For a special occasion

Barrafina, SOHO

My all-time favorite restaurant in London, I couldn’t recommend paying it a visit enough, especially if you’re a huge fan of Spanish food like I am! Their Michelin star is more than deserved as their food is simply spectacular, made with high quality, fresh and seasonal products executed in the best way possible. You can’t miss their pan con tomate and potato tortilla, it will literally blow you away. Perfect for a special occasion. 

Bibendum, Chelsea  

An elegant French seafood restaurant in the heart of South Kensington serves what is probably the best and freshest seafood in the whole city. White tiles line the walls of what used to be a Michelin tyre depot, giving the location a unique history and character. The seafood sharing plates served at the oyster bar are highly recommended. 

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, Knightsbridge  

The restaurant with perhaps the best location in London, within the Mandarin Oriental hotel with huge windows overlooking Hyde Park’s foliage. Heston Blumenthal offers a rich, interesting and delicious menu composed of ancient British dishes reinterpreted to fit a modern palate. A once in a lifetime meal. 

Treat Yo Self

Mortimer House, Fitzgrovia 

Perfect for weekend brunches, work meetings or smart (non pretentious) dinners. The central location makes it accessible to pop in for a calming afternoon tea during a hectic day. I suggest the padron peppers (just like the ones in Spain) as a starter and courgette spaghetti with bufala ricotta and pistachios to follow. 

Nopi, SOHO

NOPI is on the more affordable side, still offering delicious insight into the magical culinary world of Ottolenghi. I recommend trying the roasted butternut squash with tahini, pine nuts and za’atar. 

Everyday

Padella Pasta, Borough Market 

Padella only serves fresh pasta with fresh sauces made each day. Whether you have a dish of gnocchi with butter and sage (£4) or a great carbonara, you’ll leave feeling extremely satisfied. 

Gail’s Bakery, multiple locations

If you’re looking for a good, classic breakfast accompanied by a great coffee, look no further. High quality ingredients and food is what makes GAIL’s bakery such a success in its various locations around London.

Corazón, SOHO

A delicious Mexican restaurant and bar serving tacos and other mexican street food, with a great selection of drinks, from ciders and beers to cocktails and spirits. A great vibe and dark interior for a fun and good meal with friends. 

Lucknow 49, Mayfair

Delicious Indian restaurant in the heart of London serving an array of traditional – and spicy – Indian dishes, accompanied by a selection of breads. I recommend trying their baby aubergine curry.

Eggbreak, Notting Hill  

If you’re an egg and brunch fan, you simply can’t skip a visit to this cosy all-day kitchen in Notting Hill. They offer an excellent and diverse selection of egg-based dishes as well as other brunch classics, although slightly reinterpreted. I highly recommend their Turkish eggs or, if you’re not a faint of heart, their nutella filled french toast. 

MEATliquor, multiple locations 

Burgers, beer, cider and fries. The best place to go if you’re looking for an easy burger joint where you can enjoy some excellent food in good company, without any frills. 

Burger and Lobster, multiple locations

As the name suggests, this trendy restaurant serves two things: burgers and lobsters. With a few variations of each (lobster roll, beef and lobster burger, etc.) their best, and staple, dish is the lobster roll served with crunchy skinny fries and garlic sauce.