Paramount

Walk down London Street in Paddington and you'll find yourself in a stripped-back Lebanese spot where the food does the talking. Order the mezze boards and watch them arrive laden with hummus that's silky, fattoush that's actually crisp, and charred halloumi that's borderline offensive in the best way. The room itself is unfussy—whitewashed walls, simple tables, no pretension—which somehow makes it feel even more authentic. You're here because the shawarma wraps are exceptional and the grilled meats arrive properly charred and juicy, not dried out like so many places manage.