London, the capital of the United Kingdom, is not only a cultural and historical center but also the gastronomic heart of the country. This city, which never sleeps, offers a wealth of culinary experiences, from traditional British dishes to exotic foods from around the world.
Food in London
The cuisine of London is truly unique. It is rooted in the traditions of English cooking but is also enriched by influences from all over the world, especially from former British colonies.
London never ceases to amaze me with its openness to new culinary trends. In the city, you’ll find countless restaurants serving dishes from around the globe, from Indian and Chinese cuisine to modern European gastronomy. I can’t imagine visiting London without trying fish and chips and at least one meal in Chinatown.
Fish & chips from the London establishment The Myfair Chippy.
🇬🇧 Tip: After British food, set off to explore London in the footsteps of the Beatles. Choose one of the many themed tours. All you need is love! ❤️
What to Eat in London
Fish and chips. Fried cod with chips, served with vinegar and lemon. This dish is the most famous in London and throughout the UK, especially popular in the city’s seaside areas.
Afternoon tea. Afternoon tea served with sandwiches, biscuits, and pastries. This tradition originated in 19th-century London and is still popular in many luxury hotels and tea rooms.
Sunday roast. A Sunday roast, usually beef, lamb, or chicken, served with Yorkshire pudding, roasted vegetables, and gravy. This traditional British meal is a favorite in many London pubs.
Pie and mash. A meat pie with mashed potatoes, often served with green peas and gravy. This dish comes from East London and has been part of the local cuisine since the 19th century.
Bangers and mash. Sausages with mashed potatoes, served with onion gravy. A popular dish in many London pubs, especially during the colder months.
Eton mess. A dessert made from crushed strawberries, cream, and meringue. Named after the prestigious boys’ school Eton College near London.
Sticky toffee pudding. A date pudding with caramel sauce, a popular dessert in many London restaurants.
Beef Wellington. A fillet of beef wrapped in puff pastry, served with demi-glace sauce. This luxurious dish is named after the Duke of Wellington and is popular in many renowned London restaurants.
Pimm’s cup. A refreshing alcoholic drink made from Pimm’s gin, fruit, and herbs, popular especially during the summer months and at social events like Wimbledon.
London Pride. A traditional English ale from London’s Fuller’s brewery.
Café E. Pellicci. According to many (and myself), the best full English breakfast in all of London.
Chinatown. Plenty of establishments focused on Asian cuisine and one of the places where you can eat cheaply in London.
Sky Garden. Most people don’t head to Sky Garden for the food but for the experience. If you’re not afraid of heights, book a free entry to this London skyscraper. Inside, you’ll find an incredible view and also a café with “relatively” acceptable prices (for London).
Café in London’s Sky Garden.
London Markets
London markets are where history meets modern lifestyle, where the scent of exotic spices mingles with fresh produce from local farmers, and where you can soak up the city’s authentic atmosphere.
Borough Market is one of the oldest and most famous markets in London. Its history dates back to the 13th century, and it still retains its unique atmosphere today. This covered market is a paradise for food lovers, offering a vast array of fresh, local, and international products. From fragrant cheeses to crispy pastries to exotic fruits and vegetables.
Maria’s Market Café at Borough Market. A good choice if you get hungry right at the market. But the best places can be found elsewhere.
Another famous market is Portobello Road Market in the heart of Notting Hill. This market, made famous by the movie “Notting Hill” starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, is the world’s largest antiques market. Besides antiques, you will also find stalls with clothing, jewelry, art, and, of course, food.
For lovers of modern gastronomy and design, Spitalfields Market in East End is a clear choice. This market, located in a historic Victorian marketplace, offers a mix of traditional and modern stalls. You’ll find young designers, artists, and craftsmen selling original pieces of clothing, jewelry, and home decor. Spitalfields Market is also a haven for foodies, with a wide selection of international dishes from Thai cuisine to renowned English cheeses.
Brick Lane Market in the Shoreditch district is another place worth visiting. This market is renowned primarily for its vintage and second-hand clothing, but you’ll also find stalls with art, music, and food. Brick Lane is also known for its strong Bengali community, which means you can taste some of the best curries in London.
Broadway Market, situated in the Hackney district of East London, is another popular London market. The market offers a diverse range of stalls with food, clothing, jewelry, art, and other products.
Cheddar, bacon, arugula, and mustard sandwich bought at Broadway Market.
Finally, I must not forget the famous Camden Market, which is actually a collection of several markets in the Camden Town area. This market is known for its alternative and punk rock atmosphere, which attracts mostly young people. Besides stalls with clothing, accessories, and souvenirs, you’ll also find street food from around the world.
London is simply a city that will win the heart of every food lover. Its culinary scene reflects its residents – diverse, dynamic, and open to new influences. Whether you prefer traditional British cuisine or enjoy trying new flavors from around the world, you will find everything your taste buds desire in London.
Enjoy your food in London!
🇬🇧 Tip: Enjoy classic British afternoon tea right in the London National Gallery after a guided tour. Great food, porcelain, white tablecloths ... You’ll feel like royalty! 👑
The Scotch egg, a traditional British snack, is a perfect example of simplicity and flavor in one. This golden-fried egg, traditionally wrapped in a delicious layer of sausage meat and crunchy breadcrumbs, is a popular treat in pubs and supermarkets across Britain.
E. Pellicci is a renowned London bistro in the Bethnal Green area. This family-run establishment, operating since 1900, is famous for its unbeatable "full English breakfast." Some even call their traditional British breakfast the best in the world. The bistro's interior, with its art deco wood paneling, gives the place a unique atmosphere. The Pellicci family has owned and operated the business for several generations.
Borough Market is one of the oldest and most popular food markets in London. It is located at the southern end of London Bridge. It offers a range of high-quality food from vendors across the country and abroad. From fresh produce to artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and baked goods, as well as exotic delicacies, Borough Market has something for everyone.
Camden Market in London is a place full of flavors, scents, and history. This labyrinth of food stalls from around the world, fashion, and crafts attracts crowds of tourists and locals alike. Camden Market is inextricably linked with the legendary singer Amy Winehouse, who lived here and frequently visited her favorite spots. Her legacy is commemorated by a life-sized bronze statue.
Broadway Market is a London market stretching from London Fields to Regent's Canal. It offers a diverse range of fresh foods, homemade baked goods, international delicacies, and traditional British specialties. In addition to gourmet experiences, you'll find crafts, books, clothing, and antiques from independent vendors. Due to its location away from the busy heart of London, Broadway Market retains an authentic atmosphere that you can best enjoy with a cup of coffee in hand while observing the lively activity around you.
London's Chinatown, tucked away in the heart of the bustling West End, is a favorite destination for lovers of Asian cuisine and culture. This vibrant area, renowned for its authentic restaurants and shops, offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the flavors and traditions of China without leaving the British capital.
