The United Kingdom, often stereotyped for its love of fish and chips and a good cuppa, boasts a culinary scene far richer and more diverse than meets the eye. Its history of immigration and global influence has woven a tapestry of flavours, with international influences taking root across the nation. From fragrant curries in Birmingham to authentic Lebanese mezze in London, the UK offers a delicious passport to explore the world, one bite at a time. So, ditch the stereotypes and get ready for a gastronomic adventure! Here a curated list from CJ Digital of the 10 best restaurants in the UK serving up international delights, sure to tantalize your taste buds and expand your culinary horizons.
1. VUDU – Worthing, Sussex: Nestled in the heart of Worthing, VUDU isn’t your average seaside eatery. This vibrant restaurant takes you on a whirlwind tour of Southeast Asian flavours, with a playful and modern approach. Chef Ryan Smith draws inspiration from his travels through Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia, creating a menu of small plates bursting with character. Dive into succulent pork belly skewers glazed in a sweet and sticky tamarind sauce, or indulge in crispy tofu drizzled with a fragrant Vietnamese nuoc cham dipping sauce. The atmosphere is electric, with an open kitchen where you can witness the culinary magic and a soundtrack that keeps the energy pumping. Whether you’re sharing plates with friends or embarking on a solo flavour exploration,
VUDU is a guaranteed good time.
2. The Sri Lankan Kitchen – Edinburgh, Scotland:Edinburgh boasts a thriving food scene, and The Sri Lankan Kitchen is a shining star. This vibrant restaurant offers a taste of Sri Lanka, known for its fragrant curries, fiery sambals, and unique blend of South Indian and Southeast Asian influences. Chef Niru Kumar’s dishes are a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients, showcasing the depth and complexity of Sri Lankan cuisine. Dive into fragrant bowls of chicken curry infused with lemongrass and coconut milk, or sample the melt-in-your-mouth lamb kottu roti, a dish of shredded flatbread tossed with vegetables and spices. The aromatic smells wafting from the kitchen are a prelude to the flavour explosion you’re about to experience. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing glass of Sri Lankan ginger beer – the perfect complement to the fiery flavours.
3. La Cantina de Compadres – Manchester, England:Manchester’s Northern Quarter is a melting pot of cultures, and La Cantina de Compadres reflects this vibrancy. This award-winning restaurant serves up authentic Mexican street food, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and handmade tortillas. Forget the Tex-Mex stereotypes – here, you’ll find real deal tacos overflowing with tender, slow-cooked barbacoa or juicy al pastor. Don’t miss the mouthwatering carnitas, slow-cooked pork shoulder that falls apart with every touch. Vegetarians shouldn’t fret – there are delicious options like cactus tacos and portobello mushroom fajitas. The atmosphere is buzzing with life, with colourful murals adorning the walls and Latin music setting the mood. La Cantina de Compadresis the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends, offering a vibrant taste of Mexico right in the heart of Manchester.
4. Maroush – Park Royal, London: Escape the hustle and bustle of central London and discover a hidden gem in Park Royal: Maroush. This family-run Lebanese restaurant is a haven of warmth and hospitality, offering a truly authentic culinary experience. Stepping into Maroush is like stepping onto a bustling street in Beirut. The menu is a love letter to Lebanese cuisine, featuring a vibrant symphony of flavours and textures. Start with a mezze platter overflowing with hummus, baba ghanoush, fragrant tabbouleh, and falafel. Don’t miss the succulent lamb shawarma, marinated to perfection and carved off a rotating spit. Portions are generous, prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is buzzing with life. Maroush is the perfect place to experience the joy of Lebanese food in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
5. Black Axe Mangal – Newcastle, England: Charcoal-grilled meats and celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Anatolia, offering an unforgettable dining experience. Begin your journey with a selection of meze, small plates perfect for sharing, featuring classics like hummus, baba ghanoush, and dolmades. Then, move on to the star of the show – succulent meats cooked to perfection over charcoal. Sink your teeth into juicy adana kebabs, marinated lamb skewers, or the signature dish, the bone-in lamb shoulder, slow-cooked until falling off the bone. The open kitchen allows you to witness the grilling magic firsthand, and the aroma of smoky spices fills the air, whetting your appetite. The friendly staff and lively atmosphere make Black Axe Mangal the perfect place to experience the warmth and generosity of Turkish cuisine.
