When we imagine dining in London, most of us tend to think of central London. Surrounded by the flashy lights and buzz of the city, we sip miso and drink ramen in the latest pop-up restaurant. We’re going to let you in on a little secret… Tooting Bec in London.
The quaint neighbourhood has proven to be one of the fastest growing, for both families and couples alike. With a tube station, bus-stops and their own Common, Tooting Bec-ians have got it down pat. Not only is it directly located on the Northern Line, but Tooting Bec is also home to some of the best restaurants in London. From incredible mezze to curries that will have you craving more, here’s our foodie guide to one of the best neighbourhoods in London, Tooting Bec.
Meza London
A quick 2-minute walk from the Tooting Bec tube station will land you on the doorstep of the best Lebanese in London – Meza! The enticing scent of garlic and spices will have you rushing through the doors, though you’ll need to book or get in early. The restaurant seats half a dozen cramped wooden tables, and allows guests to watch as their food is cooked in the open table.
From chicken livers to the perfect tabbouleh, Meza London in Tooting Bec ticks all the boxes. When you’re there, start off with the Sambousek Jebneh, which are delicious cheese filled parcels. Make sure you try both hot and cold meze, and if you’re feeling adventurous, their selection of Lebanese wines provide the perfect accompaniment!
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The Wheatsheaf
In Tooting London, there’s no better pub than the Wheatsheaf. Nestled opposite the tube station and literally a quick skip, hop and jump from the daily commute, it’s little wonder this traditional English pub is packed to the rafters by 8pm.
Behind the bar you’ll find a wide array of local and continental craft beer and wine, as well as a list of expertly made cocktails. The staff are super friendly, and often have showings of live sport, comedy and music on weekends. Make sure you pop in on a Sunday, when they’re serving their famous Sunday roast – try the three meat roast for a taste sensation!
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The Imperial Durbar
If you’re after late-night cocktails, then the Imperial Durbar will be your new watering hole. An eclectic mix of Indian and Old Empirical delights, this Tooting Bec bar will surprise even the fussiest of cocktail connoisseurs. They offer a 2 for 1 happy hour from 5-7pm on weeknights, and with most only coming in at £8, it’s the perfect night out.
The bar is sectioned into different small rooms, and it’s first in best dressed! If you arrive hungry, don’t fear – they work with the Cardamom Club next door to deliver food straight to your table. Simply go up to the old phone booth, make a call and the food will arrive steaming hot within 30 minutes.
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Meat and Shake
If you’re craving American-style burgers, then Meat and Shake in Tooting Bec is the answer to your cheesy-filled dreams. From starters like traditional nachos to spicy wings, the moment you walk into Meat and Shake, the feeling of satisfaction hits you.
The dirty fries will feed your soul, while the peanut butter, brownie and banana milkshake will actually change your life. Head there early to nab a table, as this American-style joint fills out in the evenings… fast!
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Green Monkey
Looking for something a little healthier? The Green Monkey café offers a massive brunch menu, as well as organic coffee and a smoothie menu that has something for everyone. It’s an extremely buzzy atmosphere for such a small café, and is just on the other side of the Tooting Bec tube station.
The staff are super welcoming, the coffee reasonably priced and the food delicious and healthy… what more could you want?! Try the Monkey Magic smoothie to start your day on the right side of the bed.
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The Rose Crown
Local craft beer + pizza = heaven? Then you’ve landed in the right place. The Rose Crown in Tooting Bec offers quality craft beers, seasonal gins and an eclectic wine list to all those that enter. This is definitely a local pub, that has remained a hidden secret for the past few years, and has recently been discovered by the rest of London.
You’ll find it packed on the weekend, with patrons enjoying thin-crust pizza, calzone and gigantic bar boards to share. They also show a lot of live sport, and have a famous Thursday lego challenge ( you have to be in it to wine it!). Head down on a Sunday for their pub quiz, or at lunchtime on a weekday, where pizzas are only £5 a pop!
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Visiting London soon and looking to learn and taste all it has to offer? Book one of our London Food Tours which has you tasting the best of London while learning all about the fascinating history and culture in local neighborhoods!