London’s 2023 food trends

This one ticks every box on our list of trends and has stellar community credentials. The Brixton-based neighbourhood haunt is doing a whole lot of good for society while serving up delicious plant-based dishes made using seasonal ingredients. It operates on a not-for-profit basis, as a social enterprise running training programmes for people with additional challenges, such as learning disabilities or mental health issues, in conjunction with Toucan Employment. By providing support and giving individuals the confidence they need to find onward paid employment, Cafe Van Gogh makes a real difference to people’s lives. The cafe serves food all day, with a menu that changes every six to eight weeks in line with the seasons. And if you stop by for a takeaway, rest assured that all of the containers and coffee cups are 100 per cent compostable (the kitchen’s food waste is also composted rather than binned). 

If you’re searching for somewhere fancy for a celebration and some fine fare, look no further than Covent Garden and this upmarket restaurant nestled within One Aldwych hotel. Chef Dominic Teague has long been championing foraging and works with nature’s calendar at the centre of his menu planning. Sustainable ingredients you may find popping up in his dishes include ironbark pumpkin, chervil root, wood sorrel and wild sea beet. Expect the unexpected here and food themed around the great British outdoors. Indigo also devises some fantastic free-from menus — perfect if you’re steering clear of dairy or gluten.

The Baban family were once displaced in Kurdistan, moving from village to village to avoid the attacks from Saddam Hussein’s army. But it was during this exceptionally challenging time that mother Pary developed an incredible inventory of flavours, recipes and cooking techniques from the many communities she encountered. In 2016 Pary opened this small restaurant, which means “kitchen” in Kurdish. Pary herself home-cooks the colourful and character-filled food using locally sourced produce, and the family provides an authentic welcome. Plus, as money may be a lot tighter in 2023, we love that this restaurant is BYOB, meaning you can save on the drink leaving room for a little splurge on the food. It’s no wonder that Nandine was named as one of Time Out’s Best London Restaurants of 2022.

This brand has been pioneering plant-based, healthy grub since the end of the last century, proving a forward-thinking ethos that’s ahead of the curve. The Gate has fully veggie venues in Marylebone, Islington and Hammersmith (the latter has a cute al fresco “secret garden”). The Gate group was set up by the Indo-Iraqi Daniel brothers, whose heritage informs the diversity of dishes and flavours on offer. Brunch through to evening meals are served in the modern, relaxed restaurants. The small chain has earned many plaudits and a three-star rating from the Sustainable Restaurant Association — so if you haven’t been yet, be sure to rectify this in 2023, because you’re missing out! Plus if you become a frequent visitor, you can earn some delightful freebies via The Gate’s Plant Your Rewards loyalty scheme.

Everything is cooked to order at this East Dulwich eatery that’s a particular hit with families. You’ll find a kids’ menu, homemade bakes, nutritious salads and all-day brunch and lunch dishes at this bright and airy independent cafe. Plus from Thursday to Saturday it stays open till 10pm for evening meals, with some tasty cocktails to boot. Owner Melissa sources her produce from small UK producers, ensures there are lots of vegan options on the menu (including cakes) and employs local people, imbuing the venue with a real community feel. Look out for a new Spinach set to take up home in the Crystal Palace neighbourhood in 2023.