Spring is here, I think, and London is in full swing… the restaurant scene is thriving with new eateries and inaugural restaurant awards popping up weekly. I pride myself on trying (almost) every new dining experience, from the super hyped to the trendy under-the-radar spots. The question I get asked more than anything else on my instagram page – ‘is it worth trying?’ With that in mind here’s my top ten to try this season…
The Devonshire, Soho – You can’t get a table here for love nor money… the Piccadilly Circus institution has been lovingly restored, and serves a classic, no-frills menu of superior steak and chips and other British favourites. My tip, grab a seat at the bar downstairs (no reservation required) and enjoy the steak sandwich with chips and a pint of Guinness.
Josephine, Fulham – The latest eatery from chef Claude Bosi and wife Lucy, this charming French bistro champions delicious Lyonnaise food. Wine is poured and priced with a ruler, the atmosphere is convivial and you’ll want to relax here all afternoon. I loved the mustardy rabbit to share, the potato menu (zut alors!) and the pretty in pink praline tart.
The Square, Clapton – This neighborhood gem was recently taken over by new management, and the kitchen is now in very good hands with Akoko alumni at the helm. They are well known for their brunch, but I recommend heading here on a Friday night date for absolutely delicious sharing plates.
Three Sheets, Soho – The central London outpost of the hit Dalston cocktail bar. The original was founded in 2016 by brothers Max and Noel Venning, and now they are bringing their clean, minimalist, perfectly poured drinks to Soho. The signature (a version of a carbonated French 75, made with gin, clarified lemon, moscato, orange flower and verjus) is available here alongside some other tempting concoctions. In the daytime the team will serve food and coffee.
Ria’s, Notting Hill – Super hip little venue serving up epic wedges of Detroit-style deep dish pizza. It comes from husband-and-wife duo David and Ria, and despite neither having a background in food, the place is carefree but confident. Order a slice of the Pepperoni & soppressata and a glass of natural wine.
Quince, Islington – Anna Higham’s long awaited Quince bakery is here, and luckily it lives up to expectation. Located on the lesser known end of Islington, the takeaway venue has an alluring counter piled high with bread, fruit hand pies and Anna’s signature butter buns, yum.
Camille, London Bridge – In need of a place to catch up with a friend, settle in at Camille. This newbie comes from the Ducksoup team, and head chef Elliot Hashtroudi’s menu captures the rustic energy of a regional French table. We loved the sharing meats, the punchy pickled vegetables and the irresistable burnt milk tart for dessert.
The Dover, Mayfair – The sultry, stylish spot for a night out. The Dover is a New-York Italian Bar & restaurant in Mayfair. Serving classic Italian dishes with New York attitude it is the perfect place to perch with a martini or bowl of pasta and meatballs.
Donia, Soho – The finest modern Filipino fare at the top of Carnaby Street’s Kingly Court. The concise menu packs a punch with highlights including lamb shoulder caldereta pie and the addictively tasty grilled chicken inasal.
Morchella, Exmouth Market – Located just off Exmouth Market in a former bank, Morchella is a restaurant and wine bar serving a modern interpretation of classical dishes from across the Mediterranean. The huge venue has been kitted out beautifully and the menu is full of wonder – order the pork jowl, salt-baked poussin and the unusual blood orange and black olive portokalopita.
Head to my instagram @millykr to see all my restaurant recommendations.
