomes a vibrant bar in the evenings with live music and DJ sets on weekends.

The team prides itself on providing an exquisite selection of fresh menus, innovative cocktails and vintage wine. Perhaps you’ll stop by for brunch and Open: enjoy Burford Brown eggs with sourdough toast and your choice of Benedict, Mon-Thurs 5pm-midnight; Royal and Florentine accoutrements. Alternatively, tuck into huevos rancheros, or Fri-Sun 10am-midnight waffles with jerk chicken, bacon, a fried egg and maple syrup. Come lunchtime or dinner, you can choose from a range of small plates such as pan-fried chorizo with red wine, honey and mustard or halloumi chips with sriracha and dukkah. For a heartier option tuck into a steak straight from the grill or a vegan Moving Mountains burger with a choice of plant-based toppings, including cheese, bacon, and barbecue pulled jackfruit. The team ensures produce is locally sourced where possible and always has a great selection of vegan and veggie options on offer – why not stop by and see for yourself?

Bar & Restaurant

Zerodegrees  Location 29-31 Montpelier Vale, Blackheath, Greenwich, SE3 0TJ Blackheath t: 020 3390 0546 w: www.zerodegrees.co.uk e: blackheath@zerodegrees.co.uk

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Most restaurants don’t serve fresh beer that comes directly from the brewing tanks, but then most restaurants aren’t Zerodegrees. A combination of a microbrewery, multiple-award-winning pizza place and seafood restaurant, with a healthy dose of the bold and imaginative on the menu, Zerodegrees has been ploughing its own distinctive furrow since 2000.

£18 to

£22

Set back from the road on the southern edge of lovely, leafy Blackheath, it doesn’t appear grand from the outside, but step inside and you’ll find that it opens up like the proverbial Aladdin’s cave to offer more than enough space for any sized group to enjoy themselves, while retaining a sense of intimacy missing from many larger venues. I did mention the microbrewery didn’t I? Taking pride of place in the centre of the restaurant, you can actually watch the beer being made while you dine, and trace the progress from tank to pump.

Open: Mon-Sat This means it’s the freshest beer noon-midnight; you’ll find and there’s no need to Sun noon-11pm pasteurise or add preservatives – whether you choose a Pilsner, pale ale, wheat ale or other speciality brews, the beer is flavoursome and pure. Make sure you try the mango beer – there’s nothing like it anywhere else. These beers match perfectly with everything on the menu, from the kilo pots of mussels to the PAPA award-winning pizza and pasta dishes, making Zerodegrees a beer- and food-lover’s paradise.

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London Guide 2019

Burger & Lobster

Bar & Restaurant

 w: www.burgerandlobster.com As soon as you step into Burger & Lobster in the beautiful Harvey Nichols, Knightsbridge, you’ll be blown away. The open-plan restaurant mirrors the fun and relaxed dining experience and the ambience was buzzing throughout our visit.

My dining partner and I were greeted by a welcoming hostess who seated us in a cosy and quiet corner of the restaurant. We had the perfect view of the busy bar and kitchen, so were able to watch the bar staff make our delicious cocktails.

My Lobstar Martini was fresh and punchy, and my partner’s barrel-aged Old Fashioned was equally impressive.

We started with crispy calamari, served with lemon mayonnaise and spicy tomato dip, along with perfectly executed prawn and lobster croquettes. Although the menu is small, it is definitely not limited – all dishes have been crafted to perfection. I chose the 1.5lb lobster and was given the option to have it half grilled and half steamed. The waitress was incredibly diligent and clearly very experienced as she provided us with a detailed explanation of all the options. My partner was impressed with his 10oz Nebraskan beefburger. Both of our dishes were served with fries and a tasty side salad topped with Parmesan and balsamic.

We also added truffle mayo – a rich and heavenly accompaniment. Despite being completely satisfied from the first two courses, we couldn’t resist a dessert to share. The classic New York cheesecake had a fruity, berry compote drizzled over it.

Burger & Lobster has nine locations all over London, so no matter where you are in the city you won’t be far from a delicious meal, and an upcoming new menu offers plenty of choice to returning fans. The food, drinks and service were all exceptional – a visit is a must.

C E £24 to

£50

 Location 36-38 Dean Street, Soho, W1D 4PS Tottenham Court Road t: 020 3151 6276  Location 29 Clarges Street, Mayfair, W1J 7EF Green Park t: 020 3151 6671  Location 1 Bread Street, City, EC4M 9BE Mansion House t: 020 3151 6274  Location 6 Little Portland Street, Fitzrovia, W1W 7JE Oxford Circus t: 020 3151 6284  Location 26 Binney Street, Mayfair, W1K 5BL Bond Street t: 020 3151 6256  Location Fifth Floor Harvey Nichols, 109-125 Knightsbridge, Belgravia, SW1X 7RJ Knightsbridge t: 020 3151 6283  Location 10 Wardour Street, City, W1D 6BZ Piccadilly Circus t: 020 3151 6429  Location 52 Threadneedle Street, City, EC2R 8AY Bank t: 020 3151 6257  Location Hertsmere Road, Tower Hamlets, E14 4AY Canary Wharf t: 020 3151 6372 Open: Mon-Thurs noon-10.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-11pm; Sun noon-10pm

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Bar & Restaurant

The Banker

 Location Cousin Lane, City, EC4R 3TE Bank t: 020 3369 5693 w: www.banker-london.co.uk e: banker@fullers.co.uk Occupying a picturesque spot on the riverside between London Bridge and Southwark Bridge, The Banker is a fantastic destination for a relaxed drink or a bite to eat. When the weather is fair, head outside to the terrace and enjoy al fresco food and drinks with exceptional views of the Thames. The pub’s prime location makes it an ideal place for a quick drink and something tasty to eat before wandering down to St Paul’s Cathedral, or popping across the river to the nearby Globe Theatre and Tate Modern. For a leisurely evening meal opt for the grazing board, comprising butternut squash arancini, hummus, focaccia, sweet potato fritters and olives. Of course, a visit to The Banker isn’t complete without sampling its famed rotisserie chicken – pair with a delicious side such as quinoa with fennel, courgette, lime, sultanas and herbs for a dish that’s sure to satisfy.

C £17 to

£24

Open: Mon 11am-10pm; Tues-Fri 11am-11pm; Sat noon-8pm

Witch Café

Café

 Location 49 High Road, Willesden, NW10 2TE Willesden Green t: 020 3151 8302 w: www.witchcafe.co.uk e: contact@witchcafe.co.uk Located just five minutes’ walk from Willesden Green tube station, Witch Café is an independent eatery offering freshly brewed tea and coffee, homemade food and a welcoming atmosphere. Every Brit knows that there’s nothing better than a slice of cake and a cup of tea and at Witch Café this philosophy is held in high regard. Cakes are freshly baked in the shop every morning and there’s always something new to try, whether it’s a rich chocolate cake or a more adventurous spinach cake with whipped cream and strawberries. If you’re stopping by for breakfast, why not try a refreshing smoothie? Alternatively, perhaps you’ll opt for a hearty bowl of porridge. For those looking for something savoury, a freshly made sandwich is guaranteed to satisfy: fillings range from Brie with caramelised onions and kale to turkey bacon with lettuce, tomato, egg and avocado. *Price range represents the cost of a drink and a snack.

NW

*

£5 to

£9

Open: Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm; Sat & Sun 10am-5pm

Hilliard

Café

 Location 26a Tudor Street, Blackfriars, EC4Y 0AY Blackfriars t: 020 3390 0698 w: www.hilliardfood.co.uk e: frances@hilliardfood.co.uk Almost midway between Blackfriars and Temple you’ll find Hilliard: a small, bustling café. The doors open at 7am, with a breakfast selection that includes bacon sandwiches, eggs prepared to order until 10am, artisanal toast with England Preserve jams, porridge, granola with yoghurt, and a range of homemade pastries – the cinnamon buns get my personal recommendation. There is Hilliard’s fantastic blend of organic coffee from Liberty Coffee Co. and the lunch menu changes daily with soups, a daily hot dish, specials, salads, sandwiches and quiches, in addition to a range of sweet treats – think homemade cakes and biscuits, banana loaf and gooey brownies. Whole cakes are also available to order, and be sure to ask about business catering and private hire. Hilliards is licensed and provides a short wine list, with options served by the glass.

C £12 to

£18

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London Guide 2019

Café in the Crypt

Café

 Location St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, St James’s, WC2N 4JH Charing Cross t: 020 7766 1158 w: www.smitf.org e: cafe@smitf.org

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Head to the northeast corner of Trafalgar Square, to the historic church of St Martin-in-the-Fields, and you’ll discover London’s hidden café. The church dates back to 1726 and Café in the Crypt, which has been a firm favourite with Londoners for the last 30 years, is located downstairs. Its original Georgian architecture, with brick-vaulted ceilings and ancient tombstones lining the floor, sets the scene for a unique dining experience, but don’t worry, there are no longer bodies in the crypt.

£14 to

£19

The menu includes breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, all served in an assisted buffet style. The chefs use local ingredients to prepare sumptuous British classics with a twist.

