My favourite restaurants: Anthony Demetre

Long before casual fine dining became the default mode for eating out in the capital, Anthony Demetre was quietly rewriting the rules of modern British restaurant culture. Today, as Chef-patron of Michelin-starred Wild Honey St James, Demetre remains one of the most respected figures in British gastronomy. If you're looking to explore the very best restaurants in London, his hit list is about as authoritative as it gets.

Demetre’s career spans over three decades at the absolute pinnacle of the industry. Having honed his craft under culinary titans like Nico Ladenis and Marco Pierre White, he first earned a Michelin star at Putney Bridge before launching the seminal Arbutus in Soho in 2006, followed closely by the original Wild Honey in Mayfair. Together, these openings spearheaded London’s 'bistronomy' movement - democratising Michelin-quality cooking by stripping away white tablecloth stiffness, championing underused cuts, and introducing 250ml carafes so guests could sample exceptional wines without breaking the bank. Today, that all feels very normal, but at the time, Demetre's restaurants were forcibly breaking away from decades of fine dining convention.

That same philosophy - impeccable French technique applied to pristine British seasonal produce - continues to thrive at Wild Honey St James today. Having spent a lifetime at the pass watching London evolve into a world food capital, Demetre knows a great meal when he sees one. His list of top restaurants includes some of his favourite neighbourhood haunts to fine dining institutions, plus a mention for a very special out of town getaway. Scroll down for the London restaurants (and a bonus spot in Kent) where one of the city's true culinary pioneers loves to eat.

Tokri, Chiswick

Anthony says: 'A favourite amongst the many Indian restaurants in town, and being close to home in Chiswick makes it ideal. We seldom do takeaways, as I always cook when we’re at home, but occasionally I’ll speak to Ram, the owner and chef at Tokri, and kindly ask him to send us some of his incredible grilled tandoori chicken.' 
Where: 7 Park Parade, W3 9BD
Book now: Tokri

Camille, London Bridge

Anthony says: 'Camille has an exceptional team who really know how to make the most of the less desirable and secondary cuts. Their cooking of offal is probably the best in town. The short concise wine list is perfectly judged with natural and classic suggestions.'
Where: 2-3 Stoney Street, SE1 9AA
Book now: Camille

Planque, Haggerston

Anthony says: 'I first encountered Seb’s cooking in France, when he did a season at the Auberge de Chassignolles. An exceptional cook who is as fastidious about the seasons as we are. It’s a restaurant that’s seldom spoken about, it quietly goes about its business without all the fanfare. I’ve had some dishes that have left me speechless. The brutalist design and feel won’t be for everyone but this is seriously a restaurant worth travelling for.'
Where: Arches 322-324, Acton Mews, E8 4EA
Book now: Planque

Impala, Soho

Anthony says: 'The newly opened North African-inspired restaurant that is probably one of the hardest places to get into right now - and for good reason. The food is exceptional, unique and simply delicious, yet totally uncomplicated.'
Where: 13-14 Dean Street, W1D 3RS
Book now: Impala

Ploussard, Clapham

Anthony says: 'Clapham has always been a great place to dine, and Ploussard is another great addition to that list. I adore the fact that this feels laid back and casual, the food is anything but. The cooking is superb, inventive and delicious. It has taken a while for folk to notice what a gem this place is. The wine list is well curated and the lunch menu is an absolute steal.'
Where: 97 St Johns Road, SW11 1QY
Book now: Ploussard

Big Easy, Canary Wharf

Anthony says: 'I’m a real sucker for smoked barbecue brisket of beef, and this place is probably the best you’ll find in London. We recently celebrated my son's birthday here. The vibe is incredible, with live music and fantastic staff. Portions are super generous and the cocktails are absolutely first class.'
Where: Upper Level 1, Crossrail Place, E14 5AR
Book now: Big Easy Canary Wharf

Brooklands by Claude Bosi, Belgravia

Anthony says: 'For an absolute treat and a proper “spoil me” moment, Brooklands has to be up there with the very best in London. Exceptional cooking, using the absolute best ingredients available. A very special place for that very special occasion.'
Where: The Peninsula Hotel, 1 Grosvenor Place, SW1X 7HJ
Book now: Brooklands by Claude Bosi

The Sportsman, Kent

Anthony says: 'Twice a year, a group of us - aka the MAMILs - take the arduous trip by bike from London to Whitstable. Stephen’s cooking is everything you want from a family-run restaurant: full of passion, generosity and hospitality. The only drawback is getting back home in one piece.'
Where: Faversham Road, Seasalter, Whistable, CT5 4BP
Book now: The Sportsman

For more recommendations from top chefs, discover the best restaurants as recommended by the likes of Kenny Atkinson, Judy Joo and Leonard Tanyag. And, if you want all our latest chef recommendations delivered direct to you, just sign up for SquareMeal's weekly restaurants newsletter, sent out every Friday with the latest news, reviews, interviews and recommendations from our in-house critics.