South London is home to a plethora of dining options that cater to every palate. From luxurious French dinners to sumptuous Thai feasts, there is no shortage of good restaurants south of the river. This insider’s guide provides an introduction to some of the best restaurants in South London, offering practical tips for exploring the culinary scene.
Whether you’re in the mood for something fancy or down to earth, this guide has got you covered. With a focus on quality and diversity, it showcases a range of dining experiences that are sure to satisfy any foodie. So, if you’re looking for a delicious meal in South London, read on for some insider tips and recommendations.
Contents
Key Takeaways
- South London offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste.
- This insider’s guide provides practical tips for exploring the best restaurants in South London.
- From sumptuous Thai feasts to luxurious French dinners, there is no shortage of good restaurants to choose from.
Best Restaurants in South London
Levan
Levan in Peckham is a casual dining experience that offers high-end cuisine. Their seasonal menu never fails to impress, and the stylish surroundings make for an enjoyable atmosphere. Levan also offers a curated wine menu that leans into the natural and biodynamic worlds.
Mantanah
Located in South Norwood, Mantanah is a neighbourhood Thai restaurant that serves up some of the best regional Thai cooking in the city. The menu is curated by region, allowing for a culinary tour of Thailand as you eat. A must-try dish is the Ped Ma Kharm, which is sweet and sour roasted duck with spring onion, shallots, and dry chillies.
Evernight
Nine Elms is an up-and-coming area of South London, and Evernight is a Japanese izakaya that has been making waves in the foodie scene. Their omakase menus of sushi and skewers are highly recommended, but they also offer a la carte options for those who are less adventurous. Evernight was recently awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand award for their high-quality, affordable cooking.
Nandine
Nandine in Camberwell serves Kurdish food with a homely care that is evident in every dish. The restaurant’s owner is a refugee who fled Saddam Hussein and picked up recipes along the way. The result is a menu of delicious kebabs and charred vegetables fired over hot coals.
Padella
Padella is London’s favourite pasta chain, located in London Bridge. All of their pasta is made fresh, and the sauces are to die for. Padella is affordable, with wine coming in at £7 a glass and pasta rarely pushing the £15 mark. A quick tip is to not order too much just because it’s cheap, as it can add up quickly. Save room for their famous tiramisu.
Supa Ya Ramen
Supa Ya Ramen in Peckham offers a laid-back atmosphere and delicious Japanese ramen bowls. Their noodle soups are topped with unique ingredients like salt and pepper confit pork, or blended with off-the-wall infusions like miso, XO, and bacon oil. The restaurant is the first venture of ex-chef Luke Findlay, who previously worked at Nopi and Berber and Q.
The Begging Bowl
The Begging Bowl in Peckham has a cult following among locals who love their hearty menu of Thai food. The restaurant offers dishes that are not your typical green curries and pad thai, but instead, they encourage diners to get experimental. The kitchen staff are pros, and every dish stands up. The Begging Bowl also caters well to vegans and vegetarians.
Pique-Nique
Pique-Nique in Bermondsey is a French restaurant that offers rustic and classic cooking. The menu includes dishes like escargot and pate en croute, followed by meat-heavy mains that pack a serious punch on the flavour front. The restaurant is located in a spacious mock-Tudor building, adding to its character.
The Little Taperia
The Little Taperia in Tooting offers Spanish nibbles in a chilled neighbourhood restaurant. The food is the product of a union between Madeleine Lim, former Food and Drink Editor at The Independent Magazine, and her chef friend Hikmat Antippa of another top Tooting restaurant, Meza. The modern-Spanish menu takes cues from tradition but adds a bit of culinary flare.
Rick Stein, Barnes
Rick Stein, Barnes is located on the banks of the River Thames and offers gorgeous views over the water. The London outpost of famed TV chef Rick Stein serves high-quality seafood, often landed that morning. Stein is a master of bringing out the best in each ingredient, making this one of the best restaurants in southwest London.
Practical Tips for Discovering the Top Restaurants in South London
To make the most of your culinary adventure in South London, it’s recommended to check out area guides for a more detailed breakdown of each neighborhood’s dining scene. This guide offers a wide range of prices and cuisines, including affordable and delicious options like Supa Ya Ramen, as well as more upscale and refined options such as Rick Stein.
To avoid disappointment, it is crucial to book ahead whenever possible. This is especially important for popular restaurants, which can often fill up quickly. By following these practical tips, you can explore the best restaurants in South London with confidence and ease.