The best luxury food delivery services in London
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The best luxury food delivery services in London
With extended periods of time at home, many of us broadened our culinary repertoires this year, but, no matter how much you hone your cooking skills, there's nothing quite like sitting down to a high-end feast that you haven't made yourself. With new restrictions in place and the prospect of a second lockdown ever looming, you might find yourself craving dishes from your favourite London restaurants - from Gymkhana's delicious butter chicken masala, to the fresh salads and bakes at Ottolenghi, or the exceptional pasta served on those perfect mint green plates at Lina Stores.
However, a number of the capital's leading restaurants have launched delivery services, giving the term takeaway a more luxe edge than ever before, and meaning we can now bring a taste of culinary excellence into our home. Here, we round-up the best in show... Bon appétit.
Bocca di Lupo - 2/37
1) Canapés: Pocket Rocket
The newly launched offshoot from London’s stalwart catering company Rocket, Pocket Rocket offers delectable bites for any occasion. Boxes feature savoury snacks such as edamame bean, pea, ricotta and mint tarts; grilled courgette, green bean and truffle parcels; Dorset crab doughnuts; and smoked seabass tacos presented elegantly – and bountiful cakes from pistachio and cranberry to carrot and pecan. Each includes a number of vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options, and can be delivered directly to your door, wondrously taking the stress out of entertaining.
Delivery radius: within the M25; other areas by special arrangement.
pocketrocketfood@Instagram - 3/37
2) Italian: Padella
Few things are as objectively delicious as fresh pasta. We all think we can serve up a good game when it comes to pasta dishes, but restaurants such as Padella prove that no one does it quite like the masters. The restaurant has always remained consistently affordable, and the same goes for its pasta kits, which come in at £14 for two people. One of the pitfalls of Padella were the lengthy queues and the fast turnaround once you had finally made it inside, but Padella's delivery options just give you all the good stuff - great pasta and strong cocktails - without the hassle. We ordered the stracci with gorgonzola and slow-cooked red onion, a gloriously gooey, cheesy and indulgent dish, and the seville orange marmalade negronis, a perfect aperitivo. There is only one dessert option - an unforgettable rich chocolate mousse with salt crystals. Special without being pretentious, Padella doesn't disappoint.
Delivery radius: Nationwide
padella_pasta@Instagram - 4/37
3) Pizza: ASAP Pizza
If you're tired of oily, undercooked takeaway pizza, choose ASAP Pizza instead. Born in the midst of Covid, the team behind Michelin-starred Lyle's set about bringing New York-style sourdough pizzas to the capital. The menu features both red and white pizzas, made with British wheats and high quality toppings. The Porco Verde - with green pesto, mortadella, stracciatella, guindillas - comes highly recommended with produce so good it was hard to see how it had spent travel time without losing any of its freshness. Since February, ASAP Pizza has been running a guests series, bringing together different chefs from around the world to create a pizza recipe available to order for one week only. These elevated pizzas come with elevated prices, but - with toppings this good - it's 100 per cent worth it.
Delivery radius: Three miles of London Bridge
asap.pizza@Instagram - 5/37
4) Indian: Cinnamon Club
Chef Vivek Singh is known around the world for his innovative, elevated approach to Indian cuisine, using quality British ingredients to create modern, yet timeless dishes. Cinnamon Club is his brainchild, and, since its inception 20 years ago, has become an institution on London's culinary scene. Singh's empire has long since expanded to multiple restaurants across London, but the same attention to flavour and excellent ingredients remain. To celebrate its 20th anniversary, Cinnamon Club has launched a six-course Indian feast of the best dishes from the past two decades and what a treat it is. From the canapés - Bengali beetroot cake and chickpea gnocchi - to the king prawn fish course and the two main courses - Tamarind glazed seared duck breast and milk-fed lamb leg ‘Raan’ with nutmeg and peppercorn sauce - every step of this foodie experience is peerless. Even the Biryani rice is moreish. There is a lot of food here, so come hungry and you won't be disappointed. While there is a little back and forth reheating various dishes in between courses, any effort made is more than worth it.
