Top 5 Places to Eat in London

Written by Graham Smith, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Karen Price, Sandra Frank
26/08/2025
Scenic view of Big Ben and Westminster Bridge over the Thames River at sunset in London, UK.
Pixabay, Pexels

London's dining scene thrives on a captivating mix of traditional and international cuisines, offering everything from Michelin-starred experiences to authentic street food, appealing to diverse tastes and budgets.

1. The Clove Club

Cuisine: Modern British

Nestled in the historic Shoreditch Town Hall, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined yet relaxed fine dining experience. The seasonal tasting menus, crafted by Chef Isaac McHale, highlight prime British ingredients with innovative preparation. Expect dishes such as hot smoked Wiltshire trout and raw Orkney scallop, served in an elegant setting with an open kitchen adding a touch of theatre. It is ideal for special occasions or food enthusiasts seeking a sophisticated culinary journey.

Price: Tasting Menus: £195 - £225 per person; 3-course Lunch: £95 per person.

Getting There: Located in Shoreditch, it is a short walk from Old Street Underground station, accessible via the Northern Line.

2. Gymkhana

Cuisine: Indian

This two-Michelin-starred Mayfair restaurant evokes the ambiance of elite Indian clubs, offering a luxurious yet lively setting. The menu presents classic Indian cuisine with a focus on high-quality ingredients and rich, nuanced flavours. Signature dishes include the Kid Goat Methi Keema with Pao and the famed Tandoori Masala Lamb Chops. Dinner reservations often require advance booking due to its popularity.

Price: Dinner Tasting Menu: £120 per person; 4-course Lunch: £60 per person (plus £5 for dessert). Dinner has a minimum spend of £100 per person.

Getting There: Situated in Mayfair, it is a short walk from Green Park or Piccadilly Circus Underground stations, served by the Victoria, Piccadilly, and Jubilee lines.

3. Padella

Cuisine: Italian (Pasta)

Padella is a popular spot renowned for its exceptional, fresh, hand-rolled pasta, earning a Michelin Bib Gourmand. The atmosphere is bustling and casual, featuring an open kitchen where pasta is made daily. Must-try dishes include pici cacio e pepe and tagliarini with Dorset crab. Due to its popularity, especially at the Borough Market location, be prepared for queues, though a virtual queuing system is available via QR codes or the Dojo App.

Price: Pasta dishes: £8.50 - £13 per dish. Estimated cost: £25 - £45 per person.

Getting There: With locations in Borough Market (near London Bridge station) and Shoreditch (near Old Street/Liverpool Street stations), both are easily accessible by various Underground and Overground lines.

4. Roti King

Cuisine: Malaysian

A cult favourite offering authentic and affordable Malaysian street food. The Euston branch is well-known for its queues, but a newer, larger location at Battersea Power Station provides more space and some booking options. Guests can observe chefs skillfully preparing flaky roti canai in the open kitchen. The Roti Canai served with various curries (dhal, chicken, mutton, or fish) and the stuffed Murtabak are highly recommended.

Price: Approximately £10-£20 per person for a main meal. Roti Canai from £9.50.

Getting There: The Euston branch is a 5-minute walk from Euston Station. The Battersea Power Station branch is an 8-minute walk from the Battersea Power Station Underground station (Northern Line).

5. Sonora Taquería

Cuisine: Mexican (Tacos)

For those seeking vibrant and budget-friendly Mexican flavors, Sonora Taquería in Stoke Newington offers an excellent experience. This venue focuses on delivering authentic tacos with bold and satisfying tastes. It is a casual spot perfect for a quick, flavourful meal that caters to a younger crowd or families.

Price: Taco wraps: £7; Platters start from £8.50.

Getting There: Located in Stoke Newington, it is best reached by London Overground to Stoke Newington station, followed by a short walk.

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