Despite being one of the gourmet capitals of the world, with internationally renowned destination restaurants, London has many eateries that are a well kept secret. There are many hidden gems just waiting to be discovered, perhaps ensconced in a basement, tucked away behind a hidden door or found in an unmarked or unexpected location. Here we round up a few that you may not have heard of.

Istanbul Meze Mangal, Colliers Wood

If you are foodie who is looking to enjoy an authentic Turkish meal, look no further. There is so much more to Turkish cuisine than eating a kebab from a polystyrene tray with a serving of chips. Take a look through the menu, Mantar Sote, Sigara Boregi, Imam Bayildi…are you familiar with the dishes? Probably not, and therein lies the beauty! This restaurant is all about tasting new things, so indulge your tastebuds. And if you’re not feeling particularly adventurous, order the chicken caesar salad, not exactly Turkish…but delicious all the same.

 

Zumbura, Clapham Old Town

Zumbura is fashionably styled and has adopted the London trend for small plates with heavy price tags. That aside, this is not an establishment where style comes over substance! The dishes are based on rural cooking traditions, giving diners an authentic insight into the flavours of the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. Sit back, relax and wash down with authentic craft beers.

 

Dans Le Noir, Clerkenwell  

City life can be assaulting on the senses, but Dans Le Noir enables you to escape the flashing neon synonymous with many of London’s hotspots. At Dans Le Noir, expect to dine in complete darkness. This is an experience restaurant, designed to enable you to understand the world in a similar way to those who are blind. Additionally, it also enables people to switch off the visual overload and reconnect with themselves or those they choose to dine with.

 

The Clove Club, Shoreditch

It seems that the Clove Club truly believes in the less is more mantra, because to describe their webpage as minimal…would actually be a generous statement. Like the restaurant itself, the webpage focuses on the tempting menu, boasting Cornish Mackerel and Amalfi Lemonade and Pepper Ice Cream. This cutting-edge restaurant certainly whets the appetite and will encourage diners to make a booking, you just need to keep clicking until you find the restaurant’s location and how to make a reservation. Are you ready for a challenge?

 

Malibu Kitchen, Poltury

It is likely that you will already be aware of the Ned, the latest establishment from Soho House. The space boasts a number of eateries, but Malibu kitchen is by far the most intriguing. Malibu kitchen presents a wry juxtaposition, it nods toward the clean eating habits of the Californian crew but it is also boldly aware of its city centre location, resulting in the perfect blend of clean eating and delicious dining. What’s not to like?

© Mai Tai Group

 

Whether you are veggie, vegan or perhaps just hankering after some meat free treats our capital has some amazing foodie experiences on offer.  

 

Vegetarians had traditionally had to put up with a pretty crappy deal when it comes to eating out. Stuffed mushroom anyone? Thankfully, the days of dull and soulless veggie cooking are far behind us. The world of vegetarian cuisine is now diverse, exciting and attracting some of the best and brightest chefs in the world. Going meat free has even spawned its own hashtag!

We’ve uncovered the 5 best meat free experiences and events in London to help you connect with your inner veg lover.

For a Killer Veggie Burger…

Visit Mildreds, the grand dame of London’s vegetarian scene. Now with 3 venues across the capital it offers a relaxed atmosphere and a proper understanding of veggie cooking. It has a range of burger options that are a million miles from the tradition bland bean burger. Try the halloumi with smoky harissa sauce washed down with a cocktail or fresh organic juice.

For Lunch on the Run…

Vantra, tucked away close to Oxford Circus offers one of the most varied vegetarian selections we have seen. This small and quirky space is devoted to all things veg. Organic, tasty and packed with flavour be prepared to queue for their popular buffet.  For a more leisurely lunch option why not eat in or try the extensive A La Carte menu.

For Michelin Starred Bites…

If you think that the veggie option equals bland then Pied a Terre will make you think again. Although not an exclusively vegetarian restaurant it takes its meat free options seriously. Its vegetarian tasting menu is so much more than an afterthought. Think beautifully prepared and presented food that will have the most hardened carnivore salivating. This is the perfect setting for a special celebration or romantic dinner.

For an Entire Festival of Veg…

Vegfest is a Europe wide festival of all things vegan and is arriving in London this October. A celebration of veggie cooking and lifestyle this is one of the biggest meat free events in London. With great music, produce and even kids activities on offer there is something here for everyone. Explore over 250 stalls at the Olympia London this Autumn and learn more about Veganism.

 

For a Unique Foodie Experience…

Supper Clubs are becoming something of a London institution. They are small scale events often in unusual location that centre on great food. Expect to meet new friends and taste new flavours in an intimate setting. There are a number of Supper Clubs specialising in vegan or vegetarian fare. Try the little supper club in Hackney or V-Curious (various locations) for a truly unique experience.

Use our guide to plan veggie friendly activities in London and enjoy all that meat free London has to offer!