Delivery radius: Nationwide
thecinnamoncollection@Instagram - 6/37
5) Seafood: Seabird; and Basque: Lurra
Seabird, the rooftop restaurant situated at the top of The Hoxton in Southwark, has partnered with Marylebone Basque eaterie Lurra on an at-home delivery box featuring two of their signature dishes. A combined effort from Seabird head chef Javier Duarte and Lurra head chef Charlie Bourn, the box - which feeds two (£33) - features everything you need to construct Seabird's crowd-pleasing chargrilled octopus roll in your own kitchen (complete with a side of padron peppers), alongside Lurra's much-loved burnt Basque cheesecake - with its chewy caramelised crust and fluffy centre. Everything comes beautifully packaged and couldn't be easier to prepare. The perfect option for a weekend brunch or luxurious lockdown lunch.
Pre-order by 10am each Thursday for delivery on Saturday.
Delivery radius: London postcodes
seabirdlondon@Instagram - 7/37
6) Indian: Heritage Dulwich
Everyone wants a local Indian takeaway as good as Heritage Dulwich. Executive chef Dayashankar Sharma has used his 30 years of culinary experience (much of it gleaned in Michelin-starred Indian kitchens including Tamarind and Zaika) to create an innovative high-end menu, riffing off Indian classics to come up with new flavour combinations that are a delight to eat. The sharing packages, which are available for two or more, feature generous portions of dishes inspired by different corners of India, alongside regional breads, rices, chutneys and sides. We tried the vegetarian box where the shining star was the Paneer Makhan Masala, a silky punjabi recipe, rich and milky in taste and perfectly spiced. The Bhindi Masala, stir fried okra stuffed with spices, and the Broccoli ke Kofte, broccoli and paneer rolled into a kofte, were also excellent. Dulwich Heritage's sharing boxes don't leave you with that heavy bloatedness synonymous with Indian takeaways - you'll finish dinner feeling full but oh so content.
Delivery radius: 2.5 mile radius for same day deliveries or five miles for pre-orders.
heritageindiandulwich@Instagram - 8/37
7) Sri Lankan: Kolamba
While many of us might have a good Chinese or Italian on our doorstep, a good Sri Lankan restaurant is harder to find. Kolamba opened its only outpost just off Carnaby Street in 2019 to much acclaim. With restaurants still closed, Kolamba offers diners a selection of meal kits suited to different tastes and spice preferences. From the vegan feasts to the meat curries, these are flavoursome and authentic dishes that you can't find everywhere. We tried the mutton curry box, starring a tenderly mutton shoulder perfectly complemented by a selection of dishes, each as delicious as the next. There are no duds or weak links here - the dhal was rich and artfully seasoned, the green bean curry was light and warming and the toasted Pol Sambol was a perfect hit of chilli and coconut. Each dish came in bags, ready to reheat, making for a seamless experience. Kolamba is easily one of the best at-home offerings available right now, don't miss it.
Delivery radius: Nationwide
kolamba.ldn@Instagram - 9/37
8) Italian: Cinquecento Pizza
Cinquecento's slogan is "Just like nonna used to make" - a bold statement to make around an Italian, but the team have the credentials to back it up with years of experience working at Franco Manca. The restaurant's name references the temperature of its handmade ovens, which are set at 500 degrees to produce the indulgent flavours and textures of the infamous Neapolitan pizza. The offering is bountiful, from classics to modern interpretations. The common thread? The quality of the toppings, all of which are shipped from Italy. Don't stop at the pizza though. Come with a huge appetite and feast on the starters - the bruschetta is excellent, especially the gorgonzola and mascarpone cream, topped with walnuts, figs and truffle oil. The antipasti with delicious parma hams and burrata was also a hit. If you still have room, try the tiramisu - a deliciously creamy treat for the taste buds.
Delivery radius: London postcodes
cinquecentopizzeria@Instagram - 10/37
9) Indian: Goila Butter Chicken
TV chef Saransh Goila is internationally recognised for his take on butter chicken, having launched as a pop-up in Mumbai, quickly expanding to multiple restaurants within a few years. It's no exaggeration to say the dish has made him a veritable culinary star; MasterChef Australia judge George Calombaris called Goila's signature dish “the best butter chicken in the world”. The secret to his magical recipe is the tomato to dairy ratio (80:20 as opposed to the usual 60:40) and the smokey flavour, steering clear of sugar and artificial colouring. If you like your curry creamy, aromatic and silky in texture, you'll love this. The Dal Makhani, slow cooked and creamy, is also excellent as a side dish. Goila Butter Chicken looks set to become as popular in London as Dishoom's much-loved Chicken Ruby - place your order now.
