Curated Collection

Top Rated in Central London

Discover handpicked top rated in Central London, with what to order first at each place.

Every place here is handpicked. Signal score shows how strong and consistent the review coverage is, not a star rating.

114 restaurants

1
Bouchon Racine

French Bistro · £££ · Farringdon

98Signal

Start with

Grilled leg of rabbit in a mustard sauce

A 'Harris old-stager' that remains a defining classic; Jay Rayner highlights the 'nose punch of Dijon' and the 'plank of crisped bacon balanced on top.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

2
Wildflowers

Mediterranean · £££ · Belgravia

96Signal

Start with

Gnocco fritto, coppa, gorgonzola, truffle honey

Described as 'phenomenal' and 'the thing to order the second you sit down,' these bite-sized delights are a must-have that 'dissolve' in the mouth.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

3
Akoko

West African Fine Dining · £££ · Fitzrovia

95Signal

Start with

Smoked Jollof Rice

Regarded as having a 'sacred status' with an 'intense applewood smoke aroma,' critics praise the version served with crispy puffed rice for its deep umami stock and 'intense smokey flavour.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

4
The Cocochine

Modern French / Sri Lankan · ££££ · Mayfair

95Signal

Start with

Tanera Island Native Lobster in Banana Leaf

Sourced from private Scottish waters and barbecued in banana leaves with wild cardamon and red wine jus, this dish is consistently cited by critics as the kitchen's standout showcase of high-end produce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

5
Noble Rot Mayfair

Modern European · ££££ · Mayfair

95Signal

Start with

Duck Egg Custard Tart

Regarded as a signature dessert, critics describe it as 'quite wonderful' and 'SO GOOD.' Its pedigree stems from the head chef's training with Marcus Wareing, who famously served a version to the Queen.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

6
Bentleys

British Seafood · ££££ · Piccadilly Circus

92Signal

Start with

Bentley’s Fish Pie

Regarded as a classic with a 'piped and golden mashed potato top,' it features smoked haddock, salmon, and prawns in a 'mustard-boosted sauce.' Critics call it the 'essence of a PG Wodehouse novel' made by someone who 'understands the engineering of the dish.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

7
Sushi Atelier

Modern Japanese · ££ · Fitzrovia

91Signal

Start with

12 Pieces of Omakase Nigiri

Critics describe this as '£33 well spent', featuring 'unctuous scallop' and 'delicately fatty chutoro' on rice that is 'still just warm' and 'lightly vinegared'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

8
The Ritz Restaurant

French / British · ££££ · Mayfair

91Signal

Start with

Langoustine À La Nage

Universally cited as a masterpiece; huge, sweet crustaceans served in a rich, buttery sauce with bronze fennel.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

9
Scully

Global Fusion · ££££ · St. James's

91Signal

Start with

Arepa with Eggplant Sambal & Bergamot Labneh

Scully's absolute signature dish featuring an 8-day fermented Colombian-style cornbread pocket and his mother's deeply savory sambal.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

10
Noble Rot

Modern European · £££ · Bloomsbury

90Signal

Start with

Slipsole with Smoked Butter

Consistently praised as a 'little piece of perfection' and 'dish of the day'; critics describe the sauce as so addictive they wanted to 'spoon every drop' of it.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

11
Catalyst

Modern Greek & Coffee · ££ · Holborn

90Signal

Start with

Merguez Sandwich

Called "spectacular" by critics, it features spiced lamb under a "duvet of melted provolone" and a "rustling avalanche" of paprika-dusted straw potato crisps.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

12
Quality Chop House

Modern British · ££££ · Farringdon

90Signal

Start with

Confit Potatoes

Universally acclaimed as 'legendary' and 'famed,' these crispy, duck-fat fried cubes are considered even 'more glorious served in the restaurant' than from the adjacent deli.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

13
Claridge's Restaurant

British · ££££ · Mayfair

90Signal

Start with

Black Truffle Buckwheat Crumpets

Described as 'unusual and lovely,' these starters are topped with 'curly slivers of truffle' and represent a defining signature of the restaurant's new identity.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

