London South Kensington Restaurant Guide

“Time and again we get fine Thai tastes!” This enduring chain is, in a low key way, one of London’s most consistent performers, combining “well-above average food”, with “very attentive service” and “beautiful decor”.

“Don’t be put off by the simplicity of the dining room” – “a noisy concrete basement” (although you can also sit at the ground floor bar): Tomonari Chiba’s sushi and other Japanese fare is “genius”, albeit “spectacularly expensive” at his original Marylebone venture of over ten years standing. In May 2017 he opened a considerably swankier offshoot in the beautiful and chichi premises vacated by Toto’s (RIP) which seem likely to become the dominant member of the duo hereafter. It features a mashup of Japanese and Western ingredients and ideas – early press reviews are mixed.

“Excellent food in a somewhat formal setting” – an elegant conservatory with colonial decor – elevates this South Kensington stalwart beyond “run-of-the-mill curry houses”. Reports have dwindled in recent years, but consistently high ratings suggest it’s worth a second look.

These “cosy, busy and good-value” local Italians in South Kensington and Dulwich do the simple things well: “handmade pasta, great pizzas and lovely service”. “Perfect for families – kids are well-treated” (so “it can be a bit of a creche if you go at the wrong time”).

For “an efficient and cheerful meal, especially before a visit to the Royal Albert Hall” this “buzzing Italian pizza-fest” (“there’s a wide selection including vegetarian, gluten-free, halal and per bambini”) is “so good, you can forgive them their kitsch, Princess Di-themed decor!” “It’s not overpriced for the location and always entertaining”.

“Fun and casual” spin-off from Jeff Tan’s Soho Viet Food – “the food tastes great and looks magic too” at this a 60-cover café near South Kensington tube.

“A haven for top notch oysters and shellfish” (they have their own Cornish farm and wholesalers) – these “bustling” bistros have grown from their Borough Market origins on the back of their “sparklingly fresh and delicious” dishes, plus “good wines by the glass”. “That they’re cramped is all part of the charm”. Battersea is the latest addition to the family, and in SW7 fans tip “the little gem of a Mermaid Bar, like a luxurious grotto with elegant cocktails”.