London Camden Town Restaurant Guide

“More hit ’n’ miss than they used to be, but still a go-to chain” – the Elliot brothers’ successful group is heading towards 20 branches in the capital, but “still producing quality dishes despite becoming quite a brand”: “lovely scorched, pillowy-based pizzas with plenty of power in the ingredients” and “reasonably priced for the quality!” Latest to launch, in June 2024, was a branch by Euston.

“They succeed in making vegan food interesting!” at this successful chain, founded in Soho in 1988 and which is no longer merely veggie but since 2021 fully plant-based. “While packed and buzzy in set-up, it’s nevertheless a good destination for a healthy stopover” according to the many who commented on it in this year’s annual diners’ poll: “as a meat-eater, I was taken under sufferance but impressed!”. In May 2024, they added a new branch near Victoria coach station.

This Kentish Town fixture from Calabrian-born, Moroccan-heritage chef Mustapha Mouflih has achieved cult status over the past decade for its “mostly great” Italian cooking served in modest premises at very good prices – the bills held in check by “brilliant BYOB for corkage”. Ratings have dropped this year, though, with several reporters “disappointed after reading good reviews”.

“In beautiful Primrose Hill”, just by the Regent’s Canal, this quirkily situated ‘Restaurant, Martini Bar & Garden’ showcases Michael Nadra’s “really lovely” modern European food, and attracts very consistent praise from fans across north London. (His original W4 venue shut down a couple of years ago).

Review: “Sinfully good” burgers are delivered with “quick and efficient service” – and “genius free soft serve ice cream” (which accompanies your bill) – at this independent group with a handful of outlets around London. Former nurse Liz Down and her husband Stew started out in 2016 with a stall on Broadway Market, inspired by working holidays in the Canadian Rockies. Top Tip – “indulge in the guilty pleasure of their dry-aged beef glazed in miso with double cheese”.

“A takeaway hole in the wall with some seating” characterises the branches of Pui Sing, Cheong Yew & Mo Kwok’s HK-inspired group, which specialises in Siu Mei (“authentic roasted Chinese meats”) served in “generous portions” plus noodles – “top Hong Kong food, affordable and better than at ‘normal’ sit-down restaurants”. Towards the end of 2024, they will open their largest site to-date: a 50-cover restaurant in Ealing’s Filmworks development.

“Delicious Jamaican food from the original Mango Room chef” makes it worth discovering Roger Shakes’s “favourite Caribbean”. It’s in a nondescript stretch of shops as you head out of Camden Town, but stylishly and comfortably appointed (e.g. tablecloths!). “Brilliant atmosphere at the weekend in particular”.

“As good as any in France really!” – the clue is in the name at this Kentish Town café, which “may only be fair in appearance but makes genuine French crêpes from French ingredients and by French staff”. “It’s only a matter of feet between the kitchen and your table so your meal is crispy at the edges when you get it”. “Simple and delicious!” Top Menu Tip – “the crêpes are good, but go for the galettes, which are the best – made with Breton buckwheat and not overdone in any way – and have a cup of cidre brut aussi!”