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The Fat Duck

★★★ Michelin££££Creative

For more than three decades, Heston Blumenthal and his team have blazed their own idiosyncratic trail at this iconic restaurant, where emotions and memories play a vital role. The dishes bear all the Heston hallmarks: innovative, playful and multi-sensory – epitomised by ‘Beside the Sea’, where headphones play the sound of seagulls, and 'Off to the Land of Nod', a nostalgic dessert involving Horlicks, an eye mask and edible 'pillows'. Crucially, for all its originality, the cooking also showcases harmonious and utterly delicious flavours and textures. A large, charming team guide you through t

Waterside Inn

★★★ Michelin££££french

Set in a picture perfect spot on a bank of the Thames, this long-standing bastion of culinary excellence continues to go from strength to strength. Luxury is at every turn, from the finest crockery to indulgent ingredients, and this, combined with the effortless service, creates a truly memorable dining experience. The menu lists newer creations alongside the French classics, with the kitchen’s exceptional craft on display throughout – be it in a sublime lobster jus or a textbook 'quenelle de brochet à la Lyonnaise'.

CORE by Clare Smyth

★★★ Michelin££££Modern British

From the charming welcome to the last of the delicious petit fours, Clare Smyth's elegant Notting Hill restaurant offers a superb experience. Start with a drink in the delightful Whiskey & Seaweed bar, before choosing between an à la carte or two tasting menus. 'Core Seasons' features more recent seasonal creations, while 'Core Classics' includes Smyth signatures like 'Potato and Roe' and 'Lamb Carrot'. Throughout, the eye-catching dishes take outstanding ingredients and fashion them into beautifully balanced, skilfully composed dishes with supreme depth of flavour.

The Ledbury

★★★ Michelin££££Modern Cuisine

Among The Ledbury's many strengths has always been Brett Graham's close relationship with his suppliers. In some cases that supplier is himself, with pigs raised on his farm and the restaurant housing its own mushroom cabinet. These stunning ingredients are amplified by beautifully balanced combinations and the kitchen's ability to deliver multiple layers of flavour without overcomplicating things, such as in the hay-aged pigeon with girolles, vadouvan, cherry and sauerkraut. The service team are refreshingly approachable and have an impressive knack for putting everyone at ease.

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay

★★★ Michelin££££French

He may be one of the most famous chefs on the planet, but Gordon Ramsay still remains fiercely committed to maintaining the highest standards at his elegant yet relaxed flagship restaurant. The team here interpret Ramsay’s style impeccably across a choice of menus: the set 'Prestige' selection; the 'Carte Blanche' surprise menu; and the à la carte, where you will find signature dishes like the lobster ravioli and the roast veal sweetbread. The latter is a perfect embodiment of the kitchen's perfectly judged contrasts of flavour and texture, with a pleasing lightness of touch.

Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester

★★★ Michelin££££French

As soon as you are welcomed with warmth and charisma by the outstanding service team, you know you're in for a special experience at this jewel of a restaurant. The chefs achieve a perfect blend of modernity and classicism, combining seasonal dishes that embrace Alain Ducasse's beloved 'naturalité' with a roster of his signature recipes – such as the peerless rum baba, a dessert that consistently delivers culinary ecstasy. Underpinning it all are outstanding ingredients, technical mastery and miraculous balance in dishes that can be at once intense and fresh, both rich and delicate.

Hand and Flowers

★★ Michelin££££Modern British

This flagship operation from Tom Kerridge – the king of British pub dining – provides exactly what you'd expect: classic dishes executed with such skill and precision that they soar to rarely seen heights. The menu is not overly long but it still proves hard to choose, as every dish sounds so appealing. The ingredients are exemplary, presentation is first-rate and the bold, natural flavours are given room to shine, resulting in memorable dishes like an outstanding banana soufflé. The beams add character to the room, while the friendly staff keep the atmosphere light and convivial.

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

★★ Michelin££££Traditional British

Heston Blumenthal has announced that this restaurant at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park hotel will close for good in early 2027, so now’s the time to see exactly why it has always been so highly rated. The menu may take inspiration from England's oldest recipe books, but there is still something decidedly 'Heston' about the creative dishes. The signature illusory 'Meat Fruit' epitomises his playful influence, while providing a reminder that superb flavours underpin his dishes – in this case it's a smooth, delicious chicken liver parfait. In another twist, guests are asked how much interaction

Brooklands by Claude Bosi

★★ Michelin££££Modern Cuisine

The Peninsula’s rooftop restaurant is a celebration of the world of speed; it’s named after the famous Surrey racetrack and a scale model of Concorde hangs from its ceiling. When it comes to the kitchen, it’s clear there’s a high level of skill on board, as the team is run by the experienced Claude Bosi. Expect finely detailed, exquisite cooking that showcases the best British ingredients, like Lake District lamb and Cornish squid, in delicate yet rewarding dishes. The floor-to-ceiling windows look out onto a fantastic terrace.

Bonheur by Matt Abé

★★ Michelin££££Modern Cuisine

After many years working with Gordon Ramsay, Matt Abé finally put his name above the door with this restaurant inside the space which was once Le Gavroche – the famous basement dining room is now decked out with neutral tones and curved lines. The menu showcases Abé’s own style of cooking, blending classical dishes like celeriac royale with well-judged modernity. Throughout, his command of flavour – particularly in sauces – is exceptional, exemplified by a perfectly cooked scallop with a rich, buttery sauce and an array of citrus, all working together in total harmony.

Latymer

★ Michelin££££Modern Cuisine

Tucked away inside the luxurious Pennyhill Park Hotel is this little culinary oasis. The tasting menu comes in a surprise format, but you can expect top-notch produce like Brixham sea bass and Aynhoe deer to be on there. These fine ingredients are crafted into dishes that use classic combinations which have been refined and reworked in a creative modern style. Flavours, textures and temperatures show wonderful balance and there's nothing superfluous on the plate.

Woven by Adam Smith

★ Michelin££££Modern Cuisine

Housed within a luxurious 18th-century property, itself surrounded by 246 acres of beautiful grounds, this elegant restaurant feels like a truly special place. Sporting golden, almost autumnal décor on the ground floor of the Coworth Park hotel, the restaurant is a stage for the eponymous chef to showcase a roll-call of superb British produce. His technically skilled, beautifully presented dishes have a lightness of touch, while also displaying real depth and finesse. The signature chocolate dessert delivers on its promise, ending your visit on a euphoric note.

Hinds Head

★ Michelin£££Traditional British

Set in the Thameside village of Bray, this sweet, quintessentially English inn is best known as Heston Blumenthal’s informal dining option – but that doesn’t make it any less enticing. Concise menus offer time-honoured British dishes presented in a clean, modern style, with punchy flavours and the occasional playful element. The combinations work beautifully and dishes are executed with the utmost precision – look out for the delicious Bakewell tart in particular. Service is relaxed and friendly, and the atmosphere buzzes with the sound of contented diners.

The Tudor Pass

★ Michelin££££Modern Cuisine

Situated within the splendid Great Fosters hotel – itself surrounded by beautiful formal gardens which you'd be wise to walk around – The Tudor Pass is an impressive, intimate restaurant that's right at home in such a charming and characterful setting. The surprise tasting menu comes in two lengths and you'll be glad you went for the longer one once you try the wonderful seasonal cooking. Excellent ingredients are elevated by their well-crafted accompaniments, such as fallow deer with an intense red wine sauce, fried girolles and a sharp blackberry purée that cuts through the richness.