14
Bageriet

Swedish Bakery · £ · Covent Garden

90Signal

Start with

Cinnamon Buns (Kanelbullar)

Regarded as a classic staple of the bakery, they are described by Female Foodie as a traditional 'must-try' and by the Evening Standard as a fragrant highlight of their window display.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

15
The Barbary

North African / Middle Eastern · £££ · Covent Garden

90Signal

Start with

Cauliflower Jaffa

Described as deep-fried and scattered with a coriander-laced tomato salsa, critics say it is 'enough to gladden any meat-avoider’s heart.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

16
AngloThai

Thai · ££££ · Marylebone

90Signal

Start with

Ryall Farm Hebridean hogget massaman curry

An exquisite showcase of Thai technique and British produce, featuring plenty of 'deeply bronzed shallot' and a 'rich, but not overpoweringly coconutty sauce.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

17
El Asador At Sabor

Spanish · £££ · Mayfair

90Signal

Start with

Galician Tortilla

This Basque-style omelette is synonymous with Chef Barragán; it is famously runny inside with lots of soft sliced potato and is considered some of the best Spanish food in London.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

18
Dream XI'AN

Shaanxi · ££ · City of London

89Signal

Start with

Biang Biang Noodles with Beef

The restaurant's signature dish and a 'compulsion' once eaten, featuring thick, chewy belt noodles swimming in a standout chilli sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

19
Wiltons

British / Seafood · ££££ · St. James's

89Signal

Start with

Twice-Baked Stilton Soufflé

Cited by multiple critics as the best in London—rich, cheesy, and perfectly crisp on the outside.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

20
Lorne

Modern British · £££ · Victoria

89Signal

Start with

Black Pudding

Described as 'seriously memorable,' this loose-grained boudin noir is likened to 'mulch and loam and fudge and blood in the most delicious way,' with reviewers suggesting they could eat it with a spoon like Nutella.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

21
Toklas

Mediterranean · £££ · Covent Garden

89Signal

Start with

Triple-Cooked Chips

Critics describe these as 'crunchy shards and chunks' and 'real crunchy gold.' Accompanied by aioli, they are frequently called the best chips in London.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

22
Ibai

Basque Steakhouse · ££££ · City of London

89Signal

Start with

Croque Ibai

A "genuinely staggering spectacle" and a "shamelessly over-the-top, butter-basted middle finger to restraint" filled with carabinero prawn, boudin noir, and melted Tomme de Brebis.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

23
The Ninth

French Mediterranean · £££ · Fitzrovia

88Signal

Start with

Oxtail Croquettes

Described as 'perfect orbs' and a 'classy opener', these contain strands of long-braised meat that critics claim they would happily clear an entire tray of.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

24
The Grill at The Dorchester

Modern British Grill · ££££ · Mayfair

88Signal

Start with

Welsh Rarebit Crumpet

Described as 'heavenly,' 'light, fluffy and zingy' with the tang of good cheese and plenty of Worcestershire sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

25
Corrigan's Mayfair

British / Irish / Game · ££££ · Mayfair

88Signal

Start with

Roe Venison en Croute

Acclaimed as "simply the best venison dish" a critic has ever had, it features "huge chunks of stunningly good, ruby-red roe" paired with pickled red cabbage and a "wonderful" cep sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

26
Gauthier Soho

Vegan French Fine Dining · ££££ · Soho

88Signal

Start with

Grand Dîner Tasting Menu

This 9 to 10-course experience is the definitive way to experience the restaurant, which feels like visiting an 'incredibly posh friend' in a Soho townhouse where entry is granted by ringing a bell.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

27
Noble Rot Soho

Modern European · £££ · Soho

88Signal

Start with

Choux Bun with Duck Liver Parfait & Tokaji Jelly

A signature 'one-bite treat' where the sweet Tokaji jelly is described as 'excellent,' providing the perfect decadent start to the meal.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

