Restaurant Reviews

1 Paddington Square, London W2 1DL

This is the Paddington outpost for the Market Halls food hall group. Situated just beside the station (at the Praed Street exit) it couldn't be handier for commuters or anyone working in the area. Inside the hall, you'll find seven food traders with options like Taiwanese buns from BAO and steak & chips by From the Ashes. That's backed up by two bars, live music and an extensive alfresco area (when the weather is decent).

The people behind bars Dram and Oranj have teamed up for this Bethnal Green opening, which is part cocktail bar, part residency. On the drinks side, you'll find great cocktails and a wine list which celebrates female winemakers. On the food side, that comes from long-term residency Tasca which combines both Spanish and Portuguese influences from an ex Sager & Wild chef. Expect dishes like shellfish escabeche on the menu.

Originally a Spitalfields market trader, this is Crunch's first permanent space where they serve up sandwiches between "brioche inspired" bread (they've altered the recipe to cut back on the sweetness). Fillings include slow-cooked Gressingham duck leg, truffle beef patties and a Southern-fried chicken cutlet and their steak sandwich is extremely popular. Make sure to leave room for their French toast.

18 Thayer St, London W1U 3JY

Nin took over what was Pachamama (run by the same group) and changed the restaurant to a vibey Mediterranean affair. The restaurant is made up of a warren of rooms around a glitzy central bar space, while the food is a mix of small and medium Med-focused fare like arancini, pastas and an enormous sharing tiramisu. Make sure to take a look at their mini 'Tinis cocktail selection too.