We visited on a Friday, so fish and chips were a must but there are also vegetarian and gluten-free options, including hot main courses, salad plates Open: Mon & Tues and sandwiches. For dessert, we 10am-8pm; couldn’t resist the apple crumble Weds 10am-10.30pm; with lashings of custard. It was Thurs-Sat 10am-9pm; difficult choosing between the Sun 11am-6pm crumble and the range of delicious cakes made by the café’s in-house patisserie chef. What’s more, Café in the Crypt is a social enterprise, so all of the profits are ploughed back into St Martin’s to maintain the listed building and run its community programmes.

St Stephen’s Tavern  Location 10 Bridge Street, Westminster, SW1A 2JR t: 020 3151 6956 w: www.ststephenstavern.co.uk e: ststephenstavern.london@hall-woodhouse.co.uk

Traditional Westminster C

Set next to the Houses of Parliament just across the road from Big Ben, St Stephen’s Tavern is a popular haunt among politicians and was once frequented by the likes of Winston Churchill and Harold Macmillan. As my partner and I arrived, we kept our eyes peeled for famous faces.

£23 to

£30

Inside, the classic decor made it clear that we were in for a quintessential British pub experience. We eagerly made our way upstairs to the dining room and settled in with our drinks – a pint of award-winning Tangle Foot beer for me and a glass of chilled chenin blanc for my partner. My meal began with a homemade pork pie with piccalilli – a feast of traditional English flavours – while my vegetarian partner sampled the pitta with hummus and Open: tzatziki. The list of mains includes hand-battered fish and chips, slow-cooked Mon-Sat 10am-11.30pm; pork belly, and a squash and Sun 10am-10.30pm chickpea burger and we were Food Served: thrilled by the huge range of Mon-Sun 10am-10pm choice. I chose the sticky beef short-rib with sweet potato fries and my husband opted for a delicious Thai red vegetable curry. We couldn’t resist a dessert to finish and decided to share a helping of mouth-watering sticky toffee pudding. Having enjoyed excellent food, amiable service and high-quality drinks, we’re both looking forward to a return visit soon.

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Traditional

Hung, Drawn & Quartered

 Location 26-27 Great Tower Street, City, EC3R 5AQ Tower Hill t: 020 3151 1374 w: www.hung-drawn-and-quartered.co.uk e: hungdrawnandquartered@fullers.co.uk

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Set in the heart of London, Hung, Drawn & Quartered is just a few minutes’ walk from the famous Tower of London. Inside, the decor reflects the pub’s historic surroundings: portraits of past British monarchs adorn the walls, chandeliers hang from the ceilings and intricate cornicing adds to a sense of grandeur. All the while, the eatery retains a cosy and welcoming feel that draws in tourists, couples and families alike. Hung, Drawn & Quartered specialises in crafting mouth-watering pies. Each one is freshly made with the kitchen’s homemade pastry and fillings range from slow-cooked lamb, apricot, red wine and mint to spicy chicken madras.

If you can’t decide, you can even order a trio of miniature pies. Other mains include Thai fishcakes, a classic ploughman’s platter and a juicy beefburger.

Combine your food with a pint of real ale or a tasty English cider for the full effect.

£21 to

£30

Open: Mon-Fri 11am-11pm; Sat noon-11pm; Sun noon-6pm Traditional

The Inn of Court

 Location 18 Holborn, City, EC1N 2LE Chancery Lane t: 020 3151 1618 w: www.innofcourt.co.uk e: innofcourt@fullers.co.uk Just a couple of minutes’ walk from Chancery Lane tube station, The Inn of Court occupies a central spot in the capital, just a short walk from the National Gallery and the Museum of London. The bar at this traditional inn stocks an impressive array of drinks: there’s six different high-quality ales, as well as lager, beer and wine sourced from all over the world. The atmosphere in the adjacent dining area is sophisticated but relaxed: wooden beams and panelling give the room an olde-worlde feel while also creating a sense of cosiness. When it comes to food, the offering is second to none. The Inn of Court specialises in the age-old combination of ale and homemade pie, but the menu also showcases tasty plates such as battered haddock and chips, juicy steak and spicy black bean burger with vegan coleslaw. Stop by and try it for yourself.

C £21 to

£28

Open: Mon-Fri 11am-11pm; Sat noon-11pm Traditional

The Sanctuary House Hotel

 Location 33 Tothill Street, Westminster, SW1H 9LA t: 020 3369 5611 w: www.sanctuaryhousehotel.co.uk e: sanctuaryhousereception@fullers.co.uk

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St James’s Park

Residing on iconic Tothill Street, the oldest street in Westminster, you’ll find the historic Sanctuary House Hotel. This attractive hotel and pub is a purveyor of exquisite handmade pies featuring flaky shortcrust pastry, delicious fillings, creamy mashed potato and rich gravy. Stand-out options include the stargazey pie, made with fresh salmon and prawns cooked in creamy parsley sauce with bacon, quail’s eggs and seasonal greens. There’s also a selection of pub classics and lighter bites to take your fancy. Pair your dish of choice with a pint of Fuller’s ale – perhaps Oliver’s Island or Frontier. If beer isn’t your tipple of choice, the extensive wine list and excellent range of spirits on offer are definitely worth exploring. On a chilly day, settle in with a cup of rich Brewers coffee, perhaps accompanied by an indulgent helping of apple pie with a side of crème anglaise.

£20 to

£25

Open: Mon-Fri 7am-11pm; Sat 8am-11pm; Sun 8am-10.30pm 54

London Guide 2019

The Ship & Shovell  Location 1-3 Craven Passage, Charing Cross, WC2N 5PH t: 020 3151 6807 w: www.shipandshovell.co.uk e: shipshovell.charingcross@hall-woodhouse.co.uk

Traditional Charing Cross C

The Ship & Shovell is a truly unique venue. Dating back to the 1730s, this traditional pub is split into two halves connected by a tunnel that travels £18 to underneath Craven Passage. Inside, the cosy space is traditionally decorated £24 and boasts a relaxed, jovial atmosphere.

We approached the bar and were delighted to find a huge variety of drinks including lager, cider, wine and spirits – the selection of local and regional gins was especially impressive. The bartender recommended Hall & Woodhouse’s own Badger Best beer, which is brewed in Dorset, and both my partner and I enjoyed its refreshing flavour.

Having taken a seat, we perused the food menu. Small plates like spicy meatballs and salt and pepper squid were almost irresistible, but in the end we opted to share a plate of hot wings, which Open: Mon-Sat 11am-11pm came with a flavoursome blue Food Served: Mon-Fri cheese dip. For my main, I decided on the pork and herb bangers noon-3.30pm; Sat noon-4pm and mash. The potatoes were beautifully buttery, complemented perfectly by the rich gravy. My companion sampled the vegetarian macaroni cheese, which was deliciously gooey and came with homemade garlic bread. The Ship & Shovell offers a classic British pub experience in an interesting and charming setting; it’s a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.

North By Northwest

Traditional

 Location New North Road, Islington, N1 7BJ Angel t: 020 3151 6865 w: www.northbynorthwestpub.com e: northxnorthwest190@gmail.com

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Set in the heart of North London is an eatery unlike any other. Adorned with paraphernalia from films such as Lifeboat, Notorious and Rear Window, North By Northwest is a Hitchcock-themed bar offering visitors a vibrant and fascinating setting in which to socialise. Whether you’re stopping by for drinks or dining out, North By Northwest promises every visitor a memorable experience – and it’s perfect for those Instagram shots.

£16 to

£27

Take a seat, being sure to notice the eerie stuffed birds adorning the lightshades above you, and order some drinks. The range includes local craft beer, real ale, cider and wine sourced from all over the world – you can be sure there will be something to suit your tastes.

If you’re ordering from the food menu, you’re in for a treat. North By Northwest is renowned for its tasty homemade fare and the menu focuses on Open: Mon-Thurs 4pm-11pm; traditional British dishes. Sample Fri & Sat noon-11pm; the spicy Cajun chicken wings to Sun noon-10.30pm start, before ordering a homemade Food Served: stone-baked pizza for your main, Mon-Sun noon-10pm or opt for some traditional honey and mustard sausages followed by a juicy burger or a classic dish of beer-battered fish and chunky chips. On Sundays, the team also hosts an impressive Sunday lunch where guests can take their pick of succulent meats, a delicious vegetarian option, and tasty trimmings.

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Traditional

The Ship

 Location 68 Borough Road, Southwark, SE1 1DX Borough t: 020 3369 5617 w: www.shipborough.co.uk e: ship.se1@fullers.co.uk

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With its delightful hidden beer garden, The Ship is one of the best Southwark venues to visit during the summertime, when you can catch up with friends over a refreshing drink in the sun. Come winter it’s just as appealing, with its quintessential traditional pub atmosphere and cosy interior. Offering tasty home-cooked food and a wide range of drinks including seasonal ale and craft beer, The Ship covers all bases. Why not stop by for a game of darts and a pint of London Pride with a friend? In the evenings, the buzzy atmosphere and close proximity to the Ministry of Sound make this pub the place to be.

Those dining can choose from a menu of tasty dishes like vegan chilli, spinach and mushroom lasagne and Frontier-battered cod and chips. The Ship also has a tasty range of sandwiches for those seeking a satisfying express lunch.

£18 to

£20

Open: Mon-Thurs noon-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm

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London Guide 2019

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The Enterprise

Traditional

 Location 38 Red Lion Street, Holborn, WC1R 4PN Holborn t: 020 3390 0562 w: www.the-enterprise.co.uk e: nick@the-enterprise.co.uk

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The Enterprise is a wonderful watering hole, which dates back to the Victorian period and captivates those who visit with its blend of original features, home-cooked fare and appealing atmosphere. The pub’s quirky yet elegant interior of ceramic tiles, wooden floorboards and glimmering mirrors set against the radiating glow of the hanging lamps paints an alluring picture.

