TOP 9 Off-the-Beaten-Path Restaurants in London

The exceptional fine dining experiences, gastronomic spots beloved by locals, and everything in between: London’s restaurant scene is one of the most vibrant in the world. However, while the big names are locally known or even easily cross borders, finding the more raw experiences might be trickier.

Are you searching for off-the-beaten-path dining in the UK’s capital? Then follow recommendations from Tablein guide to discover worth-visiting restaurants in London that are slightly hidden from the wider public’s eye.

From the best Neapolitan pizza, authentic Turkish culinary experiences or Afternoon Tea rituals, to gourmet Asian pop-ups, unique neighbourhood bars, and members’ clubs – there’s so much to discover! Hidden gems are revealed, so all that’s left to do is choose your favourites from the list of attention-worthy restaurants in London and book a table!

Worth-visiting restaurants in London

Ugly Dumpling Carnaby
1 Newburgh St, Carnaby, London, W1F 7RB

From an Asian street snack to an easy dining experience in London, Ugly Dumpling Carnaby is a restaurant uniquely dedicated to the handmade dumpling culture. By combining Western ingredients and Asian home recipes, it creates a unique fusion culinary experience.

All the dumplings here are served on mix & match platters, so you can enjoy a variety of flavours at once. Just choose your favourites! Meat enthusiasts can savour Slow-cooked Shanghai-style pork belly or Cheesy Scottish beef mince dumplings. Prefer poultry? Select from Roast Peking duck with hoisin sauce or Free-range satay chicken thigh dumplings. Seafood lover? Enjoy Prawns and Kow Choi choice!

Various dietary preferences are not forgotten either! Are you vegan? Enjoy dumplings with fried tofu-spinach-Poku mushrooms, plant-based veggie mix, or Sichuan vegan pork. Vegetarian? Choose from the latter selection or discover mushroom & truffle and halloumi & courgette dumplings.

Seeking an even more unique experience? Then try Korean beef bulgogi dumplings with marinated beef flank or potato-onion-filled Ukrainian varenyky. Moreover, no matter the choice, all options can be made gluten-free.

Oi Vita pizzeria
67 Newington Green Rd, London N1 4QU

Oi Vita is an authentic Italian pizzeria where every guest is welcomed by Matteo and Nicola - the hands & brains behind the entire concept. Their ambition is to provide diners with a memorable experience through simplicity, passion, and knowledge.

At the same time, Oi Vita is not just a restaurant but a family-run business with a mission. What sets this place apart even more? Recipes that go beyond mere ingredients – they're a connection to cherished family heritage.

However, don't expect a book-thick menu! The selection of pizzas here includes twentyish options, treating Londoners to a staple Italian culinary. Whether you prefer meaty, vegetarian, or vegan options, the choices are carefully curated, following the clear concept: quality first!

The pizza magic at Oi Vita begins with the dough, crafted with high-quality flour from selected wheat in a sustainable and environmentally friendly process, transferring the inestimable energy of wheat grains to the table. Then, the freshest Italian ingredients follow to make your favourite slices even more flavourful!

Cutter & Squidge
20 Brewer Street, Soho, London, W1F 0SJ

Wandering in Soho and looking for an Afternoon Tea break? Cutter and Squidge, run by two sisters, is your answer. A selection of classic sandwiches, warm scones with jam & clotted cream, homemade biskies, macarons, dream cakes, and a pot of blended tea – all await guests in the charming ambience of this dessert shop. Want to sparkle up your Afternoon Tea? Enjoy it here with prosecco bubbles! Searching for a vegan or wheat-free option? Cutter and Squidge gladly offer such choices too.

If a signature ritual is not in your current plans, come to this dessert shop for a quick bite of both delicious and Instagrammable sweet treats. The focus here is on inventing new products or recreating time-honoured classics and experimenting with flavours, so guests can always enjoy old favourites alongside impressive taste sensations.

Additionally, this place offers luxury cake hampers and gift boxes that are perfect for gifting to friends & family for all occasions, whether it’s just a thank you, a gesture of sympathy, or perfect London souvenir for loved ones if you’re travelling. 

Melisi Ruislip
129 High St, Ruislip, London, HA4 8JY

Melisi is a charming pizzeria that brings authentic Neapolitan pizza to the heart of Ruislip, NW London. Even though this staple dish makes up the concept's core, not less impressive is the rest of the Italian cuisine repertoire, ranging from mouthwatering antipasti, classical salads, and a variety of homemade pasta to legendary desserts.

Whatever you choose, the dining experience will be filled with even more impressions as the open-plan kitchen allows curious diners to see how their dishes are being prepared.

The restaurant’s dedication to Italian cuisine is only part of the concept. Not less important is the quality that follows here in every gourmet step. Everything Melisi serves has been prepared in-house by chefs. Moreover, they continuously strive to improve all the dishes while respecting authentic recipes and traditional preparation methods. And, the high-quality fresh ingredients sourced directly from Italy give the magic a final touch. 