The Coach

★ Michelin£££Modern British

The Hand and Flowers' reputation goes before it, but not quite as many people are familiar with its younger sister, The Coach, despite 2025 having marked its 10th successful year. A cosy, compact pub it has a relaxed, informal vibe – and the sharing of dishes is positively encouraged. Lunchtime sees a set-priced menu, while dinner offers an extensive à la carte that includes everything from deep-fried cod with pease pudding or their ‘rotisserie of the day’ to sticky toffee pudding with beef suet. Cooking is of the highest order and the hugely satisfying dishes burst with punchy flavours.

Starling

★ Michelin£££Modern British

The first solo opening of experienced chef Nick Beardshaw is this neighbourhood restaurant, where its lack of pretension makes it all the more endearing. The décor inside the surprisingly spacious dining room is simple yet elegant, while the menu consists of the kind of seemingly straightforward dishes that are tricky to pull off yet so easy to eat. Nick’s signature dish of Orkney scallop with Thai green curry sauce is a prime example, the technical skill and balance of flavours shining through. There’s a good selection of steaks and a great value lunch deal too.

Sorrel

★ Michelin££££Modern British

An attractive 300-year-old former school in the town centre is home to this delightful restaurant, which is named after the owner’s favourite herb. Sit on the cosy ground floor or in the intimate upstairs room, where beams divide the area into three. Chef Alex Payne and his team offer a light à la carte and surprise tasting menu (the best option for the full experience), filled with top-quality ingredients. From Orkney scallops to mature, full-flavoured Hereford beef, the produce is put to good use in detailed, intricate dishes. The affable team genuinely want you to enjoy your visit.

Artichoke

★ Michelin££££Modern British

At the centre of a picturesque market town sits this 16th-century red-brick house, where the interior blends historic touches and an inglenook fireplace with smart modern design. To start, sample the signature Chiltern Black ale bread, before dining from one of a variety of menus that showcase the experienced chef's accomplished cooking, where the well-measured flavour combinations have an understated complexity. Seasonality is to the fore, as evidenced by superb dishes like local lamb sweetbreads with first flush garden peas and morel mushrooms.

Dysart Petersham

★ Michelin££££Modern Cuisine

A gorgeous Arts and Crafts building houses this warm, homely restaurant on the edge of Richmond Park. There's a natural ethos running throughout the highly seasonal cooking, which is best appreciated with the full tasting menu. Impeccably sourced ingredients and strong classical technique underpin assured, satisfying dishes where the boldly flavoured sauces are a highlight – be it honey and verjus with John Dory or a glossy sake sauce with Creedy Carver Duck. The warm, passionate service leaves no detail overlooked, and there are quarterly classical music recitals too.

La Trompette

★ Michelin££££Modern British

The jewel in Chiswick’s culinary crown remains as popular as ever, thanks to its local feel, relaxed atmosphere and, most importantly, its skilled and generous cooking. Largely British ingredients are combined with influences from France and occasionally the wider Mediterranean. So you can expect carefully prepared dishes like corn-fed chicken with potato galettes, celeriac purée and wild garlic salsa verde, where the flavours are as assured as they are satisfying. Bright and delightful on a summer’s day and cosy and warm in winter, this is a restaurant for all seasons and all occasions.

River Café

★ Michelin£££Italian

It should go without saying, but be sure to ask for a seat on the terrace at this icon of London's Italian restaurant scene. The on-view kitchen with its wood-fired oven dominates the stylish and buzzing riverside room and the menu bursts with authentic Italian flavours which make one’s mouth water in anticipation. The honest, hearty dishes have a rustic Italian simplicity, relying as they do on the quality of their ingredients, whether that be clams, crab or wild sea bass. Arguably the best Italian wine list in London is the icing on the cake.

Endo at The Rotunda

★ Michelin££££Japanese

This restaurant is temporarily closed following a fire.The former BBC TV Centre may be an unlikely setting for a restaurant, but it's a match made in sushi heaven for this flagship venture from Yokohama-born Endo Kazutoshi. The experienced, well-travelled chef is a real showman, explaining each finely crafted, subtly flavoured element of the omakase menu in an engaging, charming way. Ingredients are either imported from Japan, such as rice from Yamagata, or are the best that Europe has to offer, like monkfish from Brixham and tuna from Spain.

The Harwood Arms

★ Michelin£££Modern British

The Harwood Arms is a pub at heart, so bar snacks are a must: munch on homemade crisps or a venison Scotch egg while you peruse the menu with a pint. The cooking at this pub may be highly accomplished, but it still does what pub food does best: leaves you feeling eminently satisfied. The menu is British to the core and the owners supply much of the expertly cooked deer and game. Well-balanced dishes burst with flavour and allow each main ingredient to shine by keeping things simple.

Kitchen W8

★ Michelin£££Modern Cuisine

Relaxed and free from pomposity, there is a lovely neighbourhood feel to this restaurant that provides both great cooking and a warm welcome. The versatility of the place knows no bounds, as it’s as suited to a romantic dinner as it is to a quick lunch while out shopping or when celebrating with friends. The reliably enjoyable dishes are based on classical combinations and often have a Mediterranean inflection – such as carpaccio of scallops or grilled octopus with smoked paprika aioli. A good value set menu is available alongside the à la carte, but must be booked in advance.

Chez Bruce

★ Michelin££££French

Restaurants offering a standard of cooking this high for over 20 years are few and far between, and the numerous regulars of this smart, friendly neighbourhood spot are a testament to its perennial popularity. The reasonably priced menu features traditional, carefully prepared dishes that showcase quality seasonal produce. The wine list is skilfully chosen and features some well-priced rare wines, with an interesting selection by the glass, while a corkage option allows guests to bring a bottle from their own cellar.

Dorian

★ Michelin££££Modern British

Terse menu descriptions belie the quality of the cooking at this energisingly busy neighbourhood brasserie in Notting Hill. Excellent primary ingredients are at the core, which are lovingly treated by the kitchen team, with highly skilled wood-fired grilling a feature of the menu; grab a seat at the counter to get a view of the chefs in action. Dishes vary from single-bite snacks such as creamy liver parfait toast to shared main courses like deliciously filling Limousin veal chop with vin jaune. First-timers should follow the friendly service team's advice on what – and how much – to order.

Caractère

★ Michelin££££European Contemporary, European

'Never judge a book by its cover' certainly rings true here, as within this former pub sits a convivial and really quite stylish restaurant, where sophisticated cooking combines with efficient, unstuffy service. Alongside an à la carte, you have the option to ‘build your own’ 5 course tasting menu by selecting one dish from each of their ‘character’ profiles; these range from 'Subtle' (such as Acquerello risotto) to 'Robust' (roast lamb, perhaps) and finish with 'Greedy' for dessert. Top-notch ingredients and strong classical technique run throughout.

Interlude

★ Michelin££££Creative

The 240-acre Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens were first planted in 1801 and are famous today for their azaleas, rhododendrons and even a wallaby colony. Within the grounds sits an Italianate mansion housing elegant bedrooms and this intimate restaurant. The 'Estate Experience' tasting menu uses seasonal ingredients from their own land, with Chef Jean Delport's South African heritage shining through – such as in the carrot biltong forming part of the signature 'Rabbit Eats Carrot' dish. The wine list continues the South African trend, with choices from their own Benguela Cove estate.