28
Nessa

Modern British Bistro · £££ · Soho

88Signal

Start with

Cheese & Onion Croquettes

Universally praised as some of the 'best' critics have ever had, these golden, gooey bites of Montgomery’s Cheddar are described as 'sharp, flavourful and oh-so addictive.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

29
Morchella

Modern Mediterranean · £££ · Clerkenwell

88Signal

Start with

Salt Cod Churros

Universally praised as an 'earthly meeting of fish and doughnut' that is 'so crisp, so hot, so pungent' and a 'jolting reconstitution of a classic idea.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

30
The Goring Dining Room

Modern British · ££££ · Victoria

88Signal

Start with

Eggs Drumkilbo

The late Queen Mother's favorite dish; a legendary seafood cocktail packed with lobster, langoustine, and shredded eggs, topped with 'sparkling cubes of soft, savoury aspic.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

31
The French House

French Bistro · £££ · Soho

87Signal

Start with

Confit Garlic & Goat's Curd

A length of sourdough sourdough toast 'slathered' in curd and olive oil, served with a confit bulb of garlic providing 'soft, translucent pearls' to smear over the bread.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

32
Restaurant St. Barts

Modern British · ££££ · City of London

87Signal

Start with

BBQ Scallop with Peppers

Consistently cited as the meal's highlight; Andy Hayler named it the 'best dish' for its depth of flavor and 'gentle spicy heat,' while other critics describe the preparation with red pepper as 'outstanding.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

33
Chishuru

Modern West African · ££££ · Fitzrovia

87Signal

Start with

Sinasir

This 'crisp yet chewy brown rice pancake' served with white crab meat and sorrel purée is described by critics as a textural masterpiece that sits 'firmly at the top' of London's crab dishes.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

34
Berenjak Soho

Iranian · ££ · Soho

87Signal

Start with

Jujeh Kabab

A reliable crowd-pleaser consisting of chicken breast that 'does its job' as a perfectly charred 'empty canvas for a squeeze of lime.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

35
Angler

Modern British / Seafood · ££££ · City of London

87Signal

Start with

Lobster Ravioli

Described as the sort of dish you "just sit and stare at," it is noted by critics for being "artful on the eye and brilliantly bold to taste" with its accompanying spiced lobster bisque.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

36
Andrew Edmunds

Modern European Bistro · £££ · Soho

86Signal

Start with

Dressed Crab

Described by critics as part of a 'hand-scrawled poem to traditional' bistro cooking, this dish represents the reliable, 'unreconstructed' style the restaurant is famous for.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

37
Bentley's Oyster Bar & Grill

Seafood · ££££ · Mayfair

86Signal

Start with

Bentley’s Fish Pie

Described as the 'essence of a PG Wodehouse novel' and made by someone who 'understands the engineering of the dish,' it features a piped golden mash over smoked haddock, salmon, and prawns.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

38
Brigadiers

Indian BBQ · ££££ · City of London

86Signal

Start with

BBQ Butter Chicken Wings

These wings are 'blackened in a furious spice crust and then doused in a thick butter sauce.' Reviewers describe them as so addictive they've imagined 'popping back alone and having two bowls.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

39
Taste of Chongqing

Sichuan / Chongqing · ££ · Bloomsbury

86Signal

Start with

Fried crispy pork

One of the starters that Giles Coren noted "hit the spot" in a menu he described as "brilliant" and "exciting."

