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.
Contrary to common belief, the Circle Line is not, in fact, a circle. A 2009 extension from Edgware Road to Hammersmith means that it is no longer even a closed loop, as it had been for decades, and it now forms a spiral instead. The route started life as a service operated by the Metropolitan Railway in one direction and the District Railway in the other, with fierce competition between the two. In 1948, it became its own distinct line and has been serving commuters and city centre diners ever since. It is unique among the major lines for never reaching out to the suburbs, instead providing easy access to the abundance of restaurants in the heart of the capital.
Ladbroke Grove: Holy Carrot
Vegan
If you're one of London's growing number of vegan diners – or just a fan of creative, colourful and flavour-packed food – then a tube trip to Ladbroke Grove is in order. At the playfully named Holy Carrot, vegetables are indeed given overdue reverence. Squash, leeks, mushrooms, the eponymous carrot… you name it, the chefs here have the skill to make it the centrepiece of a dish and a fittingly delicious one at that. Sharing is encouraged, allowing you to try a greater range of cooking.
Great Portland Street: Clipstone
Modern Cuisine
It should come as no surprise that this relaxed, well-run restaurant can be found on the corner of Clipstone Street. Just a short walk from Great Portland Street station, it very much has the feel of a neighbourhood spot despite its enviably central location. The friendly young team bring a really pleasant feel to proceedings, with a relaxed atmosphere accompanying the generous, balanced dishes. Its MICHELIN Starred older sibling, Portland, is just around the corner and equally convenient to visit on the tube.
Mansion House: Brigadiers
Indian
The station of Mansion House is named after the building itself, which is the official residence of the Lord Mayor of London – the international ambassador for the UK’s financial and professional services, not to be confused with the Mayor of London. Thankfully, if the Lord Mayor – or any of The City’s other finance bigwigs – are feeling peckish, then Brigadiers is just down the road. Combining a range of Indian dishes, many of which are cooked over fire, with a bustling atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to let off steam.
Victoria: Lorne
Modern Cuisine
A likeable, earnestly run neighbourhood operation, Lorne has a bright, fresh look to its dining room, with orange booths catching the eye as soon as you enter. It’s a narrow space, but never feels cramped, as you enjoy the seasonally changing menu of classically rooted dishes, which showcase the technical skill of the kitchen team. Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for on request and the set menu – available at lunchtime and early evening – represents good value for money.
South Kensington: Ognisko
Polish
If you’re looking for Polish cooking in London, then it turns out that South Kensington is the place to head. Just a short walk from the station is Ognisko Polskie (The Polish Hearth Club), and their restaurant serves satisfying, enjoyably robust food in a grand setting. The building really is magnificent and the marquee terrace is equally inviting on warmer days. The capable kitchen does the setting justice with an extensive menu that includes a good selection of dumplings, while the service team run everything with impressive efficiency.
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Other restaurants that we love on the Circle Line include:
Westbourne Park: Dorian
Modern British
Baker Street: Chiltern Firehouse
World Cuisine
Farringdon: Moro
Mediterranean Cuisine
Mansion House: Brigadiers
Indian
Blackfriars: Cord by Le Cordon Bleu
Modern Cuisine
Temple: Spring
Italian
Embankment: Kerridge’s Bar & Grill
Modern British
St James’s Park: Yaatra
Indian
Sloane Square: The Sea, The Sea
Seafood
Gloucester Road: Cambio de Tercio
Spanish
High Street Kensington: Akira
Japanese
Notting Hill Gate: Clarke’s
Modern Cuisine
Why not complete your culinary trip around London with a stay in a MICHELIN recommended hotel?
Hero Image: © Cord by Le Cordon Bleu