£16 to

£19

The welcoming ambience draws in hordes of appreciative regulars who stop by for a tipple and a bite to eat. Guests can take their chosen beverage to the beer garden and soak up the rays in summer or cosy up under the beaming lights when winter hits.

Wholesome, homemade English and Continental dishes appear on the lunch menu, and come evening, the menu is a combination of mezze and tapas – the perfect accompaniment to the selection of beer, Cask Marque-accredited real ale and cider on offer. Carefully Open: Mon-Weds noon-11pm; selected produce from suppliers Thurs-Sat noon-midnight the team knows and trusts, such as McKanna Meats and Hardels Fruiterers, is evident in dishes like merguez sausages with fried onion, and the Enterprise burger topped with crispy bacon and mature Cheddar.

After stepping through its doors, there’s no doubt you’ll be back to rekindle your foodie affair with The Enterprise.

Crown & Anchor

Traditional

 Location 22 Neal Street, Covent Garden, WC2H 9PS Covent Garden t: 020 3151 3323 w: www.crownandanchornealst.co.uk e: manager@crownandanchornealst.co.uk

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Spread across two floors, this charming traditional-style pub has been a mainstay of Covent Garden since the early 1900s. It offers a mix of Continental lager, cask-conditioned ale and an enviable London gin selection alongside a pleasingly classic menu. Dishes like battered cod and hand-cut chips, sausages and homemade herby mash with lashings of onion chutney gravy, and steak and ale pot pie are legendary classics. There are also homemade burgers with various toppings, sandwiches and snacks, including nachos, mozzarella sticks and a meze board. Children can choose from the kid’s section of the menu so they don’t have to miss out on the fun.

£20 to

£25

Downstairs is the ideal place to meet friends or colleagues for drinks and nibbles, while upstairs is great for larger groups of diners and is a relaxed space with an extra bar open during the Open: Mon-Weds 11am-11pm; evening. The drinks list proudly Thurs 11am-11.30pm; showcases London gins, including Fri & Sat 11am-midnight; Sipsmith, Portobello Road and 7 Sun noon-10.30pm Dials, as well as a variety of wine and cask-conditioned ales.

With a capacity of up to 60 guests, all kinds of functions can be catered for in the upstairs space – just ask for details and the team will ensure your event runs smoothly from start to finish.

London Guide 2019

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Traditional

The Barley Mow

 Location 104 Horseferry Road, Westminster, SW1P 2EE Victoria t: 020 3151 6953 w: www.barleymowhorseferryrd.co.uk C e: manager@barleymowhorseferryrd.co.uk Ideally located between Victoria Station and Westminster and just a short walk from Westminster Abbey, The Barley Mow is a traditional British pub with * £7 good food, great drinks and a fantastic atmosphere. Its location makes this pub to particularly popular with local workers and it’s the perfect place to stop for a £16 pint on a Friday evening.

On the ground floor, the open-plan bar provides a relaxed and sociable space where you can catch up with friends and colleagues while the first floor’s Arneway Room is available for private functions. Begin your visit with a locally brewed real ale, or opt for a refreshing London gin and Fever-Tree tonic. Like all good pubs, the bar offers a regularly changing selection of cask-conditioned ale so Open: Mon-Weds 11am-11pm; there’s always a new brand to try. Once you’ve ordered your drinks, grab a Thurs 11am-11.30pm; seat and take in a live game of football or rugby – The Barley Mow has Sky Fri 11am-midnight; and BT Sports licences – or peruse Sat noon-11pm; the food menu. British classics Sun noon-10.30pm range from the chef’s legendary Food Served: steak and ale pot pie to a juicy Mon-Sun noon-9pm grilled chicken burger, and the impressive range of vegan fare includes tasty tacos and tofish and chips. If you fancy something lighter, why not share a mezze board with a friend or try the crispy tempura squid? *Price range represents the cost of a main and a drink.

Traditional

The Fox  Location 28 Paul Street, Shoreditch, EC2A 4LB Old Street t: 020 3369 5658 w: www.thefoxpublichouse.co.uk e: info@thefoxpublichouse.co.uk

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Located in Paul Street in Shoreditch, The Fox is a traditional East End corner pub famous for its extensive range of beer, London gin and delicious pop-up food residency. The pub boasts cutting edge design, and is spread over three floors to include a pop-up Camden Town Brewery bar with an outdoor roof terrace, as well as the third floor Den, which is perfect for meetings or private dining for up to 12 guests.

£20 to

£25

A popular place to meet for a drink or a bite to eat with friends or colleagues, The Fox is particularly busy in the evening with the post-work crowd. Craft beer enthusiasts will delight in the team’s shared passion for great beer, evident in the well-stocked bottle shop and outstanding brews on tap, all of which are updated live on the Untappd app.

Food is provided by acclaimed pop-up kitchen The Coop, serving up tempting fried chicken burgers, waffles and salads, which are available to eat Open: Mon-Fri noon-11pm in or to take away. Utilising the Food Served: creative culinary talents of Lewis Mon-Sat noon-9pm Brewster and his team, The Coop offers farm-assured Suffolk chicken marinated in coconut yoghurt and soy milk and coated in their own recipe of gluten-free seasoned flour before being fried for the perfect finish. You’ll find yourself returning again and again to this East End gem.

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London Guide 2019

Prince Alfred

Traditional

 Location 112 Queensway, Bayswater, W2 3RR Bayswater t: 020 3369 5596 w: www.prince-alfred.co.uk e: info@prince-alfred.co.uk

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Named after Queen Victoria’s second son, this princely spot has been a favourite with those seeking a traditional pub serving fine food and drink since 1851. Prince Alfred occupies a Grade II listed building and boasts a homely ground floor bar with a cosy fireplace and soft lighting. Head upstairs and discover the sofa bar, where socialising and drinking go hand in hand – it’s a great space for hosting private parties and special get-togethers too.

If dining, you can pull up a pew and order the likes of cottage pie, Lincolnshire sausages and mash, or a rack of ribs served with chips and rainbow slaw from the menu that’s filled with traditional fare. Delicious meat pies, hearty burgers and sandwiches all make an appearance, and the sharer board is the ideal snack to share with friends. Why not pair your meal with a glass of seasonal wine or a signature gin cocktail? Guests can watch the sun go down and the happenings of cosmopolitan Bayswater from the outside seating area.

£19 to

£26

Open: Mon-Thurs 11am-11.30pm; Fri & Sat 11am-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm

The weekly live music events are a hit with the crowds and the homely, welcoming feel of the Prince Alfred makes guests feel at ease. All of this explains why the pub’s been winning over locals and visitors for over a century.

The Lansdowne Pub & Dining Room

Traditional

 Location 90 Gloucester Avenue, Primrose Hill, NW1 8HX Chalk Farm t: 020 3369 5659 w: www.thelansdownepub.co.uk e: info@thelansdownepub.co.uk

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This attractive pub, which sports an inviting atmosphere and rustic-inspired interior, is located along a residential street in pretty Primrose Hill. Indoors, the wooden furniture and spacious seating area calls for lazy afternoons spent sipping wine and working your way through the menu. There’s a first-floor function room available to hire for private parties and dining, too.

£15 to

£25

‘...inviting atmosphere...’

The home-cooked dishes are inspired by British and Mediterranean cuisine and are worth delving into. The freshly made pizzas are great for sharing with a bottle of wine from the extensive choice showcased on chalkboards. Most of the bottles are available by the glass should you wish to take it steady.

The hot oak-smoked salmon with shaved fennel and orange, and aubergine, pumpkin seed pesto and mozzarella rolls are sure to get things off to a cracking start. Main dishes of Open: Mon-Sat noon-11pm; roast mushroom, onion and pepper Sun noon-10.30pm burger, and 250g aged rib-eye steak with confit tomato, mushroom and chips are highlights that prove this pub is a cut above the rest. Sweets, meanwhile, come in the form of crumbed poached pear with toasted oat crumb, pear gel and caramel ice cream, and a classic dark chocolate brownie.

London Guide 2019

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Traditional

Bow Street Tavern  Location 37 Bow Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 7AU Covent Garden t: 020 3151 8052 w: www.bowstreettavern.com e: info@bowstreettavern.com

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Established in 1763, Bow Street Tavern can be found at the very heart of London’s famous Theatreland. Set opposite the Royal Opera House and a short distance from both Leicester Square and bustling Covent Garden, this traditional British £17 to pub attracts locals and tourists alike. It’s a great stop-off during a day of exploring £31 the city and perfect for a relaxed pre-theatre meal.

Bow Street Tavern is a keen supporter of local breweries and boasts an exceptional range of local and craft beer from the likes of Beavertown and Sambrook’s Brewery. Gin-lovers will be delighted with the extensive gin menu, which offers everything from sloe to floral gin, and there’s also an exciting and varied wine list. In terms of food, Bow Street Tavern has something for everyone. As well as the well-loved favourites – think herb-crusted lamb and juicy rib-eye steak – the Open: chefs provide a creative array of vegan and vegetarian options. The plant-based Mon-Thurs 11am-11pm; Moving Mountains burger is popular even with meat-eaters, and crispy battered Fri & Sat 11am-midnight; tofu with chips and tartare sauce Sun noon-10.30pm is a twist on a scrumptious British classic. If you’d prefer something lighter, opt for a sourdough sandwich or share a seasonal British cheese platter.

