Fodor's Expert Review Sam's Cafe

This "greasy spoon without the grease" has become a neighborhood hot spot thanks to its modern reinterpretation of traditional British “caff” food (with the nontraditional additions of a wine list, vegan options, newspapers, and books) as well as its well-connected owners (the restaurant was officially opened by local resident Helena Bonham Carter and the vintage jukebox is “curated” by none other than Robert Plant). Lunch and dinner options feature healthy, homemade takes on British comfort food like bangers-and-mash with onion gravy, salmon fish cakes, and mac-and-cheese. There's also the option of interesting salads like grilled halloumi cheese with heritage carrots and oranges, while breakfast offers a vegan Full English. The ambience is a cross between an American diner and a Parisian bistro, and the service is welcoming if sometimes erratic.