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

40
Quo Vadis

Modern British · £££ · Soho

85Signal

Start with

Smoked Eel Sandwich

Consistently cited by critics as a 'must' and a signature of the house, this dish is the cornerstone of Jeremy Lee's 'hearty, British, seasonal cuisine.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

41
Honey & Co.

Middle Eastern · ££ · Bloomsbury

85Signal

Start with

Mezze Sharing Menu

Critics advise going 'straight for the sharing menu' to experience the 'vibrant, fresh, and moreish' spread of small plates, including a 'remarkable' peach salad with goat's cheese and hummus with 'pungent green chilli tatbila'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

42
Manthan

Modern Indian · £££ · Mayfair

85Signal

Start with

Ghati Masala Prawns

Regarded as a highlight of the menu, these prawns are described as 'delicate but fiercely flavoured' and are a go-to recommendation for those new to Rohit Ghai's cooking.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

43
Roketsu

Japanese Kaiseki · ££££ · Marylebone

85Signal

Start with

Toro Sashimi with Egg Yolk Sauce

The 'star of the show' according to multiple critics; fatty otoro slices are served with an egg-yolk-enriched sauce described as 'liquid gold' that 'melts in the mouth'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

44
LEYDI

Turkish · £££ · City of London

85Signal

Start with

Muhammara

Grace Dent insists you 'please, please order' this delicate, glossy 'flavour bomb' made with sun-dried red peppers and walnuts.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

45
Aulis

Modern British · ££££ · Soho

85Signal

Start with

Truffle Pudding

A universally acclaimed Simon Rogan signature, this savory bread and butter pudding is often served with a black garlic emulsion and is described by Hot Dinners as a 'rather good' and highly desirable addition to the meal.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

46
Mamapen

Cambodian · ££ · Soho

85Signal

Start with

Panko Pork Toast

An 'unalloyed wonder' and a 'filthy snack' praised by all critics; it features golden, breaded cutlets of porcine fried bread topped with a 'drippy fried egg' and savory XO sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

47
Vasco & Piero's Pavilion

Italian · £££ · Soho

85Signal

Start with

Tagliatelle with Beef and Pork Ragu

Regarded as a Soho institution staple, this 'yolk-yellow' handmade pasta is dressed in a 'rich, vinous, slow-cooked' sauce that critics say you'd be pleased to find in Italy.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

48
Gerry's Hot Subs

North American Deli · ££ · Clerkenwell

85Signal

Start with

Reuben sub

The star ingredient is the beef pastrami, which features a pleasing amount of amber fat and is served in rolls that are deep-filled and compression-wrapped.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

49
Imad’s Syrian Kitchen

Syrian · ££ · Soho

85Signal

Start with

Falafel

Unanimously praised by critics; distinctive doughnut-shaped discs that are crispy, sesame-studded, and fluffy.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

50
L Terroni & Sons

Italian Deli · £ · Clerkenwell

85Signal

Start with

Pizza slice

Gigantic and inexpensive, a must-order classic to enjoy while taking in the history of London's oldest Italian deli.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

51
Bocca di Lupo

Regional Italian · £££ · Soho

84Signal

Start with

Shaved Radish, Celeriac & Pecorino Salad

This Umbrian-inspired dish is a menu staple; critics highlight it as a standout example of the kitchen's 'unfancy charm' and regional focus.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

52
Murano

Modern Italian · ££££ · Mayfair

84Signal

Start with

Tagliatelle with roast ceps/porcini and 24-month aged Parmesan Reggiano

Reviewers highlight the 'excellent texture' of the hand-made pasta combined with the 'earthy mushroom flavour' and the 'richness of the cheese.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

53
Bibi

Modern Indian · ££££ · Mayfair

84Signal

Start with

Sharmaji’s Lahori Chicken

Critics describe this succulent dish as 'tender grilled' chicken served in a 'rich cashew and yoghurt whey sauce' that diners 'rave about for days.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

54
J. Sheekey

Seafood · ££££ · Covent Garden

84Signal

Start with

J. Sheekey's Fish Pie

A legendary menu mainstay that defines the restaurant's comfort-food appeal and remains a 'banker' for those seeking a reliable, old-school classic.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

55
Naru

Korean · ££ · Covent Garden

84Signal

Start with

Seafood Pancake (Pa Jeon)

Consistently praised across reviews as 'compellingly crisp and squishy' and 'delicious,' featuring a mix of spring onions and seafood.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

