Here at Secret London, we’re used to supplying you with recommendations of the best places to eat in our city. But sometimes, we get curious to hear about which London food spots you rate…
Which is why we took to our Instagram stories to ask you what your favourite hidden gem food spots and local restaurants are. And, unsurprisingly, you had a lot to say – with stellar choices like Roti King, Chubby Dumpling and Mangal II in the mix!
We’ve pulled together some of the most recommended places here for you to peruse. Get inspo for your next meal and say thanks to your fellow Londoners when you tuck into those delicious foodie treats!
Beigel Bake
It’s a thing of true comfort to know that on any day at any hour, you can access a soft, squidgy Brick Lane bagel. Beigel Bake is open 24/7, dishing out wonderfully affordable bagel sandwiches to the people. Fill yours with anything from salt beef to smoked salmon and prepare to unlock a new addiction. 159 Brick Ln, E1 6SB
Bubala
Inspired by the cafes of Tel Aviv, Bubala serves delicious Middle Eastern small plates. From hummus and burnt butter to halloumi with chamomile and honey, these flavour-packed dishes do not disappoint. Hand-pick your own selection or feast on the Bubala knows best set menu.
65 Commercial St, E1 6BD
15 Poland Street, W1F 8QE
Ben Venuti
Those who’re familiar with Ben Venuti claim it’s one of the best authentic Italian delis in London. Wall to wall with cured meats, cheeses, fresh pastas and pastries, it’s a treasure trove of top quality produce. Pop in for a coffee and a cannoli and watch the world go by at a lovely outdoor table. 34 Upper Tachbrook St, Pimlico, SW1V 1SW
Cafe Kick
Tucked away on the Exmouth Market thoroughfare, Cafe Kick is a cafe-come-sports bar with a healthy dose of Kitsch. Serving everything from Jersey Oysters to charcuterie boards, it’s a great place to share some food and enjoy a game of table football with friends. 43 Exmouth Market, EC1R 4QL
Chubby dumpling
This father and daughter run enterprise provides its services from a 1992 fire engine. But instead of extinguishing flames, this dynamic duo drives round serving irresistible dumplings to hungry Londoners. A noble cause if ever there was one! Check their Instagram for updates on where to find them.
Elliot’s
Sourcing the finest seasonal produce direct from local suppliers, Elliot’s strives to put the fresh, natural flavours of their ingredients front and centre. Complete with an impressive natural wine list, this sophisticated menu is testament to the notion that less is often more.
12 Stoney St, SE1 9AD
121-123 Mare Street, Hackney, E8 3RH
Pellicci’s
Punters who stumble across Pellicci’s are unlikely to forget their visit within the next decade. You might be drawn in by the comforting smell of Italian cooking, or in search of a hearty full English. You will find both things here. But this 1900 cafe, still proudly boasting its period decor, is run by an Italian family who are as much of an attraction as the food itself. So bring your appetite and arrive ready for audience-participation-esque interaction with staff members whilst you eat. 332 Bethnal Green Rd, E2 0AG
Ganapati
Bringing the vibrant flavours of South India to South London, Ganapati is a cosy dining room with a terrace out back. The decidedly selective menu changes often, providing guests with a continuous supply of exciting new dishes to sample. But the famous, flaky ‘kerala paratha’ flat bread alone will have you coming back for more. 38 Holly Grove, SE15 5DF
Gunpowder
Another of London’s exemplary Indian restaurants, Gunpowder serves their traditional family recipes with a modern twist. Visit their Spitalfields, SOHO or London Bridge branch and dine on exquisite dishes such as Karwari soft shell crab, Bengali beetroot croquettes, grilled artichoke heart in red pepper masala and more.
20 Greek Street, W1D 4DU
4 Duchess Walk, SE1 2SD
11 White’s Row, E1 7NF
Mangal II
Open since 1994, Mangal II combines mouth watering Turkish cuisine with refined modern dining. Dishes at this Dalston gem are cooked using an innovative charcoal method – an art that is translated to guests in the form of outstanding flavours. This is food that really speaks for itself. 4 Stoke Newington Rd, N16 8BH
M.Manze
It’s no secret that pie and mash has somewhat of a cult following in London. But finding the pie and mash in a city this big is no mean feat. Open since 1902, M.Manze are indisputable masters of this particular foodstuff. The pastry is hand-made daily and stuffed with prime cuts of beef, then paired with fluffy mash, green liquor and eels (if you’re into that). 87 Tower Bridge Road, SE1 4TW.
Max’s Sandwich Shop
There was once a time when a sandwich consisted of two slices of bread, butter and a filling. That time is no more. And Max’s Sandwich Shop in Finsbury Park is an excellent example of how this lunch time staple has evolved. These inventive sandwiches are big in size, bold in flavour and beautiful in taste. Regulars will agree Max’s greatest accomplishment is the slow cooked ham hock sandwich, complete with a fried egg, shoestring fries and malt vinegar mayo. 19 Crouch Hill, Finsbury Park, N4 4AP
Negril
Located in the heart of Brixton, Negril serves up some of the best Caribbean food in South London. The menu offers everything from jerk ribs and salt fish fritters to curried goat and coconut prawns. Complete with great soundtracks and banging rum punch, it’s an ideal place for a chilled out meal with friends. 132 Brixton Hill, SW2 1RS
Roti King
Found in both Euston and Battersea Power Station, Roti King is one of London’s best kept affordable foodie secrets. Adored by those in the know, this unassuming restaurant serves Malaysian and Singaporean street food that will leave your tastebuds singing.
Euston, 40 Doric Way, NW1 1LH
Battersea Power Station, 16 Arches Lane, Nine Elms, SW11 8AB