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Restaurants in Aldgate

• Bevis Marks The Restaurant

  The new face of kosher cooking in the City of London is this stylish contemporary restaurant adjacent to the eponymous synagogue.

  Bevis Marks, Aldgate, Central London - Cuisine: Traditional Jewish

• Haz Restaurant

  City workers descend on Haz, a swish Turkish restaurant opposite Cutler Gardens for its authentic food and boisterous animated atmosphere.

  9 Cutler Street, Aldgate, Central London - Cuisine: Turkish

• Kasturi

  Tucked away in the depths of Aldgate's cityscapes, it's a particular favourite with the suited brigade at lunchtime, and it puts on a stylish show with its modern design and Art Deco flourishes.

  57 Aldgate High Street, Aldgate, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Marco Pierre White Steakhouse & Grill

  A new collaboration between Marco Pierre White and his old chum James Robertson, this restaurant comes in on the back of Lanes - a buzzy lunchtime destination and after-work crowd-puller, as well as a destination dining room.

  109-117 Middlesex Street, Aldgate, Central London - Cuisine: British

Restaurants in Aldwych

• Admiralty Restaurant

  On the site of the original Tudor palace that bears its name, Somerset House is a grand neo-classical edifice that stands between the Strand and the river.

  Somerset House, Aldwych, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• One Aldwych, Axis

  The Axis Restaurant has its own entrance on Aldwych and is located in the basement - a double-height space that was recently redesigned as part of a radical refurbishment programme, and it now boasts walls covered in mint-green, leather armchairs, and a row of 92 slender birch trunks finished with nickel as a backdrop.

  1 Aldwych, Aldwych, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

• One Aldwych, Indigo

  The sister restaurant to Axis is a more casual but equally stylish spot on the mezzanine overlooking the buzz of the slick Lobby Bar of this ultra-chic contemporary hotel in the heart of Covent Garden.

  1 Aldwych, Aldwych, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• The Waldorf Hilton, Homage Grand Salon

  The brainchild of flamboyant hospitality entrepreneur Roy Ackerman, Homage is an ambitious addition to the gold-star Waldorf Hilton (which celebrated its centenary in 2008).

  22 Aldwych, Aldwych, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

Restaurants in Barbican

• Alba

  Taking its name from Alba's highly prized white truffles, this family-run Italian is discreetly tucked away in a back street almost within earshot of the Barbican (special set menus are tailored for the culture vultures).

  107 Whitecross Street, Barbican, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• Coconut Lagoon

  The London branch of a Midlands-based group of Indian restaurants is a stylishly decorated venue close to the Barbican, with vividly coloured walls, soft lights and pale wood floors.

  7 Goswell Road, Barbican, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Le Cafe du Marche

  One small step from the City of London to the French countryside with rustic exposed brick walls, wooden floors, wicker chairs, authentic brasserie ambiance and background jazz music you're inside Le cafe du Marche.

  Charterhouse Mews, Barbican, Central London - Cuisine: French

• Searcy's Restaurant & Lounge Bar

  An ideal destination for culture vultures visiting the Barbican (look for the pre- and post-performance deals), Searcy's Restaurant & Bar has been given a facelift, and it now wows old-stagers and first-timers with its stunning new design.

  The Barbican Centre, Level 2, Barbican, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

Restaurants in Blackfriars

• Crowne Plaza London The City, Chinese Cricket Club

  We are pleased to introduce Chinese Cricket Club, Blackfriars, as a new addition to The UK Restaurant Guide for 2010.

  19 New Bridge Street, Blackfriars, Central London - Cuisine: Chinese

• Hilliard

  'The platonic ideal of a workers' caff, for City types and legal eagles,' observed one Guardian reviewer about this self-appointed 'gastrocafé' on a quiet road between Blackfriars and Temple.

  26A Tudor Street, Blackfriars, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

• Singapura

  One of a trio of stylish South-East Asian restaurants dotted around the eastern enclaves of the City, this sleek venue is handily placed a short walk from St Paul's Cathedral.

  1 - 2 Limeburner Lane, Blackfriars, Central London - Cuisine: South East Asian

Restaurants in Bloomsbury

• Abeno

  No-frills Japanese home cooking within walking distance of the British Museum is just the ticket – especially if you're weary after delving into the mysteries of the Land of the Rising Sun.

  47 Museum Street, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Japanese

• Blue Door Bistro

  Based in the Montague Hotel in Bloomsbury, the Blue Door Bistro is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and is well positioned close to Covent Garden, The Royal Opera House and the British Museum.

  Montague Hotel, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Bistro

• Busaba Eathai

  Set up by crown prince of oriental restaurants in London, Alan Yau's Busaba Eathai mini-chain has proved to be a huge hit with its authentic canteen-style Thai food.

  22 Store Street, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Thai

• Charlotte Street Hotel, Oscar Restaurant

  Deep in media-land just north of Soho, this cool hotel has been cleverly designed with echoes of the 'Bloomsbury Group' in mind and lots of vivid original art by local artists of the period.

  15 Charlotte Street, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• Chutney Raj

  We are pleased to introduce Chutney Raj, Bloomsbury, as a new addition to The UK Restaurant Guide for 2010. A full review will be published shortly.

  137 Grays Inn Road, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Cigala

  Cigala is a wonderful Spanish restaurant on the relatively quiet and charming Lamb's Conduit Street, a popular area for small eateries and wine bars in residential Bloomsbury.

  54 Lambs Conduit Street, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Spanish

• Malabar Junction

  The discreet Tardis-like frontage gives little idea of the stately delights inside this authentic Indian restaurant. Once through the door, you see a rather grand, capacious dining room with a fountain in the centre, high ceilings and a large skylight.

  107 Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Radisson Edwardian Bloomsbury Street Hotel, Bloomsbury Street Bar and Restaurant

  We are pleased to introduce this restaurant as a new addition to The UK Restaurant Guide for 2010. A full review will be published shortly.

  9 - 13 Bloomsbury Street, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• Radisson Edwardian Kenilworth Hotel, Creation Restaurant

  In a prime site a stone's throw from the British Museum and within easy reach of the West End shops, this luxurious modern hotel is a sleek retreat suffused with rich colours, fine artwork and designer furniture.

  97 Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

• The Ambassadors Bloomsbury, Number Twelve

  Situated in the recently re-launched and fashionably refurbished Ambassadors Bloomsbury, Number Twelve is the kind of place that gives business hotel restaurants a good name.