56
Roti King

Malaysian · £ · King's Cross

84Signal

Start with

Roti Canai with Mutton Kari

The undisputed signature dish: insanely flaky, buttery flatbread paired with a mutton curry that critics describe as 'so dark, so brooding, so lacking in social graces, it makes other curries look like terrible fops'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

57
Toba

Indonesian · £££ · St. James's

84Signal

Start with

Sate Ayam

Succulent grilled chicken skewers blackened by a 'fierce charcoal grill' and served with a 'heavenly peanut sauce' that critics say is worth visiting for alone.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

58
Crisp

Pizza · ££ · Mayfair

84Signal

Start with

Vecna Pie

The fan favourite from the original Hammersmith location is loaded with pepperoni, burrata, and hot honey on a perfectly charred crust. It is a social media sensation that manages to live up to the expectations.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

59
Ciao Bella

Italian · ££ · Bloomsbury

83Signal

Start with

Spaghetti al Cartoccio

The house signature and a 'greatest-hit' of the menu: a mountain of seafood pasta baked and served theatrically in a greaseproof paper bag.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

60
Brutto

Italian · ££ · Farringdon

83Signal

Start with

Penne con Vodka

Regarded as a staple with 'nice things being said' by critics; it remains a reliable, universally praised pasta choice for those new to the menu.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

61
Lahpet West End

Burmese · ££ · Covent Garden

83Signal

Start with

Lahpet Thohk (Tea-Leaf Salad)

This 'glorious' and 'delightfully funky' signature dish is a complex mix of pickled tea leaves, double-fried beans, and dried shrimp. Critics warn it is so 'caffeine-heavy' it 'may well keep you up at night,' but is worth every 'enticing bite.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

62
Master Wei

Chinese (Shaanxi/Xi'an) · ££ · Bloomsbury

83Signal

Start with

Biang Biang Noodles

Described as an 'assertive culinary hug' and a 'dish that wants what is best for you,' these wide, hand-pulled strands provide a 'comforting carbohydrate with a kick' that creates an addictive longing.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

63
Hoppers

Sri Lankan & South Indian · ££ · Soho

82Signal

Start with

Mutton Rolls

Universally praised across all reviews as the perfect crunchy, spicy starter; described as 'a thick but crisp spring roll heavily filled with grown-up spiced sheep'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

64
Pahli Hill Bandra Bhai

Regional Indian · £££ · Fitzrovia

82Signal

Start with

Mangalore Bun & Scottish Crab Sukkha

Described as a 'harmonious' combination of delicate, slightly sweet buns and tender crab flavored with fennel and ginger.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

65
Circolo Popolare

Italian · £££ · Fitzrovia

82Signal

Start with

La Gran Carbonara

The viral benchmark dish served tableside, stirred up in and then served from a huge round of pecorino cheese.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

66
Honey & Smoke

Middle Eastern Grill · ££ · Fitzrovia

82Signal

Start with

Cauliflower with Amba & Tahini

A crowd-favorite mezze dish featuring crisp-edged florets paired with a savory mango pickle sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

67
Otto's

Classic French · ££££ · Bloomsbury

82Signal

Start with

Canard à la Presse

The restaurant's signature piece of theatre; a 'gastronomic heyday' dish pressed tableside in an antique silver press, one of which actually sailed on a sister ship to the Titanic.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

68
Hélène Darroze at The Connaught

French Fine Dining · ££££ · Mayfair

82Signal

Start with

Lobster with Tandoori Spices

Cited by critics as the unwavering signature dish; it is the one menu item that never changes and is seen as justifying the restaurant's Michelin stars.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

69
BAO Mary

Taiwanese · ££ · Marylebone

82Signal

Start with

Prawn Shia Song

Described as "hands down the best bite of the evening" by reviewers, this fried bun features a "pillowy doughnut texture" filled with king prawn, celery, and water chestnut.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