Ben Wilkinson at The Pass

★ Michelin££££Modern British

Situated in an enviable location next to the South Downs, South Lodge is a beautiful country house hotel that thankfully has a restaurant to match. Ben Wilkinson is an intelligent and skilful chef who runs a calm, focused kitchen; sit at the high-topped tables to watch him and his young team use impeccable techniques to get the most out of exceptional produce, be it day-boat turbot or wild fallow deer. The flavours build as the menu progresses and the desserts are a real highlight. Dishes are delivered with real pride by the chefs.

Elystan Street

★ Michelin£££Modern British, Mediterranean Cuisine

Elystan Street is a neighbourhood restaurant, but as that neighbourhood is Chelsea, you can expect to find elegance and style in spades. It’s a collaboration between Philip Howard and Rebecca Mascarenhas, and with its huge windows, well-judged lighting and friendly service, it's an equally charming spot for a light lunch or an intimate dinner. The cooking comes with well-defined flavours and a lightness of touch, exuding a pared-back, unfussy style that suits the frequent Mediterranean influences. Barbecued octopus with aioli, crispy chickpeas and tardivo is a prime example.

Trinity

★ Michelin必比登££Modern Cuisine

A rightly popular neighbourhood restaurant, this is a place you can’t help but fall in love with. Located close to Clapham Common, it’s an intimate operation where the open kitchen lets you in on the action. Kick off with a G&T made using their house distilled gin, before enjoying fine British produce crafted into deceptively complex dishes packed with bold flavours. The inventive 'sardine bolognaise dumpling', for instance, showcases consummate seasoning and meticulous attention to detail in every element. The smooth service team bring welcome personality to proceedings.

Tom Brown at The Capital

★ Michelin£££Seafood, Modern British

After running his own restaurant Cornerstone in Hackney, Chef Tom Brown returned in 2025 to the genteel surroundings of The Capital Hotel, the place where his reputation was first established. The dining room is intimate, immaculate and perfect for that discreet lunch or celebratory dinner. As is the case with all Brown's endeavours, the focus is largely on seafood and the visually thrilling dishes make great use of superb prime ingredients, whether that be turbot with a beautiful array of courgettes or more inventive dishes like the cuttlefish ‘cacio e pepe’.

Corenucopia by Clare Smyth

★ Michelin££££Traditional British

With its thick cream carpets, neo-classical mouldings, mahogany tables and velvet upholstery, there’s a plush feel to this elegant restaurant from the renowned Clare Smyth. Her signature purity and precision are on display across a menu of refined and reinvented traditional British and French dishes. ‘Fish and chips’ is in fact Dover sole filled with lobster mousse, while the sherry trifle is a sweet, simple hit of nostalgia. As a side, choose from a wide selection of classic potato recipes, be it boulangère, dauphinoise or hasselback. A chic, cosy private dining room in the basement is perfec

Amaya

★ Michelin££££Indian

This long-standing Indian restaurant delivers a dining experience where the emphasis is on differently sized dishes designed for sharing – delivered as and when they are prepared from the tawa, tandoor and sigri grills. The smaller portions allow you to try more dishes from the impressively varied menu, with smoked chilli lamb chops a standout and top-drawer produce a feature throughout the cooking. The team are friendly, the atmosphere is lively and the vibrant, original dishes remain in the memory long after you've departed.

Pétrus by Gordon Ramsay

★ Michelin££££French, French Contemporary

Named after the famous Pomerol estate in Bordeaux, wine plays an understandably pivotal role at this impeccably run restaurant that caters to both well-to-do locals and those looking for a special night out. At the heart of the elegant room is its striking glass-walled wine store, which features over 700 bins, including Château Pétrus going back to 1959. The cooking itself offers sumptuous luxury ingredients from lobster to turbot, presented in precise, refined dishes with a classic French heart and little regard for unnecessary frills.

AngloThai

★ Michelin££££Thai

‘Rooted in Thailand, Uniquely British’ is the tagline of this joyfully run restaurant from John and Desiree Chantarasak – John is half-Thai, half-British, a duality that informs his cuisine. The exemplary ingredients – from crab to venison – are sourced from across the UK, including from Desiree’s family’s farm, but you can certainly expect more than British ingredients simply married with Thai flavours. There are reimagined and innovative dishes aplenty here too, such as Brixham crab with caviar and coconut ash cracker. Clever sourcing also extends to the furniture, with the tables made from

Muse by Tom Aikens

★ Michelin££££Creative, Contemporary

With seating for just 23 customers, there’s an intimate, almost communal feel to events at this restaurant inside a delightful Georgian townhouse in a charming Belgravia mews – which partly explains the name. ‘Muse’ can also refer to the inspiration behind the cooking, which includes chef-owner Tom Aikens’ parents, his childhood and key moments from his professional career. Each well-judged and sophisticated dish relates to something memorable from Tom's past, whether that was climbing a tree or enjoying the last barbecue of summer.

Cornus

★ Michelin££££Modern British, Seafood

There’s a wonderful fusion of setting and cooking at Cornus. A sister to long-standing Chelsea restaurant Medlar, it’s a refined, simply decorated restaurant with linen-laid tables and understated quality. The same goes for the dishes, which are based around superb produce, much of it seafood from the southwest coast. The likes of sweet Devon crab and roasted Cornish cod are made all the more delicious by the kitchen’s restrained approach and consummate technical skill. The chefs know they’re using brilliant ingredients, so never overcomplicate matters.

KOL

★ Michelin全球50最佳 #17££££Mexican, Modern Cuisine

‘Mexican soul, British ingredients’ is the tagline of this big, bold restaurant, and it proves an exhilarating combination. The kitchen adds creativity and impressive modern technique to hyper-seasonal recipes rooted in tradition, resulting in wonderful flavour contrasts and imagination in outstanding dishes like the signature langoustine taco with smoked chilli and sea buckthorn. The interesting wine list focuses on lesser-known choices from Central and Eastern Europe, while the final part of the tasting menu is served in the downstairs Mezcaleria, which is well-stocked with Mexican spirits.

Sushi Kanesaka

★ Michelin££££Japanese, Sushi

Authenticity abounds here at Chef Shinji Kanesaka’s London outpost. You’re greeted in the lobby of the 45 Park Lane hotel and escorted up to the hidden room on the first floor. The counter seats is made from a single piece of hinoki cypress wood, while the room is traditionally decorated with bamboo, ceramics and kumiko panels. The omakase menu is made up of around 18 pieces, with the stunning nigiri interspersed with dishes such as steamed abalone or grilled Kobe beef. Much of the seafood is from European waters, while the rice is from Yamagata.

Pavyllon London

★ Michelin££££French Contemporary

Yannick Alléno's place among the pantheon of great French chefs is assured, and the Four Seasons in Mayfair was the chosen venue for his first foray into the UK’s dining scene. It’s a smart, spacious dining room, with lots of natural light and a focus on comfort – the large open kitchen, which is led by Chef Benjamin Ferra Y Castell, is skirted by a luxurious counter for those wanting a close-up view. The food is underscored by classic French recipes, but influences can range from Italy to North Africa to Japan. Ingredients are naturally from the luxury side of the ledger and set menus are the

Dining Room at The Goring

★ Michelin££££Traditional British

The Goring is a model of British style and understatement and its ground floor dining room the epitome of grace and decorum. It appeals to those who ‘like things done properly’ and is one of the few places in London for which everyone appears to dress up. The hotel has long enjoyed a reputation for serving classic British dishes like eggs Drumkilbo, but the kitchen makes judicious use of modern techniques and superb ingredients to produce dishes that display an impressive understanding of balance, flavour and texture.