  12 Upper Woburn Place, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• The Balfour

  Part of the Brunswick Centre development nestling between Coram's Fields and Russell Square, Balfour is that refreshing rarity in the West End - a genuine, independently run Italian restaurant dealing in honest seasonal food at far-from-rip off prices.

  75-77 Marchmont Street, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• The Bloomsbury Hotel, Landseer British Kitchen

  This majestic neo-Georgian building was designed by celebrated British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens during the 1930s and it has been sympathetically transformed into a deluxe hotel within easy reach of Covent Garden and the West End.

  16-22 Great Russell Street, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: British

• The Great Court Restaurant

  To celebrate the millennium, the hidden courtyard at the heart of the historic British Museum was transformed into the Great Court, a two-acre public square enclosed by a spectacular glass roof.

  The British Museum, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: International

• The Montague on the Gardens, Chef's Table

  A luxurious Bloomsbury townhouse overlooking the private gardens of the Bedford Estate, the Montague now trades as a swanky boutique hotel within easy reach of the British Museum and Covent Garden.

  15 Montague Street, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• The Norfolk Arms

  A serious gastro-transformation has taken place at the once-dilapidated Norfolk Arms, although its new owners have wisely preserved the building's original Victorian tiled frontage, plasterwork ceilings and Corinthian pillars.

  28 Leigh Street, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Gastro pub

• Trattoria Verdi

  Trattoria Verdi has been serving up traditional Italian food to an appreciative crowd since 1964 and it remains a great favourite with local business people and the throngs of tourists who regularly descend on Bloomsbury's hotel quarter.

  110 Southampton Row, Bloomsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

Restaurants in City

• 1 Lombard Street Brasserie

  A casual alternative to the fine dining experience in the main restaurant, the massive and cacophonous Brasserie stands in front of the former banking hall, where the magnificent domed skylights by Pietro Agostini allow natural light to flood in.

  1 Lombard Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Modern Eclectic

• 1 Lombard Street Restaurant

  Opposite the Bank of England, 1 Lombard Street occupies a listed banking hall with spectacular Georgian trappings and a theme that has been inspired by and modelled on Titian's 'Rape of Europa'.

  1 Lombard Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Modern Eclectic

• 1901 Restaurant

  The takeover of the Great Eastern Hotel by ANdAZ is finally complete with the re-opening of the opulent restaurant once known as Aurora.

  ANdAZ London, City, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

• Anokha Restaurant

  We are pleased to introduce this restaurant as a new addition to The UK Restaurant Guide for 2010. A full review will be published shortly.

  9 - 13 Fenchurch Buildings, City, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Apex City of London Hotel, Addendum Restaurant

  The Apex City of London Hotel is a bright and prestigious new landmark close to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, within striking distance of the City's financial heartland.

  1 Seething Lane, City, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• Barcelona Tapas Bar y Restaurante

  One of a quartet of highly popular tapas bars, this branch of Barcelona is an animated, family-friendly destination on two levels, with evocative Gaudi flourishes (including a crazy mosaic lizard over the Cava bar) adding a sunny edge to proceedings.

  13 Well Court, City, Central London - Cuisine: Spanish/Tapas

• Barcelona Tapas Bar y Restaurante

  Founded by Martin and David Dalmau in 1991, Barcelona began as a bargain basement on Bell Lane before moving to its current location.

  Beaufort House, City, Central London - Cuisine: Spanish/Tapas

• Barcelona Tapas Bar y Restaurante

  This branch of the Barcelona mini-chain is a well-liked, family-friendly destination done out in evocative Spanish style, with Gaudi flourishes (including a crazy mosaic lizard over the bar) adding a sunny edge to proceedings.

  24 Lime Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Spanish/Tapas

• Boisdale of Bishopsgate

  We are pleased to introduce Boisdale of Bishopsgate as a new addition to The UK Restaurant Guide for 2010. A full review will be published shortly.

  Swedeland Court, City, Central London - Cuisine: Scottish

• Bolton's

  A City Italian of the old school, in the business of providing lunches during the working week. The surroundings may seem conservative and the menu is hardly cutting-edge stuff, but it's sedately comfortable, service does its job and the place has its share of loyal devotees.

  Bolton House, City, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• Bonds

  A Victorian banking hall in the financial heart of the City is the setting for Threadneedles – a 70-room boutique hotel with a fine restaurant sporting an apt monetary moniker.

  Threadneedles, City, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• Café Below

  Café Below occupies the Norman crypt below Christopher Wren's famous St Mary-le-Bow edifice - famous for its Bow Bells. It's an ancient and highly atmospheric setting for honest vegetarian food without ethical compromises - and there's the bonus of eating outside, with tables arrayed on Bow Churchyard in good weather (one of the best kept al fresco secrets in the City).

  St Mary le Bow Church, City, Central London - Cuisine: Vegetarian

• Caravaggio

  Opened in style by the late, great Luciano Pavarotti, Caravaggio occupies an extravagantly redesigned former bank close to Lloyd's. The ornate high ceiling and Art Deco light fittings remain, but the main focus is now on the long, marble-topped bar and mezzanine gallery of tables running around the room.

  107-112 Leadenhall Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• Carnevale Restaurant

  We are pleased to introduce Carnevale Restaurant as a new addition to The UK Restaurant Guide for 2010. A full review will be published shortly.

  135 Whitecross Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Vegetarian

• Catch & Champagne Bar

  Following the takeover of the old Great Eastern Hotel by the Hyatt Group and its re-launch as ANdAZ London, what was the Fishmarket restaurant is now called Catch - although its business it much as before.

  ANdAZ London, City, Central London - Cuisine: Seafood

• Chamberlain's Restaurant

  Chamberlain's Restaurant provides one of the finest fish dining experiences in London. The atmosphere is relaxed with bright contemporary surroundings and there are several environments to choose from, the Basement, Ground and First Floor and an alfresco terrace area.

  23-25 Leadenhall Market, City, Central London - Cuisine: Fish

• Cinnamon Kitchen

  Following the success of Westminster fine-dining big-hitter The Cinnamon Club, its owners have launched a hip new venue to bring some of its magic to the City.

  9 Devonshire Square, City, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Coq d'Argent

  Famed for its matchless, top-of-the-world roof garden, which has glorious panoramic views over the Square Mile and the City skyline, this outpost of the Conran restaurant empire (now D&D London) is a great favourite with the suited brigade.

  1 Poultry, City, Central London - Cuisine: French

• Devonshire Terrace

  A new venture from the team behind the renowned Admiral Codrington gastropub in Chelsea, this gargantuan 250-seater occupies a vast six-storey atrium near Liverpool Street station and spreads itself over four private dining rooms (each with its own balcony), as well as a bar and restaurant.