If you’re looking for an inspiring place in which to hold a celebration or business meeting, check out The Inspector’s Office, a private room that can seat up to 18 guests and is equipped with a large media screen and a record player with a stack of vinyls. The Fielding Room is also available for private hire during the week, with a seated capacity of 24.

Traditional

Railway Tavern  Location 23 Crouch End Hill, Crouch End, N8 8DH t: 020 3369 5663 w: www.the-railwaytavern.co.uk e: nick@the-railwaytavern.co.uk

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Finsbury Park

The Railway Tavern is a beautiful 1930s pub whose original features have been lovingly restored by its owner, who is passionate about returning old boozers to their former glory. The pub features a vintage skittles table and a gorgeous copper-hooded fireplace at the back of the pub, as well as antique model planes hanging from the ceiling. The place has a wonderful warm and cosy atmosphere in the winter, yet is light and airy in the summer. The menu boasts fantastic homemade traditional pub fare, as well as quality burgers, home-smoked gourmet hotdogs and a tempting tapas menu, and the smashing Sunday lunch is always popular. A good range of draught ale, craft beer, lager and cider are on offer alongside the excellent wine list.

£15 to

£20

With a weekly diary packed full of themed evenings including a pub quiz on Tuesdays, a vinyl night on Thursdays and a Prosecco night on Fridays, you’re sure of a fun-filled evening. The friendly and courteous staff will ensure you won’t be waiting long for a drink. The beer garden has been redesigned and replanted and is a lovely place to soak up the sun with a cold beer or home-infused strawberry gin and tonic. In short, the Railway Tavern is a great place to meet friends, relax, and enjoy yourself, and is no doubt one of the best pubs in Crouch End. Open: Sun-Weds noon-11pm; Thurs noon-midnight; Fri & Sat noon-1am

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London Guide 2019

The Mad Hatter Hotel

Traditional

 Location 3-7 Stamford Street, South Bank, SE1 9NY Southwark t: 020 3369 5542 w: www.madhatterhotel.co.uk e: madhatterhotel@fullers.co.uk Enjoying a prime spot in the buzzing area of Southwark and close to all the top central attractions lays The Mad Hatter Hotel. It’s home to a bar that’s stocked with a great choice of beer, cask ale, cider, wine and a gin menu with over 30 gins. If it’s a bite to eat you’re after, you can rely on The Mad Hatter’s menu of delicious British pub food to satisfy your cravings. The handmade pies are the highlight for many – all are filled to the brim with quality, seasonal produce and served with a generous helping of mash. Plump for a selection and sample miniature versions of the rich steak and ale pie, traditional East End pie packed with meat and mushy peas, and a spicy chickpea, tomato and aubergine pie. The tasty food is made all the better by great service, and there are also 30 superb en-suite bedrooms waiting to provide a restful night’s sleep.

C £19 to

£23

Open: Mon-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm

The White Hart

Traditional

 Location 22 Great Suffolk Street, Southwark, SE1 0UG Southwark t: 020 3151 1690 w: www.whitehartsouthwark.co.uk e: whitehart.southwark@fullers.co.uk Lovingly dubbed the beating heart of Southwark, The White Hart offers a bright and modern setting for casual dining. Upon entering you’ll feel right at home and the friendly team will ensure your every need is catered for. Whether it’s a refreshing pint of Fuller’s Frontier lager, a laid-back three-course meal or an exquisite Sunday roast, The White Hart has you covered. With an emphasis on high-quality ingredients, the menu boasts a range of options for classic tastes and adventurous palates, as well as vegan and vegetarian diets. You might start with breaded halloumi with sweet chilli jam or crab chips with sriracha mayo, and follow with a falafel burger or vegan chilli with basmati rice and fresh guacamole. Alternatively, tuck into a buttermilk-fried chicken burger with bacon jam, pickled red onions, sriracha and garlic aioli. If you find room for dessert, you’re in for a treat.

C £18 to

£26

Open: Mon-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm

The Swan

Traditional

 Location 66 Bayswater Road, Bayswater, W2 3PH Lancaster Gate t: 020 3369 5635 w: www.swanhydepark.co.uk e: swanw2@fullers.co.uk Proudly situated just opposite Hyde Park, this historic pub dates back several centuries and was originally a popular coaching inn. It was refurbished last year in an artistic, chic style designed to represent the various manifestations of the park – think a tasteful colour palette, murals painted on the walls and floral printed chairs. You’ll also find photographs of concerts and women’s rights rallies that have taken place in the park over the years. This eatery offers the best of classic pub fare, including fish and chips and a tempting beefburger. These are offset by a number of tasty signature dishes like tofu pad Thai with bean sprouts and coriander, and butternut squash and feta Wellington with mixed leaves. The Swan’s well-stocked bar has an excellent array of real ale and lager, New and Old World wine, and a broad range of spirits. With over 30 types of gin behind the bar, you’ll never be short of a new tipple to try.

C £20 to

£30

Open: Mon-Thurs 8am-11pm; Fri & Sat 8am-midnight; Sun 8am-10.30pm London Guide 2019

61

Traditional

The Lighthouse  Location 441 Battersea Park Road, Battersea, SW11 4LR t: 020 3151 8067 w: www.thelighthousebattersea.com

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Battersea Park

The Lighthouse prides itself on its homely atmosphere, where friends, families and colleagues come to relax, chat and unwind. This Lighthouse’s welcoming vibe is perfectly complemented by its great array of homemade food and extensive £17 to selection of drinks. As well as fine wine, spirits, cider and ale, the team stocks £26 various well-known brands of beer and supports several local breweries. During the summer months, the spacious outdoor beer garden proves popular with locals looking to enjoy a refreshing pint in the sun, while the wintertime sees the coal-burning fire lit and the cosy pub bustling with guests.

Once you’ve chosen your tipple, check out the food menu. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a delicious three-course meal, The Lighthouse has something for you. Bar snacks include a tasty duck Scotch egg with chutney, and Padrón peppers with Maldon sea salt, and small plates range from chalk stream Open: trout with heritage tomatoes to beer-battered fish fingers. The list of mains is just Mon-Thurs noon-11pm; as varied, incorporating sumptuous Fri noon-midnight; options such as satay sweet potato Sat 10am-midnight; curry with jasmine rice, alongside Sun 10am-10.30pm meaty plates like juicy burgers and chargrilled flat-iron steak. The impressive Moving Mountain vegan burger comes highly recommended, and every Monday you can expect half price deals on all vegan and vegetarian starters and mains. As well as catering for individuals and couples, The Lighthouse is delighted to welcome larger parties – just call to book a table. ides eded kgu e drin ers n food graph to o Ph

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London Guide 2019

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JRC Global Buffet

World Cuisine

 Location 1st Floor, Pioneer Point, 3-5 Winston Way, Ilford, IG1 2ZG Ilford t: 020 8553 0881 w: www.jrc-globalbuffet.com e: ilford@jrc-globalbuffet.com JRC Global Buffet is famed for its unrivalled offering of delicious cuisine from around the world. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a returning foodie, there’s always an opportunity to try something new and exciting from menus that change with the seasons. All tastes are catered for at the elegant and contemporary Ilford restaurant, where diners experience a round-the-world culinary voyage from the bustling streets of Japan to the hillside tavernas of the Greek archipelago and far beyond.

OL

*

£20

Choose from over 200 fresh and delicious options that range from traditional Italian pizza and Spanish paella, to curries from India and fragrant Thai dishes.

Your feast would not be complete without dessert, which includes a chocolate fountain among many other treats. Part of the fun of dining at JRC Global Open: Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, Buffet is watching the passionate chefs at work at the cooking stations. Expect 5.30pm-10.30pm; a relaxed and friendly atmosphere Fri noon-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm; and great service at the Ilford Sat noon-11pm; restaurant. If you’re travelling Sun & Bank Holidays further afield you’ll be pleased to noon-10.30pm know that this is just one of many JRC Global Buffets in the UK, all of which have an impressively diverse food offering and excellent value for money in common. *Price represents the cost of the dinner buffet with unlimited soft drinks.

JRC Global Buffet

World Cuisine

 Location Designer Outlet, Wembley Park Boulevard, Wembley, HA9 0FD Wembley Park t: 020 3968 9778 w: www.jrc-globalbuffet.com e: wembley@jrc-globalbuffet.com The newest addition to JRC Global Buffet’s fantastic family of restaurants is situated in the London Designer Outlet centre in Wembley. This brand-new venue is stylish and modern – exactly what we have come to expect of the renowned foodie chain of restaurants. If you can’t quite decide what type of food you fancy, JRC Global Buffet is the perfect place to explore a range of different cuisines. From freshly prepared sushi to Mexican fajitas, there’s something here to suit all tastes and budgets.

OL

*

£20

The seasonally changing menus are exciting and include food from around the globe, including the Americas, the Mediterranean, South Asia and the Far East. Talented chefs cook food before your very eyes at designated cooking Open: Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, stations, so you can see for yourself just how fresh the food is. If your sweet-tooth 5.30pm-10.30pm; tempts you and your appetite allows, desserts are a must. The chocolate Fri noon-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm; fountain is a highly recommended Sat noon-11pm; favourite. From the sun-dappled Sun & Bank Holidays villages of Spain to the bustling noon-10.30pm markets of India, this unique dining concept takes you on a journey through a variety of culinary scenes. If you’re a regular traveller, you’ll be thrilled to know that JRC Global Buffet has many more inviting restaurants across the UK. *Price represents the cost of the dinner buffet with unlimited soft drinks.

