24 February 2026
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In our regular series, we ask famous chefs and personalities to tell us all about 'their London'. From top tips on where to dine in the city, to their personal haunts ranging from bakeries to book shops, we’ve got the inside track on London’s premier spots from the people who know it best.
There are few chefs with an international reputation quite like Hélène Darroze. She may be a French culinary icon, but it’s London that’s home to her most garlanded restaurant. Hélène Darroze at The Connaught’s continued retention of Three MICHELIN Stars is testament to the enduring appeal of her cooking, an art form she has mastered and evolved through the years to continually impress her many loyal diners. So, who better to get restaurant recommendations from than one of the world’s most acclaimed chefs? Read on for Darroze's top tips for visiting London.
As a French chef with a restaurant in London, where do you think are the best places for French food in the city?
“Josephine Bouchon by Claude Bosi. The restaurant is an homage to his upbringing, showcasing the best of a particular French culinary tradition – the Lyonnaise bouchon. Lovely ambience, great ingredients treated well and served with no fuss. Classical, simple brilliance.”
What is your go-to restaurant for a celebration?
“CORE by Clare Smyth. Clare relies on using the finest British ingredients, sourced from all regions of the UK. It’s a beautiful cuisine full of emotion.”Where can people find a good green space in the city?
“Everywhere from Hyde Park to Green Park.What’s your favourite bar in London?
“Visit The Connaught Bar in Mayfair and enter a different realm. It's so elegant and offers some of the most sophisticated cocktails in the city.”
Which is your favourite area of London?
“Notting Hill because of its beautiful Victorian houses, its famous antique market (Portobello Road Market) and its tranquil atmosphere.”Do you have a favourite London market?
“Borough Market offers organic products sold exclusively by carefully selected small producers. I do my shopping there before settling around the stalls and grabbing some fish & chips on the street. It’s a very popular spot.”What is your favourite theatre/cinema in London?
“The Electric is one of the oldest cinemas in London, located on Portobello Road in Notting Hill. You can watch films while seated in large leather club chairs with footrests.”Matt Abé / Michel Roux / Clare Smyth
Hélène Darroze / Tom Kerridge / Andrew Wong
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Hero Image: Hélène Darroze, the chef behind Three-MICHELIN Star London restaurant Hélène Darroze at The Connaught. © Hélène Darroze at The Connaught
