How to enjoy the "hidden gourmet city" from a writer who has lived in London for 19 years

A superb European/Australian blend bred by immigrants.

Traditionally, restaurant kitchens in London are overwhelmingly staffed by Italians and Spanish people. Of course, there are also a few French people in the dessert section. There is also an Australian chef who is good at making fresh dishes using fresh, nutritious ingredients. All of these chefs grew up breathing the air of London, where different things blend together in a comfortable way, and they are localizing their food to serve dishes that suit the Londoner's palate. Here are two exquisite restaurants that top chefs from all over the country have established in London.

10 Greek Street

10 Greek Street is a popular restaurant that serves seasonal ingredients directly from the market to your table. The executive chef is from Australia and knows the importance of selecting ingredients. The daily menu, which is decided based on the ingredients purchased that day, is full of creativity that makes you want to come back every day, and no matter what you choose, you will be satisfied with the quality.

Opera Tavern

Even in London, where there are many restaurants serving Spanish tapas, Opera Tavern is one of the best. I am always amazed by its modern look, which is quite different from traditional Spanish food. It is also perfect for Japanese people who want to eat a little at a time. It is located in the theater district, so it is perfect for stopping by before or after a show.

The hottest thing right now! Middle Eastern modern fusion

London, with its large number of immigrants from the Middle East, has many authentic Turkish, Cypriot and Lebanese restaurants and eateries. From that large number of Middle Eastern restaurants, Middle Eastern modern fusion has evolved significantly and fused with other styles, which I personally think is the hottest thing in London right now. When you think of Middle Eastern cuisine, you usually think of dishes made with lamb, beans, eggplant, pomegranate, white sesame paste tahini, yogurt and Middle Eastern spices, but when you combine it with British and European flavors and incorporate modern cooking techniques... the range of flavors expands greatly, making it even more exotic and exciting. Here are two places I recommend for those who want to try such a culinary adventure.

Honey & Co

Honey & Co is a small restaurant run by a couple originally from Jerusalem, but the quality of the food is among the best in London. The "Big Breakfast" is available only on weekends and is a very satisfying brunch with a small plate and a main course. If you're tired of hotel breakfasts, this is a new London breakfast you should definitely try.

Barbary

A small space with only a U-shaped bar counter, a charcoal grill, and small plates packed with flavour. Barbary is a modern bar serving Middle Eastern and North African cuisine, founded by its hugely successful sister restaurant, that incorporates all of London's food trends. The food is of course fantastic, and the style of dining while watching the chefs in action is a trend that has become established in London's restaurant scene. The cutting edge of the industry is gathered here.

Hybrid cuisine, fostered by diversity, is unique to London. Come, see, and taste!

Ultra-luxury restaurants in five-star hotels offer an impressive menu that matches the price. However, it is true that the top chefs who are driving London's food scene in the kitchens of these establishments are now seeking opportunities to create and succeed at casual second brands. Although we have not introduced them here, there are many restaurants that have been born with this concept. I feel that London's food market is definitely shifting from luxury to casual, but what all the restaurants have in common is a strong attitude of "not compromising on taste just because it's casual."

There is no doubt that the reason London has become so delicious is because the city has played a role as a hub for Europe and the Commonwealth for decades, and has been supported by the skills of immigrants. The UK's departure from the EU is just around the corner, but the current situation is that there is a strong view that the labor rights of European chefs working on EU visas will be protected. Even if strict policies are adopted, there are already many excellent British chefs, and many immigrants have switched to permanent residence visas, so I believe that the standard of food is unlikely to decline.

The charm of London lies in its diversity. Come and try the many hybrid dishes that have developed here.