Labombe by Trivet

★ Michelin£££Modern Cuisine

Situated in the corner of the COMO Metropolitan hotel, with its own separate entrance, this wine bar and restaurant from the Trivet team is a breath of fresh air for the Mayfair dining scene, filled with chatter and the buzz of the open kitchen. It’s difficult to pigeonhole the fun and eclectic cuisine, ranging from snacks like hot tongue bun to classics like pâté en croûte and several dishes cooked over fire. Above all, it's cooking devoid of fuss and packed with flavour. The impressive global wine selection is bolstered by interactive and knowledgeable service.

Pulpo Negro

必比登££Spanish

Standing outside this whitewashed Georgian townhouse, you’re in a Hampshire market town; step inside and you’re in the heart of Spain. Barcelona-born Andres Alemany has brought all the authentic flavours of his homeland to the UK, along with a terrific buzz that’s entirely befitting of a popular tapas bar. The classics like boquerones and tortillas are executed with great skill and offered at a sensible price, while the blackboard menu of wood-fired specials allow you to push the boat out a bit. A good choice of Spanish wines serves to enhance the experience.

Goat On The Roof

必比登££Modern Cuisine

A former bank is now this bright and airy restaurant where plenty of natural light floods in through the large windows. There's an understated elegance to the décor and the counter is the place to sit if you want to discuss the concise yet quality wine list with the enthusiastic team. The appealingly varied cooking offers sharing plates that draw inspiration from multiple sources but are rooted in the British larder. The fish 'gilda' snack is a prime example, offering plenty of flavour in the harmonious combination of trout, quail egg and smoked haddock.

The Loch & The Tyne

必比登££British Contemporary

Adam Handling’s country inn is named in honour of where he met his co-owner chefs: Scotland and Newcastle. The room has a characterful vintage style, and the terrace sits beside raised beds which supply herbs and vegetables for the attractively presented dishes. Among them are re-worked pub classics like the playful haggis Scotch egg or the mac and cheese 'our way'. For dessert, look out for the ever-present trifle, which changes with the seasons. Complete your visit with a stay in one of the luxuriously appointed bedrooms.

The Oarsman

必比登££British Contemporary

Spend an hour or two at this lovely pub and you'll leave feeling a good deal happier than when you entered. The impressive kitchen and service teams will ensure you are looked-after and well-fed, inside the charming surroundings of their part-red-brick, part-timbered pub – which also boasts a lovely enclosed terrace. The cooking puts naturally delicious ingredients at the forefront and doesn't shy away from big flavours, like warming nudja with roasted poussin. Look out for the 'Steak Frites Night' and come midweek to make the most of the wallet-friendly pricing.

The Three Oaks

必比登££Modern British

Situated in a rural-feeling location on the London commuter belt, this appealing, well-run pub comprises several different areas; dine in the brighter room overlooking the terrace and pretty garden, or head straight outside on warmer days. The cooking is satisfying and seasonal, with the chefs skilfully weaving in subtle influences from across East and Southeast Asia, be it miso mushroom parfait, gochujang-glazed squid or Northern Thai red curry soup. The great value set menu, bright young team and well-chosen wine list all enhance the experience.

Dastaan

必比登££Indian

A modest-looking place from outside, Dastaan is a restaurant run with true heart and soul. Its reward is a dining room consistently packed with happy diners, joining together to create an electric atmosphere – and while its popularity may seem like it could cause an issue for the service team, they make it run it like clockwork. The menu presents great value for money and takes North India as its main inspiration, with each dish delivering many layers of flavour thanks to the expert spicing. The desserts are a joy, too, be that the homemade kulfi or the gulab jamun.

Mignonette

必比登££French

How lucky are the residents of Kew? Not only do they have the world-famous gardens on their doorstep, but they’re also the beneficiaries of this terrific little restaurant. Simple, homely and French to its core, this is the epitome of a neighbourhood bistro. The cooking is uncomplicated, hearty fare; bookend your meal with the homemade bread and the pear tarte Tatin, which is well worth the 20-minute wait. Come in the day for the exceptionally well-priced lunch menu, where the dishes are just as delicious and generous.

ssam ssam

必比登£Korean

You’ll find warmth and generosity aplenty at this family-operated Korean restaurant run with palpable pride. Some tables have their own barbecue, allowing you to cook your choice of meats right in front of you, including pork belly, short ribs and Wagyu beef, all at sensible prices. Don’t worry if you’re on a standard table though, as the bansang dishes are surefire winners, offering delicious main components such as fried chicken or grilled mackerel served with three side dishes and top-drawer kimchi. Leave room for the silky smooth matcha crème brûlée to finish.

Canteen

必比登££Italian

The team behind two of West London’s best pubs, The Pelican and The Hero, appear to be just as adept at opening restaurants. The two chefs are alumni of The River Café and it shows in their no-nonsense, flavour-driven Italian food. The menu is a loosely structured document, but you can use the price as a rough guide to the size of the dish. Highlights include the likes of rich ox cheek with polenta and the homemade pasta dishes such as ravioli filled with courgette and nasturtium. They don't take bookings, so be prepared for a queue, but the lovely service team handle it well.

The Pelican

必比登££Traditional Cuisine

Take a big old Victorian boozer and do it up, serve gutsy food with a British heart, and keep the menu flexible and the prices sensible – and you have a pub we’d all like to have at the end of our street. Clearly the residents of Notting Hill agree, as the place is packed to the rafters, so you'd be wise to book ahead before your visit. For fans of no-nonsense food packed with natural flavour, it really is the place to be; from whole roasted turbot to tomahawk steak, the chefs have the good sense to let their quality produce do the talking.

Empire Empire

必比登££Indian

From the people behind the Gunpowder restaurants comes this neighbourhood spot specialising in cuisines from across Punjab and Northwest India. Expect plenty of biryani and kebabs on a menu that’s so appealing, the hardest decision is choosing what not to order. If you're stuck, the butter chicken is a house speciality and you'd be a fool to overlook the terrific 'King Prawns Kadhai Masala' – a prime demonstration of the kitchen's skill with flavours. There is a loose disco theme and a cool vintage vibe, thanks largely to the fantastic jukebox and a photo booth.

Tamila

必比登££Indian

Snugly slotted into a busy South London street, this bustling Indian restaurant comes with a wonderfully relaxed, vibrant atmosphere and dishes you’ll want to eat again and again. The concise menu keeps things simple and is all the better for it, starting with moreish onion bhajis and continuing with a knockout Thanjavur chicken curry. What makes it even better is the mightily appealing prices, meaning you can share a broad range of dishes with friends and come away without your wallet feeling too bruised.

Josephine Bouchon

必比登££Lyonnaise, French

Chef Claude Bosi returns to his Lyonnaise roots with this buzzy ‘bouchon’, where the tables are tightly packed and the walls are adorned with colourful posters. The menu could scarcely be more French if it was emblazoned with the tricolore: vol-au-vent, andouillete, frog’s legs… take your pick. It’s all executed with great skill and packs in plenty of flavour, while the service is delivered with a certain ‘bonne humeur’. The set menu is remarkably good value, as is the 'plat du jour', and the well-chosen wine list contains some notable French producers. There's another, larger branch in Maryle

The Hero

必比登££Traditional Cuisine

Maida Vale residents hit the jackpot when the owners of Notting Hill’s The Pelican chose this neighbourhood for the location of their third venture. The Hero is like a blueprint for how to sympathetically restore and update a pub, and has been understandably packed since Day One. The same menu and warm, buzzy atmosphere can be found across both floors, with traditional pub dishes at the heart – expect the likes of mince on toast, egg mayonnaise with smoked eel or a chicken and tarragon pie. Engaging service is the final touch on a wonderful experience.

