London's culinary landscape has once again proven itself to be spectacularly spoiling in 2025. The editors and writers at Time Out London have spent the year sampling the capital's offerings, declaring countless dishes the 'best thing I've eaten all year'. Whittling down these experiences to a definitive list was no small feat, but the result is a curated selection of eight unforgettable plates that captured the essence of the city's dining excellence over the past twelve months.
From South Ken to Shepherd's Bush: A Tour of Culinary Excellence
The list showcases the incredible diversity and creativity found across the capital's neighbourhoods. Leonie Cooper, Food and Drink Editor, championed the asparagus fonduta at The Lavery in South Kensington. This dish masterfully combined steamed asparagus with a luxuriously rich cheese sauce, embodying the sophisticated charm of its Georgian townhouse setting.
Over in Finsbury Park, Travel Writer Liv Kelly found perfection in the simple, seared scallops at Tollington's. Served in their shell with a salty dressing, they represent a flawless start to any meal. Meanwhile, the Instagram-famous tempura cod pandesal at Kentish Town's Belly Bistro earned high praise from Guides Editor Ella Doyle, who described it as an elevated, Filipino-inspired take on a classic filet-o-fish that lived up to every bit of its hype.
Indulgent Mains and Innovative Classics
For those seeking a show-stopping centrepiece, Things To Do Editor Rosie Hewitson highlighted the dry-aged prime rib at Kudu's new Marylebone location. This ex-dairy beef, cooked to a blushing medium rare, justified its premium price tag as a truly memorable splurge. For a more casual but equally compelling feast, Writer Amy Houghton recommended the crab kothu at Adoh!, a gloriously greasy and punchy Sri Lankan staple made with shredded crab and roti that delivers immense comfort.
The list also celebrates ingenious twists on familiar formats. At Bad Boy Pizza Society in Bethnal Green, News Editor Ed Cunningham was converted by their NYC-style vodka pie, a slice so good it has become his benchmark for all London pizza. Staff Writer India Lawrence praised the innovative prawn toast at Chet's in Shepherd's Bush, where the filling is stuffed inside a sesame-crusted bao bun. Proving that perfection can be found in simplicity, Time Out London Editor Joe Mackertich declared the deep-dish margherita pizza from Little Earthquakes in Dalston the best thing he ate all year—a pub snack he considers a revolutionary new take on the classic.
A Delicious Year in Review
This collection, gathered from the plates of Time Out's expert team, paints a vibrant picture of London's 2025 food scene. It spans high-end splurges and affordable delights, showcasing both innovation and the flawless execution of classics. From the opening of the new St John wine bar to neighbourhood gems, these eight dishes provide a delicious roadmap for any food lover looking to experience the very best the capital had to offer in 2025.
