Dinners and Diners: Where and How to Dine in London

A witty and practical tour of London’s dining scene at the turn of the century, this volume gathers a series of articles that once delighted readers of a prominent newspaper. The author, a seasoned traveller of menus and maître‑d’œuvres, blends amused anecdotes with honest assessments of restaurants, from grand banquets fit for a Lucullus to modest meals suited to a humble traveler. Alongside the reviews you’ll find useful details such as typical prices, suggested orders, and a handful of classic recipes.

Beyond the listings, the book captures the social etiquette and little‑known pitfalls that can turn a simple supper into a bewildering adventure—like deciphering cryptic French soup names or resisting the head waiter’s default suggestions. Its conversational tone makes the often‑intimidating world of haute cuisine feel accessible, offering the confident guidance a newcomer needs while still entertaining the seasoned gourmand. Readers come away with both a clearer map of where to eat in London and a smile at the author’s gentle humor.