East Dulwich has once again been named among the UK’s best places to live, landing fourth in London on Muddy Stilettos’ Top 300 Places to Live 2025 list.
The popular south east London neighbourhood between Peckham and Crystal Palace was celebrated for its leafy streets, cultural hotspots and buzzy Lordship Lane, as well as its strong food scene.
We took to Tripadvisor to find out the top five restaurants in East Dulwich rated by locals, based on ratings and reviews.
These are the top five:
Dulwich Tandoori
54 Lordship Lane, SE22 8HJ
Part of East Dulwich since 1982, Dulwich Tandoori is well known for its authentic Indian dishes marinated and grilled in the traditional tandoori clay oven.
The menu features classics like Tandoori King Prawns, Lamb Chops, and their much-loved Butter Chicken, along with house specials such as the Mogul Lamb Shank and Duck Jalfrezi.
The restaurant has received over 300 Tripadvisor reviews and a Travellers’ Choice 2025 award, marking it out as one of the best rated in the area when it comes to going out for a curry.
Franklins
157 Lordship Lane, SE22 8HX
Just a few doors down from Dulwich Tandoori, Franklins offers a modern British menu with seasonally changing cuisine based on what’s in season.
Guests can expect to find seasonal dishes like game pies in autumn, freshly landed fish in summer, and indulgent puddings all year round.
Its laid-back and refined atmosphere makes it a favourite for Sunday roasts and leisurely dinners.
Yama Momo
72 Lordship Lane, SE22 8HF
If you’re in the mood for Japanese fusion, Yama Momo brings a stylish twist to East Dulwich.
The restaurant is known for its sushi, small plates and cocktails, making it a popular choice for nights out with friends and celebrations.
Some of their signature dishes include Wagyu Beef Tataki, Black Cod, and imaginative rolls that combine classic Japanese flavours with modern flair.
Tripadvisor reviewers highlight the quality of the food and the chic presentation, with one reviewer calling it “a West End experience in South London.”
The Palmerston
91 Lordship Lane, SE22 8EP
The Palmerston offers a classic gastropub setting housed in a Victorian building.
The menu features European fare with hearty mains, seasonal specials and Sunday roasts that are a favourite with Tripadvisor reviewers.
Regulars rave about the cooked steaks, fresh fish dishes and generous charcuterie plates, along with its curated wine list and rotating cask ales.
Spinach
161 Lordship Lane, SE22 8HX
Spinach is an all-day café-restaurant specialising in fresh, greener plates packed with vegetables.
Breakfast, brunch and lunch are particularly strong here, with dishes like sweetcorn fritters, shakshuka and colourful salads being popular choices for diners.
Its health-conscious menu and airy interiors make it a popular spot for brunch dates and casual catch-ups.
The restaurant is also open on Friday and Saturday evenings, they offer a private dining room, and they are currently taking bookings for Christmas parties.
