London South Kensington Restaurant Guide

“Really delicious modern Indian cooking” is making its mark at this two-year-old in Earl’s Court, which is further differentiated by its “surprising steampunk decor” – a tribute to the intrepid Scottish botanists who catalogued the flora of the subcontinent in the Victorian era. There’s a “good selection of wines by the glass as well as bottle”.

“Crazy combinations, truly awesome at times” continue to wow all who taste the “meticulous” sushi and other modernised Japanese dishes at this duo of venues – an “awkward and tired-looking basement” in Marylebone (under chef Tomonari Chiba) and a “much-cooler-than-the original” setting in Knightsbridge (under chef Masaki Sugisaki). “I’ve wandered all round the menu with friends, and each bite was terrific”.

“Andy Murray is a regular visitor (to the Wimbledon branch), and with good reason”, report fans of this “upmarket” group. Like Sir Andy, “great service” is a particular strength, while “the food is pretty authentic” too. Now an international operation, the first of its six London venues opened in 1990.

“Quality Italian beefsteaks” – most notably from the Piedmontese Fassone breed – are showcased in style at Genovese owner, Roberto Costa’s, “unique” steakhouse group, where at each branch you “enter through the butcher’s shop” and “you can tell the staff which cut you want”. “The well-hung rump steak is absolutely delicious” and “a great selection of Italian wines” helps make it the perfect place to kill off an evening.

Acres of pavement seating are the most eye-catching feature of this “buzzing” operation (run by the well-known Spanish food importers), which sits on the ant-trail between South Kensington tube station and the museums (go on a sunny day). It’s “reliably enjoyable” for a “cheap ’n’ cheerful” meal as the dishes are reliably good, but it’s mostly chosen for its convenience rather than its foodie potential.

“There’s a friendly buzz” at this pair of “good-value neighbourhood Italians” in South Kensington and Dulwich Village, which are handy for most occasions: “reliable for an informal business lunch”, but equally “very child-friendly” and “perfect for a family meal with half portions of everything for kids”. On top of that, the “food is actually not bad at all – better pizzas than the chains and decent enough fresh pasta”.

Near the Royal Albert Hall and needing a “reasonably priced” bite? This fun Italian is surprisingly smart given its affordable prices, and its food – majoring in pizza – is consistently well rated. It claims to have been ‘Princess Diana’s local pizzeria’ (and is not shy about promoting the connection via pics on the walls). Top Tip – budget party cave in the cellar.