  Building 9, City, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• Eastway

  Serving the needs of the breakfast brigade, business lunchers and after-work drinkers, Eastway (formerly Terminus Bar & Grill) hums from morning to night with its procession of breakfasts, brunch, afternoon teas and full meals.

  ANdAZ London, City, Central London - Cuisine: International

• Eyre Brothers

  David and Richard Eyre's eponymous restaurant grew out of their experience as founding fathers of the Eagle gastropub in Farringdon - although the Leonard Street premises is a much more grown-up, full-dress affair.

  70 Leonard Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Spanish

• Gatti's

  Reassuringly old-fashioned, Gatti's nevertheless puts on an urbane, sophisticated face for City lunchers and these wanting something more intimate in the evening.

  1 Finsbury Avenue, City, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• George

  Part of the former Great Eastern Hotel complex (recently taken over by Hyatt Hotels as part of the ANdAZ brand), this traditional City boozer is a classic example of the repro 'Tudorbethan' style, with its oak-panelled walls and panelled ceilings; it's also one of the most glorious examples of architect Colonel R.

  ANdAZ London, City, Central London - Cuisine: Gastro pub

• Gow's

  One of the City's grand old stagers, Gow's has been dispensing oysters and all manner of vintage seafood since 1884.

  81 Old Broad Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Seafood

• Green Door Bar & Grill

  Occupying the site of the one-time Lay & Wheeler Wine Bar, the Green Door has rapidly set itself up as one of the prime destinations for bullish American food and grills in the neighbourhood around Bank.

  33 Cornhill, City, Central London - Cuisine: American

• Haz

  An up-and-coming destination for the City crowd, this new branch of Haz is gaining a name for its authentic Turkish food and boisterous animated atmosphere.

  6 Mincing Lane, City, Central London - Cuisine: Turkish

• High Timber

  Relaxed wine dining next to the Thames, High Timber has a red meat orientated menu, 2 wine cellars with 40 000 bottles, and a cheese room with seasonal cheeses.

  8 High Timber Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Steak House

• Hokkien Chan

  Formerly Sri Siam City, this contemporary oriental eating house now has a new name, a new look and new menus.

  85 London Wall, City, Central London - Cuisine: Pan Asian

• Imperial City

  A stunning location in the 400-year-old vaults of the Royal Exchange building is just one reason why Imperial City is a premier destination for functions, weddings and corporate events: it can seat up to 200 people in grand, highly atmospheric surroundings.

  Royal Exchange Building, City, Central London - Cuisine: Chinese

• Kazan

  Younger sister to Kazan near Victoria station, this newcomer has pitched camp in a block close to Liverpool Street. Like the original it offers 'Ottoman indulgence' in a lavish setting of low seats and ethnic artwork - all crowned with a Turkish crystal and gold-leaf chandelier.

  34-36 Houndsditch, City, Central London - Cuisine: Turkish

• Kenza Restaurant & Lounge

  'Full of Eastern promise' just about sums this newcomer and younger sister of Levant and Pasha. It occupies a basement site not far from Liverpool Street and has been exuberantly decorated in North African style: 'kenza' is Arabic for 'treasure', hence the unique beaded lamps, hand-painted tiles, carvings and embroidered fabrics that fill the place.

  10 Devonshire Square, City, Central London - Cuisine: Middle Eastern

• L'Anima

  Francesco Mazzei has moved on from duties as the driving culinary force behind trendy St Alban to open his own swanky restaurant in the borderlands between Shoreditch and the City.

  1 Snowden Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• Le Relais de Venise L'Entrecôte

  in 1959, Paul Gineste de Saurs purchased an Italian restaurant called Le Relais de Venise in Paris with the aim of promoting his family's wines.

  5 Throgmorton Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: French

• Malmaison

  Once a residence for nurses from St Bartholomew's Hospital, the London branch of the Malmaison hotel chain is an architecturally stunning building hidden away in a quiet cobbled courtyard off Charterhouse Square.

  18 - 21 Charterhouse Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• Manicomio

  Following the success of their Chelsea venue, Manicomio's owners recently planted their feet in the City, and opened this outlet in a three-storey, Norman Foster-designed edifice in a side street near St Paul's cathedral.

  6 Gutter Lane, City, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• Mint Leaf Lounge

  Occupying a converted banking hall in the heart of the City, this is the livewire offshoot of the highly rated Mint Leaf in Haymarket.

  Angel Court, City, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Miyako

  Ultra-slick, with its floor-to-ceiling wood panels and chic table settings, Miyako represents Japan in the swish ANdAZ complex (formerly the Great Eastern Hotel, now re-branded by Hyatt Hotels).

  ANdAZ London, City, Central London - Cuisine: Japanese

• Moshi Moshi

  When Moshi Moshi opened high above Liverpool Street station in 1994, it was the first restaurant in the UK to serve authentic sushi from a conveyor belt or 'kaiten'.

  Unit 24, City, Central London - Cuisine: Japanese

• Nababbo

  A beautiful Italian basement restaurant set in the business hotspot of the City, Nababbo is a fantastic venue especially for those who like to impress.

  45-52 Leadenhall Market, City, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• Northbank

  A splendid location at the foot of the Millennium Bridge - looking across the Thames to Tate Modern and The Globe - is one of the assets of this newcomer (on the site of the defunct Just The Bridge).

  Millennium Bridge, City, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

• Pacific Oriental

  The move from Bishopsgate to Threadneedle Street has done nothing to diminish the potent appeal of this vast Pan-Asian venue, which now ranks as one of the top restaurants of its kind within the confines of the City.

  52 Threadneedle Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Pan Asian

• Pinchito Tapas

  Set up as an offshoot of Pintxo People in Brighton (now closed), this pint-sized hangout close to Old Street is essentially the ground-floor bar of old PP teleported to London EC1 - and it does the business.

  32 Featherstone Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Spanish

• Prism Restaurant & Bar

  The City restaurant outpost of Harvey Nic's occupies the former London home of the Bank of New York, a cavernous hall complete with massive Corinthian columns.

  147 Leadenhall Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: British

• Rajasthan

  A culinary taste of Mogul India is served by the chefs of Rajasthan where diners can enjoy a fantastic meal in an untraditional but beautiful restaurant.

  49 Monument Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Restaurant Sauterelle

  Part of the gastro-complex centred on The Royal Exchange, Restaurant Sauterelle occupies the mezzanine floor overlooking the bustling courtyard and The Grand Café & Bar.