Delivery radius: Within two miles of its Marylebone HQ
goilabutterchicken@Instagram - 11/37
10) Italian: Petersham Nurseries
Petersham Nurseries are on a roll - in January, the much-loved London institution received a green Michelin star for sustainable gastronomy and now the family-run company has launched a new delivery service so you don't have to wait for lockdown to end before you enjoy its Italian cuisine again. This is as premium and as well considered as you'd expect from Petersham - its five-course boxes come with wrapped rustic candles to create the perfect ambience, and eco-friendly packaging is selected to minimise any environmental footprint. Beautiful presentation aside, the food is excellent. We challenge you to find fault in the fresh tagliatelle with artichoke, anchovy and chilli pangratto, a perfect example of the versatility and joy of pasta. The Haye Farm porchetta, cooked with rosemary, sage and garlic, is a simple, yet artfully made dish. Another highlight comes by way of the steamed date pudding with pouring cream - scrap any diet in favour of this deliciously decadent dessert. As with all of Petersham's menus, their meal kit offerings are seasonal, so expect dishes to change each month.
Delivery radius: Nationwide
petershamnurseries@Instagram - 12/37
11) Japanese: Hot Stone
Although critically acclaimed Hot Stone may have had to temporarily close its doors, that doesn't mean you still can't indulge in its impressive menu at home. Carefully reimagined for at-home dining by executive chef Padam Raj Rai, the menu features a mix of à la carte favourites and new exciting Nepalese dishes, made only with the finest ingredients to heighten the experience, with traditional ingredients straight from Japan. For an extra special night in, order the 24-piece Omakase box that arrives beautifully wrapped in traditional Japanese furoshiki cloth. The box features nigiri – think scallop with truffle and caviar, and Scottish salmon glazed with three-year aged soy sauce – and sushi rolls to share, perfectly filled with Japanese Wagyu sukiyaki, tuna and salmon.
Delivery radius: Across most London postcodes (and collection)
hotstonelondon@Instagram - 13/37
12) Portuguese: Bar Douro
Since Bar Douro opened in 2016, transforming an unassuming railway arch in London Bridge to a photogenic tapas bar, it has cultivated a loyal following. Now with a second branch in the City, the restaurant has rightly cultivated acclaim for its masterfully c0oked dishes and excellent produce. Get your fix in lockdown with its meal kit delivery service, which offers the same high level of ingredients and simple instructions of how to make some of its classics at home. The four-course meal, which serves two, starts with smoked Portuguese sausage croquettes with lemon mayo and mouthwateringly good finely sliced cured ham from the Alentejo region. Next comes the salt cod hash, a comforting dish made with caramelised onions, olives and straw fries, then whipped up egg yolk. The braised lamb shank follows, a super tender cut of meat previously cooked for 12 hours in a red wine-based sauce and served with potatoes roasted with confit garlic and paprika. To finish, diners are treated to a rich almond cake called Toucinho Do Ceu. Those who want to truly indulge (and during such challenging times, it makes sense to), should choose one of the additional dishes such as pastel de natas, cheese and white port and tonic.
Delivery radius: Nationwide
bardouro@Instagram - 14/37
13) Plant-based: Tyme
New kid on the culinary block Tyme offers healthy ready-made meals that require no prep or cooking. We all want to bring more nutrition to our diets, but not all of us have the time or, let's be honest, the imagination. Tyme's meals, which all come in glass jars (you'll find no plastic here), span balanced dinners and lunches (the Zesty Mexican and Thai Soup are our firm favourites), as well as wholesome, energy-boosting breakfasts, such as the Miso Brunch - packed full of sweet potatoes, avocado, lentils, spinach and nuts. Meals are fresh, flavoursome and energising. Choose between boxes and kits curated to your needs, and filter your selection based on dietary requirements or desired benefits eg mood-boosting or energising. Regardless, Tyme makes healthy eating a more appetising (sorry, we couldn't resist the pun) and easier process.
