Key Takeaways
- A World of Flavor: London’s food scene is a dynamic blend of centuries-old British traditions and a rich tapestry of diverse global cuisines, making it a top-tier culinary destination.
- The Classics: Must-try dishes include Fish and Chips, the iconic Sunday Roast, and a Full English Breakfast, which are best enjoyed in the cozy, historic atmosphere of a traditional pub.
- Market Marvels: Food markets like the historic Borough Market and the eclectic Camden Market are essential visits for experiencing the city’s vibrant street food culture and sampling artisanal produce.
- Quintessential Experiences: Afternoon Tea is a quintessential London ritual, with options ranging from timeless luxury in grand hotels to quirky, modern-themed offerings.
- Global Kitchen: Exploring multicultural neighborhoods like Brick Lane for its famous curries, Chinatown for dim sum, and Brixton for Caribbean flavors reveals the true depth and soul of London’s culinary diversity.
Introduction
IntroductionWelcome to London, a city that moves at a dizzying pace, where history and modernity collide on every street corner. For years, London’s culinary reputation was the butt of many jokes, often dismissed as bland and uninspired. But let me, as a local who has eaten my way through this city countless times, tell you that narrative is decades out of date. Today’s London is a global gastronomic powerhouse, a sprawling, delicious metropolis where you can eat the world in a single weekend.
This isn’t just a city with good restaurants; it’s a city that lives and breathes food. It’s in the sizzle of onions at a street food stall, the clinking of glasses in a centuries-old pub, the quiet reverence of an afternoon tea service, and the boisterous energy of a Sunday market. The food scene here is a direct reflection of London itself: diverse, ever-changing, steeped in tradition, yet relentlessly innovative.
This London food guide is your personal invitation to dive headfirst into the most exciting flavors the city has to offer. We’ll go beyond the tourist traps to uncover the dishes that define British cuisine, explore the markets that are the lifeblood of the city’s food culture, and find the hidden gems that locals cherish. So, loosen your belt and get ready to explore what to eat in London.
London’s Culinary Scene
To truly understand food in London, you have to understand its history. The city’s culinary identity has been shaped by centuries of trade, immigration, and cultural exchange. The spice trade brought exotic flavors to its shores, while waves of immigrants from across the globe brought their family recipes, setting up kitchens that would forever change the city’s palate. This fusion of cultures is the secret ingredient in London’s cooking pot.
For a long time, this rich history was overshadowed by a post-war reputation for uninspiring food. However, over the past few decades, a quiet revolution has taken place. A new generation of chefs, inspired by both British heritage and global techniques, began to transform the scene. They championed local, seasonal produce and reimagined classic dishes, sparking a renaissance that has put London firmly on the world’s culinary map.
Today, London’s food scene is characterized by its incredible diversity. It’s a place where you can have a Michelin-starred meal in a Mayfair townhouse for dinner, and a £7 bowl of life-changing ramen from a market stall for lunch. It’s where historic pubs serving meat pies and cask ales stand shoulder-to-shoulder with trendy cafes and experimental pop-up restaurants. This blend of high and low, old and new, is what makes eating here such a thrilling adventure.
Iconic British Dishes to Try
Before you dive into the global offerings, you must start with the classics. These are the dishes that have warmed the hearts and filled the bellies of Londoners for generations. First up is Fish and Chips, a dish so quintessentially British it’s practically a national treasure. We’re talking about a generous fillet of flaky white fish, usually cod or haddock, encased in a crispy, golden batter, served with a pile of chunky, fluffy-on-the-inside chips. For the full experience, add a side of mushy peas and a dollop of tangy tartar sauce.
Then there’s the Sunday Roast, a tradition that’s less a meal and more a cultural event. Every Sunday, pubs and homes across the city fill with the aroma of roasting meat—typically beef, lamb, chicken, or pork—served with a mountain of accompaniments. Expect crispy roast potatoes, a fluffy Yorkshire pudding (a savory batter pudding that’s perfect for soaking up gravy), seasonal vegetables, and a rich, savory gravy poured over everything. It’s the ultimate comfort food.
No culinary tour of London is complete without a Full English Breakfast. This hearty plateful is designed to set you up for the day and is the perfect cure for a late night. It typically includes sausages, bacon, fried or scrambled eggs, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and a slice of fried bread or toast. For the adventurous, add a slice of black pudding (a type of blood sausage) for a truly authentic taste. To get a real taste of these classics, you can even join a guided food tour that takes you to some of the city’s best-kept secrets.
Finally, don’t overlook the humble pie. British pies are a world away from their sweet American cousins. These are savory creations, with a rich filling of steak and ale, chicken and mushroom, or minced meat (as in a Shepherd’s or Cottage Pie) encased in pastry or topped with creamy mashed potato. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal, especially on a cold, rainy London day.