  The Royal Exchange, City, Central London - Cuisine: French

• Rhodes Twenty Four

  Pass the security check-in and take the lift to the twenty-fourth floor of the old NatWest building (now Tower 42) if you want to sample Gary Rhodes' Michelin-starred cooking.

  Tower 42, City, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

• Royal Exchange Grand Café & Bar

  One of the City's great landmarks, originally built in 1565, the amazingly beautiful Royal Exchange (now a shopping mall) must rank as one of the most elegant spaces of its kind in the capital.

  The Courtyard, City, Central London - Cuisine: Seafood

• Singapura

  Situated in Broadgate Circle, within striking distance of Liverpool Street station, this branch of the Singapura group of restaurants is a stylish and sleek as its relatives.

  31 The Circle, City, Central London - Cuisine: South East Asian

• Soseki Restaurant

  Discreetly located in the shadow of The Gherkin tower, Soseki is a new venture from Caroline Bennett, founder of the groundbreaking Moshi Moshi sushi chain.

  1F Plaza, City, Central London - Cuisine: Japanese

• Sway

  Eating, drinking and dancing hold the stage at this bar/club/restaurant in the upwardly mobile reaches of Holborn. The Grill Menu has an international flavour, kicking off with Thai fishcakes, duck spring rolls and deep-fried goats' cheese with red onion jam before progressing to char-grilled tuna niçoise, blackened Cajun chicken Caesar salad and roast rump of lamb with sweet garlic mash and crispy leeks.

  61 - 65 Great Queen Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

• Sweetings

  If you're searching for the best fish and seafood in the heart of the city, you'll be hard pushed to find a better place to go than Sweetings.

  39 Queen Victoria Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Seafood

• Taberna Etrusca

  An attractive courtyard makes this long-running City Italian a favourite when the sun shines and tables here are at a premium.

  9 - 11 Bow Churchyard, City, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• Tao

  European cooking with some splashes of Asian colour is the theme in this sleek, stylish bar on Bow Lane. The ground floor bar is dominated by a bold red column and vibrant blue colour schemes; there's also a spacious courtyard for summer evenings.

  11 Bow Lane, City, Central London - Cuisine: International

• Terrace Restaurant & Bar

  The latest venture from dynamic TV chef Patrick Williams is a contemporary pine-clad pavilion in London's oldest square, surrounded by tranquil gardens and landscaped lawns: the 'inside-outside' terrace itself comes into its own for al fresco meals and barbecues in fine weather.

  Lincoln’s Inn Fields, City, Central London - Cuisine: Eclectic

• Terranostra

  Just a shout from the Old Bailey and a bell's toll from St Paul's Cathedral, Terranostra brings a taste of rustic Sardinia to the legal heart of the City.

  27 Old Bailey, City, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• The Assembly

  This fresh and modern gastro pub is a gleaming example of how ex-post offices can still serve the local community!

  14-15 Seething Lane, City, Central London - Cuisine: Gastro pub

• The Don

  The Don hides in a courtyard off St Swithin's Lane and once did duty as the HQ for Sandemans - hence the name, the caped silhouette on the hanging sign and the incomparable drinks list.

  The Courtyard, City, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• The Fox

  A classic City gastropub offering drinks and food in equal measure. Those with a thirst tend to congregate in the ground-floor bar, while others head upstairs to the 'Dining Room', where the short daily menu is given over to straightforward dishes with some Mediterranean overtones.

  28 Paul Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: Gastro pub

• The Gaucho Grill City

  If you are in the mood for a really first class steak then head towards a Gaucho Grill; Gaucho, being a South American cowboy.

  1 Bell In Yard, City, Central London - Cuisine: South American

• The Hat and Tun

  This entrenched City boozer in the heart of Hatton Garden's jewellery quarter is the seventh member of Tom & Ed Martin's ever-growing pub stable.

  3 Hatton Wall, City, Central London - Cuisine: Gastro pub

• The Mercer

  What was the wild and wacky Ballroom Bar has been transformed into a swish-looking destination for local City and media types, who pack the place for power lunches, post-work cocktails and evening get-togethers.

  34 Threadneedle Street, City, Central London - Cuisine: British

• Vanilla Black

  Having outgrown his pint-sized premises in York, Andrew Dargue decided to bring his innovative take on veggie food to the capital and set up shop in a bigger, flashier space in lawyerland close to the Royal Courts of Justice.

  17-18 Tooks Court, City, Central London - Cuisine: Vegetarian

• Vertigo 42

  The prospect of sipping Champagne and grazing on seafood at 590 feet above pavement level is the reason why crowds ascend to the upper reaches of Tower 42 (the tallest building in the City of London).

  Tower 42, City, Central London - Cuisine: Seafood

• Zuccato City

  Step into the world of 1950s Milan when you walk through the door of this Italian restaurant, Zuccato City, part of the Etrusca Group's 'café urbano' approach to eating out.

  41 Bow Lane, City, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

Restaurants in Clerkenwell

• Cicada

  The original Will Ricker hangout is something of a veteran of the Pan Asian/fusion scene, and has been thrilling visitors for more than a decade.

  132-136 St John Street, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Pan Asian

• Clerkenwell Dining Room

  Andrew Thompson's CDR is in sharp contrast to many of its nearby rivals in this trendy part of Clerkenwell - despite its location on the ground floor of an office building.

  69-73 St. John Street, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• Coach and Horses

  Set behind the Guardian building and surrounded by defunct warehouses, this re-styled Victorian watering hole (circa 1855) now plies its trade as a fully-fledged London gastro-pub – the witty sign depicting mice and a pumpkin suggests that something unusual is going on here.

  26-28 Ray Street, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Gastro pub

• Cottons

  Like its flagship elder brother in Primrose Hill, this branch of Cottons pleases the punters with its animated tropical vibes and punchy Caribbean food.

  70 Exmouth Market, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Caribbean

• Fish Shop on St John Street

  The Fish Shop is one excellent chippy; offering a menu completely made up of fish and seafood it's enough to warm the cockles of every Englishman's heart.

  360 - 362 St John Street, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Seafood

• Gulshan Tandoori

  Run by the same family for more than two decades, this is just the kind of old-school Indian that makes you yearn for Madras and masala.

  15-17 Exmouth Market, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Medcalf

  Alan Medcalf opened his butchers shop in 1912 and became renowned for his top-quality Angus beef, pike, wild salmon and game.

