London South Kensington Restaurant Guide

“Buzzy”, “cheap ’n’ cheerful” Italians in South Kensington and Dulwich Village that provide “lively service”, “delicious, freshly made food” and “good pizzas with unusual toppings”. “They love children and are relaxed about noise and mess”, and there are “plenty of staff so you’re not kept waiting”.

“An amazing selection of oysters” and other “wonderfully inventive fish and shellfish dishes” (in particular, “blackboard specials are usually excellent”) have made these bustling fish bistros one of the capital’s most popular chains amongst foodies, and – though relatively new – they have “an old-fashioned style, feeling like they’ve been there for years (in a good way…)”. “The latest addition in Battersea Power Station and overlooking the Thames may be the best yet!”

“Looking very smart” again nowadays, this upmarket “institution” in South Kensington has been run in recent times by luxury Indian chain Taj Hotels and is winning more consistent praise for its “helpful staff and delicious food”. It’s yet to step back properly onto London’s culinary map, however, and even some fans feel “it’s still to some extent relying on past glories”.

“Superb Vietnamese food” – “diverse, delicious and really refined” – is on the menu at this yearling from Jeff Tan, the ex-Hakkasan owner of Soho’s Viet Food. One cavil: the “very plain surroundings” mean it’s “lacking in atmosphere”.

“Hitting the spot after a few false starts while transforming from Mr Wing (RIP)” – the former long-term occupant of this two-level (ground and basement) Earl’s Court venue – this interesting yearling is decked out with distinctive steampunk flourishes to its contemporary curry house decor, and wins praise for food that’s “spot on and encourages exploration of new flavours mainly from northern and central India, interpreted in a modern style”.

“Sublime fish” employed in “lots of new-style sushi” helps win nothing but adulation for Tomonari Chiba’s operation, now split between two sites – both of which deliver “exquisite” Japanese cuisine. The Marylebone original suffers from being a “cramped basement”, but the new Knightsbridge site makes a “great addition”, with “better decor and a larger kitchen, resulting in a wider menu and a better dining experience”.

“A small chain with a big reputation that’s well deserved”, say fans of this long-standing, “friendly and courteous” Thai group, praised for its “well-flavoured food”. Ratings went into reverse this year, however, due to those who find it “a bit pricey”, or “making too many concessions to western palates”. Top Tip: “exceptional lunch deal”.