London’s top international restaurants

This neighbourhood restaurant has been a stalwart in Walthamstow Village for two decades. Run by locals Billy and Mel, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, but don’t worry…the menu doesn’t play it safe. Serving up brunch, dinner and even Sunday roasts, The Kitchen really offers something for everyone, from classic cooked breakfasts to beautifully presented fish fillets and even a range of Italian favourites including a ravioli in a beef shin sauce. There’s also a varied selection of small plates to choose from, including spring rolls, patatas bravas and a mezze platter, in case choosing just one dish proves just too difficult!

Plant-based Peckham hotspot Omni has only been open around two years, however it’s already made quite an impression. While the menu is entirely vegan, co-founders Jessica McGill and George Matheou decided to name the restaurant Omni because they feed everyone, whether vegan, kosher, halal, et al. They get seriously creative with vegetables here and tap into all kinds of cuisines, from Mexican blue corn tacos with miso glazed plantain and Spanish avocados, to Japanese Petit Violet artichoke tempura. Their conscious attitude can be felt in all corners of Omni, through to the 100% vegan drinks list that features natural wines from small independent producers, and their low-waste practices, such as pickling and fermenting.

Hackney Coterie is a highly Instagrammable wine bar, wine shop and restaurant located in a former warehouse… Well, where else would you open such a place in London’s buzziest borough? The light and airy space is filled with vibrant artwork, industrial features, cool counter seating and ample outdoor space. The ever-evolving seasonal menu, which is designed to be shared with a bottle of something delightful, takes diners all around the world, from the Scandinavian flavours of trout rillette to crispy French croquettes. There’s also a very reasonable set menu that offers two courses for £20 or three for £24.

Nestled in the elegant Wimbledon Village, Light House is an inviting, glass-fronted spot that serves up creative fusion dishes such as chimichurri quail and enduringly sophisticated plates like tuna ceviche. The restaurant also offers a tempting range of cocktails and regularly offers deals, for example, when Wimbledon takes place. Light House also often hosts live music nights, where you can indulge in dinner and drinks while you enjoy the show.

As one of the most well-known names in London, you might dismiss The Ivy in favour of more local eateries – you’d be remiss to though, as the group offers consistently high standard food in opulent surroundings. Whether you’re dining in the main restaurant or one of the cafes, you’ll find soft leather seating, gilded finishings, and maximalist fauna. There’s all sorts of inspiration on the menu too, from the rich and comforting shepherd’s pie to the aromatic Malaysian prawn curry, so you don’t have to scrimp on expertise to please a range of palates.