European Eating and Drinking

Bar Estrela (Portuguese)

Bar Estrela is an enigmatic venue at the heart of the community serves classic snacks and main meals from breakfast till late.

Bar Italia (Italian)

An iconic Soho institution, Bar Italia is 1950s cafe culture in the 21st century. Come here to experience London's most authentic Italian coffee bar.

Carluccio’s Caffe (Italian)

There are branches of Carluccio's all over London.

Antonio Carluccio's eponymous caffes and delis are loved  for the consistent and dependable quality of their classic Italian dishes as well as their buzzy, informal atmosphere. Go for delicious seasonal risottos (pumpkin on our last visit) and classic pasta dishes (try the parpadelle con funghi), or just pop in for a quick snack and coffee.

Costa Dorada (Spanish)

Costa Dorada is a great place for groups looking for a night out with a difference. The flamenco shows and large dancefloor ensure a wild night!

El Molino (Spanish)

El Molino is a neighbourhood restaurant that's big on authenticity. Both the dishes and the decor will transport you to Madrid in an instant.

El Parador (Spanish)

El Parador is a cosy restaurant serving some of the tastiest Spanish dishes in North London. A little garden out back is wonderful in the summer.

Grelha D’Ouro (Portuguese)

151 South Lambeth Road, SW8. Tel: +44 (0)20 7735 9764

A favourite with the locals, Grelha  D'Ouro is always busy, always welcoming and always great value for money.

Moro (Spanish)

Chefs Sam and Sam Clark devise a regularly-changing menu of exquisite North African-Spanish dishes that you'd be hard pushed to find in Spain itself. You need to book well in advance at Moro and expect a large-ish bill, but it's well worth it.

Patisserie Valerie (French)

As well as the scrumptious cakes and pastries in the window, Patisserie Valerie serves up wonderful home-cooking at decidedly non-Soho prices.

Salt Yard (Spanish)

One of London's best Spanish restaurants, Salt Yard takes the humble tapa to a new level. Start with a delicious charcuterie board, then choose from a wonderful selection of raciones-sized dishes. Alongside the sublime meat dishes, there are plenty of vegetarian options. No-one leaves Salt Yard hungry.

Les Trois Garçons (French)

Über-stylish former pub, with an emphasis on the theatrical, both in its food and its decor. Expect a very fashion-conscious Shoreditch crowd at Les Trois Garcons.