In our regular series, we ask famous chefs and personalities to tell us all about 'their London'. From top tips on where to dine in the city, to their personal haunts ranging from bakeries to book shops, we’ve got the inside track on London’s premier spots from the people who know it best.
Those with their finger on the pulse of London’s restaurant scene will undoubtedly have heard of Tomos Parry – in fact, he pretty much is the pulse. With his restaurants Brat and Mountain, he has helped to usher in a new era of produce-driven dining defined by its heavy emphasis on wood-fired cooking techniques. As someone with such a large ongoing impact on the city’s diners, Parry seems like the perfect person to ask for his own recommendations of where to eat and what to do in London – plus where he finds the best wood-fired dishes.
What is your go-to restaurant for a celebration?
Gymkhana. It’s been a favourite since the day it opened. I have celebrated many special moments there and it continues to improve and is already a standard bearer and institution of the London food scene. Make sure to visit my favourite bar on the same street for a quick drink before – The Donovan [inside Brown’s Hotel], been there for years, iconic London spot.
You’re known for your wood-fired cooking style – which other London restaurants do you think do this well?
Kiln – it’s one of the best restaurants in London in many ways plus they cook over fire.Where would you recommend for a night out with friends?
Hmm depending on what type of night you want… but if it’s Soho, I would have a few drinks at The French House, before Bar Termini for their negronis, Kiln for the delicious and vibrant food and wine list, a sing-along and a dance at Gerry’s bar, then maybe some late-night food in Chinatown!
Where would you recommend for a romantic date?
Not really a restaurant, but I would have a martini at The Castle Cinema (an old beautiful cinema from the 1910s with an incredible bar) in Clapton, followed by a film then late dinner at Leo’s across the road.Are there any London restaurants you feel a personal connection to?
River Café. I worked there as a chef in my early years, and it and Ruth helped form my idea of what it is to run a restaurant.Are there any London restaurants you think appeal to all ages?
Chinatown or Zédel. I love going there with my wife and kids.
Where do you go for a quick bite?
I love Koya or the little restaurant they have underneath the Japan Centre in Piccadilly, the produce is excellent and such great value!Do you have any hidden gems to recommend in London?
I don’t know if it’s hidden, but slightly out of town – I go to Singburi restaurant, authentic vibrant Thai. Or my favourite pub – The Nag’s Head in Knightsbridge, traditional and hidden in a mews.Address Book
Bar Termini, 7 Old Compton St, London, W1D 5JEGerry’s Club, 52 Dean St, London, W1D 5BJ
Japan Centre, 35b Panton St, London, SW1Y 4EA
Koya Soho, 50 Frith St, London, W1D 4SQ
Leo’s, 59 Chatsworth Rd, Lower Clapton, London, E5 0LH
Singburi, 593 High Rd Leytonstone, London, E11 4PA
The Castle Cinema, First Floor, 64 - 66 Brooksby's Walk, London, E9 6DA
The Donovan Bar, 33 Albemarle St, London, W1S 4BP
The Nag’s Head, 53 Kinnerton St, London, SW1X 8ED
Rome by The MICHELIN Guide
Hero Image: © Benjamin McMahon
