London’s Hidden Gems Restaurants
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SEARCHING FOR RESTAURANTS IN LONDON CAN BE A CHALLENGE.
London is home to no shortage of amazing restaurants, but so many of these are buzzy, trendy restaurants that can feel like miniature productions rather than intimate eateries.
And while I love dining at trendy restaurants like Bob Bob Ricard, a whole week of these touristy restaurants can start to feel a bit tiring.
To mix up your dining experience in London, treat yourself to a meal at one of these hidden gem restaurants.
This list is full of local favorites that have outlived the hype and maintained their high quality and inviting ambiance over the years.
London’s Hidden Gem Restaurants
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Founder’s Arms
Located on the South Bank, the Founder’s Arms offers a combination of classic British pub fare and panoramic views of the Thames.
This spot is great for its proximity to cultural landmarks such as the Tate Modern.
THE MENU IS ANCHORED BY HEARTY OPTIONS, INCLUDING FISH AND CHIPS SERVED WITH MUSHY PEAS AND TARTAR SAUCE AND A WELL-REGARDED SUNDAY ROAST COMPLETE WITH YORKSHIRE PUDDING.
Craft beer enthusiasts will appreciate the selection of brews on tap, alongside a concise wine list.
The interior is modern and streamlined, with wooden accents and large windows that frame the riverside view.
In warmer months, the outdoor terrace provides a perfect vantage point for people-watching and admiring the city’s skyline.
WITH ITS PRIME LOCATION AND RELIABLE OFFERINGS, THE FOUNDER’S ARMS IS A GO-TO SPOT FOR, ESPECIALLY FOR SUNDAY ROAST OVERLOOKING THE THAMES.
Homeslice Neal’s Yard
Tucked into the colorful, vibrant enclave of Neal’s Yard in Covent Garden, Homeslice is all about simplicity done exceptionally well.
Known for its massive, 20-inch wood-fired pizzas, this restaurant at 13 Neal’s Yard has cultivated a reputation for inventive toppings and a relaxed vibe.
Standout pizzas include the salami, rocket, and parmesan combination, as well as the ever-popular mushroom, ricotta, pumpkin seed, and chili.
THEIR “BY THE SLICE” OPTION IS PERFECT FOR A QUICK GRAB-AND-GO MEAL.
Inside, the decor is pared-down with communal wooden tables and an open kitchen that emphasizes the restaurant’s unfussy charm.
This is a lively spot, often bustling with groups of friends and tourists soaking in the neighborhood’s unique atmosphere.
HOMESLICE NEAL’S YARD
📍 13 Neal's Yard, London WC2H 9DP, United Kingdom
📞 +44 20 3151 7488
🌐 Visit Website
E Pellicci
E PELLICCI IS A TRUE EAST LONDON INSTITUTION.
Family-run since 1900, this café serves up Italian and British comfort food in a cozy, Art Deco-inspired setting.
Known for its warm service and hearty portions, the menu features classics like full English breakfasts, lasagna, and their famous homemade pies.
The steak and kidney pie is a menu standout for its rich, flavorful filling and flaky crust.
THE RETRO INTERIORS, COMPLETE WITH WOOD-PANELED WALLS AND TILED FLOORS, EVOKE A NOSTALGIC CHARM.
Regulars and newcomers alike appreciate the lively banter from the staff, making every visit feel personal.
Whether you’re after a quick coffee or a substantial meal, E Pellicci delivers authenticity and heart.
St. John Smithfield
ST. JOHN, LOCATED NEAR THE BARBICAN, IS A PIONEER OF NOSE-TO-TAIL DINING IN LONDON.
The menu changes daily but often includes signature dishes like roasted bone marrow served with parsley salad and sourdough toast.
Other offerings highlight lesser-used cuts of meat, such as lamb’s hearts and pig’s trotters, alongside simpler plates like fresh oysters.
The decor is stark and utilitarian, with whitewashed walls and minimal embellishments, putting the focus squarely on the food.
St. John’s dedication to sustainability and bold flavors has earned it a loyal following and a place among London’s most iconic restaurants.
ST. JOHN SMITHFIELD
📍 26 St John St, Barbican, London EC1M 4AY, United Kingdom
📞 +44 20 7251 0848
🌐 Visit Website
Mildred’s Soho
LOCATED IN THE BUSTLING AREA OF CARNABY, MILDRED’S SOHO IS A VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN HAVEN.
The restaurant specializes in globally inspired dishes, with standout options like the Sri Lankan curry—a fragrant blend of sweet potato, green beans, and roasted cashews served with rice and coconut sambal—and the kimchi-topped gyoza dumplings.