Delivery radius: London postcodes only
tymefood@Instagram - 15/37
14) Louisianan: Decatur
Take a culinary trip to New Orleans with Decatur's delicious chargrilled oyster and shrimp boil kits. These boxes arrive ready to boil and within minutes you'll have a hearty feast of spicy seafood, complete with shrimp, sausage, potatoes and fresh corn on the cob coated with the company's secret Cajun seasoning. Alternatively, try the award-winning oysters; far from the cold, slippery kind that has lost so many fans, Decatur's oysters are either baked in the oven or grilled and served with hot pecorino-garlic compound butter, Cajun spices, fresh parsley, lemon and, of course New Orleans' very own famed Crystal Hot Sauce. Listen to the ready-made playlist inspired by the city's famed musical heritage, serve up some ice cold beers and embrace a Louisianan dining experience. Perfect for cold nights inside or for summer evenings round the BBQ, these are meal kits that are all about conviviality and messiness. They're also very popular - make sure you're poised ready to buy when the weekly runs go live every Sunday at 6pm or else miss out (they tend to sell out within 10 minutes).
Delivery radius: Nationwide
decaturlondon@Instagram - 16/37
15) Luxe comfort food: Laura Jackson
Laura Jackson has turned her culinary and hosting skills into a business - through Hoste London she curates bespoke dining experiences famed for delicious food and beautiful tablescapes. Jackson understands that tasty meals are one of lockdown's few pleasures, so has created a Galentine's Day foodie hamper celebrating love, friendship and togetherness. The three-course meal involves a baked camembert, a decadent main of beef short ribs or a hearty Vegetarian wellington with celeriac, dauphinoise potatoes and buttered winter greens, followed by Eton Mess with toasted hazelnuts and berry compote. The box also comes with a rose-scented candle, a bottle of Moët & Chandon and a playlist suggestion. Priced at £55 for two, make sure you make a beeline now - these hampers are bound to sell out.
iamlaurajackson@Instagram - 17/37
16) Modern English: Sketch
Oh how we miss decadent evenings dining within the candy floss-coloured walls of Sketch. While we might have to wait a while longer to pay a visit IRL, the restaurant's delivery service offers a slice of the good stuff to tide us over.
Sketch at home comprises of three homemade meals available for collection and delivery, seven days a week. There's a meat-based menu, a vegetarian menu and a Sunday roast menu, all of which come beautifully packaged in Sketch pink boxes, with Art Deco-inspired designs by Ich&Kar. The DIY kits each feature an easy instruction list (it's essentially a case of simply reheating), presented inside an envelope sealed with an elegant wax Sketch motif.
If you've mourned the magical combinations of fine dining, then Sketch at home will be a treat indeed. From pumpkin and passion fruit soup with curried popcorn to grilled guinea fowl with cumin polenta and mint jus, the dishes will transport you straight to a Sketch table. An excellent substitute for the real deal.
Delivery radius: All orders, which must be placed 24 hours in advance, before 6pm the day before, are collection only.
sketchlondon@Instagram - 18/37
17) English: Blacklock
Blacklock At Home truly considers every last detail when it comes to its delivery service. The famed steak and chophouse has given thought to every last part of your dining experience, from the pre-dinner cocktail to easy-to-follow instructions to different Spotify playlists for your situation, be it a date night, evening with friends or with family.
The standard of produce is high and the portions are bountiful - the All in at Home features a selection of beef, lamb and pork skinny chops for two and mouthwateringly good chop sauce to cover it all with, beef dripping oven chips, kale and parmesan salad, bread and a white chocolate cheesecake for dessert. You can also add on the restaurant's own craft beer, negronis and a good bottle of wine for added cheer. This is real feasting food that will leave you feeling full and content. Blacklock is also doing its bit for the environment by planting a tree in its Blacklock Forest for every meal sold.
Delivery radius: Nationwide
blacklockchops@Instagram - 19/37
18) British: Claridge's
It doesn't get more decadent than a takeaway via Claridge's, arguably the most hallowed hotel in London. Its in-house restaurant Davies and Brook wants to elevate your dining options with a 'To Go' box, which includes signature dishes from the whole roasted chicken with foie gras and black truffle to the delicious C.F.C. (Claridge’s Fried Chicken). Desserts come by way of warm apple tart and white chocolate and pear treats. Consider this luxury, although still unpretentious versions of the classics.
The whole chicken is not yet cooked, but is stuffed ready to go in the oven (instructions on how to roast the chicken and heat the sides is included).
For special occasions or big celebrations, there are few better options.
