London Maida Vale Restaurant Guide

This “great local pub (doggy-friendly too)” in Maida Vale has found some equilibrium after an up-and-down performance since an acclaimed opening under Harcourt Inns in 2018. Highly rated chef-director Harry Harris left the group last summer, so the menu has become less exciting – but our latest survey indicates that it is winning over its (now smaller) following in our survey.

With its “spectacular setting by the Regent’s Canal”, this “lovely, tranquil restaurant” in Little Venice is “very special for a fine spring or summer evening” – supping on “generous platters of yummy fish or mezze” while “paddleboards float by”.

“Lovely food” – including “wonderful sushi” – and “efficient service” have made this tiny Japanese near Little Venice extremely popular – deservedly so, for cuisine of this freshness at very reasonable prices. Set meals represent the best value, and the “well-presented bento boxes were a top delivery experience during lockdown”.

“Still going strong” after 41 years – chef-patronne Catherine Parisot’s “lovely and atmospheric” hideaway in St John’s Wood remains first choice for a “romantic” date for many reporters. “The classically French menu hasn’t changed in years”, but regulars aren’t complaining – “Catherine is a wonderful host” and they’ve “never had a bad meal”: this is a place that “keeps its high standards for cooking and service, and keeps its customers”.

Lucky Maida Vale residents have this “wonderful local Japanese” on their doorsteps. “Top-quality ingredients are skilfully prepared and service is lovely”, delivering “sublime sashimi – fresh, cut just right and accompanied by just enough lime, shredded vegetables and shiso to make it shine. Tempura is sweet yet crisp and the signature rolls are a textural treat of mildly spicy dressing, popping fish eggs, sweet yet savoury rice and fresh fish!”