Restaurants in London

London is a melting pot of global culture, and it follows that the city has become one of the world’s ultimate dining destinations. Top areas for expats to eat out in are Mayfair, Covent Garden, Soho or Chelsea. For curries head to Brick Lane; for Asian food make a beeline for Chinatown; and for African and Caribbean make the journey down to Brixton.

That being said, be sure to take advantage of traditional British cuisine in the form of fish and chips wrapped up in newspaper for quick and easy take away.

A more recent phenomenon is the emergence of the gastropub; where local boozers have hired in chefs and now offer very decent meals and wines to accompany the customary pint of ale.

Restaurants in London have started raising their prices over the course of the last few years, and now eating out can be expensive. Even lunchtime meals can cost up to £10, and a meal at a good restaurant accompanied by a glass of wine can cost upwards of £20 per head.

Restaurant recommendations in London

 
Avenue
Top modern British and Mediterranean food in a minimalist environment; great value and always full with the local St. James clientele.
www.danddlondon.com/restaurants/avenue/home
Tel: (0)20 7321 2111
 
Star of India   
A long-time leader in modern Indian cuisine, this classic eatery has interesting menus and specials that justify its relatively steep prices.
www.star-of-india.co.uk
Tel: (0)20 8989 4028
 
1 Lombard Street       
This city institution is always full with investment bankers enjoying an á la carte menu featuring seasonal specialities and an excellent wine list.
www.1lombardstreet.com
Tel: (0)20 7929 6611
 
Montpeliano   
An old school Italian eatery serving authentic food with top-notch service.
www.montpelianorestaurant.com
Tel: (0)20 7589 0032
 
The Abingdon  
Fun and sociable gastropub off High Street in Kensington; the organic salmon with Jerusalem artichokes is amazing.
theabingdon.co.uk
Tel: (0)20 7937 3339
 
Restaurant Gordon Ramsay     
As one of only two British restaurants to achieve three Michelin stars, its reason enough to eat here for most.
www.gordonramsay.com/royalhospitalroad
Tel: (0)20 7352 4441
 
Fire and Stone  
Great wood fired pizza in a cosy atmosphere. Conveniently located in Covent Garden, guests will be greeted with contemporary trimmings and warm welcome.
www.fireandstone.com/pizza/restaurant/index.asp
Tel: 0844 371 2550
 
Carnaby Restaurant    
The Carnaby boasts a sophisticated menu and great outside street views.
www.courthouse-hotel.com/bars/the_carnaby.html
Tel: 020 7297 5555
 
54 Farringdon 
Stylish yet classic, 54 Farringdon serves up modern European and Malaysian cuisine composed of only free range, organic and local produce.
www.54farringdon.com
Tel: 020 7336 0603
 
Zaika  
Contemporary Indian fare with huge handfuls of spicy creativity mixed in makes this a sensational Indian eatery worth seeking out in trendy Kensington.
www.zaika-restaurant.co.uk
Tel: 020 7795 6533