Caviar Girl's top casual eats (London)

The time has come for me to create a list. I have been writing this blog for over a year now, and would like to recommend some of my favourite places to eat around London. This is by no means gospel or exhaustive and always based on my own opinion and experience. There are SO many good casual restaurants in London that it would be impossible for me to mention them all. I will focus on dinner and lunch, as breakfast really deserves a whole separate list. 

NB - this is also a work in progress, eventually will turn into a top 10

Burger & Lobster (Mayfair & Soho & Farrington)

There are three things on the menu a full lobster, lobster roll or a burger each for £20. All comes with chips and salad. Absolutely tasty and great value for money. Now in Mayfair, Soho and Farrington, they take bookings for 6+ people in Soho & Farrignton. The lobster population better watch out. (Does not take bookings)

Santa Maria - a carnivore dream (Battersea)

Santa Maria does steak, and steak is what it is known for. The cuts are Argentinian (something about the grass that the cows eat there) aged for 28 days, and cooked to perfection. Ok, it is a little out of the way for most Londoners, but if you are ever in the South West area it is worth a go. Santa Maria also featured on Gordon Ramseys "The F word" some time ago, so has been very popular. (Takes bookings)

MEATliquor (Marylebone)

There is something about the spell that MEATliquor puts on you. Nothing wakes the inner carnivore more than animal headed butchers and red paint splattered ceilings, while the red halogen lights further stir that deep carnal urge. You will get juicy, meaty burgers at this place. The cocktail menu is also extensive and it doesn't matter what time of the day it is, as it always feels like Beer O'Clock at MEATliqour. (Does not take bookings)

Brixton Village - in general (Brixton)

Brixton Village, is situated right in the hustle and bustle of the Brixton Market. Brixton Village itself is something out of a toy box; adorned with pastel coloured shop/restaurant fronts across a number of mini New York style named ‘avenues’ such as 5^th and 6^th . And thanks to the Brixton Market roof, the Brixton Village ‘gold mine’ of foodie venues can be enjoyed come rain or shine!

There are loads of restaurants under the roof, two of which I have been to and loads more which I would love to try. It is a real foodie destination

Brixton Village Grill serves uncomplicated dishes such as char-grilled steak, spareribs, market fish, hand cut chips, chicken liver pate and yummy in-house made desserts.


I recently had dinner at Mama Lan, a little restaurant bringing the taste of Beijing to London. Mama Lan started as a supper club in 2010 and since then has expanded and opened its doors in a permanent location in Brixton Village. The menu is simple and seasonal, divided into Beijing dumplings, street snacks and salads and a choice of two mains.

(Most take bookings)

Kopapa (Seven Dials)

Kiwis have been spoilt with their countries’ majestic landscapes, laid back lifestyle and good quality wine, and as such, tend to have a good nose for simple quality. And Kopapa, the baby of New Zealand born Peter Gordon, is one of these quality places which bring world inspired cuisine to the table. It is beautifully executed and served in a laid back environment, which is often the feel of many Southern Hemisphere eateries. (Takes bookings)

10 Greek St (Soho)

A daily changing menu always gets my attention, and 10 Greek St definitely delivers on this front. The place is not big and works on a first come first serve basis every day except Sunday. The food is mainly modern European/Bistro tasty and creative. It is always a breath of fresh air. (Does not take bookings)

Tonkotsu (Soho)

Tonkotsu is a Ramen bar and does this extremely well. The Ramen is deeply flavoursome, made from pork and chicken bones cooked for hours. Fresh noodles are used and will set you back at £11 per bowl. With a cosy atmosphere and hand made gyoza Tokotsu is a true winner of the causal eats. (Does not take bookings)

Bubbledogs (Fitzrovia)

As the name suggests Bubbledogs is a Champagne bar first and hot dog bar second. There are over 10 different hot dog toppings to choose from, as well as picking a pork, beef or vegetarian sausage. Champagne does take this experience up a notch and I feel this concept actually works really well. A great atmosphere and attentive service. They take bookings for 6+ people which I would recommend as it is impossible to get into. Closed on Mondays. (Does not take bookings)

Others which I like

Yalla Yalla - Beirut street food - Soho/Oxford St - no bookings
Tayyabs - Indian, Pakinstani - Whitechapel (brick lane) - bookings
Osteria Dell'Arte - Italian - Clapham - bookings
Polpo Soho - Italian (small plates) - no bookings
Polpo Covent Garden - Italian (small plates) - no bookings
Mishkins - Kind of Jewish with cocktails - Covent Garden - no bookings
Duck & Waffle -  City (sky high) - bookings
Soif - Battersea - bookings
Caravan - Exmouth Market - bookings
Brasserie Zedel - Piccadilly - bookings
Ceviche - Soho - bookings