London’s food scene is constantly evolving, with new restaurants popping up every week. But amidst the hype and buzz, some places manage to stand out from the crowd and become true culinary destinations. Whether you’re looking for a classic Italian-American experience, a traditional British pub, or something more modern and progressive, London has something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the city’s hottest tables.
Italian-American Glamour: The Dover
Forget your average spaghetti and meatballs joint. The Dover offers a sophisticated take on Italian-American cuisine. Imagine yourself nestled in a dimly lit, chic space, adorned with plush wood and shimmering chandeliers. The air is thick with the flickering glow of candles, adding to the ambiance of elegance and excitement. This new hot spot has eschewed the usual opening night fanfare and social media influencer hype, but its elegant cocktails, lobster ravioli, and Sophia Loren-inspired vibe have quickly made it one of London’s most sought-after dining experiences.
A Soho Classic: The Devonshire
If you haven’t heard of The Devonshire, you might as well be living under a rock. This iconic green pub in Soho is a veritable celebrity magnet. Footballing legend Peter Crouch might be spotted enjoying a pint of Guinness, while singer James Blunt has been known to launch paper airplanes from the roof, adding to the pub’s lively atmosphere. But it’s not just a place to see and be seen. The upstairs dining room offers a haven of culinary delights, from unparalleled langoustines and exceptional pea and ham soup to old-school steak and Guinness puddings, as soft and comforting as the passing of time. And don’t forget to check out their brilliant sub-£30 set menu.
Cantonese Delights: A Culinary Paradise
Some might say this iconic Cantonese restaurant has lost its luster, but they’re wrong. This culinary paradise is still a popular destination, with long queues a common sight. The restaurant’s popularity is no surprise, given its delectable dim sum and Cantonese dishes. Their xiao long bao, delicate soup dumplings filled with flavorful broth, are truly extraordinary. The crispy wontons come with a traditional salad cream for dipping, while the cheung fun, thin curls of tofu nestled beneath rice noodles, are unbelievably smooth, soft, and addictive. The restaurant’s commitment to authentic flavors extends to its ingredients, which are often imported directly from Hong Kong.
Roman Pizza Perfection: A New Generation of Flavors
While Neapolitan pizzas remain a beloved classic, Roman pizzas are taking center stage. Baker Carl McCuskey has opened a formidable venture by the river in Hammersmith, serving up thin, crispy pizzas that are capturing the attention of London’s food lovers. McCuskey, who took over his grandmother’s old pub during lockdown, launched his concept in 2020, revolutionizing pizza with his unique blend of flour and water. His pizzas stand out from the floppy, heavy pizzas that have dominated the scene for the last decade, offering a lighter, more crisp alternative.
Le Caprice Reborn: A Chic Return to the Classics
Jeremy King, the renowned restaurateur, has brought a touch of classic glamour to his newest venture. Arlington, King’s first restaurant under his new umbrella, Jeremy King Restaurants, is located in the same spot as his iconic Le Caprice. The restaurant retains the familiar glitzy mirrors and black and white décor, evoking the elegance of its predecessor. The menu features familiar classics, like bang bang chicken and generous salmon fishcakes, transporting diners back to the glory days of 1980s London. Although famed maître d’ Jesus Adorno has departed, the team remains exceptional, and the atmosphere remains impeccably chic.
Progressive Delights: Whyte’s
East London’s food scene is known for its eclectic mix of traditional and modern fare. Alongside classic pie and mash shops, fish and chips, and greasy spoons, a new generation of restaurants is emerging, embracing the latest food trends. Whyte’s, located in an office building near London Fields, is a prime example of this evolution. Accessed through a glass door in an alleyway or a minimalist courtyard, Whyte’s offers a unique and inviting ambiance. The menu showcases progressive dishes like a light and punchy tomato and plum salad, an enormous plate of crab on toast, and unrivaled pork head croquettes. The lamb chops, cooked over fire, are a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to high-quality ingredients and cooking techniques. Whyte’s perfectly embodies the spirit of London’s dynamic food scene: progressive, fun, and fueled by the creativity of talented chefs.
