5 Of The Best Places To Eat In London

London is one of the most interesting cities in the world for fine cuisine. This is because in large part, England isn’t actually known for its cuisine. It’s not unusual to talk to people who have just visited England and find that they were unimpressed with what they ate during their stay. This is probably unfair in general, because there’s always good food if you know where to look. But it’s also an entirely inaccurate representation once you get into the capital.

London has become one of the most impressive culinary cities in Europe. Now known as a hot spot for famous chefs as well as a city with wonderfully authentic offerings from other cultures around the world, it’s the place to be if you’re a foodie touring England. Since that’s pretty much what we’re all about, we wanted to help out any prospective travelers with the beginnings of a list of places to eat out.

Kricket Soho

If London is known for one type of cuisine in particular, it’s probably Indian food. Some say the city has the best Indian food anywhere in the world outside of India itself. One piece on the best Indian restaurants in London referenced an Indian chef saying that London’s offerings are actually better than anything available in Mumbai and New Delhi. That makes it almost a necessity to check out a great Indian place while you’re in town.

The same article referencing the aforementioned Indian chef pointed to several good options, but Kricket Soho might be the most intriguing of the bunch. It’s an interesting place because while it works with distinctly Indian flavors it also focuses on more local ingredients. You might find a traditional Indian dish featuring a protein like goose or fish as opposed to chicken.

Otto’s Restaurant

This cozy little venue just around the corner from Coram’s Fields is one of the best places you can choose for pure flavor. Considered by many to be among the very best restaurants in London, it’s an elegant, traditional place with a strong focus on French cuisine. Certain dishes are prepared tableside—not as a gimmick but because that’s how they’re traditionally done—and the duck, in particular, is more of an attraction than a menu item. Throw in a dynamic wine list and it really checks all the boxes.

Koya Bar

London’s Asian cuisine is always getting better, and that makes this little Soho noodle bar one worth stopping by to enjoy. You can try a lot of different takes on broth and noodle dishes, all with wonderfully warm, rich and authentic flavors. The restaurant is unassuming, but then there’s another perk of starting a night out at this particular restaurant.

That perk is that it’s just a short walk from the Hippodrome Casino, which makes for one of the city’s better nighttime attractions. There’s an argument to be made that particularly in the UK and Europe, brick-and-mortar casinos have almost been made obsolete. Online offerings allow people to play games without the hassle of leaving the comfort of home, and there’s an appeal to that. But the Hippodrome is a nice counterargument. It’s a beautiful venue in the heart of London that, through drinks, entertainment, and of course an active gaming floor, makes for a fabulous night out. Something light like a broth or noodle dish at Koya followed by a jaunt over to Hippodrome makes for a perfect evening.

Brunswick House

Brunswick House has something for everybody. The place itself looks extraordinarily fancy at a glance, with antique furnishings and tables set with sprawling plants. But once you settle in, it’s actually all done rather playfully. However, the food comes closer to matching the initial impression. It’s elegant, high-end stuff, turning a lot of local ingredients into some of the best fare you’ll find in England. You’ll find proteins like lamb and rabbit, but for the most part there’s a heavy focus on seafood.

Brunswick also stands out in that, like Koya Bar, it can help you put together a full outing. That’s because it’s within a convenient distance of the London Eye, which is a popular stop for tourists. It’s not necessarily a walk (unless you really want to stretch your legs), but it’s a pretty direct shot up the A3036 road to the London Eye. An interesting take given that Brunswick House serves breakfast, lunch and dinner – meaning that you can pair it with either daytime or an evening ride on the Eye.

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay

Gordon Ramsay has developed a reputation mostly as a loud and occasionally obnoxious television host. But he’s not just a charismatic celebrity who knows a bit about cooking. In fact, he’s one of the most accomplished chefs on the planet. Among the chefs with the most Michelin stars, Ramsay ranks third behind only Alain Ducasse and Joel Robuchon. His 16 stars make him a legend of the business, and Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, on the Thames near the Ranelagh Gardens, is his flagship restaurant. With a focus on fresh ingredients and French preparations, it’s the kind of place you’ll remember decades.

NB: Guest Post