London Guide 2019

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World Cuisine

JRC Global Buffet  Location 1st Floor, 23-33 The Parade, Watford, WD17 1LQ Watford High Street t: 01923 223666 w: www.jrc-globalbuffet.com e: watford@jrc-globalbuffet.com

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This buzzing venue is handily located in Watford’s shopping quarter, so if you’ve shopped until you dropped and are in need of generous portions, flavoursome food and a spacious dining area, pull up a pew at JRC Global Buffet. Here you’ll be spoilt for choice no matter what you’re craving.

*

£20

There’s a wide variety of cuisine available from across the continents, meaning all palates are more than satisfied. The extensive menus change regularly, adapting to suit the season’s offering. You could dine on sticky ribs coated in a delicious Brazilian glaze, before tucking into a creamy Goan fish curry. Finish by sampling from the delicious range of desserts, which includes a magnificent chocolate fountain. Buffets are interspersed with Open: cooking stations, where diners can watch chefs cooking fresh fare before their Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, very eyes. All of this is available 5.30pm-10.30pm; at excellent value for money Fri noon-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm; and under one roof. Travelling Sat noon-11pm; foodies will also be delighted to Sun noon-10.30pm discover that the popular Watford restaurant is just one of numerous JRC Global Buffets in the UK. *Price represents the cost of the dinner buffet with unlimited soft drinks.

World Cuisine

Archipelago  Location 53 Cleveland Street, Fitzrovia, W1T 4JJ Goodge Street t: 020 3151 6814 w: www.archipelago-restaurant.co.uk e: info@archipelago-restaurant.co.uk

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Set in the heart of London – just a short stroll from Covent Garden – Archipelago welcomes adventurous foodies, offering a culinary portal to cultures from all over the world. Upon entering, you’ll leave London and be transported across the globe, as golden Buddhas, religious icons, musical instruments, and other paraphernalia adorn the walls. After admiring the eclectic decor, take a seat and order a glass of wine from the extensive list or try one of the restaurant’s signature cocktails. Pond Life, for example, is a creative twist on a classic Mojito.

£30 to

£46

As you open the food menu, prepare to be blown away by the huge range of exciting dishes. Begin your meal with crispy zebra jerky accompanied by carrot and ginger gel, or perhaps you’ll try the pan-fried crickets with quinoa, kimchi sauce and dried fruit. For vegetarians, the avocado and coconut Open: Mon-Fri milk potage accompanied by noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm; chilli- and olive-stuffed cassava balls Sat 6pm-10.30pm is unmissable. The list of mains is equally impressive, offering up the likes of kangaroo skewers, spicy jerk alpaca, and crocodile or tofu curry. Finish your meal with a tasty dessert.

Brave the chocolate covered locusts and the caramel mealworms, or opt for a chocolate and cardamom sponge with white chocolate and curry ice cream, topped with 24-carat-gold flakes. A visit to Archipelago promises a unique culinary adventure that’s not to be missed.

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London Guide 2019

Dans le Noir?

World Cuisine

 Location 30-31 Clerkenwell Green, Clerkenwell, EC1R 0DU Farringdon t: 020 3390 0576 w: www.london.danslenoir.com e: booking@danslenoir.com

C Offering delicious food and drink, excellent service, and an experience unlike any other, this Farringdon restaurant should be on everybody’s bucket list. * Inviting diners to eat and drink in pitch darkness, Dans le Noir? goes above and £48 beyond normal dining. Helping to facilitate the unique sensory experience on to offer is the intriguing menu, which provides only basic information about the £55 food, with three colour-coded options to choose from: green (vegetarian), red (meat), and blue (fish). I went for red, while my veg-loving companion opted for green. Food is served in sittings so after choosing, we were introduced to our blind waiter, Trevor, who confidently led us through the darkness to our table, and Food Served: delivered with precision three delicious courses and a wine flight to match.

Mon-Fri 6pm-9.15pm; Part of the fun of this place is not knowing what to expect, so it wouldn’t be Sat & Sun noon-2pm, right to list all of the dishes we enjoyed. What is worth saying, though, is that 6pm-9.15pm we had a fantastic time exploring familiar and exotic flavours and textures, and thoroughly enjoyed guessing the components of each dish.

Every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 7.30pm, enjoy a silent socialising experience at Dans le Noir? Otra Vista Social Club. This unique bar concept will introduce you to sign language, so you can order your drinks at the bar and meet new people. Dans le Noir? is a must for all. *£48 represents the cost of two courses from the surprise menu; £55 represents the cost of three courses from the surprise menu.

JRC Global Buffet

World Cuisine

 Location Valley Retail and Leisure Park, Beddington Farm Road, Croydon, CR0 4YA West Croydon t: 020 8680 0800 w: www.jrc-globalbuffet.com e: croydon@jrc-globalbuffet.com

OL

If you’re feeling peckish but can’t decide what type of food you fancy, the renowned JRC Buffet is the place for you. Situated within a bustling leisure park in the Broad Green area, this eatery provides a fun dining alternative for shoppers and visitors to the cinema. Arrive with an appetite, as diners can expect to undergo a culinary journey from the depths of America to the tropics of Thailand.

*

£20

Menus change regularly, adapting to suit the season’s offerings, and include over 200 dishes. You could dine on sticky ribs coated in a delicious Brazilian glaze or dim sum, before tucking into a creamy Goan fish curry or Italian pizza.

If you are a sweet-toothed fiend, why not finish your feast by sampling from the delicious range of desserts, which includes a magnificent chocolate fountain?

Buffets are interspersed with cooking stations, where guests can witness Open: Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, passionate chefs cooking fresh 5.30pm-10.30pm; fare before their very eyes, adding Fri noon-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm; to the friendly atmosphere these Sat noon-11pm; Sun & Bank restaurants boast. All of this is Holidays noon-10.30pm available at excellent value for money and under one roof. Travelling foodies will also be delighted to discover that the Croydon restaurant is just one of numerous JRC Global Buffets in the UK. *Price represents the cost of a dinner buffet with unlimited soft drinks.

London Guide 2019

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Japanese

Inamo  e: reservations@inamo-restaurant.com Inamo showcases stunning pan Asian cuisine using the world’s first interactive restaurant ordering and entertainment systems. Order your meal via interactive table surface projections and tablets, watch the chef-cam and play engaging games – you can even colour and draw on the table surface with the inadoodle app.

The table experience at Inamo is unlike anywhere else in London or beyond.

Feast on a stunning menu with a focus on sharing, from sushi dishes including the signature dragon roll to sumptuous Asian tapas such as sweet chilli prawn tempura with heritage tomato and wakame salad, and dim sum. Larger sharing dishes include red miso lamb tenderloin, sizzling mushroom toban yaki, and black pepper fillet of beef. With over 20 vegetarian and vegan dishes, Inamo offers something for all tastes, and the menu is as much a talking point as the technology surrounding it.

Inamo boasts two award-winning games rooms with 150-inch wall projections and games consoles, perfect for gaming, live TV and sports, and even karaoke. With their own private bars and private dining options, it’s a unique place to host any special occasion.

In summer, the stunning outside areas at Inamo Camden are transformed into a secret garden decked in ivy, wisteria and festoon lighting, with private dining pagoda and gazebos, and boasting a bespoke gin menu. For the colder months, the space becomes a winter garden with heated pop-up igloos.

With an impressive collection of recent awards including OpenTable’s Diner’s Choice Award for 2019, Inamo is a must-visit. As Jay Rayner wrote in The Observer, ‘from the interactive menu to delicious sushi, this is Asian fun at your fingertips’. *Disabled facilities at Soho and Camden branches only.

N C £23 to

£35

**

 Location Inamo Camden, 265 Hampstead Road, Camden, NW1 7QX Mornington Crescent t: 020 3390 0861 w: www.inamo-camden.com Open: Sun & Mon noon-9pm; Tues-Sat noon-11.30pm  Location Inamo Covent Garden, 11-14 Hanover Place, Covent Garden, WC2E 9JP Covent Garden t: 020 3390 0598 w: www.inamo-coventgarden.com Open: Tues & Weds 5pm-11.30pm; Thurs noon-11.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-12.30am; Sun noon-10.30pm  Location Inamo Soho, 134-136 Wardour Street, Soho, W1F 8ZP Tottenham Court Road t: 020 3390 0719 w: www.inamo-restaurant.com Open: Mon-Weds 5pm-11.30pm; Thurs & Fri noon-11.30pm; Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm

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London Guide 2019

Pham Sushi

Japanese

 Location 159 Whitecross Street, Finsbury, EC1Y 8JL t: 020 3369 5582  Location The Heron, 5 Moor Lane, Finsbury, EC2Y 9AP t: 020 3369 0779 Moorgate w: www.phamsushi.co.uk e: phamsushi@aol.com A huge fan of sushi, it was with great intrigue and excitement that I received the offerings of this popular and ideally located Japanese restaurant.

