Restaurants

Chakalaka (South African)
Tiger-skin walls (no, not really, it’s a paint effect) and a menu featuring kudu, springbok (two types of antelope), ostrich and biltong. This is one of the best places in London to sample South African wines which range from cheerful, budget options to premium bottles.
Chakalaka, 136 Upper Richmond Rd, SW15 (020 8789 5696/www.chakalakarestaurant.co.uk) East Putney tube.

Kaz Kreol (Seychelles)
The cooking of the Seychelles blends French, African, Indian and Chinese cuisines and this homely restaurant serves them up with a friendly smile and a chilli kick. On the ground floor of the St Martin’s Tavern, this spot is a boon for the area and a must for seafood lovers.
Kaz Kreol, 35 Pratt St, NW1 (020 7485 4747) Camden Town tube.
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Masa (Afghanistan)
Kebabs, curries, pilafs, dumplings and flatbreads form the crux of the menu at this smart yet affordable restaurant at the tip of the Bakerloo line. Bring your own wine and beers.
Masa, 24-26 Headstone Drive, Harrow, HA3 (020 8861 6213) Harrow & Wealdstone tube/rail.

Mandalay (Burmese)
Head to the astonishingly inexpensive Mandalay to sample Burma’s fascinating blend of familiar and exotic ingredients. Tamarind, shrimp paste, pungent fresh herbs, coconut and chilli are the key flavourings. If you like Thai or Vietnamese food, give this a try.
Mandalay, 444 Edgware Rd, W2 (020 7258 3696/www.mandalayway.com) Edgware Rd tube.

Tiroler Hut (Austrian)
A cowbell cabaret, yodelling and accordion music add to the authenticity of an evening at this riotously kitsch Bayswater venue. Expect lashings of sausages, sauerkraut, and strudel. Vegetarians are catered for well, too.
Tiroler Hut, 27 Westbourne Grove, W2 (020 7727 3981/www.tirolerhut.co.uk) Bayswater or Queensway tube.