Restaurants

From wallet-friendly lunches to late-night tapas, Fitzrovia’s dining spots run the gamut.

Benito’s Hat

Best for lunch on the go This new (and exceedingly affordable) Tex-Mex restaurant is a favorite lunch place for local gallerinas thanks to the oversize burritos, made to order with chile-and-achiote braised chicken or grilled zucchini, chayote squash, and peppers; all the chiles and tomatillos used are sourced directly from a local farm. Lunch for two $15.

Lantana

Best for rubbing elbows with the locals This lovingly run café, tucked away on a quiet pedestrian side street, showcases the work of emerging photographers like Anne-Caroline Morice and artists such as Kate Macleod. Check out the menu scrawled on the chalkboard in front—a recent one included the BERT (bacon, egg, rocket, and tomato) sandwich and corn fritters with sliced avocado. Lunch for two $26.

Salt Yard

Best date-night spot A buzzing neighborhood tapas joint, this bi-level restaurant is rustic and romantic, decorated with deep red walls and wooden tables. The kitchen dishes up homey plates such as confit of pork belly atop rosemary-infused cannellini beans, or zucchini flowers stuffed with Monte Enebro cheese, deep fried and drizzled with honey. The well-priced wine list offers select reds and whites from Italy and Spain. Dinner for two $100.

Villandry

Best for gourmet browsing This sprawling shop is London’s answer to Dean & DeLuca. Head to the deli for coffee and croissants or to pick up a hamper for a picnic in nearby Regent’s Park. The restaurant serves hearty French-leaning food—the seasonal $50 three-course prix fixe, which might include steamed asparagus with hollandaise or chicken paillard with arugula, is a bargain. Dinner for two $100.