C

£20 to Open to trying anything from the delightful menu, we asked our waiter to £25 bring whichever dishes he thought we’d enjoy, and we couldn’t have been more pleased with his choice. After an initial snack of lightly salted steamed edamame beans came an impressively presented deluxe sashimi set, comprising salmon, two types of tuna, and sea bream, all prettily rolled into flower shapes and served with shredded mooli, which gave a delightful crunch to the smooth texture of the fish. Next came a plate of thinly sliced toro (tuna belly) with fiery jalapeño peppers, served atop slices of sweet tomato, followed by a serving of goby topped with flying fish eggs and fresh seaweed. Just when we thought our feast couldn’t get any better, a serving of special rolls arrived at the table. Comprising Open: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, luxurious snow crab and creamy 5pm-10pm; Sat 5pm-10pm avocado encased in smooth hirame (flatfish) sashimi and perfectly cooked sticky rice with lime, this dish was without doubt the star of the show. If you’re at all dubious about the prospect of sampling raw fish, a visit to Pham Sushi will certainly change your mind. I will definitely be visiting the conveniently located Pham Sushi sister restaurant at The Heron soon.

YoYo Kitchen

Japanese

 Location 4 Station Parade, Noel Road, Ealing, W3 0DS West Acton t: 020 3390 2067 w: www.yoyokitchen.co.uk e: info@yoyokitchen.co.uk

W

Directly opposite the West Acton underground station, you’ll find this little gem of a café and deli. Situated in the heart of the area’s Japanese community, it serves genuinely authentic sushi as well as fresh-as-you-like lunches and snacks all day.

£15 to

YoYo Kitchen first opened in 2010, when experienced chef Yoichi Iguchi decided to open his own establishment. He boasts a wealth of experience in preparing Japanese cuisine, including working at Nobu in both Tokyo and London.

£20

The food is freshly prepared every day and is deliciously authentic. On our visit, we were delighted to find our favourites on the menu – salmon and tuna hosomaki rolls – along with a selection of novel alternatives. The chicken katsu curry caught our attention, as did the vegetarian-friendly sweet potato croquettes. We were Open: Mon-Fri 8am-8pm; also intrigued by the marinated mackerel, which we’ll definitely return to sample. Sat 9.30am-8pm; You can’t dismiss the huge variety of sake on offer – including their original Sun 10am-6pm YoYo sake, which evokes memories of Japan’s forests. The label of this special tipple is even made from traditional Japanese washi paper.

The atmosphere here is communal and friendly; we felt very much at home, despite it being our first visit. From the enthusiastic chef, to the welcoming staff and expertly prepared food, countless factors contributed to our unreserved recommendation of YoYo Kitchen. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook for more information on seasonal Japanese festivals and the latest happenings.

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Japanese

Benihana The first Benihana opened in 1964. At the time, the concept of having the chef prepare your meal at your table was completely unique. Today, there are numerous Benihana restaurants around the world so diners in London and beyond can now enjoy this special service.

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‘...decor is sleek and elegant...’

£35 to

£45

One such branch can be found in Piccadilly, where it has stood for 21 years.

The decor is sleek and elegant with a Japanese influence evident throughout.

Benihana can also be found in the City, in another stylish venue serving delectable Japanese fare at the same high standards. For jetsetters, there are branches in Slovakia and Romania, and many more in the Middle East and in Asia.

‘...courteous Japanese hospitality...’

We chose to visit the Benihana ensconced on bustling King’s Road, entering through a small, unassuming doorway into a grand restaurant. A polite member of staff who exemplified courteous Japanese hospitality greeted us. To begin, we made our way to the bar and sampled from the delightful range of cocktails while nibbling on homemade crisps. After a quick discussion of how we liked the modern and chic decor, we were shown to the chef’s table, which seats up to eight. We were seated next to a family celebrating a birthday, as they had done for the past four years. They had nothing but positive words for Benihana, which only served to increase our anticipation.

‘...delightful range of cocktails...’

The offering includes traditional options that have graced the menu since Benihana first began in the 1960s, in addition to a selection of specials, which have been carefully crafted by the experienced chefs. There’s also a dedicated section of the menu for lunchtime diners.

‘...beautifully presented sea bass...’

I chose to start with warming onion soup that was perfect on such a cold December evening. This was followed by sushi – beautifully presented sea bass,

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salmon and tuna sashimi paired with fiery wasabi, and peppery ginger crafted into flowers. From the tempura selection we opted for lightly battered prawn, courgette and mushroom, all of which we devoured in haste. Creamy potato and wagyu croquettes and light Chablis completed the course.

‘...unbelievably impressive...’

By this point, our expectations for the main event were sky-high and Benihana did not disappoint. Chef Arthur took his place at our table and promptly began throwing knives around with ease. He started by cooking onions and soy-glazed courgettes with prawns. The speed at which he sliced and prepared each ingredient was unbelievably impressive – we couldn’t wait to see more.

The courgettes were wonderfully crunchy while the prawns were succulent and moreish. Arthur kept us entertained as we ate, drumming his utensils, performing tricks and shaping egg fried rice into a heart shape. Next up came a medley of seafood – fresh lobster tails, cod, scallops, squid and prawns.

My personal favourite was the Alaskan cod, which was paired with miso soup and melted in the mouth, while my husband enjoyed the buttery lobster.

Beansprouts and soy stir-fry rounded off Arthur’s theatrical performance, and were very tasty too.

‘...lobster tails, cod, scallops, squid and prawns...’

To finish, we tucked into ice cream tempura and a cheesecake dumpling with fresh strawberries. It proved a wonderful end to our meal, and we vowed to return soon – we certainly want to try the cheesecake dumpling again.  Location 37 Sackville Street, Piccadilly, W1S 3EH Piccadilly Circus t: 020 3390 0602 w: www.benihana.co.uk e: bookings.piccadilly@benihana.co.uk Open: Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 5.30pm-10.30pm; Sun noon-3pm, 5pm-10pm (Bank Holidays noon-3pm, 5pm-10pm)  Location 77 King’s Road, Chelsea, SW3 4NX Sloane Square t: 020 3390 0603 w: www.benihana.co.uk e: bookings.chelsea@benihana.co.uk Open: Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 5.30pm-10.30pm; Sun noon-3pm, 5pm-10pm (Bank Holidays noon-3pm, 5pm-10pm)  Location 35 Carter Lane, City, EC4V 5AJ St. Paul’s t: 020 3390 0604 w: www.benihanarestaurant.co.uk e: info@benihanarestaurant.co.uk Open: Mon-Sat noon-10.30pm; Sun 5pm-10pm

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Japanese

Moshi Moshi  Location 24, Liverpool Street Station, City, EC2M 7PY Liverpool Street t: 020 3151 1609 w: www.moshimoshi.co.uk e: liverpoolstreet@moshimoshi.co.uk

C

Founder Caroline opened the UK’s first conveyor belt sushi restaurant, Moshi Moshi, back in 1994. Keen to share her passion for authentic Japanese cuisine to with the foodies of London, Caroline began running Moshi Moshi with a particular £25 set of ideals in mind – to serve outstanding, nutritious food with the minimum environmental impact. Using the finest quality ingredients, Moshi Moshi has earned itself a large and loyal fan base, and a reputation for the finest sushi around.

This is a restaurant with sustainable fishing methods at the heart of its ethos, and a business with a belief in transparency. The team’s relationship with a small family-run fishing business from Cornwall, which uses environmentally friendly static gear and lines, ensures that the freshest, most sustainable fish is supplied Open: to the restaurant and arrives beautifully fresh.

Mon-Fri 11.30am-10pm The menu comprises zensai tapas dishes, platters and sushi sets, hot seasonal mains, tamaki hand rolls and miso soup. Opt for a sushi set to experience an array of specialities, such as the Fitzroy set featuring a selection of nigiri and maki plates including Loch Duart salmon and Cornish kabayaki. To complement the menu, a range of wine, beer, tea, refreshing soft drinks and freshly squeezed juice is available. The ginger zinger is a fiery feel-good combination of cold-pressed carrot and ginger. Moshi Moshi also caters for corporate events and celebrations – contact the friendly team to find out more. £18

Pan Asian

JRC Global Buffet  Location Unit 18, The Mall, 159 High Road, Wood Green, N22 6YA Wood Green t: 020 8881 1155 w: www.jrc-globalbuffet.com e: woodgreen@jrc-globalbuffet.com If you’re feeling peckish but can’t decide what type of food you fancy, the renowned JRC Buffet is the place for you. At the modern yet relaxed Wood Green restaurant, there’s cuisine available from across the continents, meaning that all palates are more than satisfied. Arrive with an appetite, as diners can expect to undergo a culinary journey from the depths of America to the tropics of Thailand.

N

*

£15 to

£17

Menus change regularly, adapting to suit the season’s offerings, and include over 200 dishes. You could dine on sticky ribs coated in a delicious Brazilian glaze or dim sum, before tucking into a creamy Goan fish curry or delicious Open: Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, Italian pizza. If you’re a sweet-toothed fiend, finish your feast by sampling 5.30pm-10.30pm; something from the delicious range of desserts, which includes a magnificent Fri noon-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm; chocolate fountain. Buffets are interspersed with cooking stations, where Sat noon-11pm; guests can witness passionate Sun noon-9.30pm (Bank chefs cooking fresh fare before Holidays noon-10.30pm) their very eyes, adding to the friendly atmosphere these restaurants boast. All of this is available at excellent value for money and under one roof. Travelling foodies will also be delighted to discover that the Wood Green restaurant is just one of numerous JRC Global Buffets in the UK. *Price range represents the cost of the dinner buffet.

