Mere functions on absolute precision. It might not leave much room for laughs, but the food at this Fitzrovia spot is worth getting organised for.

Tayer + Elementary is a three-part bar in Old Street. You should come here to drink and snack, but you should also come here to eat the tasting menu.

Emilia is part grown-up restaurant, part wine bar, and serves a whole lot of excellent pasta.

Popham’s is a comfortable and spacious Hackney bakery making superb pastries in the day and handmade pasta at night.

The Compton Arms is a little pub in Islington serving some tasty small plates and one of the best burgers in town.

Seoul Bakery is a Korean spot in Bloomsbury. They don’t take reservations, and there are only two tables, but it’s worth queuing for.

Bao Borough is the third outpost of London’s most famous Taiwanese restaurant. The buns are still good, but the smaller plates are even better.

Negril serves Caribbean comfort food up on Brixton Hill. It’s far enough away from the main drag to feel calm, and has one of the best patios in SW2.

Healthy Eaters is a homely Caribbean restaurant making freshly baked patties, and serving delicious, good value plates to eat in or takeaway.

Okan has got you covered for Japanese cheap eats in Brixton Village.

Notting Hill spot Mazi is all about dressed up Greek food, drinking wine, and feeling distinctly Santorini.

Bob Bob Cité is a ridiculously over the top, luxury City brasserie where you’re set for great French food and a bloody good time.

The Guinea Grill is a tiny pub in Mayfair with an old school restaurant specialising in excellent steaks.

La Kitchen is a small Vietnamese café in Clerkenwell serving decent and affordable pho and bahn mi.

Cookdaily is a vegan spot in London Fields serving up sweet, spicy, salty, and sour-filled bowls for under a tenner.

Marksman is a pub/restaurant with excellent, elevated British food in Shoreditch. It’s good anytime, but don’t miss the Sunday roast.