London is a paradise for food lovers, offering a diverse culinary scene that blends traditional British fare with global influences. From historic pubs serving iconic fish and chips to Michelin-starred restaurants showcasing modern gastronomy, the city has something for every palate. Whether you’re craving classic English breakfasts, street food, or fine dining, this guide covers the best dishes and where to find them.
1. Traditional British Dishes You Must Try
Fish and Chips
No visit to London is complete without indulging in a classic portion of fish and chips. Crispy battered fish served with thick-cut fries, mushy peas, and tartar sauce is a staple of British cuisine.
Where to Try:
- The Golden Hind (Marylebone): Serving authentic fish and chips since 1914.
- Poppies (Camden, Soho, Spitalfields): A retro-style eatery offering sustainably sourced fish.
- Rock & Sole Plaice (Covent Garden): One of London’s oldest fish and chip shops.
Full English Breakfast
A hearty breakfast dish featuring eggs, sausages, bacon, baked beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, and toast.
Where to Try:
- Regency Café (Westminster): A no-frills, classic spot with an old-school ambiance.
- The Wolseley (Mayfair): A more refined take on the English breakfast.
- E. Pellicci (Bethnal Green): A family-run café with a strong local following.
Sunday Roast with Yorkshire Pudding
A traditional British meal featuring roasted meat (beef, chicken, lamb, or pork), served with potatoes, vegetables, gravy, and Yorkshire pudding.
Where to Try:
- Hawksmoor (Multiple locations): Famous for its succulent Sunday roasts.
- The Harwood Arms (Fulham): London’s only Michelin-starred pub.
- Blacklock (Soho, Shoreditch, Covent Garden): Known for its delicious meats and roasts.
2. London’s Best Street Food Markets
Borough Market
One of London’s oldest and most famous food markets, offering gourmet delights, artisanal cheeses, and international street food.
Must-Try:
- Grilled cheese sandwich from Kappacasein
- Chorizo roll from Brindisa
- Oysters from Richard Haward’s Oysters
Camden Market
A vibrant market with eclectic street food from around the world.
Must-Try:
- Halloumi fries from The Cheese Wheel
- Bao buns from BaoziInn
- Indian street food from SpiceBox
Maltby Street Market
A smaller, more local-focused market under railway arches in Bermondsey.
Must-Try:
- Duck confit burgers from The Beefsteaks
- Raclette from The Cheese Truck
- Gin cocktails from Little Bird Gin
3. International Cuisine in London
Indian Cuisine
London is home to some of the best Indian food outside of India, from casual curry houses to Michelin-starred restaurants.
Where to Try:
- Dishoom (Multiple locations): Inspired by Bombay’s Irani cafés, known for its black daal and bacon naan roll.
- Gymkhana (Mayfair): A Michelin-starred Indian restaurant serving upscale, flavorful dishes.
- Brick Lane: Famous for its curry houses, including Aladin and City Spice.
Chinese Cuisine
London’s Chinatown is a must-visit for authentic dim sum, roast duck, and bubble tea.
Where to Try:
- Dumplings’ Legend (Chinatown): Famous for its soup dumplings.
- Four Seasons (Chinatown): Known for its roast duck.
- Hakkasan (Mayfair): A Michelin-starred modern Chinese restaurant.
Middle Eastern Cuisine
For flavorful kebabs, hummus, and grilled meats, London has plenty of excellent Middle Eastern spots.
Where to Try:
- The Palomar (Soho): Modern Israeli cuisine with a lively atmosphere.
- Honey & Co. (Fitzrovia): A cozy spot offering delicious mezze and baked goods.
- Berber & Q (Haggerston): Specializing in smoky, grilled meats and North African flavors.
4. London’s Top Fine Dining & Michelin-Starred Restaurants
Gordon Ramsay’s Restaurant (Chelsea)
Holding three Michelin stars, this restaurant offers impeccable French-inspired cuisine.
Signature Dish: Beef Wellington
Sketch (Mayfair)
A unique, art-inspired dining experience with a whimsical pink-themed tea room.
Must-Try: Afternoon tea or the tasting menu at the Michelin-starred Lecture Room.
The Ledbury (Notting Hill)
A two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite seasonal tasting menus.
Must-Try: Game dishes and expertly crafted seafood.
Core by Clare Smyth (Notting Hill)
Run by a former chef from Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, this three-Michelin-starred spot showcases modern British cuisine.
Must-Try: Lamb Wellington and the potato and roe dish.
5. London’s Best Cafés & Afternoon Tea Spots
Afternoon Tea
A quintessential London experience featuring delicate finger sandwiches, scones, and fine teas.
Where to Try:
- The Ritz (Mayfair): An iconic, luxurious afternoon tea experience.
- Fortnum & Mason (Piccadilly): Famous for its elegant tea selection.
- Sketch (Mayfair): Offers a quirky, artistic tea setting.
Best Coffee Shops
For specialty coffee lovers, London has a booming third-wave coffee scene.
Where to Try:
- Monmouth Coffee (Covent Garden & Borough Market): Famous for its ethically sourced beans.
- Kaffeine (Fitzrovia): A favorite among coffee aficionados.
- Ozone Coffee Roasters (Shoreditch): A trendy spot with great espresso and brunch.
Final Thoughts
London’s food scene is as diverse as its culture, offering something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re indulging in a classic Sunday roast, exploring global cuisines, or dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, the city is a true foodie’s paradise. Make sure to explore both the iconic dishes and the hidden gems to get the full taste of London!