  40 Exmouth Market, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

• Pho

  Juliette Nelson and Stephen Wall got hooked on 'pho' during a trip to Vietnam, so they decided to drop out of their careers in marketing and set up a neighbourhood café-cum-takeaway in London devoted to this archetypal national dish.

  86 St John Street, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Vietnamese

• Portal Restaurant

  Taking its name from the renowned Quinta do Portal in northern Portugal, this Clerkenwell newcomer is the brainchild of veteran restaurateur Antonio Correia.

  88 St John Street, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Portuguese

• Potemkin Russian Bar & Restaurant

  The name alone evokes all things Russian, and this beautiful dining room has been described by Time Out as 'simple, but as pretty as a Fabergé egg.

  144 Clerkenwell Road, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Russian

• St John

  Situated in a former Georgian townhouse and smokehouse around the corner from London's main meat trading market, Smithfield, St John is a robust and inventive restaurant that is perhaps not for the faint hearted.

  26 St John Street, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: British

• Strada

  Like other branches of the ever-expanding Strada chain, this venue is famed for its feel-good atmosphere and chic, cosmopolitan style.

  8-10 Exmouth Market, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• The Ambassador

  Clive Greenhalgh - one-time front-of-house supremo at The Brackenbury - has gone back to his roots by opening this 'local no-frills restaurant' on the site of the defunct Exmouth Grill.

  55 Exmouth Market, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• The Easton

  Aussie boys Jeremy 'Zim' Sutton and Andrew Veevers have done great things at this reborn Clerkenwell boozer. You'd never guess that the old place had a seriously dodgy reputation as a strip joint and gangsters' hangout: these days it is all clean and tidy, with pretty retro wallpaper, chunky tables, lots of light and space and a general mood of easy-going bonhomie.

  22 Easton Street, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Gastro pub

• The Hat and Feathers Dining Rooms

  Standing proud in the old hat-making neighbourhood of Clerkenwell, this fine (and aptly named) Victorian pub is reaping the benefits of a thorough and painstaking makeover.

  2 Clerkenwell Road, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Gastro pub

• The Larder

  Originally built for grocers Lovell & Christmas in 1897, this historic building is still in the business of supplying comestibles.

  91-93 St John Street, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• The Modern Pantry

  Anne Hansen hit the headlines as the joint founder of The Providores (with fellow Kiwi Peter Gordon), and now she has opened her own gaffe - with backing from D&D London (formerly Conran restaurants).

  47 - 48 St John’s Square, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Eclectic

• The Peasant

  One of the first gastropubs in London to make a name for itself, this red-brick Victorian hostelry stands on a corner site.

  240 St John Street, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Mediterranean

• The Real Greek

  Born out of The Real Greek in Hoxton Market, this livewire all-day café deals in genuine street food. Punters pack the place - some perched on high stools, others occupying tables and yet more nipping in and out for takeaways.

  140-142 St John Street, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Greek

• The Trading House

  Tucked in between a rag market, diamond traders and merchant bank buildings just off Hatton Garden, the Trading House Kitchen & Bar has its sights set on a diverse city clientele.

  12-13 Greville Street, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• The Well

  Named after the Clerkenwell district in which it is situated, The Well is a highly popular neighbourhood gastro pub with high ceilings, big windows and tables out on the pavement.

  180 St John Street, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Gastro pub

• The Zetter Restaurant and Rooms

  Originally billed as an 'urban inn', The Zetter is trendiness personified. It occupies the shell of a Victorian warehouse that was once the HQ of Zetter Football Pools, but it now flaunts itself as a boutique hotel with a groovy Italian restaurant on the ground floor.

  86-88 Clerkenwell Road, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Mediterranean

• Vinoteca

  'Vinoteca marks a return of the wine bar to fashionable London,' observed Decanter magazine about this terrific, 'gleefully informal' venue in the heart of foodie Smithfield.

  7 St John Street, Clerkenwell, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

Restaurants in Covent Garden

• Abeno Too

  The younger sibling of Abeno is a discreet little place just off Charing Cross Road near Leicester Square tube station.

  17-18 Great Newport Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Japanese

• Asia de Cuba

  Asia de Cuba is where Asian and Caribbean cuisine come together in an ultra modern restaurant at St Martin's Lane Hotel.

  St Martin's Lane Hotel, Covent garden, Central London - Cuisine: Asian

• Bedford & Strand

  Hidden away in a basement on the corner of Bedford Street and the Strand (hence the name), this popular rendezvous combines a retro 'wine room' and bar with a bistro and deli counter.

  1a Bedford Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Anglo French

• Belgo Centraal

  Belgo still lays claim to being top dog in the capital when it comes to mussels, frites and Belgian beers - although it offers much more than buckets of bivalves The Covent Garden branch (Centraal) is an atmospheric basement, fronted by waiters dressed up like Trappist monks; take your pick from the Bier Hall with its refectory tables or the main restaurant, which sports more intimate booths.

  50 Earlham Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Belgian

• Beotys

  Beotys in St Martin's Lane was established in 1945 by the current owner's father and is a piece of living history and should definitely be on everyone's list of places to go and eat.

  79 St Martin's Lane, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: International

• Bertorelli

  Perfectly placed for a pre-Puccini supper or a Wagnerian wind-down, this lively Covent Garden Italian runs on and on. Choose between the informal caffè bar in the basement (pizzas are a speciality) or the bustling contemporary dining room on the ground floor.

  44a Floral Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• Boulevard Brasserie

  A bastion of the Covent Garden scene since 1991 and owner Ian Shaw's private and public passion, this independent brasserie just keeps on rolling.

  40 Wellington Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: French

• Café des Amis

  For more than 25 years, Café des Amis has been a fixture of the Covent Garden theatreland scene and is perfectly placed down an alleyway behind the Royal Opera House.

  11-14 Hanover Place, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: French

• Carluccio's

  Antonio Carluccio's new flagship venue occupies an imposing 1860s building that was once an auctioneer's but now houses a café, deli and private dining facilities spread over two floors.

  Garrick Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• Christopher's

  There's been a lot of activity in recent months at this majestic Grade II-listed building between Covent Garden and The Strand.

  18 Wellington Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: American

• Clos Maggiore

  'The most romantic restaurant I've ever been to,' enthused one UK Restaurant Guide user after visiting this alluring place less than a minute's walk from the buzz of Covent Garden's Piazza.

  33 King Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Mediterranean

• Detroit

  An enduring slice of buzzy old Covent Garden, this cavernous bar has been delivering the goods for the best part of a decade and shows no signs of waning.

  35 Earlham Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• Food for Thought

  When it opened almost three decades ago, this cramped bohemian café was in the vanguard of London's vegetarian crusade and has been doing great business ever since.