Delivery radius: Within an eight-mile radius of Claridge's (W1K 4HR)
claridgeshotel@Instagram - 20/37
19) Middle Eastern: Bala Baya
Mix up your diet with Bala Baya's mouthwateringly good Israeli-inspired delivery menu. Brighten up Saturday and Sunday mornings with its brunch offering, featuring various Shakshuka incarnations for both meat-waters and vegetarians, as well as a breakfast take on Shawarma, comprising rippled eggs and salt-baked trout.
Alternatively, try the lunch and mezze dishes - we recommend the aubergine mess (burnt marinated aubergine, oregano and tahini, pomegranate molasses) and the lamb chops, made with apricots, pistachio and lemon thyme. The Harissa Mayo is also a welcome addition, and a condiment you'll definitely try to recreate afterwards.
Delivery radius: Across London postcodes
bala_baya@Instagram - 21/37
20) English breakfast: The Berkeley
If you miss brunches out, then The Berkeley has just the service for you. The famed London hotel is now delivering joyful bundles of breakfast by bike, featuring pastries fresh from its in-house bakery, juice, vibrant fruit salads, granola and smoked salmon along with a daily newspaper. For a celebratory start to the morning, half or full bottles of champagne are available, accompanied by orange juice for a classic breakfast Mimosa or three.
If you want to surprise a friend on their birthday or for any other celebratory reason, The Berkeley team will take to their bikes with balloons and handwritten cards.
Delivery radius: All SW1X postcodes.
the_berkeley@Instagram - 22/37
21) Modern European: Levan
When Levan opened in 2018, it quickly attracted critical acclaim for its inventive, delicious cuisine. Diners came for the caramelised celeriac ravioli with dashi butter and the cheesy vacherin pie with its golden pastry dome, and stayed for the coffee caramel cake and brandy ice cream. It was the neighbourhood restaurant everybody wanted, as great for food as it is atmosphere and service. Thankfully, its seasonal dishes are now available via takeaway.
Currently, on offer are two sharing menus, one veggie, one meat-based, as well as meals for one (potato, mushroom and vacherin pie anyone?), and a selection of sides, including burrata from Puglia and caramelised onion brioche. Treat yourself to dessert too - hazelnut and salted chocolate truffles.
Delivery radius: Within four miles of Levan (SE15 4QL)
levanlondon@Instagram - 23/37
22) Italian: Bocca di Lupo
In keeping with the launch of its new series of monthly changing menus, Bocca di Lupo has launched a premium home delivery service, celebrating the cuisine of a different region in Italy every month - from Sicily to Lazio and Puglia. Featuring some of the restaurants best-loved dishes, the delivery kits allow you to prepare your own Italian feast at home, and enjoy with a bottle of perfectly paired wine alongside it. There are meat, fish and vegetarian options to choose from (your guests will be suitably impressed when you serve up veal and pork meatballs peppered with pistachios, or handmade busiate pasta with pesto trapanese)- and everything comes neatly presented in sealed boxes for minimum fuss (and minimum mess).
Delivery radius: Most London postcodes; N, NW, W, WC, TW1-10, KT1-3, SW, SE, E, EC.
bocca_di_lupo@Instagram - 24/37
23) Indian: Gymkhana
Michelin-starred Gymkhana had only just reopened following a makeover when lockdown happened. Now, for the first time, the Indian restaurant is offering a delivery service via the Supper London app, featuring favourites such as its tandoori masala lamb chops, butter chicken masala and wild muntjac biryani. A bespoke four-course Feast Menu for two is also available.
Delivery radius: Marylebone, Mayfair, Paddington, Knightsbridge, Victoria, Sloane Square, St John’s Wood, Camden, Primrose Hill, and King’s Cross
gymkhanalondon@Instagram - 25/37
24) British: & Home by James Knappett
Trick yourself into thinking you're a fine dining chef with James Knappett's & Home delivery service. Following the temporary closure of his two Michelin-starred restaurant, Kitchen Table, Knappett launched two tasting menus to recreate at home, a 7-course menu priced at £75pp or a 11-course menu priced at £125pp. A luxurious-looking box will arrive on your doorstep filled with exceptional produce, from Orkney island scallops to burrata and fresh cherries, along with simple instructions on how to apply the finishing touches (it's mainly reheating sauces, so nothing too complicated). Even the most pedestrian of foods are elevated - broccoli never tasted as good than while perched on a 36-month aged Parmesan sauce, topped with sourdough croutons. This is a seriously impressive delivery service, reflecting Knappett's meticulous approach to food and his exemplary culinary finesse. The price might be steep, but if you're after a treat, then this is more than worth it.
