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The Dorchester

A London institution with a distinctly old-fashioned, distinguished air. Lays claim to “the deepest baths in London.” The Dorchester 53 Park Lane, London W1K 1QA, United Kingdom; +44 20 7629 8888

Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel

Despite its mouthful of a name, the Park Plaza is particularly tourist-friendly: a stone’s throw from Big Ben and the houses of Parliament, the London Aquarium, and the London Eye. Upper floors showcase fantastic city views.  Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel 200 Westminster Bridge Road,London SE1 7UT, United Kingdom; +44 844 415 6790

Rasoi

Chef Vineet Bhatia creates flavorful, artistic dishes based on Indian spices and ingredients, but presents them in a more modern way. The restaurant is a jewel box of elegance and yet can also feel casual. Great wine list. Rasoi 10 Lincoln Street, London SW3 2 TS, United Kingdom; +44 20 7225 1881

Tayyabs

Diverse crowds gather here for the exotic atmosphere and impeccably prepared meats. BYOB. Tayyabs 83-89 Fieldgate Street, London E1 1JU, United Kingdom; +44 20 7247 6400

Ottolenghi

The staff members at Ottolenghi pride themselves on the meticulous creation of dishes using only fresh, locally sourced ingredients. I have a seriously difficult time making decisions here. Yotam Ottolenghi and his business partner realize we eat with our eyes, and their displays are among the most tempting, anywhere. There are four locations in London, … Continued

La Fromagerie

Convene with other cheese-enthusiasts and sample cheeses organized by animal at London’s best source for everything – you guessed it – cheese. Boasts an on-site cheese cave and expert wine pairings. There’s also a small cafe if you want to stop and grab a snack to eat. La Fromagerie 2-6 Moxon Street, London, UK W1U … Continued

Harrods

A world-class food court worthy of the luxury department store – no Panda Express or Sbarro to be found here. Crowds can be daunting so to-go is an attractive option. They also have a branch of Paris’ Ladurée for the ultimate macaron. Harrods 87-135 Brompton Road, London, UK SW1x 7XL; (+44) 20 7730 1234

Quilon

Authentic southern and southwestern Indian food (from Kerala to Goa), with an emphasis on seafood, around the corner from Buckingham Palace. This was just completely remodeled in the winter of ’12, mainly by the Taj Hotel group, and now the atmosphere matches the exquisite food. Quilon 41 Buckingham Gate, London SW1E 6AF; +44 20 7821 1899

5th Floor of Harvey Nichols

The luxury retailer’s fifth floor is legendary for its stylish champagne bar, café, food market, and wine shop. Check out the deli counter and sweets display – the unusual items found there are sure to stimulate curiosity. 5th Floor 109-125 Knightsbridge, London, UK SW1X 7RJ; (+44) 20 7235 5250

The Lanesborough

London’s premier destination for high tea spoils its guests with fresh scones and thick clotted cream. Luxury and pampering do come at a price, however. Incidentally, the hotel also has a great bar for cocktails. The Lanesborough Hyde Park Corner, London, UK SW1X 7TA; (+44) 20 7259 5599

The Coburg Bar at the Connaught Hotel

The handsome and inviting Coburg bar offers straightforward, old-fashioned drinks prepared exactly how they should be. Relax in a plush wingback chair and read a cocktail history lesson with the Bacchanology menu. The Coburg Bar 16 Carlos Place, London, UK W1K 2AL; (+44) 20 7499 7070