The interiors are sleek yet welcoming, with a mix of industrial and natural elements that reflect the modern ethos of the cuisine.
The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and commitment to plant-based creativity make it a popular choice for both dedicated vegetarians and omnivores looking to try something new.
MILDRED’S SOHO
📍 45 Lexington St, Carnaby, London W1F 9AN, United Kingdom
📞 +44 20 7494 1634
🌐 Visit Website
Fallow
Fallow is a contemporary dining spot that emphasizes sustainability and innovation.
The menu focuses on bold flavors and seasonal ingredients, with dishes like the corn ribs—perfectly charred and brushed with a miso butter—and the indulgent dairy cow steak, aged for maximum flavor.
THE INTERIORS ARE UNDERSTATED YET CHIC, WITH EXPOSED BRICK WALLS AND AN OPEN KITCHEN THAT ADDS TO THE DYNAMIC AMBIANCE.
Fallow is praised for its attentive service and the restaurant’s ability to elevate simple ingredients into memorable dishes.
Fallow has quickly become a favorite for those seeking inventive cuisine in a refined setting.
FALLOW
📍 52 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4RP, United Kingdom
📞 +44 20 8017 1788
🌐 Visit Website
Xi’an Impression
Located in North London near Arsenal Stadium, Xi’an Impression offers a taste of authentic Chinese street food.
Known for its hand-pulled biang biang noodles, bursting with flavor from chili oil and fresh herbs, the restaurant is a must-visit for fans of bold, spicy cuisine.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE THE LAMB SKEWERS, SEASONED WITH CUMIN AND CHILI, AND THE PORK-FILLED SOUP DUMPLINGS.
The dining area is compact and functional, with simple decor that keeps the focus on the food.
Despite its unassuming setting, Xi’an Impression consistently impresses with its dedication to traditional flavors and techniques.
XI’AN IMPRESSION
📍 117 Benwell Rd, London N7 7BW, United Kingdom
📞 +44 20 3441 0191
Mug House
Nestled under London Bridge, Mug House is a cozy wine bar and restaurant that defines that hidden gem restaurant feel.
Specializing in British classics, the menu includes dishes like slow-cooked beef cheek with horseradish mash and fish pie topped with golden-brown pastry.
THE EXTENSIVE WINE LIST IS A HIGHLIGHT, WITH KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF ON HAND TO HELP WITH PAIRINGS.
The ambiance is warm and intimate, with low ceilings, exposed brickwork, and candlelit tables.
This spot is ideal for a quiet evening meal or a relaxed drink after exploring the nearby Tower Bridge.
Sherlock Holmes
The Sherlock Holmes pub is a themed destination that combines British pub staples with a touch of literary nostalgia.
While it might read as a tourist trap at first glance, there’s an escapist charm that makes this pub a hidden gem.
The decor is a treasure trove of Sherlock Holmes memorabilia, including a detailed recreation of Holmes’ study.
The menu features comfort food like bangers and mash, steak and ale pie, and a satisfying ploughman’s lunch.
The atmosphere is convivial and slightly whimsical, attracting both tourists and fans of Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective.
This is a great spot for a pint, a bite, and a bit of imagination in central London.
SHERLOCK HOLMES
📍 10 Northumberland St, London WC2N 5DB, United Kingdom
📞 +44 20 7930 2644
🌐 Visit Website
Gymkhana
GYMKHANA OFFERS A REFINED TAKE ON INDIAN CUISINE, AND HAS EARNED A REPUTATION AS ONE OF THE BEST WHITE-TABLECLOTH INDIAN RESTAURANTS IN THE CITY.
Known for its richly spiced dishes, highlights include the wild muntjac biryani, served under a flaky pastry crust, and the tandoori lamb chops, marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices.
The restaurant’s interiors exude elegance, with dark wood paneling, leather banquettes, and low lighting that create an intimate setting.
Gymkhana’s attention to detail and luxurious ambiance make it a standout for special occasions and fine dining.
Conclusion
IN A CITY AS DYNAMIC AS LONDON, FINDING THE RIGHT RESTAURANT CAN TRANSFORM A GOOD TRIP INTO A GREAT ONE.
While the trendy spots have their appeal, these hidden gem restaurants offer something even more special—authentic flavors, welcoming atmospheres, and a sense of discovery that makes your meal memorable.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler to London, exploring these local favorites will give you a deeper appreciation for the city’s vibrant food scene and leave you eager to return for more.
Happy dining!
xx,
Angela
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