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London Guide 2019

The Monsoon

Indian & Bangladeshi

 Location 78 Brick Lane, Spitalfields, E1 6RL Shoreditch High Street t: 020 3390 2091 w: www.monsoonbricklane.co.uk e: info@monsoonbricklane.co.uk The Monsoon Indian restaurant attracts a very loyal band of Londoners who visit time and again to enjoy the top-quality fare served. Its talented chefs, comfortable surroundings and friendly staff are constantly winning over new diners so it comes as no surprise that this popular restaurant has been awarded a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence.

Inside, the smart and contemporary decor lends a smooth, sleek feel to proceedings. Staff are on the ball and attentive so your visit will run without a hitch, whatever your needs and preferences. Pull up a chair and settle in with a cool Cobra beer and take a peek at what’s on offer. The menu is incredibly varied – even curry connoisseurs will be impressed with the diversity of dishes, all of which are made with expert knowledge and skill. Vegetarians and meat-eaters alike are well catered for and each dish can be altered to your preferred level of spiciness, ensuring those who love their curry with a kick can add some extra heat.

E £10 to

£15

Open: Sun-Tues noon-1am; Weds-Sat noon-2.30am

Big groups are welcome at The Monsoon, and the spacious rooms in the three-storey restaurant mean that gatherings big and small will find the perfect spot. Great pricing is just the icing on the cake.

The Corner Bar

Thai

 Location 125 Central Street, Islington, EC1V 8AP Old Street t: 020 3151 8287 Located in the heart of Islington, The Corner Bar is a great London bar with a twist. Inside, guests are greeted by a quirky interior with vintage music posters on the walls and plenty of seating available for diners and drinkers alike. The menu boasts a unique combination of British beer, cocktails and Thai cuisine, with a wonderful selection of dishes to suit every palate. Its setting just a stone’s throw from attractions such as The British Museum and the Barbican Centre makes this eatery the perfect place to stop for either lunch or dinner. Why not bring some friends and check it out next time you’re in the area?

C £18 to

£25

‘...a unique combination of British beer, cocktails and Thai cuisine...’

Behind the bar, there’s a great array of beer, wine and spirits to choose from. Open: Order your drink to enjoy alongside Mon-Sat 10am-11pm; a tasty gourmet burger with fresh Sun noon-11pm salad or a dish of traditional fish and chips. For those who want something a little different from the typical pub offering, be sure to start with the homemade dim sum, before moving on to a mouth-watering main of beef in rich black bean sauce, or pad ki mao – a spicy stir fry of chicken, beef and prawns with onion, chilli and sweet basil. If you’re feeling brave, you can even ask for extra chillies.

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Thai Square Restaurants

Thai

 w: www.thaisq.com The award-winning Thai Square Restaurant group was established in 1996, when the first restaurant opened at The Strand in London. Since then, the group has deservedly gone from strength to strength and now boasts 12 venues in and around the capital. Each branch exhibits a relaxed ambience and first-class service, along with their unique signature flavours. Various Thai ornaments and artefacts blend in perfectly with the modern botanical-inspired interior that reflects the fresh ingredients flown in from Thailand daily.

The recipe for Thai Square’s popularity is also due to each head chef’s personal love of food and their individual take on authentic Thai cuisine, derived from their Thai origins. Thanks to the wealth of choices, not only are seafood, curries, noodles, stir-fries, and salads on offer, but street food delicacies and vegan dishes are available throughout the delicious menu that Thai Square has become renowned for.

Take your pick from a range of delicious starters such as traditional tom yum soup or signature salt and pepper squid that goes well with refreshing Thai beer.

Notable main dishes such as massaman curry, pad Thai and garlic prawns are also cooked to perfection – a great match for the variety of wines on offer from around the world, including Thailand.

If you’re indecisive, let the set menu take care of your decision-making, be it an express lunch menu from £8 or three-course pre-theatre set menu from £17.50.

All-day dining is also available at the flagship Trafalgar Square store 365 days a year. Visit the website for a full menu and an array of delicious offers. Plans to expand the Thai Square group further are in the pipeline – keep your eyes peeled. *Disabled access not available at Strand and South Kensington.

C SW OL N £15 to

£45

*

 Location 21-24 Cockspur Street, Trafalgar Square, SW1Y 5BN Charing Cross t: 020 3369 5651 e: trafalgar@thaisq.com Open: times Open: Mon-Thurs 11.45am-11pm; Fri 11.45am-midnight; Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: times  Location 166-170 Shaftesbury Avenue, Covent Garden, WC2H 8JB Covent Garden t: 020 3369 5641 e: coventgarden@thaisq.com Open: Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm; Fri noon-3pm, 5.30pm-midnight; Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm  Location 19 Exhibition Road, Kensington, SW7 2HE South Kensington t: 020 3369 5648 e: southkensington@thaisq.com Open: Mon-Fri noon-3.30pm, 5.30pm-11pm; Sat noon-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm Location 148 Strand, City, WC2R 1JA Temple t: 020 3369 5650 e: strand@thaisq.com Open: Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm  Location 1 Great St Thomas Apostle, City, EC4V 2BH Mansion House t: 020 3369 5644 e: mansionhouse@thaisq.com Open: Mon-Fri noon-3.30pm, 5.30pm-11pm  Location 136-138 Minories, City, EC3N 1NT Aldgate t: 020 3369 5645 e: minories@thaisq.com Open: Mon-Fri noon-3pm, 5.30pm-10pm  Location 563 Fulham Road, Fulham, SW6 1ES Fulham Broadway t: 020 3369 5642 e: fulham@thaisq.com Open: Mon-Fri noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm; Sat noon-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm  Location 2-4 Lower Richmond Road, Putney, SW15 1JN Putney Bridge t: 020 3369 5646 e: putneybridge@thaisq.com Open: Mon-Fri noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm; Sat noon-11.30pm; Sun noon-10.30pm  Location 29 Kew Road, Richmond, TW9 2NQ Richmond t: 020 3369 5647 e: richmond@thaisq.com Open: Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm; Sun noon-3pm, 5.30pm-10.30pm  Location 347-349 Upper Street, Islington, N1 0PD Angel t: 020 3369 5644 e: islington@thaisq.com Open: Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, 5pm-11pm; Fri noon-3pm, 5pm-1am; Sat noon-1am; Sun noon-11pm 72

London Guide 2019

Shikumen

Chinese

 Location Dorsett Hotel, 58 Shepherd’s Bush Green, Shepherd’s Bush, W12 8QE Shepherd’s Bush t: 020 8749 9978 w: www.shikumen.co.uk e: sbush@shikumen.co.uk Named after the traditional East-meets-West architectural style unique to Shanghai, this slick restaurant captivates guests with its modern Chinese cuisine, which combines the cooking techniques of the east and west. Shikumen’s interior echoes the luxurious feel of the rest of the four-star Dorsett Hotel, in which the restaurant is housed. Once inside, you’ll find yourself in smart and comfortable surrounds, and discover a menu brimming with an array of authentic Chinese dishes made using top-quality ingredients. Every option is packed full of flavour and presented wonderfully.

W £25 to

£35

The chefs are masters of producing exquisite handmade dim sum, which is reason enough to return for more of the same. From the à la carte menu, whole sea bass with ginger and spring onion, braised pork belly served with Chinese buns, and roasted lamb cutlets are great choices, especially when accompanied by a delicious cocktail from the enticing list. Alternatively, Open: Mon-Sun noon-11pm opt for a cup of Chinese tea to accompany your food – whatever you order, you’ll find the perfect tipple to pair with your meal.

The attentive, knowledgeable team ensures that your every need is catered for, and service always comes with a smile. The top-notch service and affordable prices are just another string to Shikumen’s bow. Make a beeline for Shikumen and we guarantee you’ll be back for more.

Shikumen

Chinese

 Location Dorsett City Hotel, 9-13 Aldgate High Street, Aldgate, EC3N 1AH Aldgate t: 020 7377 0986 w: www.shikumen.co.uk e: aldgate@shikumen.co.uk

E Oozing elegance and sophistication, you’ll find this beautiful restaurant within the Dorsett City Hotel in Aldgate. With a stunning modern interior, mood lighting and unique Shanghai-inspired decor, Shikumen is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the £25 to city. Using the finest ingredients, the kitchen team ensures there’s something fresh £35 and delicious to suit every palate.

Sample a wide array of authentic Chinese dishes presented with impressive contemporary flair. Explore the likes of steamed dim sum, crispy duck, and soft-shell crab topped with crispy garlic and Szechuan red chilli for lunch or dinner.

An English breakfast buffet includes dim sum selections for more adventurous palates. Main meals include seafood dishes such as delicate pan-fried lobster with ginger and spring onion, and stir-fried scallops with asparagus and XO sauce.

Authentic spicy kung po chicken is a firm favourite, and the fresh Scottish beef fillet in red wine and black pepper sauce comes highly recommended and is Open: perfectly paired with full-bodied Mon-Fri noon-3pm, red wine. Enhance your dining 5pm-10.30pm; experience with a delicious cocktail Sat & Sun noon-10.30pm or a pot of Chinese tea – the perfect accompaniment to a wholesome feast. For dessert, treat yourself to the likes of exotic green tea crème brûlée and lychee cheesecake.