70
Nina

Italian · £££ · Marylebone

82Signal

Start with

Bluefin tuna e melone

Described as a 'real winner' and 'as pretty as a picture,' this dish features a successful combination of seriously sweet melon and raw tuna with Italian ponzu and basil.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

71
Supawan

Southern Thai · ££ · King's Cross

82Signal

Start with

Yum Hoa Plee

A 'well-dressed, piquant salad' of banana flowers and prawns that 'tap dances out into the limelight,' served elegantly in the 'canoe embrace of a purple and white petal.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

72
Sweetings

British Seafood · £££ · City of London

82Signal

Start with

Dressed Crab

The crustaceans are cooked and dismembered fresh every day on the premises; critics describe the result as 'irreducibly crabby' and needing nothing more than a squeeze of lemon and buttered brown bread.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

73
Regency Cafe

British Cafe · £ · Westminster

82Signal

Start with

Set Breakfast

Described as the 'archetypal ideal of a Propa Caff,' this deal remains 'every bit as awesome as it’s ever been' with thickly sliced bacon, herbless sausages, and crisp hash browns that defy London inflation.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

74
Dukes Bar

Cocktail Bar · ££££ · St. James's

82Signal

Start with

The Martini

Regarded as 'London’s best Martini,' this signature serve is prepared tableside via a trolley; critics describe them as 'head-spinningly strong' and 'lethal.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

75
Scotti's Snack Bar

Italian Caff · £ · Clerkenwell

82Signal

Start with

Chicken Escalope Sandwich

The restaurant's showstopper; the chicken is boned, bashed, and breadcrumbed in-house each morning, then served on fresh ciabatta with lettuce, tomato, mustard, mayo, and a crucial squeeze of lemon.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

76
The Connaught Bar

Cocktails · ££££ · Mayfair

82Signal

Start with

Connaught Martini

The bar's signature bespoke Dry Martini is a 'headline act' where the serve becomes a performance, arriving by trolley and poured into a bitters-adorned glass from overhead.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

77
Hoppers Soho

Sri Lankan · ££ · Soho

82Signal

Start with

Egg Hopper

A "beautiful object" that is "friable at the edges" and "irresistible" for tearing pieces off to mop up sauces and chutneys.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

78
Luca

Italian · ££££ · Clerkenwell

82Signal

Start with

Parmesan Fries

Described as the 'exquisite love child of a churro and a croqueta,' these 'gossamer-light and greaseless fingers of cheese' are a Luca trademark that critics claim they could eat by the 'family bucket.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

79
Kebab Queen

Modern Kebab Tasting Menu · ££££ · Covent Garden

82Signal

Start with

Foie Gras Kebabito

Often described as a moreish 'two-bite wonder,' this signature opener features BBQ'd foie gras with potato cubes cooked in duck fat and a date puree.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

80
Maison Bab

Modern Kebab · ££ · Covent Garden

82Signal

Start with

Doner Beignets

Universally praised by critics as the essential starter. Described as 'a doner kebab in croquetas form' filled with fried lamb and beef, served with chilli and garlic sauces—you'll likely 'need several of them.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

81
Kikuchi

Japanese · ££££ · Fitzrovia

82Signal

Start with

Omakase Course

The benchmark experience here; reviewers universally recommend entrusting the chef with the selection of nigiri and sashimi.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

82
Bancone

Italian · ££ · Covent Garden

82Signal

Start with

Silk Handkerchiefs with Walnut Butter & Confit Egg Yolk

The undisputed signature dish; described as 'casually orgasmic,' it features paper-thin sheets of pasta draped in a 'heavenly,' 'sticky, nutty, gritty mess of butter.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

83
Noodle and Beer

Sichuan Chinese · ££ · Chinatown

82Signal

Start with

Super King Braised Beef Ribs with Blanket Noodles

Acclaimed by critics as 'probably the best noodles' in London, this dish features tender beef ribs sprinkled with edible gold dust and expertly cut with scissors table-side over massive blanket noodles.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