Where to Eat Fish & Chips in London
Finding good fish and chips in London is a serious business, and everyone has their favorite. While you can find it on almost any pub menu, it’s worth seeking out a specialist “chippy” for the real deal. These establishments have perfected the art of frying, ensuring the batter is light and crispy and the chips are perfectly cooked. It’s a simple dish, but when done right, it’s sublime.
For a taste of nostalgia and top-quality fish, head to Poppies Fish & Chips. With locations in Spitalfields, Soho, and Camden, Poppies transports you back to the 1940s with its retro decor and newspaper-wrapped parcels. They are committed to tradition and sustainability, sourcing their fish from a trusted third-generation Billingsgate fishmonger. The result is incredibly fresh fish in a perfectly crunchy, non-greasy batter.
Another legendary spot is The Golden Hind in Marylebone. This beloved restaurant has been serving Londoners since 1914, and it hasn’t changed much in that time. It’s a classic, no-frills establishment that focuses on one thing: excellent fish and chips. The portions are generous, the fish is beautifully cooked, and it has a charming, old-school feel. It’s also a BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) establishment, so you can pop into a nearby shop for a bottle of wine or beer to enjoy with your meal, making it a uniquely London experience.
The British Pub Experience
The British pub is an institution, a cornerstone of community life that is so much more than just a place to drink. For centuries, the pub—or “public house”—has served as the nation’s living room. It’s where friends gather, families celebrate, and strangers strike up conversations over a pint. Understanding the pub is key to understanding British culture, and no trip to London is complete without spending some time in one.
Step inside a traditional pub, and you’ll be greeted by a sense of warmth and history. Think dark wood paneling, cozy snugs (small private areas), a crackling fireplace in winter, and a bar lined with ornate beer taps. The atmosphere is relaxed and convivial. It’s a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, read a newspaper, or engage in the time-honored tradition of “putting the world to rights” with your mates.
While the drink is central—especially real ale, a traditional British cask-conditioned beer—food has become an increasingly important part of the pub experience. The rise of the “gastropub” in the 1990s transformed pub dining from basic snacks to high-quality, restaurant-level meals. Today, you can find pubs serving some of the best food in the city, from classic dishes to innovative culinary creations. For a truly unique pub visit, check out The Churchill Arms in Kensington, famous for its incredible floral displays and surprisingly authentic Thai food.
Best Pubs for Classic Dishes
While many pubs offer great food, some have become legendary for specific dishes. If you’re on a mission to find the best pub grub, these are the places to put on your list. For pies, there is no better destination than The Windmill Mayfair. This pub has won national awards for its pies, which come with a variety of fillings, from the classic steak and kidney to seasonal specials, all served with a jug of gravy for pouring.
When it comes to the Sunday Roast, the competition is fierce. For a truly elevated experience, book a table at The Harwood Arms in Fulham. As London’s only Michelin-starred pub, it takes the roast to another level, focusing on game and wild food. It’s a more refined take on the classic, but the core principles of quality ingredients and hearty portions remain. It’s a special occasion roast you won’t forget.
For other classics like Bangers and Mash (sausages and mashed potatoes), you’ll want a pub that takes its meat seriously. The Guinea Grill in Mayfair, a Young’s pub since 1888, is renowned for its dry-aged, grass-fed steaks and its prize-winning pies, but their simple dish of sausages and mash is also executed to perfection. It’s proof that when you use the best ingredients, even the simplest dishes can be extraordinary.
Borough Market & South Bank Eats
If there is one place that represents the heart and soul of London’s food scene, it’s Borough Market. Located next to London Bridge, this is one of the oldest and largest food markets in the city, with a history stretching back over 1,000 years. A visit here is a feast for the senses: the smell of freshly baked bread, the sight of colorful produce stacked high, the sound of vendors calling out, and the taste of free samples, from artisan cheese to cured meats.
The market is a sprawling maze of stalls, shops, and street food vendors. You can find everything here, from world-class British cheeses at Neal’s Yard Dairy to Spanish chorizo sandwiches from Brindisa, and fresh oysters shucked right in front of you. It’s a place to graze, to wander, and to discover. Come with an empty stomach and an open mind, and just follow your nose.
Beyond the market itself, the surrounding South Bank area is packed with more culinary delights. The riverside walk is dotted with pop-up bars and food trucks, especially in the summer months. It’s the perfect place to grab a bite and watch the world go by, with iconic views of the Thames, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the city skyline. To make the most of your visit, check the opening times on the official Borough Market website, as it’s not open every day.
Camden Market & Street Food Culture
If Borough Market is London’s historic pantry, Camden Market is its rebellious, creative kitchen. Located in the heart of one of London’s most famous alternative neighborhoods, Camden Market is a sprawling collection of markets known for its fashion, music, and, most importantly, its incredible street food. The vibe here is younger, edgier, and more experimental than Borough.
