London Chiswick Restaurant Guide

“Everything you could want from a pub” is to be found at this “quasi-rustic”, panelled tavern, hidden away in a backstreet on the Chiswick/Acton borders: “unexpectedly sophisticated food” (“from a Mediterranean/Italian menu that delivers the classics as well as seasonal-inspired dishes”), “seamless, jolly yet gentle service”, “terrific beer, wine and gin… and you get hydrangeas in the kid-friendly garden!”

Featuring “good, Latin-influenced cuisine from a small menu”, this “unpretentious” local is “one of the best in Chiswick”. The experience is “made more special by owner Leo Pacarada and his staff, who could not be more obliging”, and it “holds its own despite being opposite La Trompette!”.

That it “tries hard” and “is a bit overdone on the decor” (“interesting art” on the walls) is mainly seen as a positive for this “lovely” and “upscale” Chiswick venture, operated by a 500-year-old Chianti dynasty as a showcase for Tuscan cuisine and wine. The cooking is consistently well-rated and the wine list includes “bottles from their own estate at exceptional prices”. There’s a 50-seater terrace for al fresco summer dining.

Ex-solicitor, Mikael Jonsson’s “idiosyncratic” passion-project in deepest Chiswick continues to inspire controversy amongst its large following. No-one is too fussed that the interior is “clinical, with harsh light”: it’s the hit to the wallet that elicits grief, with many critics apt to rate the food highly, but still cavil at the “outrageous prices”. Its disciples, though, are “captivated” and feel “the enormous bill is entirely fair” given the “stunning” ingredients (“some not seen elsewhere”), and the “mouthwateringly wonderful”, “constantly evolving” and “exciting” cuisine (“only on offer as tasting menus, but with each course a surprise and delight”). In their view: “at one Michelin star this restaurant is under-rated” – “the food level sometimes touches a three-star, but is certainly two-star and way better than just the one!” Top Menu Tip: don’t miss the bread.

“You’d think you were in a modern version of a Belle Epoque Parisian bistro” at this “classic French” outfit by Acton Green. “It specialises in delicious dishes made with Vacherin cheese – but there’s much more to choose from”. After 15 years, a major refurb is planned for early 2019.

Michael Nadra makes “a talented and charming chef/patron” and his duo of neighbourhood restaurants – in Chiswick and Camden Town (right next to the Regent’s Canal) – both provide a “welcoming” venue and “surprisingly good value for sophisticated modern French cooking”. On the downside, both inhabit awkward sites – NW1 is “cavernous” and slightly “remote”, while W4 is low-ceilinged and tightly packed.

“Smart and reliable bistro” (with a cosy, little gin bar) near Turnham Green tube that offers “a menu of crowd-pleasers, cooked with care and a little flair”. Part of the Ealing-based Charlotte’s Place group, it is “far better than expected from a neighbourhood warhorse”.

This pair of “super-reliable locals” near the Thames in Barnes and Strand-on-the-Green, are “just all-round great places for lazy lunch and intimate dinner”. “Top service from a very friendly crew” ensures that you “feel very welcome”, and “portions are large and full of flavour”.