Marle

£££Modern British

Within Heckfield Place – a Georgian country house hotel decorated with the owner’s extensive post-war British art collection – you’ll find this charming, orangery-style dining room looking out over a lake and parkland. Locality and seasonality drive everything they do here, with a great number of ingredients coming from the estate’s own farm; these are fashioned into light, clean dishes that rely on honest, natural flavours. Look out for anything based around the 'farm vegetables', which give you an opportunity to really taste the land.

Hoddington Arms

££Traditional British

This restaurant is temporarily closed following a fire.‘The Hodd’ is a characterful pub at the heart of the village, and offers a friendly welcome and charm aplenty with its rustic brickwork and exposed timbers. Understated menu descriptions belie the skill involved in the experienced chef’s well-crafted dishes. Be sure to save room for pudding and stay overnight in one of the five bedrooms so you can explore more of the local area.

Maison

££££Modern Cuisine

In this lovely 15C red-brick house, chef Ben Piette and his wife Lornette found the ideal setting for their dream project. They live upstairs and have converted the downstairs to serve their guests, but view the whole thing as part of their home. The constantly changing surprise tasting menu features plenty of local ingredients in assured dishes which have a French base. Sit at one of just a handful of tables or book “Ben’s Table” in front of the open kitchen; here you can bring in your own ingredient which he will use to create an extra course. Lornette treats guests as if they were old frien

Wellington Arms

££British Contemporary

At this smart cream pub they have their own herb and vegetable beds, keep sheep, pigs, chickens and bees, and source the rest of their meats from within 20 miles. Menus feature 6 dishes per course – supplemented by a selection of specials – and cooking is generous and satisfying. Smart, rustic bedrooms come with slate floors, sheepskin rugs and big, comfy beds.

Orwells

£££regional

Named after George Orwell, who spent his childhood in the area, this 18th-century building has the appearance of a rural inn from the outside, but once indoors you'll see it for the modern place it really is. Choose between the tasting menu and the à la carte to enjoy dishes mining quality British produce and vegetables from the team's own smallholding. They make their own honey, too, which is used in the signature 'Mill Lane Honey Sponge' dessert – a real treat to end your visit on.

🕐 We-Sa 12:00-17:00, 19:00-00:30; Su 12:00-17:00

The Braywood

££££Modern British

What was once the Royal Oak pub was the beneficiary of a lavish conversion from the team behind The Woodspeen, leaving it as this stunning restaurant. The original premises now act as an entrance into a modern, stylish cocktail bar, then to an understatedly elegant dining room that’s impressive in both size and stature. In the summer, there’s an equally attractive terrace awaiting your arrival. The cooking is based on the finest produce from around the UK, so expect luxury ingredients like Dover sole and chateaubriand to share – all accompanied by a serious wine list.

The Woolpack Inn

££Modern British

Embedded within the Hampshire countryside, this attractively restored 18th-century inn offers the complete package when exploring the area. Outside is a market garden that supplies the kitchen and upstairs are stylish bedrooms named after game birds. You may find such birds on the seasonal menu too, which offers clean, controlled cooking utilising high-quality ingredients. If it’s on the menu, don’t miss out on the terrific Portland crab agnolotti with a deep, rich bisque. The friendly team offer warm, genuine hospitality that really puts you at ease.

Bluebells Restaurant

££Modern Cuisine

There’s a degree of opulence to this popular restaurant housed inside a whitewashed building. The striking dark green interior features glitzy rose gold panelling and distinctive tiling, ensuring the dining room feels a little bit special. Modern European dishes make use of effective, well-judged flavour combinations and there’s an assured level of technique in the cooking. Sit in the main room overlooking the fire pit or in the airy conservatory, while the smooth service team look after you with aplomb.

The Three Tuns

££Modern British

Compact yet characterful, there’s plenty to love about this bijou pub overlooking the main square in Henley-on-Thames. It’s co-owned by Barry Wagner from the neighbouring Gabriel Machin butcher’s shop, which means there are plenty of his own high-quality meats on the menu. Keep an eye on the ever-changing Butcher’s Board in particular, for the likes of lamb chops or bavette steak frites. The underlying principle is unfussy food and an atmosphere to match, with a great relaxed vibe. In summer, arrive early for a drink on the terrace.

The Crown at Burchetts Green

£Modern British

Experienced and capable Chef-Owner Dominic Chapman is at the helm of this charming pub serving food that is befitting of the setting. The rewarding, flavoursome dishes – like the delicious chicken liver and duck parfait with fig chutney – are a perfect match for the warm and comforting surroundings, while the kitchen adopts a seasonal approach to the produce used. For a great value option, go for the fixed-price 'village menu'.

The Greene Oak

££Modern Cuisine

The Greene Oak’s modern bar has a pleasingly laid-back feel and the quirky horsebox tables on the terrace add something a little different. Menus use the best of the British larder and offer an appealing mix of dishes. The 45-day aged rare breed steaks are a speciality and the weekday lunch menu is a steal.

The Golden Ball

££Modern British

An endearing couple bring plenty of charm to this pretty, cream-washed former pub in the rural village of Lower Assendon. Priya provides a natural warmth in the friendly service, while Ben incorporates Priya's Indian heritage into his modern British dishes – such as cod accompanied by 'potato chaat', spiced cauliflower and tamarind sauce. A local, seasonal approach adds to the appeal too, with chicken and beef from the surrounding area featuring in cooking that is confidently executed and suitably satisfying.

The Bailiwick Freehouse

£££Modern British

Hidden away down twisting country roads in an affluent part of Old Windsor, this charmingly run pub is a quirky, pretty operation where the food is given pride of place. The location – a tranquil spot on the edge of Windsor Great Park – is a hunting area, so expect plenty of local game on the menu in season, such as venison from the Park itself. The experienced chef crafts his ingredients into complex, attractively presented dishes, with the Bar Menu offering lighter and simpler options. Do look out for the cheese trolley, which is bursting with prime British options.

Crown

££French, Modern British

Charm and character can be found in every pore of this delightful 16th-century inn with low ceilings and a cosy atmosphere. Experienced chef Simon Bonwick is now at the helm, which means classical dishes packed with honest, hearty flavours and seasonal goodness, be that Salcombe crab with cashews and apple or Highland beef with his signature ‘rather nice sauce’. The entire experience is wholesome, welcoming and a simply lovely time. For something different, book the Troublesome Lodger private dining experience in The Snug, decorated with Bonwick’s own art.

Nathan Marshall Clarke House

££Modern British

From the façade, you wouldn’t guess this was once a courthouse, but inside you’ll find a door leading to what was the judge’s bench. It’s a tiny place with exposed beams and a rustic style and is keenly run by a young couple. Cooking sees a little intricacy added to well-presented, country house style dishes.

Seasonality

£££Modern Cuisine

What started out as a produce shop has morphed into a bright and airy restaurant, which is run with a lovely personal touch by Wesley Smalley as he cooks at an on-view island kitchen. As its name and history suggests, seasonal ingredients are the foundation of the cooking, put front and centre in assured, colourful dishes that carry an appealing clarity of flavour. Regular supper evenings offer tasting menus inspired by the produce of the moment, while they still offer the 'dine at home' boxes they've done since day one.

