Eating in London
London is a great foodie destination. Here are the traditional dishes you should try when in London, and the best places where to taste them. London is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city steeped in history, and its culinary scene perfectly reflects this diverse heritage. With influences from around the world, foodies can embark on a global gastronomic adventure without ever leaving the city. From traditional British fare to innovative fusion cuisine, London’s restaurants, street food vendors, and food markets cater to every palate, budget, and culinary curiosity. The city’s ever-evolving food scene is a testament to its openness to new flavors and techniques, making it a true foodie paradise.
In recent years, London has firmly established itself as a world-class dining destination, with a wide array of Michelin-starred establishments that showcase the skills of renowned chefs. Simultaneously, the city maintains its dedication to preserving its culinary roots, with historic pubs and eateries serving up time-honored British dishes. No matter your preference, London offers a unique culinary experience that will leave you hungry for more. From sampling street food at bustling markets like Borough Market and Camden Lock to indulging in luxurious fine dining experiences, the city truly has something for everyone. So, grab your fork and let London’s diverse, vibrant food scene take you on a flavorful journey you won’t soon forget.
Food to try in London
Fish and Chips
Dish: Fish and Chips is a quintessential British classic. Golden, battered fish is served alongside crispy, hand-cut chips.
Where to try: Poppies Fish & Chips
Atmosphere: Casual, retro setting with 1950s-inspired decor
Insider tip: Ask for the house-made tartar sauce and a side of mushy peas for an authentic experience.
Sunday Roast
Dish: Sunday Roast is a traditional British meal featuring roasted meat, roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and vegetables.
Where to try: Hawksmoor Seven Dials
Atmosphere: Upscale, contemporary British steakhouse
Insider tip: Don’t miss their mouthwatering bone marrow gravy and be sure to book in advance as Sundays are popular.
Beef Wellington
Dish: Beef Wellington is a delicious combination of tender beef fillet, mushroom duxelles, and puff pastry.
Where to try: Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay
Atmosphere: Elegant, fine dining
Insider tip: Pair your Beef Wellington with a glass of red wine from their extensive wine list.
Full English Breakfast
Dish: A hearty plate of eggs, bacon, sausages, black pudding, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, and toast.
Where to try: Regency Café
Atmosphere: Classic, no-frills British café
Insider tip: Arrive early to avoid the queues, and consider adding a side of bubble and squeak for a true London experience.
Pie and Mash
Dish: A traditional London dish, pie and mash consists of minced beef and onion pie served with creamy mashed potatoes and parsley liquor.
Where to try: G. Kelly
Atmosphere: Casual, historic East End pie shop
Insider tip: Top your pie with chili-infused vinegar for an extra kick.
Eton Mess
Dish: Eton Mess is a delightful dessert made of crushed meringue, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries.
Where to try: The Ivy Market Grill
Atmosphere: Stylish, upscale brasserie
Insider tip: Enjoy the dessert on their outdoor terrace for a quintessential British summer experience.
Sticky Toffee Pudding
Dish: A warm, moist sponge cake made with dates, covered in a toffee sauce, and served with custard or ice cream.
Where to try: The Orange
Atmosphere: Cozy, rustic gastro-pub
Insider tip: Pair your dessert with a glass of dessert wine for a luxurious treat.
Chicken Tikka Masala
Dish: A creamy, tomato-based curry with tender pieces of marinated chicken.
Where to try: Dishoom
Atmosphere: Atmospheric, Bombay-inspired café
Insider tip: Share a portion of their signature black daal for a complete Indian feast.
Salt Beef Bagel
Dish: A soft bagel filled with tender, slow-cooked salt beef, pickles, and mustard.
Where to try: Beigel Bake
Atmosphere: Casual, no-frills bagel shop
Insider tip: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid long queues, and consider trying their smoked salmon and cream cheese bagel as well.
Scotch Egg
Dish: A hard-boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried.
Where to try: The Harwood Arms
Atmosphere: Relaxed, Michelin-starred gastropub
Insider tip: Pair your Scotch egg with a pint of local craft beer and enjoy their game-centric menu.
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