Top 5 Restaurants in London

 
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Having moved from the major foodie hub of Hong Kong and being from one of the most diverse cities in the world - NYC - I’m used to darn good food! There’s an ongoing perception that the food scene in the United Kingdom is sub par, but I assure you…whatever your palette desires, there’s exquisite cuisine here in London Town that you’ll absolutely savour!

Though we’re currently in a nationwide lockdown and restaurants are closed, here are a few of my favourite spots that are a must-try once things open back up!


London has become one of the great world destinations for someone who likes food
— Danny Meyer

DIRTY BONES

With locations across London, Dirty Bones may be my absolute favourite restaurant in London! This NYC-inspired comfort food spot boasts amazing dishes and fantastic cocktails. As if it couldn’t be any more amazing, several nights a week there’s a DJ onsite playing the best R&B and hip-hop tracks (you can also download their playlist on Spotify). You absolutely cannot leave before trying my top picks - cheeseburger dumplings, lamb fries and the Shadow (double chocolate chip!) milkshake.

Amidst lockdown restrictions, you can devour Dirty Bones goodness with their at-home kits available for delivery. I’ve personally been gifted a lamb fries kit and can’t wait to try it again!


SUSHI SAMBA

Looking for a treat and don’t mind splurging a bit? Head to Sushi Samba immediately. Though not specific to London, this global eatery blends Japanese, Brazilian & Peruivan culture and cuisine. My favourite dishes are the Crispy Yellowtail Taquitos, the Black Cod and the New Toyko Samba Roll.

PASSO

I’ve you’re a pasta lover like me - look no further! Located in Shoredtich conveniently outside of the Old Street roundabout, Passo has mastered the art of homemade pasta making and serving up scrumptious Italian cuisine. The beef & mozzarella meatballs are amazing and don’t leave without digging into a bowl of their delectable tagliatelle with fresh truffle.

During lockdown, Passo is delivering pizza and pasta kits so you can bring your favourites to your very own kitchen!

NEGRIL

If you ask me, no one cooks better Jamaican food than my mom! As I’m far away from home, it was imperative for me to find somewhere to sink my teeth into that satisfied my tastebuds…and Negril does just that!

In a no-fuss setting with both indoor and outdoor seating, Negril feels familiar and as reggae and ska blare through the speakers and the aroma of oxtails fill the air, you feel at home.

Give some of my faves a try when you visit - saltfish fritters, curry goat, rice & peas and festival.

MEM & LAZ

One of my neighbourhood favourites when I lived in Islington, Mem & Laz Brasserie offers mouthwatering meals in a stunning Mediterranean setting. This hidden gem off of Upper Street is full of character and specializes in Turkish cuisine. The menu is beyond expansive, so you may find it hard to choose, but be sure to give the char-grilled halloumi salad, the fillet of lamb or the apricot glazed chicken breast a try!

 
Travel, FoodRondette Amoy Smith