Guide to the best restaurants in Dulwich

Around Dulwich you'll find two different branches of Megan's, a leading brunch expert with locations all over London. These spaces are trendy and boho. Brunch reigns supreme here, with a sunny Med-inspired menu featuring dishes like shakshuka baked eggs. The restaurants are open from morning into the evening, serving cocktails, wine, and booze-free drinks.

Enjoy lively and modern Greek dining at The Real Greek in the heart of Dulwich Village. This venue is spacious, colourful, and contemporary, welcoming groups of all sizes. The decor is inspired by Mykonos. This informal spot specialises in Greek dishes from regions across the country, including creative plant-based dishes.

Have an Italian meal in stylish surroundings at Rocca di Papa. This leafy restaurant has al fresco space in addition to a smart and contemporary interior. Coffee and pastries are served first thing, then later you can tuck into authentic dishes like arancini, pizza, and pasta. Takeaways are also available from this charming restaurant.

Trinco opened in 2023 and serves a modern take on Tamil Sri Lankan cookery. The food here is completely vegetarian whilst the menu draws on tradition, including an assortment of small plates, flavourful curries, and authentic sides. Pair the food with cocktails, beer, or a diverse range of wines. The space is trendy and bohemian with plants, mirrors, and gentle colours.

Specialising in seasonal and sustainable recipes, Spinach has become one of East Dulwich's most sought-after restaurants. It's a crisp and contemporary venue enhanced with plants and a bright and breezy atmosphere. The menus change each week and are made with carefully-sourced ingredients. It's popular for brunch but also does sandwiches and elegant plates for dinner.

Dulwich Lyceum brings distinctive recipes from the East Mediterranean and Balkan regions to the local area. This in-demand restaurant has a refined style and serves sophisticated dishes prepared with premium ingredients. There's a focus on grilling and the restaurant does an indulgent roast on Sundays. The interior is rustic and buzzy.

Open since 1999, Franklins is a refined local restaurant specialising in seasonal British dishes. The menu changes daily at this sophisticated site, where the decor is classic and homey. Outdoor tables and private dining are available here. As well as the main à la carte menu, a set lunch option and a vegan menu are also served. 

When you're in the mood for authentic Neapolitan pizza, Franco Manca is a reliable option. This restaurant serves a simple and budget-friendly menu and has a laid-back and welcoming ambience. The menu features a small selection of seasonal pizzas topped off with premium ingredients. The menu also includes alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Some of the capital's most sought-after pizza is available from Yard Sale Pizza in East Dulwich. This casual and modern pizza place has a few tables you can grab for dining-in, but it's a popular pick for takeaways. These award-winning pies are available in two different sizes and come with an eclectic choice of toppings.

East Dulwich is home to Signoria, a family-run Italian café and restaurant. From a speedy coffee with a pastry to a slap-up Italian meal complete with wine, this venue satisfies a range of needs. In the mornings you can have a cooked breakfast here and later try dishes such as pasta and paninis. The venue is comfortable and homey.

One of the area's most popular choices for Indian cuisine is Dulwich Tandoori. You can get a takeaway from this restaurant or have a meal in the cosy and atmospheric dining area. Authentic Indian and Bangladeshi cooking is the speciality here. The classic menu includes plenty of favourite recipes including Tandoori dishes, curries, and biryani.

At Kartuli, diners can discover the distinctive recipes of Georgian cuisine. This family-run restaurant is comfortable and has a warm and friendly atmosphere. The comprehensive menu celebrates some of the country's most famous dishes including dumplings served in broth and rich khachapuri bread. Cocktails and Georgian wines are also available.

Dulwich diners head to Yamamomo for Japanese cuisine. This modern izakaya is bold and inventive, combining Japanese culinary traditions with Western dining trends. The menu of small dishes is fab for sharing in a group, featuring heaps of sushi, tempura, bao buns, gyoza, and other small plates. Sake and cocktails are available at this sleek destination.

At Memsaab Indian Cuisine you get fine Indian dishes served in a friendly atmosphere. That includes a generous buffet of Indian favourites served on Sundays only. A variety of classic dishes are on the menu including curries, Tandoori dishes, naan bread, and biryani. There are plenty of vegetarian choices too. Food is served in a fuss-free dining space.

Thai Corner Café is a cute local spot for authentic Thai food in Dulwich. This family-run restaurant has been around since 1999 and is a compact and straightforward venue. A variety of traditional dishes from Thailand are on the menu here in addition to soft drinks. If you'd rather drink alcohol, feel free to BYOB.

Ristorante Olivelli is a neighbourhood destination for Italian food in Dulwich. The venue is colourful and contemporary, with interesting features like plants cascading from the ceiling. This restaurant is inspired by Sicilian food culture, featuring a classic menu that includes antipasti, pizza, pasta, and risotto, in addition to wines from Italy.

Seafood fans can get their fill at Hot N Juicy Shrimp. This trendy eatery has gained attention on social media, and has a simple modern look with aquatic decor. The straightforward menu centres on hearty seafood boils – there are various types here, including a plant-based version. Sides and extras like fried oysters enhance the experience.

The menu at Maria's Tortilla is all about exotic and authentic Spanish tapas. You'll see lots of classic small dishes here like olives, croquettes, cheeses, tortillas, and king prawns. Distinctive cocktails and beers and wines from Spain are also available. The space is buzzy and eclectic, with lots of personality and menus written up on blackboards.

Enjoy an indulgent meaty meal at Meatliquor. What started in a Peckham car park has now expanded to restaurants around the city. Burgers are central to the menu at this modern eatery, and you'll find a bunch of options to try, including plant-based patties. The menu even includes a couple of tough food challenges.