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London is one of the world’s most sprawling cities. So, it’s no surprise that tucked away in its vast web of thoroughfares, alleyways and side streets, there are some true ‘hidden gems’ – places recommended by in-the-know friends of friends of friends that quickly become favourites, or things you stumble upon accidentally and wonder how you could have passed them by for so long.
One of the most kudos-worthy kinds of London intel is knowing a really good, under-the-radar restaurant; the kind of low-key neighbourhood joint that always offers up a friendly atmosphere and delectable plates of food that remain on your mind long after you’ve guzzled them down – but never end up on starry restaurant round-ups. Now, however, some of these clandestine spots have been named in TripAdvisor’s annual Travellers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Restaurants for 2026.
Based on the platform’s reviews from millions of travellers across the UK over the last year, the winners rank among the top one percent of TripAdvisor listings. Categories include Fine Dining, Casual, Date Night, Vegan & Vegetarian, Food Tours, Cooking Classes, Wine & Beer Tours, Viral Right Now spots, and a list of its most highly rated Hidden Gem restaurants.
Topping the list for the best ‘hidden gem’ restaurant in the UK? Bonoo Indian Tapas in Hampstead. Serving modern Indian small plates, the Finchley Road spot has received an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 3,981 reviews.
The restaurant, which serves thali plates at lunchtime and dishes including nawabi lamb chops, tandoori chicken, laal mirch tiger prawns and black cod coconut qorma, says it celebrates ‘a rich tapestry of regional flavours and deep-rooted traditions’ which ‘stay true to original recipes and authentic techniques’. Its food has also won several London Curry Awards.
Glowing customer reviews for Bonoo on TripAdvisor comment on the friendly atmosphere, warm service, and elegant decor. A review from Craig R says: ‘The most authentic and tasty tapas. We all enjoyed it thoroughly. So good to find a perfect gem I don’t really want to tell everyone! [...] It’s perfect for every occasion. The atmosphere is cosy and funky!’
Another from Nelle L says: ‘This is the best restaurant I’ve been to in a very long time. The service is excellent, the food is 5/5, and the environment provided a great overall experience. The prices are also very reasonable.’
The Hampstead restaurant was the only place in the capital to be named in the list of best Hidden Gem restaurants in the UK, beating places including Saffron Kitchen & Bar in Northampton, The White Hart Inn in Hawes, North Yorkshire and Baqueano in Brighton to reach the top spot. You can find the full list of restaurants to be named in TripAdvisor’s Hidden Gems category here.
Bonoo Indian Tapas, 675 Finchley Road, NW2 2JP.
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