Chef Luke Robinson began his culinary career under the watchful eye of Jamie Oliver and quickly went on to tuck the names Nobu, The Fat Duck and Kempinski London safely under his belt.
After a two-year stint in central Italy, Luke returned to London where he now heads up the kitchen at diminutive Soho darling Evelyn’s Table (read our Best Bars & Restaurants Guide 2019). Dishing up Italian-influenced, locally-sourced seasonal morsels (incl. a daily catch of fish fresh from Cornwall), Evelyn’s hosts just 15 diners for dinner in the intimate basement kitchen of the Blue Posts in Chinatown. Away from manning the pans, Luke can often be found at one of his favourite dining haunts – here’s where to eat like a chef in London.
Perilla
I love the vibe of this place, it’s great for lunch with lots of natural light coming through the large windows. Fantastic cooking that changes seasonally and an interesting wine list to complement the delicious food.
1-3 Green Lanes, Newington Green, perilladining.co.uk
Sabor
I was a big fan of Nieves Barragán at Barrafina and this, her own place, continues the theme of great fresh Spanish produce cooked to order. There is always cracking fish on the ice bar and much more space to wait in for a table. It really feels like you’re in Spain once inside.
35-37 Heddon St, Mayfair, sevenrooms.com
Sushi Tetsu
It’s really tough to get a table at this real-deal Japanese-style sushi bar – I suggest following their Twitter account if you are keen. With just two staff, the chef and front of house deliver a fantastic and intimate experience. Interesting sake to pair with the various set menus.
12 Jerusalem Passage, Farringdon
Tayyabs
An awesome Punjabi food spot – they allow you to bring your own bottle of wine or beer, which is a rarity at decent London restaurants. The food is heavily dependent on the Tandoori oven which turns out incredible lamb cutlets and naan breads. It’s a bustling, no-frills experience that never disappoints.
83-89 Fieldgate St, Whitechapel, tayyabs.co.uk
A. Wong
I’ve been going here for a several years and it finally received a Michelin star in 2017. They serve great dim sum at lunch and a really well thought out, interesting tasting menu in the evenings. Highly recommended.
70 Wilton Rd, Pimlico, awong.co.uk
Head Image: Luke Robinson, Head Chef at Evelyn’s Table
Chow down in London Town with our expert-selected list of eateries…