Delivery radius: Within the M25
jknappett@Instagram - 26/37
25) Seafood: Orasay
The critically acclaimed Michelin-starred Orasay has launched an At Home menu, which is just as considered and hedonistic as that found at its physical Notting Hill restaurant. The menu, which changes daily, features both à la carte and set menus, for those in need of a real treat. Dishes include glazed duck leg, star anise and citrus; Cornish hake served with brown shrimp butter; and La Latteria burrata with baby peas and wild garlic. Each delivery comes with instructions and prepared quality ingredients to ensure that your recreation is as every bit as good as inside Orasay itself. All orders need to be pre-ordered in advance.
Delivery radius: Collection or delivery within five miles of the Notting Hill restaurant (W11 2EU).
orasay.london@Instagram - 27/37
26) British: Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
If you've been missing the creativity and originality that only true chefs can master, then consider Heston Blumenthal's new delivery service. Ahead of the reopening of his two Michelin-starred London restaurant, Dinner, on 1 September, diners can now enjoy the the chef's famous dishes at home, including his signature Meat Fruit, chicken liver parfait masquerading as a mandarin. Choose between three different four-course menus inspired by historic British gastronomy. If you want to impress your guests, this is the food to order.
Delivery radius: Collection only from the restaurant located at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London from Friday through to Sunday.
dinnerbyhb@Instagram - 28/37
27) Italian: Table at Vallebona
Italian food company Vallebona has risen to the occasion with its selection of grazing boxes, perfect for al fresco dining be it in a garden or a picnic in the park. Vallebona supplies some of London's best restaurants, from Bocca di Lupo to The River Café, with meats, charcuterie and all sorts of mouthwatering Italian pantry goods, an indication of the exceptional quality of its products. The family-run business has lovingly curated the Cenetta Grazing Box, available in two sizes, filled with Sardinian pasta, Tuscan sausages, jarred artichokes, antipasti and a delicious selection of cheeses. The way that the food is packaged means it stays fresh for weeks - not that you'll be able to resist wolfing down the contents of the box in one short sitting.
Delivery radius: Anywhere in mainland UK, including the Channel Islands, Highlands and Ireland for an extra delivery fee.
vallebona_ltd@Instagram - 29/37
28) Italian: Lina Stores
Much-loved Soho institution Lina Stores is bringing the taste of Italy into our homes with a new delivery service. The restaurant offers both groceries and meal kits, featuring the same ingredients used and sold in its three branches, allowing you to recreate the same pasta and pizza dishes. The pasta and sauces can also be frozen, so you can save them for a day when you really need a dose of la dolce vita.
Delivery radius: All inner London postcodes, including N, NW, E, EC, W, WC, SE, SW and HA.
linastores@Instagram - 30/37
29) Afternoon tea: The Dorchester
Many summer fixtures have been postponed this year, but The Dorchester has found a way to bring one of its most quintessential pleasures to our doors with the launch of the At Home Afternoon Tea, available from 1 June. Arriving in a wicker hamper, the lavish spread includes finger sandwiches (egg, cucumber, smoked salmon), plus scones, two types of jam, cream and a selection of extravagantly pretty cakes. It’s accompanied by a box of different teas, a half-bottle of Veuve Clicquot, and detailed instructions on the proper way to set the table and the scene - there’s even a link to a Dorchester classical piano playlist for purists, while the chefs have included the recipe for the (perfectly fluffy) scones for those tempted to replicate the treat for a second time. A percentage of the proceeds from sales will be donated to Manorfield Primary school in Tower Hamlets. - Lydia Slater
Delivery radius: Within a 4.5-mile radius of The Dorchester (W1K 1QA) or for collection from Parcafé at The Dorchester. All orders must be placed a minimum of 24 hours in advance.
thedorchester@Instagram - 31/37
30) Italian: Enrica Rocca
Enrica Rocca is a gourmet cookery school with two centres, one in London and another Venice. When lockdown began, they were - like most other food-based, customer-facing businesses - forced to close, but has since adapted its model to function as a delivery service, available via online foodie directory the Grocery List (the latter is worth browsing if you're keen to support excellent local food suppliers). Its high-quality, home-cooked Italian dishes are made with love, from the perfectly smoked aubergine parmigiana to its mixed bean salad with creamy burrata. This is the equivalent to an Italian Nonna turning up on your doorstep with a platter full of culinary treats... there's a real personal touch to the food that makes Enrica Rocca's delivery service really stand out.