The Station House
The Station Buildings, Churchfield Rd, London W3 6BH

Searching for a great neighbourhood pub? Then seize the opportunity to visit Acton's legend – The Station House. From casual dining or sipping to a glamorous experience on the new balcony, everything here resonates with a vibe.

The ground floor bar is created for a laid-back time with pizzas, Italian tapas, and a wide range of wines, beers, or spirits. There's something for all tastes! The ambience is also well taken care of: an inviting beer garden out front awaits on both sunny & rainy days all year round, and a real fire inside keeps guests cosy during winter months.

The newly renovated dining room upstairs cannot be missed either! In addition to Italian classics, it also serves modern European dishes, including a traditional Sunday roast. The latter is a must-try, as the 28 Days Aged Rib-Eye and Turkey take an impressive stage.

The Station House is perfect for all kinds of get-togethers, so when in Acton, don’t miss the chance to feel the neighbourhood vibe. Final note? Keep an eye on the events, as they are also happening here.

Stella's at Stone Mini Market
721 High Rd, Leytonstone, London, E11 4RD

Stella's is a unique Friday pop-up venue at Stone Mini Market, enriching London's dining scene with vegan Malaysian fare. This supper club treats guests to exotic flavours, traditional recipes with a meatless twist, authentic spices, and experiences that are worth trying for all enthusiasts of Asian cuisine.

From mock chicken Satay, stuffed Tahu Bakar tofu pockets, or Acar veggies to mock fish Kari Ikan, mock beef Rendang, Sambal-fried mock chicken, and chicken Ayam Masak Merah – even though the assortment may vary each time, every single dish here is always worth a try. What's even better about this vegan repertoire? It's designed to share!

This casual Friday dinner club not only satisfies culinary cravings but also creates a social atmosphere where friends and family can come together to enjoy a flavorful dining experience. Just don't forget to book a table, which assures a spot in this once-in-a-week experience.

Aksular Enfield Town
8-10 Silver St, Enfield, London, EN1 3ED

Aksular is a well-known Enfield Town restaurant that treats diners to authentic Turkish culinary experiences. Sincere dedication to traditions is visible in every detail, so it's no surprise that this place is listed as one of the must-visit Turkish restaurants in London and around.

A casual, welcoming environment envelops guests in a cosy ambience, and the menu offers a direct ticket to Turkey. Probably every legendary dish, sprinkled with a modern twist, can be found in the repertoire. A selection of Turkish pide pizza, traditional wraps, special Turkish kebabs, seafood specialities, falafels, houmous, cacik, kisir, tarama – and this is just a tiny glimpse to the wide Aksular menu. Not less impressive is the Turkish breakfast assortment, offering a perfect change from the classical English breakfast.

Coming here in a group? Enjoy the platters with Turkish specialities created for sharing. Kids are joining too? The restaurant is child-friendly, so there is a selection of dishes made specifically for the youngest gourmands. Following a vegetarian or vegan diet? The thought of variety on the menu is generous not only for meat enthusiasts.

Ridley Road Market Bar
49 Ridley Road, London, E8 2NP

Ridley Road Market Bar is an independent and inclusive late-night Dalston venue that has been open for years. "Part tropical bar, part cultural hub, part 70’s disco, we are known as the place for a great night out that’s memorable, super fun, accessible, and low-key" – as owners prefer to represent themselves, and guests couldn’t agree more.

This place operates as a socially responsible business within London's ever-changing nightlife. Thus, art, music, culture, and commitment to fostering diverse DJ talents play a significant role here.

At Ridley Road Market Bar, the primary focus is on creating the right vibe and offering exceptional drinks. In addition to beer, wine, and shots, its repertoire includes a selection of Fancy and Frozen cocktails. From Ginger Mojito, Gin & Tonic, Cuba Libre, Whisky Lemon, or Tequila Sunrise, to Blue Margarita, Piña colada, and Daiquiri – the menu is truly impressive. Furthermore, the bar sources most of its cocktail ingredients from Ridley Road Market, meaning they are fresh, natural, and rooted in long-standing relationships with the local community. What’s more? Don't miss out on Happy Hour!

The Winchester House Club
10 Lower Richmond Road, Putney, London, SW15 1JN

The Winchester House Club is a traditional and private members' club opening its doors to guests seeking unique dining experiences. What's more to it? It's a serene environment; this historical 17th-century venue, positioned right on the Thames bank, offers one of the most enviable scenic river views in London.

Gourmands are greeted here with revitalized food and beverage experiences. The menu changes with the seasons, giving loyal clients dynamics. From starter platters for sharing or all-day breakfast to sausage mash, poultry delicacies, fish specialities, prime steaks, classic and veggie burgers – a glimpse into a repertoire that appeals to a larger segment of diners. Also, a curated beer and wine assortment complements the culinary fare.

Unfortunately, reservations at this restaurant may only be made by members of The Winchester House Club. So, if you're not part of it yet, consider joining!

Menu items at restaurants may change, so check here for the latest offerings.