[title]
We’re launching a new Blog Network which involves getting a bunch of cool bloggers to write for us, such as Rosie Llewellyn from A Little Lusciousness. Here are Rosie's favourite secret places in London.
1. Smokehouse, Chiswick (pictured above)
This is just behind the Porsche garage, off the A4 – not where you’d expect to find one of the best restaurants in West London, but that’s exactly where it’s hidden. The Smokehouse’s second branch (the first’s in Islington) opened earlier this year and brought a much needed ray of smoky, meaty sunshine to the area that’s otherwise known for its high street chains. It’s a 15-minute walk from the nearest tube (Chiswick Park) but well worth the hike. I've made the Smokehouse journey to get my fix of crispy smoked lamb shoulder, summer veg and clam stock in the spacious garden. You'll find me in the cosy, child-free whisky room, most Sundays, eating beautifully pink roast beef and huge yorkies.
2. Supper Tub
There’s a bubbling secret by the canal in Hackney Wick. Supper Tub is a pop-up restaurant, where the food is served to you in your cossie/trunks while you lounge in a hot tub. Book a tub for you and your friends and service will come round, taking your drinks and food orders. It's one of the most unique dining experiences that I've ever come across - just don't drop any food!
3. Rex and Mariano
This is hidden away on St Anne’s Court in Soho, an alley that links Wardour Street and Dean Street, and in the former site of the Vodka Revolution bar (which no one seems to be particularly missing!). Rex and Mariano is the Goodman Group’s newest offering and I've visited several times to feast on their affordable and delicious fish and seafood all ordered via an iPad, which isn't as awful as it sounds. I loved the fact you can order as and when you want and only have to pay five percent service charge as there's less faffing about with waiting staff.
4. Paradise Row
Only a minute’s walk from Bethnal Green station but also completely off the beaten track, Paradise Row is just that – a row of delicious eateries and thriving bars. I've made a night of it, drinking at one venue before stepping into the neighbouring one for food.
5. Storeys
I like Storeys because it brings some of the East London street food vibe to West London via the rooftop car park of the old BBC building near Westfield. Open Friday evenings and all day Saturday and Sunday, I'd recommend the soft shell crab burgers, Caribbean street food or confit duck in a bun – my absolute favourite as it comes with duck scratchings on the side – all served up under their rainproof marquee.
Share your expertise with London's most awesome audience by joining our Blog Network.