I’m back and ready to kick off an incredible year of food and travel discoveries—full of adventures, amazing finds, a few disappointments, but most importantly, plenty of fun!
I’ve started the year on the right foot. Over the festive period, which I mostly spent in Germany with my wife’s family, we managed to squeeze in a bit of a road trip—through France on the way there and Belgium on the way back. And all thanks to Brexit, as my partner and I had to get a car to transport our little pup Milos, from the UK to our usual destination in the Black Forest.
On the way to Germany, we made a quick overnight stop in the Champagne region to indulge in some delicious French cuisine and, of course, stock up on bubbles. That wasn’t our only taste of France, though. We also had the chance to sip wine and savour the food in one of my favourite wine regions in the world—Alsace.
The next two weeks in Germany were pure gluttony, as I treated myself like there was no tomorrow. I indulged in the rich flavours of Baden cuisine, including Spätzle, Knödel, Schnitzel, and Black Forest Gateau, to name just a few. All light and refreshing dishes… not! But hey, isn’t that what the festive period is all about?
On the way back, we drove through Belgium, where I had my first Michelin-starred experience of the year at Arden, the restaurant of the stunning boutique hotel Chateau du Vignee, nestled in the heart of the Ardennes. The food was nothing short of sensational, showcasing the rich flavours of the region. We then continued to Ghent and Bruges to enjoy traditional dishes and take in the beautiful scenery. By the time we got back home, I felt fully recharged and ready to set some ambitious culinary and travel goals for the year ahead.
I really can’t complain because my culinary and travel year is off to a cracking start and has already set the wanderlust bar pretty high.
Now, with a blank canvas ahead and no major trips planned (yet), it’s all about thinking big but starting small. This time of year isn’t about far-flung destinations, as I’ve just returned from three weeks away. Instead, it’s about finally trying some of the restaurants in London I’ve been eyeing for ages. As always, life in the capital tends to get in the way, and it’s all too easy to fall back on the comfort of familiar favourites.
Below are my top 10 restaurants to try in London this year. I’d love to hear your recommendations too. This city is a vast sea of incredible restaurants and eateries waiting to be discovered, so please do share the love!
Tamil Prince (Indian) | Caledonian Road
Possibly one of the most acclaimed Indian restaurants in London, yet it somehow manages to retain its cool, neighbourhood vibe. Housed in a pub, this Indian restaurant offers a unique blend of fantastic Indian dishes and a traditional pub atmosphere, which is a refreshing take from the usual Indian dining experience. It’s been on my radar for years, especially as I often visit one of my favourite pubs in the area, The Hemingford Arms, which is just a block away from The Tamil Prince.
Pictures: Tamil Prince IG
Brat (European) | Shoreditch
This restaurant has been making noise for some time now, thanks to its brilliant modern European cuisine, centred around cooking with fire. With its slick style and excellent wine list, it’s a recipe for success. Its popularity has only grown, and in recent years they’ve opened a second branch in trendy London Fields.
Pictures: Brat IG
Akoko (West African/Nigerian) | Fitzrovia
African cuisine is a broad term and not one I’m particularly familiar with. Akoko, founded by individuals of Nigerian heritage, brings an elevated take on West African cuisine to the London dining scene, and it’s been a triumph. Already holding a Michelin star, this minimalist restaurant has been highly praised for its beautifully presented dishes. A friend recommended it to me as her culinary highlight of the year, and it’s definitely one for the list.
Pictures: Akoko IG
Sushinoen (Japanese Sushi) | Whitechapel
Finding traditional / no-frills Japanese eateries in London isn’t easy. Japanese food here often comes with a hefty price tag and a fine-dining vibe, but in essence, it’s best enjoyed elbow-to-elbow in unpretentious spots. Sushinoen seems to be fitting the bill perfectly, serving delicious sushi and other classic dishes in a more relaxed setting.
Pictures: Sushinoen IG
Shankeys (Irish) | Clapton
A decade ago, I lived in Dublin for a year and can confirm that Irish food doesn’t often inspire cravings. However, Shankeys has been on my radar for a while now, thanks to excellent reviews. They must be doing something right. What’s the craic? Perhaps it’s the soda bread, Irish whisky, or their famously warm hospitality, hopefully, I’ll find out soon!
Pictures: Shankeys IG
Silo (European) | Hackney Wick
As Europe’s first zero-waste restaurant, Silo embodies sustainability in everything from its plates to its décor. Located in trendy Hackney Wick, inside a warehouse, this is where the magic happens. Apparently, this is the pinnacle for anyone passionate about eco-friendly dining.
Pictures: Silo IG
Oma (Greek) | Bermondsey
Greece and its islands are my ultimate happy place, and their cuisine, best enjoyed by the beach, always delivers lasting experiences. Though, dinding a Greek restaurant in London that recreates that magic is rare, but Oma, inspired by the Greek islands, just might be the one.
Pictures: Oma IG
Xi’an Impression (Chinese) | Holloway
This little gem has been a talking point for over a decade, sparking split opinions and long queues. However, recent reviews have been overwhelmingly positive. The catch? You’ll need to visit during off-peak hours to avoid a lengthy wait. Every time I pass by, I tell myself, “next time”, it’s been years!
Pictures: IG foodies
Terra Moderna (Italian/Antipodean) | Belsize Park
Last year, while searching for an Italian restaurant with a twist, I came across Terra Moderna. It's rare to find Italian cuisine combined with influences from Australia and New Zealand, a fusion I’d never encountered before. The menu looks exciting, and the dishes I’ve seen online are stunning.
Pictures: Terra Moderna IG
The Baring (Gastropub) | Angel
Finishing off the list is elevated pub food with a twist. Recognised in 2024 as one of the best gastropubs of the year, The Baring promises delicious food, great cocktails, and a cosy setting. While I frequently visit local favourites in the neighbourhood like The Earl of Essex or Plaquemine Lock, The Baring is the one to visit for something a little more special, and I’m eager to check it out soon!
Pictures: The Baring IG
Here’s to a year of wonderful discoveries, filled with travels and culinary highlights, all inspired by your love of exploring! 🥂
Comments