The best restaurants in Tooting

The Little Taperia on Tooting High Street is co-owned by a former Food and Drink Editor and the owner of Meza, another Tooting hot spot. The restaurant serves a wide selection of authentic Spanish tapas, from classic dishes like chorizo in cider to unique options like blood sausage Scotch egg. There are also cocktails, traditional Spanish drinks, and a curated wine list.

Following the success of Mr Bao in Peckham, Daddy Bao was opened in Tooting as a tribute to owner Joe's father, who arrived in the UK by boat in 1975. Daddy Bao works with exceptional suppliers, including Flock & Herd Butchers and Bloody Ben's Gin, to craft a menu of traditional recipes from Joe's father's childhood, including a variety of bao buns served alongside tangy side dishes. Downstairs, you'll find Good Measure, an intimate cocktail bar serving a small menu of intricately crafted cocktails.

Head to Apollo Banana Leaf on Tooting High Street for authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. This beloved establishment is celebrated for its authentic cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features all the classics, like traditional rice and curry dishes, alongside seafood specialities. This one has become a favourite dining spot for both locals and visitors looking to indulge in traditional Sri Lankan fare.

Lahore Kahari has been a stalwart on Tooting's dining scene since it opened in 1995. It is known for its tasty Pakistani cuisine, often popping up on “best curries in London” lists. The chilled, relaxed atmosphere and budget-friendly prices make it a popular place to dine in Tooting.

Meza is a local favourite Lebanese restaurant in Tooting, celebrated for its dishes served in an aesthetic wood-panelled setting. The welcoming and friendly service creates a homely atmosphere for diners. While the menu features a limited selection of main courses, the emphasis here is on mezze, making it perfect for those who like to share and try a bit of everything. Wines are available by the glass, carafe, and bottle.

Dosa n Chutney in Tooting is the go-to spot for those craving a rice pancake paired with aromatic chutneys. The menu features a range of dosas, from crispy to soft, topped with options like prawn masala, onions, paneer, or even classic chocolate. While there are many other traditional Indian dishes available, the dosas are a main draw here.

Jaffna House Restaurant is a local Tooting hot spot that brings the vibrant flavours of Jaffna cuisine to the south of the river. It's the oldest Sri Lankan restaurant in London and has refined its menu of traditional Sri Lankan fare over many years. Dishes here are known for their aromatic spices and comfort factor, with a menu boasting authentic Sri Lankan specialities, including spicy curries, rice dishes, and sides. 

Bordelaise is a classic French steakhouse and bistro, bringing the energy of a lively Parisian restaurant to Tooting. It's renowned for its flat iron steaks, confit duck, and premium charcuterie boards—with plenty of vegetarian options. It also offers a bottomless brunch and a classic French roast every Sunday. It's perfect for romantic evenings, family gatherings, or casual get-togethers.

One of Tooting's standout Sri Lankan restaurants goes under the name of Kothu, a go-to place for delicious mutton kothu roti and other authentic dishes. Here, you can customise your preferred spice level, choosing from a menu of kothu, curries, roti and more. The laid-back atmosphere makes it ideal for group meals in spacious booths or a cosy dinner with a friend.

Spice Village was founded by two immigrant brothers and began as a low-key 15-seat takeaway in Tooting. It has since expanded significantly. It specialises in traditional dishes cooked using hot stones, coal grills, and tandoori ovens, focusing on a fusion of traditional Pakistani and Punjabi dishes. The menu is crafted by award-winning chefs dedicated to preserving ancient cooking methods.

Dawat was founded to bring the rich flavors and dishes of South Asian cuisine to South West London. The menu is inspired by Mughal culture and cuisine and features a variety of Pakistani classics. The restaurant is located in a grand, grade-listed Georgian cellar and perfectly pairs Mughal and contemporary Indian design elements.

Brickwood is an Antipodean restaurant that brings Australian-style brunch to London. The all-day menu features favourites like burritos, banana bread, pancakes, and brunch sandwiches and burgers, from bacon and egg baps to four-cheese toasties with options like BBQ pulled pork or spicy chicken. Enjoy yours alongside wine, smoothies, juices, or just a great cup of coffee.

You can enjoy modern British seafood dishes within the vibey Tooting market at South London's Sea Garden & Grill. Fresh seafood is delivered daily, and the ever-evolving menu centres around sharing plates like oysters, haddock arancini, and grilled king prawns marinated in chilli oil. There are also simple sides, desserts, and a curated wine list to go with the seafood.

Tooting Market is not a restaurant per se, but it does house some excellent places to wine and dine. This award-winning indoor market is a maze of vendors, each tucked into little corners selling everything from fresh foods and fashion to records, arts and crafts, and furniture. As for food and drink, there's The Secret Bar for drinking, Bless Bakes for sweet treats, Pepi's for Guyanese cuisine and The Lone Fisherman for Caribbean fare, to name a few. Pop down there to see all of the foodie hot spots.