Providing easy access to the city's vast array of restaurants, The London Underground is not only a convenient way to travel around the capital, but a greener alternative too. The simplest way to pay is to tap your contactless card or smartphone. You can also buy an Oyster card (a pre-payment card which you can top up as required). In this article series, we take a look at some of the Inspectors’ favourite restaurants within easy reach of the Tube network. For information on London's transport network, we've got that covered too.
When it comes to size, there are few lines that can compete with the Piccadilly. The Central and Elizabeth may win on length, but the Piccadilly manages to pack in more stations than both of them. With 53 stops in total, it stretches all the way from Cockfosters in the north to Uxbridge in the west – not forgetting the branch which diverts off to Heathrow. Across its central London section, the Piccadilly Line covers some of the capital’s busiest and most sought-after areas, like Covent Garden, Green Park and Piccadilly Circus. It is therefore home to a staggering array of restaurants – read on to discover a few of our favourites.
Knightsbridge: Amaya
Indian
Home to Harvey Nichols and many a swanky building, Belgravia is one of the most upmarket districts of London. Amaya provides swish, moody surroundings to match – and cooking that delivers quality rather than over-inflated prices. Coming from the same stable as Veeraswamy and Chutney Mary, Amaya serves Indian small plates with a focus on grilling. Quality ingredients are handled with care in the kitchen, resulting in dishes that have distinct, well-balanced flavours. Enthusiastic service tops off the great all-round experience.
Leicester Square: Barshu
Chinese
There are so many places to eat, drink and while away the hours near Leicester Square that the choice can sometimes be overwhelming. Save yourself the hassle and sample the fiery flavours of the Sichuan province at Barshu – although you may be racked with indecision all over again when you see the size of the menu. Dishes like gong bao chicken with peanuts bring plenty of spice, while retaining a degree of balance with the other flavours. The team run the place with pride, and the generous portions allow for sharing.
Covent Garden: The Barbary
North African
The colourful Neal’s Yard is not just one of London’s most Instagrammable locations, but also home to this exceedingly well-run restaurant serving vibrant North African cuisine. Lying just 3 minutes’ walk from Covent Garden station, the room is dominated by a large U-shaped counter where you can enjoy a variety of small plates, which also have some Middle Eastern influences. Dishes are well-executed and deliver a balanced array of flavours, with the spicing excellently judged by the kitchen team.
Holloway Road: Westerns Laundry
Modern British
Many people getting the tube to Holloway Road will be on their way to the Emirates Stadium; but if you prefer food over football and grub over Gunners, take a detour to Westerns Laundry. In the perfect combination of old-school vibe and modern technology, their hand-written blackboard menu is shared on Instagram every day – so if you’re the type of person who likes to pore over a menu days in advance, perhaps this isn’t for you. British ingredients form the basis of effective, accessible dishes that reflect the seasons.
Arsenal: Farang
Thai
Not far from Westerns Laundry, you’ll find this fellow north London spot that works just as well for a date as it does the gathering of friends. The lively atmosphere and hearty Thai dishes all but guarantee a good night out. If you want to go all out, opt for the ‘Feasting Menu’ to share – a cocktail, a curry, two small plates and a whole crispy sea bass should do you nicely. Part of the restaurant is dedicated to selling their own curry pastes and dipping sauces, so you can get in on the fun at home.
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Other restaurants that we love on the Piccadilly Line include:
Hammersmith: River Café
Italian
Earl’s Court: Bandol
French
South Kensington: Wild Tavern
Italian
Hyde Park Corner: The Lanesborough Grill
Modern British
Green Park: Tamarind
Indian
Piccadilly Circus: Nopi
Mediterranean Cuisine
Russell Square: Honey & Co
Middle Eastern
Turnpike Lane: Through the Woods
Modern British
Why not complete your culinary trip around London with a stay in a MICHELIN recommended hotel?
Hero Image: © Amaya
