Les 2 Garçons, a charming French restaurant located in Crouch End, has been awarded the prestigious title of London's best local restaurant by The Good Food Guide. Known for its warm and

inviting atmosphere, Les 2 Garçons specializes in serving hearty Gallic country cuisine, featuring delectable dishes like confit duck with haricot beans, steak frites, and roast sea bass.

This accolade is part of The Good Food Guide's comprehensive list of Britain's 100 Best Local Restaurants, which was recently published to celebrate and recognize the neighborhood gems that cater to their local communities.

The selection process involved an impressive 37,000 public nominations for restaurants across England, Scotland, and Wales. Each of the final 100 restaurants on the list was personally visited and assessed by guide inspectors.

While Les 2 Garçons claimed the title of London's best local restaurant, the overall winner for 2023 was Tallow, situated in Royal Tunbridge Wells. Tallow impressed the editor of The Good Food Guide, Elizabeth Carter, with its exceptional cooking, affordability, and service. Carter expressed admiration for the chef's dedication to running a neighborhood restaurant of such high quality and highlighted the thoughtful menu, which offers delicious, simple, and seasonal options. The constantly changing menu, including the bread and snacks, keeps regular patrons excited to return monthly and experience the culinary delights. Carter noted that Tallow's commitment to delivering a remarkable dining experience sets it apart from the competition.

Donna Taylor, the owner of Tallow, expressed gratitude and pride for the acknowledgment, emphasizing the restaurant's commitment to providing an accessible and relaxed dining experience that guests can enjoy repeatedly.

Among the other regional winners from London were Copper & Ink, Sam's Riverside, The Holland, Giulia, Akub Restaurant, Hawthorn, and Church Road, showcasing the city's vibrant culinary scene.

The Good Food Guide also recognized outstanding local restaurants across the country, including The Kinneuchar Inn in Leven, Scotland; Rocket & Rye in Cowbridge, Wales; and Wild Artichokes in Kingsbridge, Devon.

Additionally, Higher Ground, a bistro located in central Manchester, received a special mention for its merit. The restaurant, praised through a public nomination, was commended for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, acting as a vital link to the local food system. By utilizing locally sourced produce from their partner farm, Cinderwood Market Garden, Higher Ground has fostered a sense of community within the city.

Kate Nicholls, the CEO of UKHospitality, highlighted the importance of The Good Food Guide's list in shedding light on smaller operators. Local restaurants play a pivotal role in communities, generating employment, boosting economic growth, and, most importantly, delivering fantastic food. The overwhelming support from the public for their beloved local eateries is crucial in sustaining these valued businesses amid rising costs.

The recognition bestowed upon Les 2 Garçons and other exceptional local restaurants serves as a testament to the talent, dedication, and culinary prowess found within these neighborhood gems, enriching the dining experiences of locals and visitors alike. Photo by User:HughJLF, Wikimedia commons.