Barboun, Simplicity Burger, Davies and Brook, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because in a perfect world, every restaurant would look and feel like this svelte Shoreditch gem. A smart all-day spot perfect for everything from breakfast meetings to celebrations, Barboun’s Middle Eastern dishes are a sure-fire hit; shakshuka and banana pancakes at brunch are superb, while beef manti with smoked paprika sauce and a glass of champagne from the restaurant’s thoughtfully-chosen list form an elegant way to kick off an evening. 

Because this temple to sustainable dining is just as good as everyone had hoped. Aside from providing a zero-waste blueprint, the food at Doug McMaster’s Hackney Wick restaurant is outstanding, the cocktails innovative (via Copenhagen’s ultra-trendy Empirical), and the room chic. Plump for the tasting menu to sample a little of everything (like the charred red artichokes with Stichelton), with a drinks pairing — naturally. 

Because it’s one of Soho’s most intriguing new arrivals in ages. This understated, stylish restaurant plays host to some thrilling modern Sri Lankan food, prepared using outstanding British produce. Ethereally light hoppers and rotis are essential companions to curries and sambols, while low-intervention wines are the tipple of choice. Don’t miss the crisp mutton rolls, served with an addictive fermented chilli dip. 

For reservations, contact the restaurant at info@paradisesoho.com 

Because 10 Heddon Street was 2019’s sleeper hit, and its new space in Soho is even better. Having relocated and renamed, Chris Leach and David Carter’s restaurant is proof that doing a few things very, very well is more than enough to keep a dining room full. The silky mortadella and ‘nduja mussels are a must, and Leach’s signature hand-rolled pasta dishes are up there with the best in the city. 

Because London finally has a plant-based burger that’s as good (perhaps — whisper it — better) than the real thing. Trading lab-grown ‘meat’ in favour of perfectly grilled patties formed from British vegetables, Neil Rankin’s burgers need only a slick of home-made ketchup and a side of fries with gravy to hit the spot. Sustainably produced, and open late too. 

For reservations, contact the restaurant on hello@simplicityburger.london 

Because honest, everyday cooking is back, and Stoney Street is the best place to experience it. Led by rising star Henrietta Inman, this chic cafe in Borough Market has a dedicated pastry counter and assured, Mediterranean-tinged plates during the day (like a standout galette with quince, heritage grain and yoghurt), and fresh pasta at night. Florals and gleaming counters make the space a pleasure to linger in. 

Because nothing quite says ‘London’ like perching on a stool in Borough Market with an outstanding plate of Singaporean chicken rice. Elizabeth Haigh’s paean to the humble kopitiam (Southeast Asian coffee shops), Mei Mei is one of the best casual openings of recent years and, while a gimme for a delicious refuel in the market, is a destination in itself for lovers of Singaporean hawker cuisine. The kaya toast and coffee — fortified with delicious condensed milk — is an essential breakfast. 

Walk-ins only. 

Because it’s the most hyped opening of the year. Claridge’s new flagship restaurant comes courtesy of Chef Daniel Humm of NYC’s Eleven Madison Park (World’s Best Restaurant, three Michelin stars), with a heavyweight tasting menu, top-flight wine list, and prices to match. The signature duck is reputedly superb, and a meal here is one worth saving for a special occasion. 

For reservations, call the restaurant on (0)20 7107 8848. 

Because now that we’ve hit winter proper, there isn’t anywhere better to ensconce yourself. Robin Gill (of Darby’s and The Dairy) oversees this cosy, modern dining room inside the historic Great Scotland Yard hotel, where dishes like a warming apple tarte tatin with salted popcorn parfait, and roast fallow deer with baked celeriac, satisfy like little else. Afterwards, find the hidden whisky bar for rare pours and one of the comfiest lounges in central London. 

Because if the sweeping views of London don’t get you, then Peter Sanchez-Iglesias’s stellar Spanish food definitely will. A siren of a restaurant, Decimo’s location at the top of the uber-trendy Standard hotel is as good as it gets, likewise the chef’s contemporary take on Spanish and Mexican flavours. Perfectly-judged tortilla with caviar is a thing of beauty, and the dining room itself is absolutely to die for. 

For reservations, call the restaurant at (020) 3981 8888