Roux at Skindles

£££French

You can't keep Alain Roux away from the banks of the Thames. Up the road from his famous Waterside Inn, he owns this contemporary brasserie and cocktail bar in a similarly pleasant riverside setting. The skill and confidence of the chefs is evident across the menu of traditional French and other European dishes, particularly in classical elements like the rich, meaty sauces. If you're lucky, there might be a fruits de mer chalked up on the blackboard specials. Arrive early for drinks on the terrace or in the cocktail bar.

The Woodspeen

£££Modern Cuisine

It might be set within a restored 19th-century farmhouse, but The Woodspeen has a contemporary feel courtesy of its fine terrace and an airy, Scandic-style extension with a vaulted arch ceiling. Menus centre on the seasons and bring together ingredients from the kitchen garden and the surrounding area, in dishes that utilise big, punchy flavours – such as anchovy emulsion and wild garlic salsa with roast lamb rump. Arrive early for a drink in the intimate bar; the ‘25 Yards’ gin is crafted using botanicals from their garden.

The Vineyard

£££Modern Cuisine

This restaurant is temporarily closed for refurbishment.Situated within a glamorous hotel of the same name, this smart and stylish restaurant has wine embedded in its bones. Whilst not actually situated on a vineyard, there is one nearby – which provides some local sparkling wines – and the overall list offers a huge selection, including over 70 options by the glass. These serve as the perfect accompaniment to elegantly presented dishes that are elevated by the skilful preparation of the high-quality ingredients. The main restaurant serves an à la carte, while The Tasting Room offers a seasona

The Anchor

££Modern British

Taller diners may wish to duck their head as they enter this 400-year-old pub, with its low beams being a sign of the building’s characterful touches. Wood and stone floors add to the appeal, while modern furnishings blend in with the historic roots. The choice of menus offers something for everyone, from a tasting option to a good value lunch and an à la carte. Across them all is fresh seasonal produce cooked with care in unfussy preparations so the natural flavours shine through.

Malverleys

£££Modern British

Tucked away in what is surely one of England’s prettiest hamlets, dining here is like stumbling upon a hidden slice of paradise. Surrounded by beautifully kept grounds but also their own farm, the restaurant sits inside a gorgeous farmhouse alongside a bakery and shop. Take your seat in the dining room in full view of the open kitchen and feast on the seasonal dishes that make great use of the wood-fired oven. Grilled spatchcock quail with cherries from the estate is a prime example, succulent and full of gamey flavour.

The Butcher's Tap and Grill

££Meats and Grills

A part of the ever-evolving Tom Kerridge stable, this is one of his busiest spots and it's easy to see why. Friendly and laid-back, it's a 'does what it says on the tin' kind of place where meats of undeniable quality are given pride of place on the menu and on the butcher's shop counter. There are some well-made snacks to whet the appetite, but really this is all about the main event: pop in for a quick burger or stay a while and enjoy the premium cuts cooked to your liking, which might include Aberdeen Angus beef, Blythburgh pork or Suffolk Texel lamb.

Five Little Pigs

££Modern Cuisine

Named after a novel by Agatha Christie, who lived at the nearby Winterbrook House, this neighbourhood restaurant is divided into three areas: the brightly coloured front resembles a modern bistro; a bar fits in the centre; and the rear sports an open kitchen pass and cosy booths. Sharing is encouraged, with larger plates such as roasted halibut and smaller ones like ‘spare bed tempura’ – using vegetables grown in the gardens of neighbours who have some space to spare. The wholesome cooking is joined by a range of local gins to keep enthusiasts happy.

Chesil Rectory

££British Contemporary

This double-gabled wattle and daub house dates from the 15C and its hugely characterful interior takes in heavy beams and a large inglenook fireplace. Classically based dishes are informed by local, seasonal produce and given a modern twist by the experienced team. Service is friendly.

The Avenue

££££Modern British

When visiting The Avenue, it would be a good idea to arrive early and explore some of the 60-acre grounds surrounding Lainston House, a fine 17th-century country manor. Inside, the two-roomed restaurant plays host to a detailed tasting menu with a twist, which allows diners to choose the starter, main course and dessert, while the smaller ‘in between’ courses are fixed. The cooking is intricate and complex, allowing the chefs to show off their technical skills. Add a wine pairing to make an occasion of your visit.

The Greyhound

£££Modern British

Your visit here will be an instantly enjoyable one thanks to the genuine warmth and friendliness of owners Daniel and Margriet. They are natural hosts, providing attentive service while making all their diners feel at ease. The setting for their endearing hospitality is a charming 17th-century former coaching inn that retains many of its original features. The cooking itself consists of eye-catching dishes that are refined yet hearty, showcasing carefully crafted, classic combinations which burst with natural flavours – like the terrific prune soufflé with Armagnac Anglaise.

The Victoria

£££Modern British

This red-brick, 19th-century former beer house packs in bags of charm thanks to its original features like exposed brickwork and fireplaces, combined with tan banquettes, wood panelling and vintage photos – while a lovely garden and semi-covered terrace are the icing on the cake. The cooking delivers bold flavours in modern dishes with a classical base: think crispy pig's head followed by chicken Kiev or a char-grilled steak to share between two. The wine list offers plenty of choice, as does the wide range of beers.

Sir Charles Napier

££Modern British

This truly lovely spot has always had a certain quirky charm – and that remains true to this day, with the restaurant having undergone little change over the years and emanating a comforting familiarity. In summer, start with an aperitif in the delightful garden dotted with backlit sculptures; at other times, sit beside the log fire and get cosy among the eclectic décor. The kitchen makes good use of quality ingredients to create dishes whose flavours are punchy and pronounced, while the wine list is a labour of love.

Hambledon Vineyard

£££Modern British

When you settle down to eat at what is reputedly England’s oldest commercial vineyard, the feeling you’ve found your own little slice of paradise washes over you. As you walk up to the beautiful timber-and-glass building through the kitchen garden, you will spot some of the ingredients that you’ll soon be eating. Take your seat with a view of the vines and the glorious South Downs, accompanied by a glass of bubbly from the Hambledon Estate. This idyllic scene is bolstered by fresh, appealing dishes like sea bream with tomato risotto.

Greyhound on the Test

££British Contemporary

The picturesque town of Stockbridge plays host to this striking mustard-coloured pub with low beams, elegant décor and a wood-burning stove. The chatty team deliver appealing modern British dishes crafted from local produce. Homely bedrooms and a mile of River Test fishing rights complete the picture.

The Lamb Inn

£££Modern British

With its whitewashed exterior and thatched roof, this village pub certainly looks the part. Guests are welcomed by the relaxed team into a low-beamed room, where they can enjoy a full meal or a pint at the bar with nibbles. Pub classics run alongside more elaborate dishes, which are united by their well-sourced ingredients and careful preparation. While it may sound simple, the French onion soup sums up everything the kitchen does well – hearty, big-flavoured cooking that is both straightforward and skilful.

Madhu's Southall

££Indian

Situated in an outer London suburb among a plethora of eateries and supermarkets, Madhu’s stands out like a beacon with its terrific Indian cooking. Inside, it’s got a simple yet slightly glitzy feel with its mirrored walls, while the tried-and-tested dishes from Punjab and beyond deliver all the big, satisfying flavours you’d expect. Starters such as tandoori salmon with mint are well-executed, while the rogan gosht is a superior curry with rich, deep flavours. The well-versed team provide chatty, genial service.