  31 Neal Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Vegetarian

• Giovanni's

  Those in the know reckon that Giovanni's is something of a rarity in theatreland - a genuine, family-run Italian restaurant of the old school that perfectly suited to a business lunch, a romantic dinner or a quick meal before of after the show.

  10 Goodwin's Court, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• Great Queen Street

  The assembled team sheet for this bright Covent Garden newcomer reads like a London gastropub first XI: there's Tom Norrington-Davies from the Eagle, Trish Hilferty (ex-the Fox), Robert Shaw and Jonathon Jones (Anchor & Hope) plus Mike Belben on the bench.

  32 Great Queen Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

• Incognico

  The name is a punning reference to the legendary Nico Ladenis, who was originally involved in the restaurant. He is long gone, but Incognico lives on and its location - deep in theatreland close to Cambridge Circus - guarantees full houses before and after the show.

  117 Shaftesbury Avenue, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• J Sheekey

  Joseph Sheekey set up his self-named restaurant in 1896, in a back alley just off Charing Cross Road. Since then, the place has become synonymous with seafood, and is now riding on a fashionable high as part of the group that also owns the ultra-fashionable Ivy and Le Caprice.

  28 - 32 St Martins Court, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Seafood

• Kingsway Hall Hotel, Harlequin Restaurant

  The Harlequin at the elegant Kingsway Hall Hotel in Covent Garden is a stylish venue that, unlike typical hotel restaurants, is refreshingly relaxed.

  66 Great Queen Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon

  Crowned 'chef of the century' in his home country, Joël Robuchon is the latest big name to join the French invasion of London.

  13-15 West Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Modern French

• Le Cafe du Jardin

  Located in trendy Covent Garden, Le Cafe du Jardin is a brasserie style restaurant, split into two levels and caters for all types of events; business lunch, pre/post theatre diner or just a relaxing time with friends.

  28 Wellington Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Contemporary European

• Le Deuxième

  Fully air-conditioned, Le Deuxieme is the sister restaurant to Le Cafe du Jardin and is also located in the trendy Covent Garden hotspot.

  65a Long Acre, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• Mela

  Right in the heart of theatreland (with handy menus for show-goers), Mela is a long-serving stalwart of the Covent Garden Indian scene.

  152-156 Shaftesbury Avenue, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Mon Plaisir

  Francophiles should not be disappointed with the very, very French Mon Plaisir. With its large tricolour flapping proudly outside, this institution on Monmouth Street near Covent Garden could easily fool you for being the French Embassy.

  21 Monmouth Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: French

• Moti Mahal

  The first London venture for the famous, Delhi-based Moti Mahal group occupies a prime site in Covent Garden's theatreland and puts on quite a show of its own, with chefs doing their stuff in the glassed-in kitchen.

  45 Great Queen Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Navajo Joe

  This adventurous experience attracts a wide interesting clientele, which reflects the essence Navajo Joe in Covent Garden. Joe's Bar in the basement offers a lively blend of music, food and drink, complete with dance area and DJs on Weds-Sat nights.

  34 King Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Fusion

• Orso

  Orso is open from noon until midnight and is buzzing all the time being particularly popular with the pre and after theatre crowds.

  27 Wellington Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• Palm Court Brasserie

  Right in the hub of the Covent Garden scene, this bright brasserie is a useful pit stop among the shops and sightseeing attractions.

  39 King Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: European

• Radisson Edwardian Mountbatten Hotel

  Standing right at the apex of Seven Dials in Convent Garden, this deluxe hotel puts on a calming and understated garb with silk chenille, chocolate leather sofas and framed Japanese artefacts setting the mood in the public areas.

  Monmouth Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: International

• Rules

  Established in 1798 and – reputedly – London's oldest surviving restaurant, Rules flies the flag for British food in a remarkably evocative dining room that is both lively yet comfortably familiar.

  35 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: British

• Shanghai Blues

  An austere carved stone arch marks the entrance to this Chinese youngblood in the old St Giles Library. The interior has been given a £2.

  193-197 High Holborn, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Chinese

• Sitaaray

  Bollywood meets biryani at this lavish two-storey venue in the heart of Covent Garden's theatreland, which celebrates the virtues and chutzpah two of India's star turns - cinema and cuisine.

  167 Drury Lane, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Smollensky's

  Legendary and tireless when it comes to crowd pleasing, Smollensky's on the Strand is an energetic, fun-loving destination renowned for its family-friendly attitude.

  105 The Strand, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: International

• Sofra - Covent Garden

  Fresh and colourful Turkish home cooking with an eclectic mix of Mediterranean, Middle-Eastern and even Oriental styles, using a wealth of aromatic vegetables and a distinctive selection of herbs and spices.

  36 Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Turkish

• Tale of India

  A typical 'no risks' curry house tucked away up an alley off theatreland's main drag, this is a handy spot for meals before or after the show.

  19 New Row, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Tamarai

  Combining an art gallery, lazy lounge, post-11pm bar and contemporary restaurant, Tamarai is a high-groove Pan Asian hot spot from the team behind Chor Bizarre.

  167 Drury Lane, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Pan Asian

• Tandoori Nights

  Part of a long-established group of Indian restaurants with branches across London and in the Home Counties, this venue is right in the hub of the action around Covent Garden.

  35 Great Queen Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Thai Pin

  A tiny theatreland bolthole for fans of easy-going Thai food, this pint-sized restaurant continues to please the showtime crowds and others with its good-value cooking.

  7 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Thai

• The Forge

  Formerly the home of L'Estimanet, this converted Victorian church opposite the Garrick Club is the latest addition to a mini-group that also includes Covent Garden fixtures Le Café du Jardin and Le Deuxième.

  14 Garrick Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• The Giaconda Dining Room

  The old Gioconda Café was an archetype of 'Tin Pan Alley' hip during the 60s and 70s, a venue frequented by the likes of David Bowie, Joe Strummer and Bob Marley - to name but three musical icons who hung out there with cups of coffee and high hopes.

  9 Denmark Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• The International

  In a prime spot at the bottom of St Martin's Lane, overlooking Trafalgar Square, the International combines a stylish bar and lounge complete with luxurious leather sofas and low seductive lighting and a full-on dining experience.

  116 St Martins Lane, Covent garden, Central London - Cuisine: Pan Asian

• The Ivy

  'A table at The Ivy is one of the most sought after pieces of furniture in London,' wrote critic AA Gill.

