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!”

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.

“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”.

“A great location on a sunny day”, this riverside gastropub at Chiswick’s Strand-on-the-Green (smartened up in recent times) delivers “unpretentious good food with a bit more finesse than most pubs”. “The perfect end to a walk along the Thames.”

“Freshly made divine salads each day, and amazing brunch dishes” (not all of them virtuous) at “reasonable prices” (for Chiswick) make Angie Steele’s tightly packed, shabby-chic café “great for snacks and coffee”, particularly at weekends.