United Kingdom

London

Food

Lunch

Chefs and siblings Zoe and Layo Paskin are key players in London's hospitality scene.

The pair founded the restaurants The Palomar and Evelyn's Table; in 2022 they also launched the creative hospitality studio PASKIN & Associates. Using their expertise in the field to help others implement their vision, the studio sees the two chefs operating across projects and concepts.

The restaurant scene in London is a sector the two Paskin siblings know well, and while solo dining can be daunting for those who are yet to try it, you'll be in good hands here with the guide below. For those who regularly dine solo, make sure to make time for these selections.

A favourite meander on a Saturday morning is through here, a coffee at Arabica, some cauliflower and peas from Gujarati Rasoi, then via Columbia Road down to Shoreditch.

While it doesn’t look like all the new trendy coffee shops – it is Greek originally – there is the quality of the coffee (and the nuts); but more importantly, the vibe and the sense of community is amazing. You wouldn’t think of Knightsbridge that way but it totally has a magic, it’s exactly what you want from the place you go all the time.

Our top brunch spot [with] the pianist Xavier playing pop, a steak tartare and frites and a (very) spicy Bloody Mary. Always sit at the bar.

Every Friday, our Nana would fry fish but in matzo meal. I’m still not sure how this came about historically, but that’s how I have it always and for me, this is one of the very best in London, hidden away near King's Cross in Bloomsbury. [Order] cod or haddock and chips, of course, and lots of vinegar!

There is an obvious disclaimer but the truth is we eat there all the time, never am not in the mood.

Hidden away, the sign tells you that you must spend £50 on food! But the sushi is fantastic as is the itamae – who is also the owner, I think! Again, great solo dining spot at the counter.

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Where to Dine Solo in London, by Zoe and Layo Paskin

The Barbary

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