The best restaurants London

Timetable

It is well known, the English eat earlier and restaurants are often crowded as early as 6:30 p.m., just after the job is done. To guarantee you a table, come instead around 8:30 pm. And to really eat at English time: think about booking. Restaurants are generally open daily, often close earlier on Sundays and are very often full on Sunday noon for sunday roast.

Budget & Tips

London offers a wide range of dining budgets. Numerous chains are located throughout the city, offering reasonably-priced meals. Pubs are also a good option for inexpensive British cuisine. From Prêt à Manger to Michelin-starred restaurants, London has something for everyone. Credit cards are accepted in virtually all restaurants, and even for a single pint at the pub. If the portions are a little too generous for you, don't hesitate to ask for a " doggy bag ", a widespread practice in England. You can take your leftovers with you, or the end of your bottle of wine.

What costs extra

In London restaurants, the tip is now added to the bill when the bill is presented. This means you'll need to add an extra 10-15% to the price of your meal. The amount of this tax is usually indicated on the menu. This tip goes directly to the waiters. You can always refuse to pay it if the service is really bad, but you'll have to justify it. And the English never do.

The local way

In London, you always book your table, no matter what day of the week it is. So it's a good idea to get started, especially if you're a large group, to avoid disappointment when you arrive. On Saturday evenings in particular, restaurants are booked well in advance. Sunday lunch is spent at the restaurant, where you can enjoy a traditional sunday roast. If you only want to drink water, specify that you want tap water, so you don't have to pay for an expensive bottle of mineral water. Finally, in English restaurants, you'll rarely be asked for your preferred doneness for meat, and the result will often be "well cooked". Don't hesitate to ask yourself if you're more of a rare(medium rare) or blue(rare) type.

Many restaurants apply the "BYOB" (bring your own bottle) system, which means you can bring your own wine or beer from the supermarket across the street. A smart way to reduce the cost of your meal. Lists of BYOB restaurants are available online.

To be avoided

London restaurants all have a hygiene rating, from 1 to 5, displayed on the doors or windows. It's a little green sticker. Avoid all restaurants with a rating of less than 4, especially in markets.

Kids

Children are welcome in restaurants. However, in the evenings, pubs are forbidden to under-18s. Unless otherwise indicated.

Smokers

As in France: no smoking in public places.