SHOREDITCH. This suave Shoreditch restaurant, which opened in August of 2001, occupies a converted warehouse and offers a spacious dining room outfitted with a long, stylish bar and black walnut and leather furniture. As for cuisine, brothers David and Rob have created a menu that features grilled whole dorada with lemon and chilli dressing, grilled line-caught yellow fin tuna with marinated red onion relish, and Portuguese-style steak with fried tomatoes. TUBE: Old Street

SHOREDITCH. As if hip Fifteen didn't already provide enough raw style for the young, trendy masses, celeb owner-chef Jamie Oliver saw fit to outfit the basement eatery with one of the funkiest bars around. Where but here could you find a drink-friendly space, hued in pink, that looks like a set from a Kubrick film? Even better, the place doesn't rely just on panache to keep patrons loyal ­ outstanding cuisine and potent cocktails more than take care of that. And for early risers, the good news is that Fifteen Trattoria, located upstairs, opens for breakfast at 8:30 in the morning! Mon-Fri set lunch 2 courses £22, 3 courses £25; A la carte menu at lunch only; Dinner tasting menus £50-60, £90-100 with wines. TUBE: Old Street

ST. JAMES'S. This eatery proudly boasts one of London's most creative kitchens, which helps it earn strong accolades from locals and critics alike. Adding to its popularity are a professional, formal approach to service and a real special occasion feel. Menu highlights include duck confit, grilled lamb and steak, and fresh seafood, all deliciously seasoned and artistically presented. Fixed-price lunch and dinner menus are available. TUBE: Green Park

CITY. This casual eatery, with several other branches scattered conveniently throughout other London neighborhoods, serves up a mix of British and Mediterranean food. The breakfast menu features power smoothies for the health conscious on the go. They're made of milk, yogurt, stringy bark honey and oats. You can also opt for any of the breakfast baps (sandwiches), which are hearty affairs designed to fuel you up for a long day. Try the "I Love England Breakfast Bap," filled with mushrooms, tomatoes, sausage and bacon. TUBE: Cannon Street

NOTTING HILL. This Turkish restaurant is perfect for a quick lunch, and although it's been largely undiscovered, locals are now beginning to talk it up. If you're in a hurry, get fresh-grilled food to go, or settle into the exotically decorated dining room, which offers candlelight and belly dancers in the evening. The eye-catching yellow exterior also features a window displaying Turkish pastries and soft bread pouches with various savory stuffings. Highly recommended. TUBE: Notting Hill Gate