Petersham Nurseries Café

£££Modern Cuisine

As you sit in the greenhouse with sand at your feet, surrounded by fresh flowers which even in the winter months perfume the air, it feels as though all is right with the world. A unique spot within the London dining scene, this restaurant forms part of the wider Petersham Nurseries complex, where you can buy plants and homeware to spruce up your abode. The cooking is informed by their own fresh produce and has a clear Italian accent, from beef carpaccio and wild mushroom risotto to pan-fried sea bream with puttanesca.

The Swan Inn

££Traditional British

Village pubs don’t come much more inviting than this, an immaculate 14th-century inn offering layer upon layer of charm. First there’s the bucolic setting, a small village nestled among the natural beauty of the South Downs; enter inside and you’re greeted not just by the friendly team but the even friendlier pub dog. Once seated in the gorgeously refurbished interior, the high-quality cooking duly completes the package. Expect hearty, traditional British dishes bursting with flavour, like devilled kidneys on toast followed by a Barnsley chop.

Bell

££Modern Cuisine

The Bell is not just a pub but a true village hub. A charming 300-year-old building, it comprises a bar, a restaurant, bedrooms and even a café to make itself useful no matter when you're visiting. The carefully executed cooking ensures the flavours of the high-quality ingredients shine through, be that in lighter dishes such as scallop ceviche with fennel or pub classics like beer-battered haddock and chips. The surrounding 19,000-acre Ramsbury Estate provides not just a picturesque setting but also much of the seasonal produce that powers the menu.

The Bat & Ball

££Modern British

From the same team as The Lamb Inn at Little Milton, this Oxfordshire pub is an object lesson in how to inject new life into the village local. The owners have brought some love to the place, retaining a pubby feel, real ales and a dart board so it remains a community hub for drinkers as well as diners. Whilst there is a lack of pretence, the kitchen team are serious about their cooking, sourcing top ingredients and cooking them with care. Well-judged Scottish cod with capers and beurre noisette is a prime example of the commitment to true, honest flavours.

The Victoria

££Modern British

With its Sunday lunches, quiz nights and sensible prices, this remains a proper neighbourhood pub – albeit in a very smart neighbourhood. There's a pleasantly lived-in feel to the place; if you're here to eat, head for the conservatory which overlooks the terrace. The appealing menu mixes steaks and pubby favourites like fish & chips with a good range of Mediterranean-influenced dishes such as grilled sardines with caponata. Do try the apple cake for dessert, which is Polish Chef Damian's take on his mother's recipe.

The Waterman's Arms

££Modern British

There’s something that just feels right as soon as you enter this terrific Thames-side pub. Dating back to the 1850s, it’s got character to spare and a cosy atmosphere being heartily enjoyed by one and all – while the scent of fresh flowers on the tables combines with appetising aromas from the kitchen. Start with a snack, like the homemade Merguez sausage with labneh, before choosing one of the vibrantly flavoured main dishes, including a selection of steaks and fresh fish from the blackboard. The bright and attentive team are the icing on the cake.

White Hart at Fyfield

££Modern British

There’s a lot to love about this imposing 15th-century chantry house. There’s the three-storey, vaulted dining room for starters, joined by a cosy open-fired bar and a minstrels’ gallery, while outside you’ll find a terrace, a vegetable garden and an outdoor kitchen with wood-fired oven. The cooking is guided by their own seasonal produce, with both British and Mediterranean influences on the flavoursome, carefully prepared dishes. The friendly service team run the restaurant well.

Cassons

£££Modern Cuisine

Passionately run restaurant with exposed brick, wooden beams and a rustic feel. Boldly flavoured dishes are generously proportioned. Cooking is classically based but employs modern techniques. The regular gourmet evenings are a hit.

Arbequina

££tapas, spanish

With its constant buzz of well-fed diners, relaxed atmosphere and bohemian feel, you can bet you'll have a good time at Arbequina. A simply furnished tapas bar, it occupies a former chemist's and features a vintage stainless steel counter. The concise menu of generous, authentic and flavourful dishes mixes Spanish classics (the 'tomatoes on toast' is a sure-fire winner) and a few Middle Eastern infuences, such as beetroot borani. For drinks, choose between cocktails, plenty of Spanish wines and a few natural wine options from around the world.

🕐 Th-Fr 17:00-22:00; Sa 12:00-23:30

Giulia

££Italian

There’s an authentic, honest feel to this small Italian neighbourhood restaurant. The eponymous owner Giulia can be seen chatting away to guests in her native language and offering great hospitality alongside the cooking. Her partner Endris is in the kitchen following the ethos of pure, ingredient-led cooking with a seasonal focus. Pasta is offered as a separate course, including classic dishes like spaghetti alle vongole. The wine list is sensibly priced and, unsurprisingly, all Italian.

Brasserie Constance

££Modern British

It’s not just supporters of Fulham FC that should welcome this sparkling brasserie situated within one of the stands at their Craven Cottage stadium. Part of the wider Fulham Pier development, the terrace has Thames views and there’s a subtle glitz to the design thanks to mirrored walls and Murano chandeliers. The extensive menu ranges from simple omelettes to large sharing plates such as whole butterflied sea bass, while the kitchen excels with classic dishes like pie and mash. Whatever you choose, the cooking uses quality produce that brings plenty of flavour.

Takahashi

££££Japanese

There's an endearingly personal touch to this intimate Japanese restaurant run by a husband-and-wife team. The menu takes an omakase format, beginning with a series of otsumami dishes and followed by nigiri sushi. It's the latter that proves to be the stand-out, each individual piece delivered one by one to the enraptured diners; you can expect the pure, delicately flavoured seafood produce to include the likes of chutoro, otoro, hamachi and scallop. There's a sake pairing available for pre-order if you want to enhance the experience.

Sam's Riverside

££Modern British

Experienced restaurateur Sam Harrison is behind this modern riverside brasserie beside Hammersmith Bridge. It's an enduringly popular place and you can see why from the appealing, pleasingly varied menu that might incorporate a range of influences but doesn't lose sight of the flavour gained by using quality produce. British ingredients from land and sea are cooked with precision and there's a whole section of the menu for oysters and other shellfish. Stock up on provisions at Sam’s Larder before you leave.

Black Radish

£££Modern British

Situated in the Merton Abbey Mills development – which was once a 12th-century priory, then spent time as a mill and is now a thriving cultural quarter – Black Radish is an intimate, well-run restaurant with space for just 12 diners. A chef’s table for two is ideal if you want a ringside seat. The cosy atmosphere provides a backdrop for cooking that’s grounded in top-drawer ingredients – be that Orkney scallops with yuzu kosho, XO and finger lime or terrific Silver Hill duck with complementary quince and salsify.

Knepp Wilding Kitchen

££Traditional British

The Knepp Estate is such a special place; from a dog walk around the gorgeous natural grounds to browsing produce in the farm shop, you could easily spend most of your day here. At the heart of it all is an ethos of rewilding, something which drives the menus at its restaurant housed inside an 18th-century barn. Here, the cooking is overtly seasonal and often uses ingredients from the Estate; try to kick off your meal with one of the fine flatbreads and punchy wild garlic butter. They are mostly open just for lunch, with some BBQ evenings in the summer.

