Looking for the best restaurants in Belsize Park? From traditional British feasts to Spanish Tapas, spicy Indian and everything in between, here’s where to eat in the area, from a local.
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The Belsize Park restaurant scene is as London as they come. One second you’re eating Greek goodness in the heart of the neighbourhood and the next you’re feasting on Italian food like you live there right outside the station.
No matter what you’re in the mood for, there’s a little bit of everything to be found in Belsize Park food wise. So without further ado, here’s the best restaurants in Belsize Park to have a bite and a good time.
The Best Restaurants in Belsize Park
1. Calici Restaurant
As soon you as you walk into Calici you’ll be hit with hospitality and a journey to Italy (wine included). The beloved Belsize Park restaurant serves only homemade and fresh Italian food, sticking strictly to what’s in season, and leaving out the rest.
The restaurant itself has a major ‘neighbourhood vibe’ with a welcoming atmosphere — perfect for a sit-down dinner, catch up lunch or hangout with the family after exploring Belsize Park. In fact, some guests have compared it to the food they had growing up in Italy — what a compliment! There’s also live music here from time to time too.
Whatever you do, don’t hold back when it comes to their handmade pasta (or Tiramisu).
Must-Try: Raviolo Di Vitello (Veal Ravioli with asparagus cream and red wine)
2. Jamon Jamon
I’ll be the first to admit, finding good Spanish restaurants in London is not an easy task. So when you find a place like Jamon Jamon, you’ve got to hold on tight.
The unassuming tapas joint pays an ode to the Spanish love of ‘jamon’ (ham) and ‘jamon jamon’, the slang for superb, which describes their dishes pretty well. The staff is also incredibly passionate about providing an authentic Spanish experience for all our their guests, which doesn’t take much given the atmosphere.
Food wise you can delve into their juicy Jamon boards (like their 24 month cured Jamón ibérico) or enjoy one of their infamous Paellas.
As a fair warning this isn’t the kind of place you order and keep it to yourself, so prepare to share a few tapas and a paella between your group or date for the full experience.
Must-Try: Mixta Paella and anything with jamón
3. The Juniper Tree
The Juniper Tree is one of Belsize Park’s most hidden gems.
Specialising in simple, organic and quality ingredients, it’s a great choice if you want a dinner in Belsize Park that won’t break your waistline (yet is equally delicious) and surprisingly for Belsize Park, your wallet too.
However, don’t be fooled. This Belsize Park restaurant has proper British food too, from oysters from the West Mersea to Red Wine Rump Steak. Otherwise you can enjoy a lighter affair of Roasted Heritage Beetroot and Butternut Squash or Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto.
Must-Try: Wild Forest Mushroom Risotto
4. Retsina
When even Gordon Ramsay is singing your praises it’s safe to say you’re one of the best restaurants in Belsize Park.
Greek and proud Retsina has been serving up Mediterranean goodness for over 30 years, and they’ve got no signs of stopping.
I suggest getting your feet wet with starters like their warm pita bread and Tzatsiki or Loukaniko (traditional Greek sausage) before indulging in their selection of Souvlakis, a popular Greek street food or Soutzoukakia, an authentic Greek meatball dish.
If you prefer your veggies, try out the Moussaka — a layered mix of potatoes, aubergines, courgettes and bechamel sauce.
Must-Try: Soutzoukakia
5. Hazara
For Indian in Belsize Park, look no further than Hazara. Admittedly they claim their Hampstead side more, but that doesn’t stop them from being loved by Belsize residents.
Their menu bursts with freshness and flavour, bringing you straight in the streets of India with every bite. So much so, they’ve been praised by everyone from the Michelin Restaurant guide to Ham & High (a proper big deal for North Londoners, at least).
Have a go at their Samosa Chaat and Chilli Paneer before trying their Tandoori Jhinga (broiled jumbo prawns covered in homemade spice and hung yoghurt) or Chicken Tikka with a twist…
Must-Try: Samosas and Chicken Tikka Trio or Pudina Aloo Tikki
6. Pizza Express
Although chains don’t always get the best rep, you always know you’re in for a good dinner at Pizza Express.
Their Belsize Park location sits front and centre on Haverstock Hill, with uninterrupted views of the leafy neighbourhood coming to life. A night here may include hot pizza and al fresco wine, maybe on their mezzanine floor for a better view perhaps?
They’ve also got plenty of gluten free and vegan options, which you won’t always find at local venues.
Must-Try: The Dough Balls…don’t leave without the dough balls
7. Gourmet Burger Kitchen
Gourmet Burger Kitchen is another Belsize Park favourite, despite its chain status. Turning the concept of fast food burgers on its head the gourmet burger spot only serves 100% prime British beef (and loads of vegan and vegetarian alternatives too) with handmade burger sauces, and cooked any way you like.
My personal go-tos are their milkshakes, which conveniently just so happen to go great with a burger and fries too. It’s also seconds from the station, perfect if you’re looking for a quick bite after your commute or arrival in Belsize Park.
Must-Try: Oreo Milkshake
Happy Londoning,
Read More:
Looking for something specific?
• A Quick Belsize Park History
• The Best Things to do in Belsize Park
• Where to Stay in Belsize Park
• The Best Brunch Spots in Belsize Park
• The Best Cafes in Belsize Park
• The Best Pubs & Bars in Belsize Park
• The Best Parks & Green Space in Belsize Parks
• How to Spend a Day in Belsize Park (Belsize Park Itinerary)
