I don’t recommend browsing London’s Classic Restaurants guide on an empty stomach.
It’s not as tortuous as skimming through a colour-photo cookbook, but this tasteful tour of the capital’s iconic eateries is definitely moreish.
Food and travel writer Cara Frost-Sharratt covers 40 restaurants that have become pillars of London’s vibrant gastro scene.
The venues span a variety of postcodes and menus, from posh dining with Gordon Ramsey at Claridges to pie and mash from M Manze or clubbers’ hotspot Beigel Bake on Brick Lane.
The author seasons her descriptions with anecdotes that give you an insider’s glimpse into each restaurant – for instance, did you know Fortnum & Mason’s was the first place to stock Heinz Baked Beans?
The book is cleanly arranged with enticing images, a map at the opening of each chapter and listings by cuisine (e.g. British, Asian, French) or special interest (Romance, Food in a Hurry, Celebrity Spotting).
What would have been a useful addition is a Family Friendly section highlighting spots that are welcoming to young diners. Equally I hunger for more diversity in the choices (only three Asian picks) and the lack of telephone numbers seems a strange omission.
But then maybe this is a good thing as after reading about each venue it was all I could do not to ring up immediately and book a table!
Despite its limitations, London’s Classic Restaurants makes an enjoyable read packed with enough heart and flavour to whet the appetites of visitors and locals alike.
London’s Classic Restaurants (New Holland Publishers) £9.99, available at www.booksonlondon.com and other good bookstores
