Hampstead, French Restaurant Guide

“Always a long queue” (but “it’s worth it!”) for this Hampstead institution that clocks up its half-centenary next year. Edward de Mesquita’s kiosk sits outside the King William IV pub on the High Street, where it serves sweet and savoury French pancakes to locals and celebs including Harry Styles (who ticks both boxes). “The crepes are wonderful and the ambience comes from its location in London’s most beautiful neighbourhood”.

“There’s always a great atmosphere” at this “very comfortable” Georgian tavern in Hampstead, brilliantly run for more than 20 years by Beth Coventry, sister of restaurant critic Fay Maschler (“it’s a real favourite of ours, and whenever we bring friends they invariably love it”). Top Menu Tip – “best roast beef anywhere!”