London's food scene is a melting pot of flavours from around the world. Whether you're after a quick bite or a fancy dinner, the capital has something to satisfy every craving.
I've rounded up ten brilliant spots that showcase the best of what London has to offer – from authentic Mexican tacos to century-old curry houses that have fed generations of hungry Londoners.
1. Sonora Taquería
Sonora Taquería serves up the most authentic Mexican food you'll find this side of the Atlantic. Their flour tortillas are handmade daily – a proper rarity in London – and filled with mouthwatering combinations like beef birria and grilled cheese.
The queue might be long on weekends, but trust me, it's worth the wait. Started by two friends from Sonora, Mexico, this tiny spot has quickly become a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Grab your taco, find a spot in the market, and enjoy a proper taste of Mexico without the plane ticket.
2. Asian Takeaway
London's streets are dotted with no-frills Asian takeaways serving up massive portions at prices that won't make your wallet weep. These humble spots often hide the most extraordinary flavours – from fragrant Thai curries to perfect Chinese dumplings.
My top tip? Look for the places packed with local workers at lunchtime. That's how you know you've found the good stuff.
Many of these family-run gems have recipes passed down through generations, offering a taste of home-cooked Asian food that fancy restaurants often can't match. Portions are generous enough to sort you out for dinner too!
3. Paul Rothe & Son
Step into Paul Rothe & Son in Marylebone and you're walking into a slice of old London that's been serving hungry Londoners since 1900. This family-run deli and sandwich shop feels like it hasn't changed in decades – in the best possible way.
The menu is simple but perfect: sandwiches made to order with fillings like coronation chicken or egg and cress on fresh bread. Homemade soups and jam jars line the shelves, adding to the charming, nostalgic atmosphere.
Pull up a chair at one of the few tables and watch the world go by through the steamy windows. Pure London magic.
4. Chinese Tapas House
Forget what you think you know about Chinese food. Chinese Tapas House serves up proper Sichuan dishes that will blow your mind and possibly numb your tongue! The star of the show is their chilli oil wontons – silky parcels swimming in a fiery, aromatic sauce.
Don't be put off by the basic decor or the name (there's nothing tapas-like about the generous portions). This place is about authentic flavours that don't hold back.
Always packed with Chinese students seeking a taste of home, you might have to queue – but the explosive flavours and ridiculously reasonable prices make it worthwhile.
5. Zen Mondo
Zen Mondo offers Japanese soul food that feels like a warm hug. The katsu curry here is properly crispy on the outside, tender within, and comes with a sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy.
The space is small but welcoming, with just a handful of tables and a counter where you can watch the chefs work their magic. Family-run and fiercely authentic, they don't water down flavours for Western palates.
Their homemade gyoza are little pockets of joy, and the miso soup tastes like it's been simmering since dawn.
6. OMA
OMA brings a slice of Portugal to East London with food that's both comforting and exciting. Their pastéis de nata (custard tarts) have the perfect flaky pastry and caramelised tops – easily rivalling anything you'd find in Lisbon.
The tiny café has a handful of tables where you can linger over excellent coffee and Portuguese sandwiches. Try the bifana – tender marinated pork in a soft roll – for a proper taste of Portuguese street food.
Founded by Portuguese expats who missed the flavours of home, OMA feels like a little community hub where the staff remember your name and your order.
7. Plates London
Plates London turns vegan food into an art form without any of the preachiness. This plant-based restaurant creates dishes so beautiful you almost don't want to eat them – but you definitely should!
The menu changes with the seasons, featuring inventive combinations like smoked celeriac with apple and hazelnut or charred hispi cabbage with miso butter. Even committed carnivores leave impressed.
The space itself is Instagram-ready with its minimalist design, but the focus remains firmly on the food. Their Sunday roast – complete with perfect roast potatoes and rich gravy – proves vegan food can be properly indulgent.
8. Wild Honey St James
When you're ready to splash out, Wild Honey St James delivers a special meal without the stuffiness of traditional fine dining. Chef Anthony Demetre creates seasonal British food with French influences that will linger in your memory long after the bill is paid.
The dining room balances grandeur with comfort – all high ceilings and plush seating. Their signature Wild Honey ice cream, served with honeycomb, is worth saving room for.
The set lunch menu offers tremendous value for food of this calibre, making Michelin-starred dining accessible for a special treat. Service strikes that perfect balance between attentive and relaxed.
9. Veeraswamy
Opened in 1926, Veeraswamy is London's oldest Indian restaurant and still one of its best. Perched above Regent Street, this elegant establishment has fed everyone from Charlie Chaplin to the royal family over its nearly century-long history.
The menu features refined versions of classic Indian dishes from across the subcontinent. Their butter chicken is legendary – rich, aromatic and deeply satisfying. The dining room balances old-world charm with modern luxury.
Yes, it's pricey, but you're paying for impeccable service and recipes that have been perfected over generations. A meal here connects you to London's long love affair with Indian cuisine.
10. The Ninth
Chef Jun Tanaka's The Ninth delivers Mediterranean-inspired small plates that pack massive flavour. After working in eight previous restaurants (hence the name), Tanaka has created a relaxed space where the food takes centre stage.
The salted beef cheeks with oxtail consommé might be the most comforting dish in London. Their pasta dishes – often featuring unusual combinations like rabbit with black olive – somehow manage to be both innovative and familiar.
The brick-walled dining room has a buzzy atmosphere that works equally well for date nights or catch-ups with friends. Prices are reasonable for food of this quality.
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