Modern British kitchens cook seasonal produce with French technique — and the best value in the category is very often lunch at a starred pub rather than dinner in town.
In London the British list is led by Core by Clare Smyth in Notting Hill (Three MICHELIN Stars, £195-£245 / $245-$310 per person). If you want the same cooking for less, The Harwood Arms at £70-£100 / $90-$125 is the value pick.
- 1.
Core by Clare Smyth
Three MICHELIN StarsModern British · Notting Hill · £195-£245 / $245-$310
Clare Smyth
Clare Smyth's first solo venture delivers an exceptional Modern British experience, rooted in natural, sustainable ingredients. The sleek, contemporary dining room offers a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Her cooking is a masterclass in elegant simplicity, transforming humble produce into extraordinary dishes that speak of deep understanding and technical brilliance, celebrating British provenance with grace.
Order: Carrot and Lamb with sheep's milk yoghurt, mint; 'Core-tex' Potato with roe, seaweed butter.
- 2.
The Harwood Arms
One MICHELIN StarModern British Pub · Fulham · £70-£100 / $90-$125
Sally Abé
London's only MICHELIN-starred pub, The Harwood Arms, excels in refined Modern British cooking with a focus on game and wild ingredients. It offers the relaxed ambiance of a proper pub, but with elevated, sophisticated dishes. The hearty yet elegant menu celebrates seasonal produce, presenting robust flavours with delicate execution, making it a beloved spot for exceptional food in a convivial setting.
Order: Deer, Venison & Wild Boar Scotch Egg; Roasted Mallard with confit leg, spiced red cabbage.
Booking a British table in London
- · For three-MICHELIN-starred restaurants, book 2-3 months in advance, especially for weekend dinner slots. Be prepared to provide credit card details to secure the booking, as cancellations often incur a significant fee.
- · Many top London restaurants offer tasting menus at lunch, which can be a more accessible (and often more affordable) way to experience their cuisine. These often need to be booked several weeks ahead.
- · Be aware of strict cancellation policies. Most high-end establishments charge a full menu price per person for no-shows or cancellations within 48-72 hours. Confirm your attendance punctually to avoid charges.
- · Consider dining on a weekday evening or for an earlier lunch sitting if availability is tight. Some restaurants release additional tables closer to the date, so it's worth checking back periodically or joining waitlists.
And the local dishes in London
Fish and Chips
This quintessential British dish consists of battered and deep-fried white fish, typically cod or haddock, served with thick-cut fried potatoes. Often accompanied by mushy peas, tartare sauce, and a sprinkle of vinegar, it's a comforting and satisfying meal found in pubs and dedicated chippies across London. Try it at Poppies Fish & Chips for an authentic experience.
Sunday Roast
A traditional British meal served on Sundays, featuring roasted meat (beef, lamb, chicken, or pork), roasted potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, vegetables, and gravy. It's a hearty and communal meal, best enjoyed in a classic pub setting. Many London pubs offer excellent Sunday Roasts, like The Churchill Arms in Notting Hill, for a truly immersive experience.
Pie and Mash
A working-class London staple, this dish features a savoury meat pie (often beef or eel) served with creamy mashed potatoes and a vibrant green 'liquor' sauce, traditionally made from eel cooking water and parsley. It's hearty, affordable, and deeply rooted in East End history. Goddards at Greenwich is a renowned spot to experience this authentic dish.
Scotch Egg
A hard-boiled egg encased in sausage meat, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried or baked. While often found in pubs as a snack, gourmet versions with quality ingredients are elevated treats. It's a surprisingly filling and flavourful item, perfect for a quick bite. Seek out artisanal versions at Borough Market for a superior taste.
Other cuisines in London
Seven days in London
Pair these British tables with the full itinerary: neighbourhoods, museums and what to skip.
Read the London travel guide