Delivery radius: Free delivery for NW10, NW6, W10, W11, W12, W2, W8, W9, WC1E, WC2H, and an £8 fee to other London postcodes.
enricaroccacookeryschool@Instagram - 32/37
31) Middle Eastern: Ottolenghi
Ottolenghi's original outpost in Notting Hill is now open for delivery and click-and-collect. Expect a host of delicious salads and bakes that can reheated at home, from roasted aubergine with tahini and croutons, to cauliflower tabbouleh with grilled asparagus, cashews and pomegranate seeds. Those hankering for sweet treats will be pleased to know that cakes and pastries are also available.
Delivery radius: Within 2.5 miles.
ottolenghi@Instagram - 33/37
32) Modern European: Hide
Sample the best of fine dining by way of acclaimed chef Ollie Dabbous with Hide's delivery service. Indulge yourself in one of the weekend set menus or brunches (all dishes are designed to travel well) or just go à la carte, and opt for a main - perhaps roast Iberico pork with black pudding, mango chutney and fennel slaw, or glazed salmon with white miso and green asparagus. Desserts and wine via Hedonism are also on offer.
Delivery radius: Within a seven-mile radius of its Mayfair restaurant (W1J 7NB).
hide_restaurant@Instagram - 34/37
33) Seafood: London Shell Co
Summer usually means London Shell Co's barges are brimming with diners busily tucking into some of the very freshest British seafood while enjoying the experience of being onboard a slowly moving boat. While that might not be currently possible, the cruising restaurant has come up with the idea of delivery picnic boxes ready to eat - featuring smoked mackerel, cured Dorset char and house pickles served with sourdough bread - as well as BBQ boxes ready to cook, which include tandoori monkfish steaks, whole rainbow trout and king prawns.
Delivery radius: Within the M25 only.
londonshellco@Instagram - 35/37
34) Italian: Cafe Murano
Cafe Murano Bermondsey offers pre-order pasta meal kits, fresh pastas, pestos and sauces to enjoy at home. Expect family-sized lasagne, spinach and ricotta tortelli, and tagliatelle with sausage ragu, plus there's also the option to mix and match sauces and fresh pastas. Finish the experience off by opting for one of the wine pairings, hand-selected by a restaurant expert.
Delivery radius: Within a three-mile radius of its Bermondsey restaurant (SE1 3TQ).
cafemurano@Instagram - 36/37
35) Sushi: Sushisamba
Sushisamba and Duck & Waffle have combined forces to bring you the best in Japanese, Peruvian and Brazilian cuisine. With a mixture of their best-loved small and large plates, paired with a choice of bottle-conditioned cocktails or mocktails, this is an ideal option for anyone tired of cooking who still wants to remain healthy. That is, of course, if you manage to resist one of the celebration cakes on offer, spanning the heavenly chocolate El Dorado to the Haru cherry mousse and shiso sponge.
Delivery radius: Within five miles of Sushisamba's Covent Garden branch (WC2E 8RF).
sushisamba@Instagram - 37/37
36) Mediterranean and Middle Eastern: Hampstead Kitchen
While many high-end restaurants are now offering delivery services, most still require the diner to do the work of heating, plating up and creating the ambience. The private chef Saima Khan, whose Hampstead Kitchen is regularly called in to cater to the A-List, wants to change that with her Bubble Banquets. Choose a menu, and it is set up for you at home, laid out in pretty crockery on a grand silver mezze platter; when you’ve finished your meal, they take it all away. Our Persian banquet, beautifully set up by Saima on our roof terrace, included tender saffron and lemon chicken, rice flavoured with rose and dill, a rocket and blueberry salad with feta and smoked nuts, roasted aubergine, and a yogurt, caramelised onion and spinach dip said to be Michelle Obama’s favourite. The whole experience was a feast for the eyes as much as for the senses. As replete, we scraped the last of our vermicelli and rose desserts out of their decorative glasses, it was a delightful thought that we didn’t even have to load the dishwasher. - Lydia Slater
Delivery radius: Central London, West London, and Hampstead and neighbouring areas.
hampsteadkitchn@Instagram
