Below are just a few highlights to give you a sense of the city’s truly international flavour
Chinese
Cantonese dim sum is enjoying a massive surge in popularity. Fashionable restaurants such as Hakkasan and Yauatcha are GREat upmarket choices. There are endless good value options in Chinatown, just drop into the restaurant that takes your fancy.
Indian
East London’s Brick Lane or ‘Banglatown’ is the place to go for reasonably priced Indian food. Try the Bengal Cuisine for classic dishes. Southall in West London is further afield, but it’s the heart of London’s Punjabi community - award-winning Madhu’s offers an excellent menu and service. More centrally, the Cinnamon Club is situated near the Houses of Parliament and serves impressive (and more expensive) cuisine in a historic building.
Japanese
There is plenty of choice if you’re after Japanese. Chains Wagamama and Yo Sushi! give value for money in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Ubon in Canary Wharf is a luxury option, with a stylish menu and fantastic views of the Thames.
Vietnamese
Head to Hoxton and Shoreditch for authentic, cheap Vietnamese food. Viet Hoa is popular with the area’s fashionable types. The Hanoi Cafe is a family-run restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere.
South American
The Gaucho Grill is a chain offering a stylish setting and excellent Argentinian steaks. Or Guanabara in Covent Garden is a lively choice for Brazilian dinner and cocktails.
Caribbean
Bamboula in Brixton is a budget choice with a beach-side atmosphere and cheery service. In Camden try Cottons for a buzzing bar area and substantial cooking. With great cocktails and DJs a night here is more just a meal, it’s an event.
Turkish
Gallipoli in Islington is a great place to enjoy the best in Turkish Cuisine. Ozer near Oxford Circus has a fantastic meze selection and superb service.
Lebanese
For a fine plate of Lebanese meze, look no further than Al Waha for amazing pastries, dips and salads. Also worth a visit are Maroush on Edgware Road and Al Sultan in upmarket Mayfair.
African
Ethiopean Lalibela in Kentish Town is one of the best in its class with tasty breads, stews and a lively atmosphere. Good cooking can also be found at Brixton’s down-to-earth Eritrean restaurant Adulis. For South African cuisine and a vast wine list, try the classy Fish Hoek in Chiswick.
