Sausage & Mash

Ignore the fact that it’s hot and packed and some of the staff look like they’ve been shoe-horned into their outfits because this canteen-style restaurant is top-notch. If you have problems with decisions then take a mate because the choice of which sausage, gravy or mash could possibly bring on an embolism. Comfort food at its best.

This faux rustic outfit is good for an unpretentious helping of old-fashioned comfort food. Wash down everything from dorset crab bruschetta, to beef pie and huge steaks, with a glass of Guinness, Adnam's or some very unusual whisky cocktails. The cooking's not fancy and it does get noisy, but there's something uncomplicatedly pleasant about the experience.

At Portobello Roads's S&M Cafe, they understand the simple joys surrounding hearty portions of Britian's most beloved comfort food - sausage and mash. Relaxed and unpretentious with a classic diner feel, S&M Cafe is one of London's most celebrated cheap eats. Start by selecting one of nearly a dozen traditional and gourmet sausages, then match it with the mash, gravy and veg of your choice. Combinations are endless, though if a banger doesn't tickle your fancy, you can also choose from a menu of time honoured traditional British dishes just like, or quite possibly better, than your Grandma used to make. A blackboard lists daily specials for sausages, mains and puds. Breakfast is on order until noon, and takeaway is available too.