84
Itadaki Zen

Japanese / Vegan · £ · King's Cross

82Signal

Start with

Tofu steak set

A hearty, lip-smacking tofu steak topped with teriyaki sauce and melty sautéed carrots.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

85
Koshari Street

Egyptian Street Food · £ · Covent Garden

82Signal

Start with

Koshari

The quintessential Egyptian comfort food: a hearty mix of lentils, rice, pasta, and vermicelli topped with spicy tomato sauce, chickpeas, and crispy onions.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

86
Kitchen Table

Modern British / European Tasting Menu · ££££ · Fitzrovia

81Signal

Start with

Parker House Rolls

A long-standing staple of the menu; the wild garlic butter version is described as 'sublime' and 'particularly intense' due to the use of pickled flowers and stalks from the previous season.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

87
Carlotta

Italian-American · ££££ · Marylebone

81Signal

Start with

Tortelloni With Lamb Ragù

Hand-made tortelloni stuffed with a spicy Cornish lamb ragù and served with a rich tomato sauce, Parmigiano Reggiano, and fresh basil.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

88
Cafe TPT

Cantonese · £ · Chinatown

81Signal

Start with

Macau-style Baked Pork Chop Rice

Described as a 'must' for the 'ultimate Cha Chaan Teng experience,' this dish is a hallmark of their Hong Kong Western-influenced menu.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

89
Holborn Dining Room

British · £££ · Holborn

81Signal

Start with

Hand-Raised Pork Pie

Jay Rayner describes this as a 'bold expression of pig' and a 'noble' example of the craft, served hot with a rich gravy made from calves' feet and reduction.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

90
Barrafina

Spanish · £££ · Covent Garden

81Signal

Start with

Tortilla de txistorra

Described as legendary and 'oozy,' this version is made with a paprika-flavoured Basque sausage and served with an 'almost-illegally strong aioli.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

91
Sessions Arts Club

Modern European · ££££ · Clerkenwell

81Signal

Start with

Potato, Smoked Eel and Roe

A signature 'crisp confit potato' bite topped with smoky eel and crème fraîche that reviewers describe as a pillar of the restaurant's 'deceptive simplicity and brilliance.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

92
Tavuuk Gemuse

Turkish / Berlin Döner · £ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

Berlin Chicken Doner

The signature item featuring grilled vegetables, feta crumbs, and garlic sauce for the authentic Berlin experience.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

93
Aces Foodcraft

Japanese Fusion / Tasting Menu · ££££ · Fitzrovia

80Signal

Start with

Temaco

A signature hybrid of a taco and a temaki handroll that critics describe as 'the right kind of fun.' It features a delicate crispy seaweed shell filled with bluefin tuna, sushi rice, and wasabi, served with a 'homemade tabasco' fermented chilli sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

94
Cay Tre

Vietnamese · ££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

Bone Marrow Pho

Recognized as the restaurant's 'signature Pho,' it is noted as 'incredible value' on the lunch menu. While some critics find the broth itself lacking fragrance, the 'incredibly thin slices of beef' are widely praised for their quality.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

95
HIDE

Modern European · ££££ · Mayfair

80Signal

Start with

White Asparagus in Salty Hazelnut Praline

Described by The Guardian as 'filthily good' and leaving the critic 'hair-tossingly ecstatic,' it is a standout example of the restaurant's vegetable-forward refinement.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

96
The George

British Gastropub · ££££ · Fitzrovia

80Signal

Start with

Scottish Langoustine Scampi

Described as 'clever but also delicious,' this dish features whole langoustine tails served with 'far superior' crushed minted peas and tartare sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

97
Hoppers Marylebone

Sri Lankan · ££ · Marylebone

80Signal

Start with

Black Pork Kari

Consistently cited across reviews as the winner; a dark, roasted spice curry with immense depth of flavor.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

98
Cafe Deco

Modern British / European · £££ · Bloomsbury

80Signal

Start with

Egg Mayonnaise with Anchovy

Explicitly called a 'mainstay' on the menu, these are praised for their 'sunset yolks' and generous dollops of silky homemade mayo.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