With friendly, well-informed staff, a beautiful setting, and attractive prices, it’s no wonder Shikumen Aldgate was awarded Best Chinese Restaurant in Central London at the British Chinese Food Awards.

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Chinese

North China  Location 305 Uxbridge Road, Acton, W3 9QU Acton Town t: 020 3390 0659 w: www.northchina.co.uk e: lawrence@northchina.co.uk

W

The longevity of a restaurant is surely proof of its level of quality. North China, a successful Chinese restaurant on the Acton-Ealing border, has been in business for 43 years, and its focus on excellent cuisine and fantastic service means that it is as popular today as it was in 1976.

£20 to

£25

‘...has been in business for 43 years...’

Mr Hung Sung Lou first arrived in the UK in 1967, having already taken his unique version of Chinese cuisine to Japan. After heading the kitchen at Mr Chow in Knightsbridge, followed by a number of years refining his skills in Edinburgh, Chef Lou (as he is affectionately known) returned to London to open his very own restaurant. The family business has flourished ever since, proving that diners adore the unique atmosphere of this much-loved, welcoming establishment. The Lou family have remained at the helm, with the restaurant currently run by Lawrence, Lou’s son.

‘...diners adore the unique atmosphere of this much-loved, welcoming establishment...’

Over the years, a loyal following of regulars have come to know and love this place, which has the distinct feel of a neighbourhood restaurant. You’ll immediately notice the sound of lively chatter, and the staff couldn’t be friendlier. Of course, the food is consistently great and a whole host of well-prepared and flavourful dishes are on offer. Spicy, sticky ribs or crispy aromatic duck would be a fine way to start. You might like to dig into sizzling lamb paired with spring onion next, or flash-fried king prawns accompanied by monkfish and scallops.

Open: Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm

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There is also a host of delicious rice and noodle dishes to choose from. Finish with crispy pancakes, or a scoop or two of ice cream. As you might expect, fixed-price set menus are available if you’re having trouble deciding.

North China garners praise from all who visit, and was also a winner at the Time Out Love London Awards in 2015 and 2016.

Michael Nadra – Restaurant Michael Nadra – Pg 9

Chef Profile

Michael Nadra, chef-patron of two eponymous neighbourhood restaurants in Chiswick and Primrose Hill, boasts an enviable CV. After his first stint in a professional kitchen at the end of his third year at university (at the Michelin-starred Canteen in Chelsea Harbour, no less), Michael was positively hooked. During his final year of study, Michael took a part-time position at Nick Nairn’s restaurant in Glasgow and, after graduating, was given a full-time chef de partie position.

‘...prides himself on serving luxurious, high-quality cuisine...’

Later, this ambitious chef cooked with Anthony Demetre, Bruce Poole, Gordon Ramsay, Marcus Wareing and others before taking on his own ventures.

Today, Michael prides himself on serving luxurious, high-quality cuisine in an unpretentious setting at Restaurant Michael Nadra, where friendly fine dining is the name of the game. A bold mix of European and Asian flavours also infiltrates the inventive dishes he creates.

Ed Baines – Randall & Aubin – Pg 11

Chef Profile

Ed Baines is the chef-director of Randall & Aubin, an Anglo-French brasserie specialising in seafood and succulent rotisserie meats that opened in the vibrant heart of Soho in 1996, and in Manchester in 2017. Ed’s cooking is inspired by classic French and British cuisine and he insists on using only the best-quality produce to create honest, exceptional dishes that speak for themselves.

‘...insists on using only the best quality produce...’

Ed refined his skills as a chef working in highly regarded establishments such as The Dorchester, Bibendum and River Café, before taking on the role of head chef at the hugely successful Daphne’s in Kensington. Ed’s passion and skill in the kitchen has seen him write two bestselling cookbooks, Entertain and Best of British. He’s also appeared on many TV shows, including ITV’s Britain’s Best Dish for several seasons, and the BBC’s Ready Steady Cook.

Maurilio Almeida – Archipelago – Pg 64

Chef Profile

Maurilio grew up surrounded by wonderful healthy food at home, which first sparked his interest in cooking. After working his way around various kitchens in London, he learnt the tricks of the trade and is now head chef at Archipelago, where he creates dishes inspired by various cuisines from around the globe.

‘...creates dishes inspired by various cuisines from around the globe...’

According to Maurilio, good food makes your mouth water as soon as you smell it – he bears this in mind when creating the dishes that appear from Archipelago’s kitchen. He carefully selects the best suppliers selling unique, exotic produce to ensure that only the highest quality produce passes through the kitchen doors. Above all, Maurilio enjoys seeing happy faces after diners have indulged in plates of food prepared with love and enthusiasm.

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London Guide 2019

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Index

123...

Burger & Lobster ..................................51

Franco’s................................................19

108 Brasserie & 108 Pantry ...................8

C

G

11 Cadogan Gardens ...............................5

Café in the Crypt ..................................53

Gatti’s ..................................................20

A

Cast Iron Bar & Grill ............................36

H

Albion, The ...........................................18

Cat & Mutton .......................................44

Hamptons Bar, The ...............................42

Alyn Williams at the Westbury ...............8

Chamberlain Hotel Bar Kitchen, The ......16

Hand & Flower, The ..............................12

Amerigo Vespucci .................................23

Clink Restaurant, The ..............................6

Hilliard ................................................52

Antelope, The ........................................17

Cock & Bottle, The ...............................15

Humble Grape.......................................45

Archipelago ..........................................64

Corner Bar, The ....................................71

Hung Drawn & Quartered ......................54

Aubaine Kensington ...............................9

Corrigan’s Mayfair .................................4

I

Ayanna’s London...................................31

Crown & Anchor ...................................57

Il Pagliaccio .........................................21

B

D

Inamo ...................................................66

Banker, The .........................................52

Daly’s Wine Bar....................................19

Inn of Court, The...................................54

Barley Mow, The ...................................58

Dans le Noir? ......................................65

J

Battersea Power Station .......................48

Drayton Court Hotel, The ......................14

Jam Tree, The – Chelsea ........................39

Bell & Crown, The.................................14

E

Jam Tree, The – Clapham .....................50

Belle Vue, The.......................................46

Elysée, The ...........................................35

JRC Global Buffet .............. 63, 64, 65, 70

Benihana ..............................................68

Enterprise, The .....................................57

K

Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill ..................26

F

K Bar, The ..............................................7

Bistro ..................................................42

fish! And fish! kitchen ...........................27

Kona ......................................................4

Bolton’s ................................................20

Flat Three ..............................................3

L

Bow Street Tavern.................................60

Fox & Goose, The .................................12

La Patagonia ........................................30

Brasserie Blanc.....................................29

Fox, The ...............................................58

Lamb & Flag, The .................................16

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London Guide 2019

Lansdowne Pub & Dining Room, The .....59

Prince Alfred .......................................59

T

Le Café du Marché................................10

R

Table Café, The .......................................6

Le Garrick ............................................10

Railway Tavern......................................60

Tell Your Friends ..................................47

Lighthouse, The.....................................62

Randall & Aubin ...................................11

Temple Brew House ...............................13

M

Red Lion Hotel, The ..............................12

Thai Square Restaurants .......................72

Ma Petite Jamaica ................................32

Restaurant Michael Nadra .....................9

Three Crowns, The.................................13

Mad Hatter Hotel, The ..........................61

River Cottage ................................. 34. 43

Three Stags, The ..................................39

Manhattan Grill ...................................37

Rose & Crown, The ..............................14

Tiroler Hut............................................33

Monsoon, The .......................................71

Roundhouse, The ..................................15

Town House ............................................7

Moshi Moshi .........................................70

S

Troubadour, The ...................................41

N

Sale e Pepe ...........................................22

W

North By Northwest ..............................55

Sanctuary House Hotel, The ..................54

Waxy O’Connor’s ..................................44

North China ..........................................74

Seashell of Lisson Grove, The ................28

Wellington Hotel, The ..........................16

O

Shampers..............................................41

White Hart, The ...................................61

Old Nick, The ........................................40

Shikumen..............................................73

Wiltons Restaurant ...............................25

Omnino .................................................38

Ship & Shovell, The ..............................55

Witch Café............................................52

OPSO ...................................................34

Ship, The .............................................56

Y

P

Silk & Grain ........................................47

YoYo Kitchen.........................................67

Pham Sushi ..........................................67

Spaghetti House ...................................24

Z

Phene, The ............................................11

St Stephen’s Tavern .............................53

Zerodegrees ..........................................50

Planet Hollywood ..................................37

Star & Garter .......................................46

Poet, The ..............................................40

Stein’s Berlin ........................................34

Prawn on the Lawn ...............................25

Swan, The ...........................................61

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Your Gateway to the East Discover the delights of the best Chinese dishes selected and other top quality courses, all cooked to perfection.

DISCOVER SHIKUMEN

We invite you to enter Shikumen, your gateway to the east, as we continue the tradition to blend the two cultures of east and west.

SHIKUMEN SHEPHERD’S BUSH

SHIKUMEN ALDGATE

020 8749 9978 sbush@shikumen.co.uk Dorsett Hotel, 58 Shepherd’s Bush Green, London, W12 8QE

020 7377 0986 aldgate@shikumen.co.uk 1st Floor, Dorsett City Hotel, 9-13 Aldgate High St, London, EC3N 1AH

www.shikumen.co.uk

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