6. The Ninth – Cardiff, Wales: If you’re looking for a truly unique and exciting dining experience in Cardiff, look no further than The Ninth. This innovative restaurant takes inspiration from cuisines around the world, creating a menu that’s constantly evolving and pushing culinary boundaries. Chef Chris Chowdry sources the finest seasonal ingredients and uses playful techniques to create dishes that are both beautiful and delicious. Expect to find dishes like seared scallops with chorizo and saffron or slow-cooked duck leg with a cherry and almond sauce. The tasting menus are a great way to experience the full breadth of Chef Chowdry’s culinary creativity, while the à la carte menu offers a selection of tempting dishes for every palate. The sleek and stylish dining room, with its open kitchen, creates a modern and inviting atmosphere.
7. 7. Jupon – Glasgow, Scotland: A taste of Spain awaits you at Jupon in Glasgow’s vibrant West End. This tapas bar offers a dazzling array of small plates, showcasing the best of Spanish cuisine. From classic dishes like gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns) and patatas bravas (spicy potatoes) to more adventurous options like grilled octopus and oxtail croquettes, Jupon offers something to tempt every taste bud. The wine list is a celebration of Spanish vintages, perfectly complementing the rich flavours of the food. The warm and inviting atmosphere, with its exposed brick walls and wooden tables, creates a truly authentic Spanish experience. Whether you’re popping in for a quick bite or settling down for a long night of tapas indulgence, Jupon is the perfect spot for a taste of Spain in the heart of Glasgow.
8. Bar Douro – London, England: London’s vibrant food scene boasts a plethora of outstanding international restaurants, and Bar Douro is a shining example. This Michelin-starred gem takes you on a culinary journey through Portugal, offering a sophisticated and innovative take on traditional dishes. Chef Nuno Mendes, a native of Lisbon, uses the freshest seasonal ingredients and modern cooking techniques to create dishes that are both elegant and deeply flavourful. Dive into succulent grilled octopus with chorizo and piquillo peppers, or indulge in the signature dish, roasted suckling pig with a crispy skin and tender meat. The wine list is a celebration of Portuguese wines, offering a perfect pairing for every dish. The sleek and contemporary dining room provides a luxurious setting for a truly memorable meal.
9. The Barbary – Shoreditch, London: Step into the vibrant streets of modern-day Jerusalem at The Barbary in Shoreditch. This renowned restaurant takes inspiration from the diverse food culture of the region, offering a mouthwatering mix of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours. Expect wood-fired lamb skewers singing with smoky char, fragrant mezze platters perfect for sharing, and pillowy soft pita bread begging to be dipped in hummus. The open kitchen allows you to witness the culinary magic firsthand, while the exposed brick and warm lighting create a unique and inviting atmosphere. The Barbary is a London classic, and with good reason – it transports you on a delicious journey through the flavours of the Middle East.
10. Chaophraya – Manchester and Leeds: Craving authentic Thai cuisine? Chaophraya in Manchester and Leeds offers a sophisticated and flavourful take on Thai favourites, using the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Whether you’re a seasoned Thai food enthusiast or a first-time visitor, Chaophraya’s menu has something to tantalize your taste buds. Dive into fragrant curries, stir-fries bursting with flavour, and crispy spring rolls. Don’t miss the signature dish, the whole grilled fish with lime, chilli, and coriander, a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Thai flavours. The elegant dining rooms, with their sleek design and warm lighting, create a perfect setting for a memorable meal. Chaophraya is a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of Thailand in the heart of the UK.
With its diverse culinary landscape, the UK offers a world of flavourful experiences, from the bustling streets of London to the charming towns of Scotland and Wales. So, why not embark on a gastronomic adventure and discover the international delights that await you?