  1-5 West Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

• The Langley

  A fantastic, funky, raw, and groovy basement restaurant in Convent Garden is offered to diners at The Langley. This Unique retro dining experience is blended with a delicious selection of meals, ranging from traditional classics like Beef Wellington to modern combinations of Red Snapper with Thai Curry Sauce and Pilau Rice.

  5 Langley Street, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: British

• The Real Greek

  The most recent branch of the Real Geek mini-chain, this buzzy venue is tucked just around the corner from the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden - making it an ideal spot for a bite to eat before or after the show.

  60-62 Long Acre Lane, Covent Garden, Central London - Cuisine: Greek

Restaurants in Farringdon

• 54 Restaurant

  A curious, but stylish Farringdon new boy, situated almost opposite the Guardian building, 54 offers a hybrid mix of Malaysian and European dishes without trying to fuse the two together.

  54 Farringdon Road, Farringdon, Central London - Cuisine: Malaysian

• Hix Oyster & Chop House

  What better site for a flag-waving British restaurant than a converted sausage factory round the corner from Smithfield Market? That's exactly the spot veteran campaigner Mark Hix (formerly of Caprice Holdings) chose for his self-named and appetisingly titled Oyster & Chop House.

  36-37 Greenhill Rents, Farringdon, Central London - Cuisine: British

• Le Comptoir Gascon

  This Smithfield gem started life as the bakery and deli offshoot of the nearby Michelin-starred Club Gascon, but owners Pascal Aussignac and Vincent Labeyrie recently added some seats and turned it into a quintessentially Gallic, 'urban rustic' bistro.

  61-63 Charterhouse Street, Farringdon, Central London - Cuisine: French

• St Germain

  A cross between classic Parisian and New York chic, St Germain occupies a defunct nineteenth-century print house a stone's throw from Smithfield Market.

  89 Turnmill Street, Farringdon, Central London - Cuisine: French

• The Eagle

  Widely regarded as the mother of all gastropubs, the Eagle is still delivering the goods to an appreciative local crowd.

  159 Farringdon Road, Farringdon, Central London - Cuisine: Gastro pub

• The Quality Chop House

  Designed and built in the 1870s by Sir Roland Plumbe, the original Quality Chop House was one of a breed of 'eating houses' intended to provide the city's working men with affordable meals to see them through the day.

  92-94 Farringdon Road, Farringdon, Central London - Cuisine: British

Restaurants in Finsbury

• Moro

  Moro was abuzz with atmosphere and packed to the rafters when The UK Restaurant Guide visited one evening to see what all the fuss was about.

  34-36 Exmouth Market, Finsbury, Central London - Cuisine: Spanish

Restaurants in Holborn

• Asadal

  Occupying a smartly decked out basement right next to Holborn tube station, Asadal is a swish, low-key, elegant venue with plenty of atmosphere (especially in the evenings), little alcoves for privacy, earthy wooden wall panels and fascinating native artefacts.

  227 High Hoborn, Holborn, Central London - Cuisine: Korean

• Bleeding Heart

  Voted by "The Times" as the City's most romantic restaurant and one of the very finest French restaurants in the whole of London, The Bleeding Heart is really four venues in one: the Restaurant, Bistro, Tavern and Crypt.

  Bleeding Heart Yard, Holborn, Central London - Cuisine: French

• Hason Raja

  Named after a celebrated Bangladeshi mystical poet and playboy, Hason Raja is forward-looking restaurant done out in soothing modern style with suede Italian furniture, elegant glass wall partitions, exotic floral arrangements and - of course - the odd picture of the man himself.

  84 Southampton Row, Holborn, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

• Le Bistro Savoir Faire

  Frescos and murals decorate the dining room of this archetypal, family-run bistro, which has been serving the West End crowds since 1995.

  42 New Oxford Street, Holborn, Central London - Cuisine: European

• Matsuri High Holborn

  The younger brother of Matsuri St James's is more style-conscious and chic than its Mayfair sibling, with lots of glass, polished surfaces, slatted screens and white walls creating a mood of austere minimalism.

  Mid City Place, Holborn, Central London - Cuisine: Japanese

• Pearl at Renaissance Chancery Court

  An imposing Portland stone arch marks the entrance to Chancery Court, formerly the headquarters of Pearl Assurance, and now a cutting-edge hotel with a progressive restaurant called Pearl.

  252 High Holborn, Holborn, Central London - Cuisine: Modern French

• Radisson Edwardian Marlborough Hotel, Glass Restaurant & Bar

  Set amid fashionable Georgian squares and imposing university buildings close to the British Museum, the Marlborough offers top-flight West End facilities and easy access to London's tourist attractions.

  9-13 Bloomsbury Street, Holborn, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

• The Chancery

  Discreetly hidden away on a corner site just off Chancery Lane, this imposing building has been transformed into an exclusive contemporary restaurant with mahogany floors, arches and walls hung with works by artist Stiliana Alexieva.

  9 Cursitor Street, Holborn, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European

• The White Swan Pub & Dining Room

  Once known as The Mucky Duck, this City boozer just off Fleet Street has been given a serious makeover by London gastropub empire builders Tom and Ed Martin.

  108 Fetter Lane, Holborn, Central London - Cuisine: Gastro pub

• Vivat Bacchus

  Lovers of fine wine and fine food (especially cheese) should set a course for this oenophile's Mecca just off Holborn Viaduct.

  47 Farringdon Street, Holborn, Central London - Cuisine: Global

• Wagamama

  'Positive eating for positive living' is the message behind this group of Japanese noodle bars. Wagamama is now an international brand peddling the idea of lifestyle nutrition, with branches throughout London and the UK as well as franchises abroad.

  4a Streatham Street, Holborn, Central London - Cuisine: Japanese

Restaurants in Leicester Square

• Baozi Inn

  A cut-price, streetwise joint from the people who brought Bar Shu to Soho, the Baozi Inn has echoes of its elder sister's palate-numbing Szechuan food, but the emphasis is very different.

  25 Newport Court, Leicester Square, Central London - Cuisine: Chinese

• The Hampshire Hotel

  Overlooking the bright lights of Leicester Square in the heart of theatre land, this is a tranquil retreat close to the bustle of the West End.

  36 Leicester Square, Leicester Square, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

Restaurants in Ludgate Circus

• Refettorio

  Culinary supremo Giorgio Locatelli acts as star consultant to this fascinating up-market 'refectory', which is part of an Italian village set up within the foyer of the Crowne Plaza, not far from Blackfriars Bridge.

