London Hampstead, Highgate, And Golders Green

Hampstead High Street has no shortage of eating opportunities for the area’s wealthy residents; most of the places are fairly high-end but very good. The establishments know they have to maintain their quality to retain customers, so Hampstead is perfect for a culinary splurge. It’s also a sugar lover’s paradise, with countless bakeries and patisseries, offering inexpensive sweet and savory bites. For a cluster of cheap restaurants, head to South End Road near the Hampstead Heath train station. Highgate is short on eats; you’ll mostly find pubs and convenience stores. Bakeries in the Jewish neighborhood Golders Green make some of the best challah in the city.

Le Crêperie de Hampstead, 77 Hampstead High St. (www.hampsteadcreperie.com), the metal stand on the side of the King William IV statue. Hampstead. Don’t let the slow-moving line deter you; these phenomenal crepes are worth the wait. Among many other varieties, try the favorite ham, egg, and cheese (£3.70) or the maple, walnut, and cream (£3). Open M-Th 11:45am-11pm, F-Su 11:45am-11:30pm.
Carmelli Bakery, 128 Golders Green Rd. (☎8455 2074). Golders Green (Zone 3). Carmelli’s golden egg-glazed challah (from £1.50) is one of the best in London. With a pastry case filled to the brim with goodies large and small (starting around £1.50), it’s hard to go wrong here. F afternoons are packed as people prepare for the Sabbath. Kosher. Parve available. Wheelchair-accessible. Hours vary, but generally open daily 6am-1am; Th and Sa 24hr. Cash only.
Bloom’s, 130 Golders Green Rd. (☎8455 1338). Golders Green (Zone 3). The waiters’ signature black bow ties have been an essential part of the experience since 1920. The takeaway shop in the front serves freshly made dishes like potato salad and sandwich fillers (from £4.50), and the sleek restaurant in back has traditional dishes like chopped liver sandwiches (£8.50) chicken schnitzel (£12.50). Jewish favorites like gefilte fish (£4.50) and latkes (£2) served as side orders. Kosher. Parve available. Wheelchair-accessible. Open M-Th and Su noon-11pm, F 11am-3pm.
Al Casbah, 42 Hampstead High St. (☎7431 6356). Hampstead. Amid the percussive music and cushioned stools, the Moroccan chef cooks up an array of mixed grillades platters (from £12.50) and couscous dishes (from £12.50) large enough for 2. Lounge on the low couches with ornate pillows and, on warm days, people-watch through the enormous windows looking onto the sidewalk. Sa belly dancing. Open daily 9am-11pm. MC/V.