Canadian visitor's random thoughts on a few memorable London restaurants visited over the years.
I have recently been visiting London on a regular basis once or twice a year due to work, seeking out interesting restaurants each time and thought to share some of my random thoughts on the more memorable places.
Would be cool to hear if locals' experiences are similar or differ, as well as to hear any other recommendations based on the places I have visited.
Most of these I did solo, and via walk-in.
St. John Smithfield
This was a bucketlist place for me having been a fan of Anthony Bourdain. Was able to snag a one-top last-minute on one of my early trips years ago. Lived up to the hype in terms of the minimalist vibe of the service, decor, and plating. Of course had the bone marrow & parsley salad, but the fried tripe with house ketchup was also a highlight.
St. John Bread & Wine
Had not been able to get to the Smithfield location on more recent trips as they had always been sold out but have been able to get to B&W on two past visits. Without the wine bar area its a bit less chaotic, but continued to go for the offal-forward dishes, which I enjoyed.
Anchor & Hope (Waterloo)
Found this as Bib Gourmand in the area near my office. Similar vein of upscale British food like St. John. Great wine and beer list. Prefer the ambiance of this place to St. John.
Mercato Metropolitano
Not really a restaurant but just a cool vibe not found or experienced anywhere else with the live music venue, better than average food selection for a cafeteria style (e.g. compared to Time Out markets). Sad to hear it is shutting down.
Flat Iron
I know this is a chain, but it blew my mind in terms of its quality of food, relative value (for London prices), and the quirks that make it memorable (old fashioned coming in a flask, the whole thing with the Cleaver Trinket to redeem for ice cream). Every Canadian coworker I've brought here has gone back.
Fallow
TBH I was out of the loop and did not know how much hype this place had considering I watch so much food youtube etc. Was recommended to me. Honestly, in retrospect how busy/hot they are, the service of them finding a quick-turn one-top at the bar for a walk-in was much appreciated. From the clientele it was definitely had the vibe of "a place to be seen in", which is not really my jam but the food was fantastic. Had the short-rib and the cod head, the latter was the highlight; despite them only having the large one left and still decided to sell me on it as a single diner. WAAAY too much food but the food was well done.
Mountain Beak Street
Had the tripe stew and sweetbreads, which were great. Room and vibe was good but nothing stood out. Friendly service at the bar, gave me a good recommendation for a vintage watch shop to visit.
Chimichurri
Super random spot I found just by google maps rating as I was wandering around Borough Market one day. Completely blew my mind, such a vibe with the open-pit Argentinean grilling, all the meats cooked perfectly. The sweetbreads were charred perfectly, bursting with fat and salt and smoke; one of the best bites I've ever had. I most recently went back to try the exact dish. Very unique to have the Iberico Secreto, especially on the grill which was fantastic. Even the lowly chicken thigh was done at a high level.
Swan at the Globe
Was here for a set dinner with work, but heard good things. Food was done well for a set menu (chicken breast was not dry).
Trivet
The only starred place I have been to in London. 2-star spot that solely does a la carte (i.e. no set menu) was interesting. Had plenty of availability for a walk-in on a random Tuesday. Beautiful room and view of the kitchen. Service was attentive but not overly so; which was fine as a solo diner but was somewhat surprised relative to some one-star places I have been which was more "orchestrated". Had a very interesting 2018 Slovenian red wine with the venison.
