London’s Best Restaurants Almost Nobody Knows About, From Japanese Hideaways To Delicious Ceviche – Claire Hubble

Sometimes it can be just too hard to find a restaurant for a lunch or late-night feast – but look no further.

At MyLondon, we’ve compiled a list of our absolute favorite hidden gems right here in the city, highlighting those places that may go unnoticed.

From sensational Italian to the savory tastes of Japan, the tangy cuisines of Mexico and Peru and the authentic cuisine of Iranian cuisine – we’ve got you covered for the next time you’re struggling to find a new one. place to try.

READ MORE: The two best bars in London have been named, including a cool underground golf club and a nice brasserie

Ariana, Mile End

Tom Capon, What’s On and Showbiz Editor

In most scenarios, it’s not about the size, it’s how you use it. Corn, Ariana right next to Mile End Park is one of the few places that combines the two, offering massive meat dishes with flavors so amazing that it silenced four of my most boring friends for twenty minutes.

This Iranian bring your own booze exudes authenticity – but don’t just trust me, it’s a hit with Mile End locals too.

Think of ground lamb skewers, huge chunks of chicken on the bone dripping with juice, and that kind of gorgeous rice that can’t be cooked at home. It even offers a vegetarian menu as big as that of meat.

During my visit, I ignored the warnings of the very nice waiter about portion sizes and ordered panir-o-sabzi (tarragon, mint, walnuts and feta in a pita) alongside a kleftiko ( with a massive lamb shank).

These dishes even conquered my bottomless stomach. I had no choice but to grab a doggy bag and eat the rest for lunch the next day. A real diamond in the park.

Senor Ceviche, Soho

Ellen Jenne, writer of life

Surrounded by the glitz and glamor of Carnaby Street is a Peruvian restaurant serving the simplest yet tastiest ceviche I’ve come across in London.

Señor’s ceviche is tucked away on the second floor of Kingly Court, but is often overshadowed by brands like Rum Kitchen and Dirty Bones.

Their food is the perfect marriage of health and indulgence, highlighting Peruvian street food – super fresh ceviche, smoky barbecue, and more gourmet light bites.

Be sure to try their mouthwatering Chifa Chicharrones (slow cooked pork belly), El Clasico (sea bass ceviche) and Peruvian BBQ skate wing.

But Peruvian is as much about drinks as it is food, so be sure to sip refreshing Pisco sours (passion fruit is the best!)

Stef’s @ Oregano, Angel

Jessica Battison, Life Writer

I will always be a cheerleader for Stef’s. No one ever seems to know it and it’s a real gem tucked away on an Angel side street.

They make deliciously simple Italian dishes served in huge portions (which I brought home several times for a few seconds). No, it might not be the fanciest Italian food in London, but Stef’s is more than that.

The small restaurant is friendly and family-friendly with an always lively atmosphere, perfect for a group dinner. Plus, they serve all-you-can-eat pizza and all-you-can-eat prosecco for under £ 30 – what could be better?

Jin Kichi, Hampstead

Lea Seeberg, writer what’s new

Jin kichi is an authentic Japanese restaurant in Hampstead. They serve yakitori, sushi, rice dishes and noodles, and everything is cooked to the highest standards.

Their Nasu Den is particularly delicious: a frozen fried eggplant half in a sweet red miso paste. The interior is dark and cozy, and they are often busy, so reservations are recommended.

Seats are also available at the robata bar, where you can watch the chef in action. Jin Kichi has a five-star TripAdvisor rating, and reviews say he has “the best Japanese food outside of Tokyo” – so I must be right.

Issho-Ni, Bethnal Green

Alexandra Bullard, screenwriter what’s new

Founder Claire Su was inspired by her travels in Japan and her knowledge and passion for Japanese cuisine, Issho-Ni was born.

Highlights on the menu include the ever popular Chicken Katsu Curry and Prawn Tempura Udon. There are plenty of solid side options for a fresh, filling meal – sashimi, spicy edamame, homemade kimchi, and sweet corn kakiage are some of the personal favorites.

To end your adventure on a sweet note, choose between a refreshing mochi ice cream or a white peach shiso sorbet served with almonds.

Whatever your appetite, you are guaranteed to have a magical experience at Issho-Ni. You can go alone or bring a friend; memories are waiting to be made here.

Taco Reine, Peckham

Claire Hubble, Editor-in-Chief of Social Media Analysis and Development

Peckham’s ever-changing food scene means there’s always a new must-see spot at SE15, but one thing stays constant on weekends: the queue outside Queen Taco.

The Mexican fusion joint started life as a humble food truck parked outside the beloved Rye Wax record store before finding a permanent home on Rye Lane in 2017. Prices have gone up from around £ 3 le taco at £ 4-6 steeper thanks to the Taco Queen faithful. .

However, two people can feast on soft-shell toppings like baja fish, fried cauliflower or kimchi, not to mention the obligatory loaded nachos to start, for under £ 30. Top it off with a glass of organic wine of the day, Chin Chin Vinho Verde, or sip a smokey marg.

Smoke Daddys, Balham

John James, Senior Journalist

If you are a barbecue fan, you are already spoiled for choice in London.

But as any true connoisseur of the kitchen knows, the more authentic the cooking process, the tastier the feast – and in this regard, a Balham smoker stands out above the rest.

Located in the center of bustling Hildreth Street, Dads smoke is a meat eater’s dream with an authentic menu that will have your brunch and dinner salivating.

Highlights include the Gatsby Gr8 (inch) sub steak and the Bone to Pick burger, which, as the name suggests, comes with a full rib.

Growl, Pimlico

Lisa Haseldine, journalist

The grunts bistro has occupied the same location in Pimlico for 57 years and can truly be considered a hidden gem.

Established when the area was still a ‘slum’, it has seen many famous faces walk through its doors, including the Beatles and Christine Keeler.

With cozy woodwork lit by soft candle light, they offer a French-inspired menu, including mussels in marinades (marinated mussels) and beef tenderloin.

A real highlight are the Garlic Butter Snails, deliciously tender yet sizzling snails floating in fragrant garlic butter, ready to be pricked with a special fork. You’ll want to lick the plate clean.

So the next time you’re looking to try something new, there’s no need to panic because MyLondon is here for you.

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