  Crowne Plaza London - The City, Ludgate Circus, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

Restaurants in Marylebone

• Radisson Edwardian Berkshire Hotel, Ascots Restaurant & Bar

  We are pleased to introduce Ascots Restaurant & Bar as a new addition to The UK Restaurant Guide for 2010.

  350 Oxford Street, Marylebone, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

Restaurants in Moorgate

• Bluu

  This branch of the Bluu mini-chain does a great job of feeding and watering the City suits and others during the working week, and is handily placed just a stone's throw from Bank and Moorgate tube stations.

  4 Moorgate, Moorgate, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

• Mehek

  Mehek offers some of the finest and most breathtaking Indian cuisine in London. Mehek means 'fragrance' and it soon becomes clear that this is the byword here: previously a traditional Indian restaurant hidden away in a discreet location, it has now transmogrified into a thoroughly modern Indian eatery offering cutting-edge cuisine and is the most popular Indian Restaurant in the City.

  45 London Wall, Moorgate, Central London - Cuisine: Indian

Restaurants in Smithfield

• 26 Smithfield

  26 Smithfield has proved to be a popular destination in an area already heavily populated with bars and gastro pubs.

  26 Smithfield Street, Smithfield, Central London - Cuisine: British

• Cellar Gascon

  Next door to its auspicious big brother Club Gascon, this fascinating and intriguingly designed bar is the showcase for the full range of Gascon wines in London.

  59 West Smithfield, Smithfield, Central London - Cuisine: French

• Club Gascon

  Club Gascon occupies a corner plot near Smithfield Market that was once a Lyon's tea house; extravagant floral displays lend a splash of colour and a touch of drama to the small square room's marble walls and dark wooden floors.

  57 West Smithfield, Smithfield, Central London - Cuisine: French

• Fox & Anchor

  'Hops & Chops, Cuvées and Duvets' is an apt slogan for this classily re-invented pub-with-rooms. The building itself - a listed 200-year-old porters' drop-in near Smithfield Market - has been impressively transformed, with mahogany doors, etched glass and a fine pewter bar serving as the centrepiece.

  115 Charterhouse Street, Smithfield, Central London - Cuisine: Gastro pub

• Saki Bar and Emporium

  'Saki' means 'happiness' in Japanese, and customers should certainly come away smiling after a visit to this fascinating complex opposite Smithfield market.

  4 West Smithfield, Smithfield, Central London - Cuisine: Japanese

• Smiths of Smithfield

  Guests could easily spend an entire day at Smiths of Smithfield: this four-floored venue located in a Grade II listed building at the epicentre of London's only functioning meat market is home to four dining options.

  Top Floor, Smithfield, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

Restaurants in St Albans

• Asia

  Once the old post office, now a self-styled 'Pan Asian Dining Room', Asia brings a touch of ethnic chic to St Albans.

  The Old Post Office, St Albans, Central London - Cuisine: Asian

Restaurants in Strand

• Adam Street Restaurant

  Built in 1769 by architect Robert Adam deep in vaults beneath The Strand, this is now a discreet hideaway and private members' club – although non-members are also welcome at lunchtime (although they are expected to pay a £10 cover charge).

  9 Adam Street, Strand, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

• Banquette

  The world-renowned Savoy Hotel is closing its doors on 16 December 2007 for its first major refit in 117 years.

  The Savoy, Strand, Central London - Cuisine: British

• Charing Cross Hotel, The Terrace on the Strand

  Built in 1865, this Grade I-listed hotel 'stands as a monument to the power and confidence of the Victorian era.

  Charing Cross, Strand, Central London - Cuisine: International

• Grand Divan - Simpson's in the Strand

  Dating back to 1828, Simpson's is a fabled haunt of tourists and anyone else who wants to wallow in all things nostalgically traditional.

  100 Strand, Strand, Central London - Cuisine: Traditional British

• Paradiso E Inferno

  A beautiful family owned restaurant located in the West End of London, Paridiso E Inferno is THE place to go for a traditional Italian eating experience.

  389 The Strand, Strand, Central London - Cuisine: Italian

• Salieri Restaurant

  Anyone who has seen Amadeus may recall that Salieri was the composer who got the blame for poisoning Mozart. No such dodgy goings-on in this flamboyant Covent Garden venue, which is theatrically bedecked with mirrors, photographs and puppets.

  376 Strand, Strand, Central London - Cuisine: French

• Swissôtel The Howard, 12 Temple Place

  Famed for its glorious Thameside location and views across the London skyline, this swanky international hotel has the bonus of an exciting contemporary restaurant.

  Temple Place, Strand, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

• Terroirs Wine Bar & Restaurant

  A mightily impressive 25-page drinks booklet is a star attraction at this recently opened wine bar-cum-restaurant, which puts on a patriotic Gallic show with its predictable pictures, advertising posters, functional wooden furniture and French chansons warbling the background.

  5 William IV Street, Strand, Central London - Cuisine: French

Restaurants in Trafalgar Square

• Albannach

  Opening a Scottish restaurant directly opposite that most English of tourist hot-spots sounds pretty daring, but that's the deal at this flash West End venue.

  66 Trafalgar Square, Trafalgar Square, Central London - Cuisine: Modern Scottish

• Thai Square

  The flagship of the Thai Square group is in a prime spot overlooking one of London's most famous landmarks. Once an imperious embassy building it is now filled with antique Thai Buddhas, specially made terracotta friezes and stone carvings from the homeland.

  21-24 Cockspur Street, Trafalgar Square, Central London - Cuisine: Thai

• The National Dining Rooms

  'Food for the people' ought to be Oliver Peyton's rally call. Having scored a hit with Inn the Park, he set his sights on The National Gallery and took over the site once occupied by Crivelli's Garden.

  Sainsbury Wing, Trafalgar Square, Central London - Cuisine: British

• The Portrait Restaurant

  Famed for its awesome views of Trafalgar Square and the London skyline (ask for a window table when booking), this restaurant is a family-friendly venue par excellence, catering for hordes of visitors, business types, tourists and art-lovers.

  National Portrait Gallery, Trafalgar Square, Central London - Cuisine: Modern British

Restaurants in Victoria Embankment

• Buddha Bar

  It has taken twelve years for the iconic Paris-based Buddha Bar to cross the Channel and sets out its stall in London.

  8 Victoria Embankment, Victoria Embankment, Central London - Cuisine: Pan Asian

• R.S. Hispaniola

  Arguably the best known of all floating restaurants, the R. S. Hispaniola has been moored alongside Victoria Embankment by Hungerford Bridge for years.

  , Victoria Embankment, Central London - Cuisine: Modern European