Dishoom
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About
The much-loved homage to Bombay's Irani cafés that once defined the social life of India's most cosmopolitan city brings the black-and-white tiled floors, ceiling fans, enamel-painted walls, and the atmosphere of those elegant democratic gathering places to London with remarkable authenticity, serving dishes like the legendary black dal slow-cooked for 24 hours, the keema per eedu egg dish, and the house-cured bacon naan roll that has people queuing before the doors open every morning. The Covent Garden branch's beautifully dressed interior and the King's Cross location with its outdoor terrace represent the best settings, though all branches maintain the same quality of food and the same warming sense of hospitality that has made Dishoom the most consistently popular restaurant group in London. The breakfast service featuring chai tea and bacon naan is a particularly beloved London ritual.
Highlights
- Bombay cafe nostalgia
- Famous Bacon Naan Roll
- Atmospheric 1920s decor
- Consistent Indian comfort food
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Hawksmoor Seven Dials
Housed in a former fruit warehouse, Hawksmoor Seven Dials is widely considered to serve the best steaks in London. The subterranean space features dark wood, reclaimed parquet floors, and cast-iron columns, creating a masculine, clubby, and warm sensory atmosphere. Expert recommendations: Order one of the large 'Dictionary Cuts' (like the Chateaubriand or Porterhouse) to share, and don't skip the 'Triple Cooked Chips' or the 'Bone Marrow Gravy.' The 'Sticky Toffee Pudding' is often cited as the city's best. Pro tip: Their 'Monday Steak Club' allows you to bring your own wine for a very small corkage fee. Their cocktails are also world-class, so arrive early for a drink at the bar. Booking is essential for dinner but easier for a late lunch.
Seven Dials Market
Located in a former banana warehouse in Covent Garden, Seven Dials Market is a vibrant indoor food hall curated by KERB. The space is split into the 'Cucumber Alley' for snacks and the 'Banana Warehouse' for larger communal dining. The sensory experience is loud, colorful, and social, filled with the clinking of glasses and a variety of international aromas. Expert recommendations: 'Pick & Cheese' features a 25-meter conveyor belt of British cheeses, while 'Nanban' offers incredible fusion ramen. Pro tip: Finding a seat during the lunch rush or Saturday afternoon can be a challenge; try visiting for an early dinner around 5:00 PM. It’s a great spot for groups with differing tastes, as everyone can grab what they like and meet in the central seating area.
Barrafina (Adelaide St)
Barrafina is a Michelin-starred tapas bar that brings the authentic energy of Barcelona to London. The sensory experience is centered around the long marble counter where diners watch chefs prepare dishes with incredible speed and precision. The clatter of pans and the sight of fresh seafood on ice create a vibrant, bustling vibe. Expert recommendations: The 'Classic Tortilla' (made to order and still runny in the middle) and the 'Arroz Negro' are essential. Check the daily specials board for the freshest seasonal seafood. Pro tip: They do not take reservations for the counter; it is purely walk-in. Arrive 15 minutes before opening or during the mid-afternoon to avoid a 1-2 hour wait. It’s the perfect place for solo diners or pairs, but difficult for groups larger than four.
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The National Gallery
Dominating the north side of Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery houses a premier collection of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries. Masterpieces by Van Gogh (Sunflowers), Leonardo da Vinci, and Turner are displayed within its ornate halls. The atmosphere is one of hushed reverence for art history. Expert recommendations: Visit the Sainsbury Wing for the earliest Renaissance works. The 'Friday Lates' are excellent for exploring the galleries with fewer crowds and occasional live music. Pro tip: Entry is free, but booking a timed ticket online is required. Use the gallery's 'Smartify' app to get instant information on paintings as you walk through. The shop is excellent for high-quality art prints and unique stationery.
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