Smoke & Salt

£££Modern Cuisine

This popular neighbourhood restaurant may have started life as a pop-up but it’s now a well-established member of the Tooting dining scene. Located on a High Street corner, it’s a fairly simple place in design, but benefits from the energy emanating out of its open kitchen, friendly team and contented diners. Seasonal British produce and a few pickled and preserved elements form the backbone of the cooking – which takes the form of two lengths of tasting menu that are also available in pescatarian, vegetarian or vegan forms. Look out for their occasional 'Burger Nights' too.

Pollini at Ladbroke Hall

£££Italian

The former head office of car manufacturer The Rootes Group is perhaps not where you’d expect to find an Italian restaurant, but Ladbroke Hall is no ordinary venue. Located at the top of Ladbroke Grove, it’s a restored Edwardian building that is now a haven for artistic types, holding exhibitions, workshops and music events within its century-old walls. The cooking is textbook Italian, with an ingredient-led simplicity and terrific homemade pastas such as spinach and mozzarella tortellini.

Julie's

££Modern British

Judging by the amount of diners flooding through its doors, the residents of Notting Hill are glad to have this bright bistro de-luxe among their roster of neighbourhood haunts. Inside, it’s an eye-catching place with rich, warming colours and booths that are perfect for date night. The menu offers an appealing range of dishes, from the light (chopped salad of the day) to the luxurious (lobster soufflé). The extensive wine list and cocktails from the trolley will ensure you’re well-refreshed, while the service team are friendly and engaging.

Six Portland Road

£££European

A self-described 'lovely local', this intimate bistro is the epitome of a neighbourhood restaurant; tucked away off Holland Park Avenue, it will make you wish you lived in the area. The understated décor and the informal service keep the atmosphere pleasantly relaxed, while the à la carte lists the kind of unfussy European cuisine you could happily eat all day long. Expect hearty, robustly flavoured dishes like Tamworth pork chop with 'neeps, sage and mustard, all executed with skill and care.

La Palombe

£££French

Ideally located on Kensington High Street, this inviting bistro beckons you in with its friendly team and enticing menus. The soft pastel décor is studded with references to the colourful owner’s love of shooting, including framed lithographs of wild birds and deer antlers hanging on the ceiling – so it’s no surprise to find plenty of seasonal game on offer. Despite a few hints of tempered creativity, the cooking is classical French at its heart, with the likes of confit duck leg and Paris-Brest among the boldly flavoured dishes.

Pippin's

£££Modern British

Despite being situated inside the Hotel Templeton Garden – which unsurprisingly comes with a large garden ideal for summer dining – there’s a welcome neighbourhood feel to this enthusiastically run restaurant. Its muted green and beige tones give the dining room a relaxing feel, while the menu focuses on British produce in well-crafted, tried-and-tested dishes. If you want to keep things simple go for the refined version of ‘chicken and chips’. The cosy Sprout Bar is ideal for a cocktail before or after eating.

The Holland

££Traditional British

It may have been renamed and rebranded, but this is still a proper neighbourhood pub, with local drinkers in with their dogs, families out for dinner and friends catching up. It’s all very comfy and the relaxed air owes much to the warm and caring staff. The seasonal menu is thoughtfully compiled and the cooking hearty and satisfying; the pork collar is good and, if the almond tart is on the menu, don’t hesitate.

Dove

£££Modern Cuisine

Providing everything you would expect from a Notting Hill neighbourhood restaurant, Dove is the latest project from chef-restaurateur Jackson Boxer, taking over the space he once ran as Orasay. Bright, relaxed and simply decorated, it specialises in seasonal and high-quality produce across a menu that’s ideal for sharing. Dishes vary in size, from whole grilled fish and half a roasted chicken to snacks like fried potato pizzette with bonito, burrata and mortadella. The wine list offers something for everyone, with almost every choice available by the glass.

Holy Carrot

££Vegan

London’s constantly expanding vegan food scene received another boost when this former pop-up and supper club opened up permanently on Portobello Road. It’s the ideal place for convincing your carnivorous friends of the virtues of plant-based cuisine, as each dish bursts with colour and creativity. The ‘small’ and ‘large’ plates are best shared to sample the broad range of cooking techniques, from barbecued carrot to coal-roasted leeks. The dining room itself – filled with polished concrete and light Mediterranean colours – provides a soothing backdrop that enhances the experience.

Straker's

£££Modern British

This is a tale of our times: a chef creates a large fanbase by giving cooking demos on TikTok during lockdown and then opens a small restaurant in Notting Hill so that they can come and experience his cooking first-hand. It’s a very likeable place, with no frills, easy-to-eat cooking that’s modern British by way of Italy; always start by ordering one of the flatbreads – and the sweetbreads are always a good bet too. Low intervention wines are a feature.

Akub

£££International

Named after the flowering thistle that’s also known as 'cardoon', Akub celebrates traditional Palestinian recipes, while simultaneously invigorating them with contemporary twists. The colours and intense flavours are particularly evident in sharing dishes like the ‘crunchy mansaf’, which consists of crispy golden parcels stuffed with rice and tender lamb shoulder. Everything is served in a bright, airy space situated on an equally colourful Notting Hill street. Accompany the food with wine from a list combining French favourites with options from Palestine and Jordan.

Mazi

£££Greek

A real neighbourhood restaurant with a pure Greek heart, there is a wonderful buzz to the intimate Mazi. It’s one of those places where you can leave the decision making to the passionate, engaging team, who are ready to recommend their favourite Greek wines and dishes – such as the terrifically tender spiced lamb rump. The menu is designed for sharing so order a good range between you; for dessert however, it’s hard to look past the loukoumades. A small front terrace and larger rear one add to the appeal – if the weather’s good enough, you can pretend you’re in Athens.

Caia

£££European Contemporary

‘Fire, wine, vinyl’ it says outside this cool Notting Hill spot – and that pretty much sums it up. The sharing plates benefit from the kitchen’s skill at cooking over an open fire – don’t miss the black carrot with sea urchin sauce; wines are varied and well chosen; and downstairs a DJ delves deep into a diverse album collection. Come with friends for a fun night out.

Sino

££Modern Cuisine

Many chefs talk about their experiences informing their cooking but here that means so much more, as Ukrainian chef-owner Eugene Korolev has gone from fighting on the front line to opening a restaurant in Notting Hill. His love for Ukraine comes through in every dish; start with the crisp black pudding croquettes before tucking into crayfish with cabbage or beef dumplings in a spicy beef broth – and don’t miss the basket of delicious rye and sourdough breads. The restaurant is cosy, cute and run with genuine warmth.

Akira

£££Japanese

Japan House promotes all things Japanese, so it’s appropriate that upstairs there’s a stylish, buzzing restaurant celebrating the country’s cuisine. The open kitchen is the focal point of the room, which offers both counter and table seating from which to enjoy the extensive selection of Japanese food. There’s a wide range of sushi, but it’s the skewers from the robata charcoal grill that are the highlight – such as asparagus wrapped with bacon or chicken and shiso meatballs.

Pompette

£££french

Located in a lovely suburb is this neat, attractive modern brasserie run by an experienced chef and his welcoming wife. There are a few Mediterranean and North African influences on the menu, but the French basis is clear – as evidenced by classic dishes like fish soup with rouille, Gruyère and croutons. The cooking is honest, unfussy and full of flavour, and there's a good value ‘prix fixe’ on offer too.

🕐 Tu-Su 12:00-23:00