There’s a quiet shift happening in how London dines. The smartest tables are no longer booked at 8 pm — they’re taken at 1 pm.

It’s more affordable. More relaxed. Less performative. And most importantly, you actually get to enjoy the restaurant. Dinner in London can often feel like a production — loud, crowded, slightly rushed. Lunch, on the other hand, feels like you’ve discovered the place at its best.

So, in the spirit of sharing, here are the restaurants we return to — the ones that consistently get it right.

Manteca, Shoreditch: Easily the top three restaurants in London for us. Manteca has that rare combination of exceptional food and a space that feels genuinely considered. If you can, sit at the chef’s counter. It’s the best seat in the house. Order freely — you won’t miss.

Luca, Clerkenwell: Another top three. Italian again — clearly a pattern. Luca still carries that quiet buzz: part industry favourite, part celebrity haunt. The food is excellent, the service is polished without being stiff, and the space sits somewhere between Copenhagen minimalism and New York energy. It also has a Michelin star — but it doesn’t feel like it’s trying to prove it.

The Hart, Marylebone: If you want something that feels distinctly British but elevated, this is it. A high-end pub but done properly. The food is genuinely excellent, the space is beautiful, and the energy feels grown — in the best way. Order the sticky toffee pudding. Non-negotiable.

The Pelican, Notting Hill: From the same group as The Hart, so expectations are already set. The Pelican is slightly more relaxed, slightly more local, but still delivers on quality. It’s one of those places that feels easy but still elevated — perfect for a long lunch that turns into something else.

Akoko, Fitzrovia: Our favourite West African restaurant in London. The food is exceptional — the jollof rice alone is worth the visit. It’s refined, thoughtful, and deserving of its Michelin star. If I’m honest, the ambience and service could be warmer. But the food more than compensates.

Corner Shop, Holborn: Sometimes you just want somewhere that feels good without trying too hard. Corner Shop does exactly that — great food, a relaxed atmosphere, and a space that blends café, restaurant, and lifestyle store seamlessly. Also, don’t ignore the pastries. At all.

Gecko, Shoreditch: A vegan spot that doesn’t feel like one.
Everything here is genuinely good — not “good for vegan,” just good. If you’re sceptical, this is the place that will change your mind.

Holy Carrot, Notting Hill: Another vegan favourite — but this one leans more elevated. The way they treat vegetables here is impressive. The mushroom dishes, in particular, are standout. Even if you’re not plant-based, it’s worth it.

Layla’s, Notting Hill: More of a quick lunch than a full restaurant, but it deserves its place. Everything feels thoughtful, slightly different, and consistently good.

40 Greek Street, Soho: If you have access, use it. The terrace alone makes it worth it, but the food holds its own — the truffle pizza and steak are both strong choices.