99
Quality Wines

Modern European · £££ · Farringdon

80Signal

Start with

The Gilda

Universally cited as the essential starter; a perfect Basque pintxo of olive, guindilla pepper, and anchovy that complements what critics call a 'brilliant wine list by the bottle and glass'.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

100
Fish Central

British Seafood · ££ · Clerkenwell

80Signal

Start with

Cod and Chips

Described as the 'best fish and chips in Zone 1 by some distance,' featuring a 'light, delicate batter' and 'superbly moist' fish.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

101
Dean Street Townhouse

British · £££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

Mince and Potatoes

Commonly cited as the restaurant's signature dish, it is a comforting British classic that embodies the 'thoroughly soothing experience' noted by critics.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

102
Randall & Aubin

Seafood / French Brasserie · ££££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

Assiette de Fruits de Mer

Described as a 'massive' and 'expert fish dish,' this towering display of seafood is the centerpiece of the restaurant's 'buzzy' and 'Parisian' atmosphere.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

103
Blacklock Soho

Chophouse / Steak · ££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

The All In

Regarded as the 'main purpose of the place,' this mixed pile of beef, pork, and lamb chops is 'vigorously seasoned' and served over flatbread that acts as a 'treat' by soaking up all the juices.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

104
MOI

Japanese · ££££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

Pineapple Rib Tomato

Hot Dinners claims this is 'the best tomato dish being served in London right now,' featuring smoked cream and toasted nori that left the reviewers 'obsessed.'

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

105
Hunan

Chinese · ££££ · Belgravia

80Signal

Start with

Crispy Green Beans

Described as 'addictive as crisp bacon' and 'one of the best of the meal,' these beans are served in a light, frilly batter with a well-judged kick of garlic and chilli.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

106
HIMI

Japanese Neo-Izakaya · £££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

Nigiri Selection

With chefs from the acclaimed Roji, the sushi is technically flawless—expect fatty tuna that evaporates in your mouth and perfectly sweet squid.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

107
Korean Dinner Party

Korean-Mexican Fusion · ££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

KDP Corn Dog

The restaurant's signature street snack—half mozzarella, half hot dog, battered and dusted with sugar and ketchup/mustard.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

108
The Eagle

Gastropub · ££ · Clerkenwell

80Signal
✓ Visited

Start with

Steak Sandwich

The 'Bife Ana' marinated rump steak sandwich has been on the menu since day one and is universally cited as the venue's defining dish.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

109
Ara

Global Fusion · £££ · Aldgate

80Signal

Start with

Grilled Potato Bread & Burrata

A 'warm and glistening' paddle of potato bread served with wobbly burrata, apricot purée, and crispy chilli peanuts; critics call the sweet and sour combination an interesting and successful twist.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

110
Turpan

Uyghur · ££ · Fitzrovia

80Signal

Start with

Pitir Manta

Described as 'phenomenally good' packages of glistening goodness, these steamed lamb dumplings are adroitly crimped by an expert hand and served with an addictive vinegary chilli sauce.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

111
Cafe Grill

British · ££££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

Fish Bhorta

The essential must-order item supplied by the editor.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

112
49 Cafe

Modern European · ££ · Bloomsbury

80Signal
Hidden Gem

Start with

Daily pasta

A comforting, reliable choice that stands out as the ultimate must-order item supplied by the editor.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

113
Fortitude Bakehouse

Bakery · £ · Bloomsbury

80Signal

Start with

Berber omelette sandwich

The editor's absolute must-order item, offering a deeply satisfying bite that channels the bakery's signature North African influences.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

114
Arcade Food Hall

Global Food Hall · ££ · Soho

80Signal

Start with

Food hall selection

A diverse array of top-tier London kitchens all under one roof, ensuring there is a high-quality option for every craving.

Strong, consistent praise across multiple sources.

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