London’s restaurant scene is vast and vibrant and impossible to truly encapsulate, but we at TABLE Magazine have concocted a list of five hidden gems for those looking to try some off-the-beaten path local favorites. These are neighborhood haunts and well-loved pubs that serve outstanding food nonetheless. Cookbook author and food writer Jenny Linford called London’s food scene “open-minded and cosmopolitan,” and these recommendations reflect that diversity. From the most traditional of British food to classic Indian, take your palate’s pick.
Regency Café
17-19 Regency St
Classic London. That is what to expect from this old-school style “caff” that serves a British fry-up breakfast or lunch. The establishment, which opened in 1946, has stayed in the family ever since. You might recognize it as the filming location of several BBC series. But if not, just prepare yourself for a hearty bacon, egg, sausage and baked beans breakfast eaten in old fashioned diner booths with a backdrop of red checkered window dressing.
Roti King
40 Doric Way, Euston Rd
This London restaurant’s name is deceivingly simple in its literalness, but it is also entirely accurate. Malaysian Chef and founder Sugen Gopal truly is the king of the soft, flaky, buttery, dense yet light (I could go on) roti. Normally a supplement to the main dishes, the roti here is the primary attraction. Th,ough the curries are certainly not bad either. Order the beef rengang for a spicy, creamy stew of beef and coconut milk. The Euston location doesn’t take reservations and always has a line. “Get there early and be prepared to wait,” says Linford. “It’s worth it!”
Tamil Prince
115 Hemingford Rd
London faces no lack of so-called “Desi Pubs,” but Tamil Prince stands out for its creative, modern, and simply delicious take on one. A moodily dark teal interior and deep wood furniture perfectly complements its intensely seasoned food from the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Sweet, pungent paneer butter masala and lentil-y dal makhani are served in silver pots with roti on the side. And in case you’re not convinced yet, the executive chef boasts the most impressive of credentials: he worked previously at Roti King, another one of the best restaurants in London.
Noble Rot
51 Lamb’s Conduit St
Noble Rot’s roast chicken with morels and vin jaune sauce – which costs about $100 to serve 2 or 3 — is chicken and rice at its best. It is an example of this restaurant’s specialty: elevating the most traditional and homely of cooking. The menu is a partner to its extensive wine list and contains nods to the building’s prior occupant and notorious lair of left-wing politicians, the Gay Hussar. Feast on a seasonal menu that includes lamb rump, pork and apricot terrine, and choux buns with chicken liver.
Panas Gurkha
28 Montpelier Vale
Few dedicated reviews exist of this true hidden gem of a Nepalese and Indian restaurant, but it is a staple for those who live in Blackheath. The head chef was trained by a Michelin Star recipient, but the menu will not dent your wallet you with Michelin Prices. Try the popular lime and coriander tikka for less than $10, or feast on spicy, minty hiryali chicken for about $12. The prices, dishes and clientele will not disappoint.
Story by Mitra Nourbakhsh
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