The main draw for food lovers is the Camden Market Buck Street and the West Yard, which are packed with a dizzying array of international street food stalls. This is where you can travel the world on a plate. Fancy a Venezuelan arepa, a bowl of cheesy pasta swirled in a giant wheel of Parmesan, a cone of Dutch pancakes, or the internet-famous halloumi fries from Oli Baba’s? You can find it all here, and so much more.
What makes Camden so exciting is its role as a culinary incubator. Many new food trends in London get their start here, with young chefs testing out creative and innovative ideas. It’s a place of fusion and experimentation, where you’ll find dishes you’ve never seen before. Dive into the chaos and creativity by exploring what’s on offer at Camden Market and be prepared to discover your new favorite food.
Covent Garden Restaurants & Cafés
Nestled in the heart of London’s Theatreland, Covent Garden is a vibrant hub of entertainment, shopping, and dining. The area’s food scene is as diverse as its theatrical offerings, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual cafes, historic pubs, and a bustling food market in the iconic Apple Market hall. It’s the perfect place for a pre-theatre dinner, a post-shopping treat, or a leisurely lunch.
The central piazza is the heart of the action, with a number of restaurants offering al fresco dining with a side of street-performer entertainment. But the real magic of Covent Garden is found in its surrounding streets and hidden courtyards. Don’t miss Neal’s Yard, a brightly-painted, secret courtyard that feels like a hidden oasis, home to health-food cafes and cheese shops. For a taste of modern Indian cuisine in a stunning, bustling setting, you can’t go wrong if you book a table at Dishoom Covent Garden.
From the grand, elegant dining room of The Petersham to the rustic charm of Frenchie, Covent Garden caters to all tastes and budgets. You can find world-class pasta, authentic Spanish tapas, and classic American burgers all within a few steps of each other. The area is also home to some lovely cafes and bakeries, perfect for grabbing a coffee and a pastry while you soak in the lively atmosphere.
Afternoon Tea in London
Afternoon tea is one of London’s most delightful and enduring traditions. It’s a civilized pause in the day, a moment of indulgence, and a truly special experience. The ritual was introduced in England in the 1840s by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, who complained of having a “sinking feeling” in the late afternoon. The solution was a pot of tea and a light snack, and a tradition was born.
A classic afternoon tea consists of three tiers of treats. The bottom tier holds a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, with fillings like cucumber and cream cheese, egg mayonnaise, and smoked salmon. The middle tier is reserved for scones, served warm with clotted cream and strawberry jam (the great debate of which to apply first is a topic of national importance). The top tier is a dazzling display of exquisite cakes and pastries.
London offers a vast array of afternoon tea experiences. For timeless, five-star luxury, you can book a table at one of the grand hotels like The Ritz, Claridge’s, or The Savoy. For something more modern and quirky, head to Sketch, where the tea is served in a surreal, all-pink gallery. There are also countless themed teas, from a science-themed tea at The Ampersand Hotel to fashion-inspired creations at The Berkeley. You can browse and book a wide variety of afternoon tea experiences to find the perfect one for your taste and budget.
Sweet Treats & Desserts
Beyond the delicate pastries of afternoon tea, Britain has a wonderful tradition of hearty, comforting desserts. These are the puddings that you’ll find on pub menus and in family kitchens, guaranteed to leave you feeling warm and satisfied. The king of all British desserts is arguably Sticky Toffee Pudding. It’s a moist sponge cake, usually containing finely chopped dates, smothered in a rich, buttery toffee sauce and often served with vanilla ice cream or custard.
Another icon is the simple but perfect scone. While a key part of afternoon tea, you can also enjoy a “cream tea”—just scones, cream, and jam with a pot of tea—in cafes across the city. The quality of a scone is judged by its lightness, and the quality of the experience by the generosity of the clotted cream and strawberry jam portions. It’s a simple pleasure, but one of life’s best.
Don’t forget the Victoria Sponge, a cake named after Queen Victoria, who was said to enjoy a slice with her afternoon tea. It’s a classic sandwich cake, made with two light-as-air sponge cakes held together with a layer of raspberry jam and whipped buttercream or vanilla cream. For a modern twist on classic British baking, and to try some of these delights, check out the amazing cakes at Cutter & Squidge.
Multicultural Food Scene
London’s true culinary strength lies in its multiculturalism. The city is a mosaic of communities from all over the world, and they have all brought their incredible food traditions with them. To eat your way through London is to take a journey across the globe. The most famous example is the Indian food scene. While you can find fantastic Indian restaurants all over the city, a walk down Brick Lane in East London is an essential experience, with dozens of Bangladeshi-run curry houses vying for your business.
Head to Soho, and you’ll find yourself in the heart of Chinatown, marked by its iconic red gates and lanterns. Here, the streets are lined with restaurants serving regional Chinese cuisine, from Cantonese dim sum to fiery Sichuan dishes. Peek into the windows to see rows of glistening roast ducks, or pop into a bakery for a fluffy char siu bao (BBQ pork bun).
For a taste of the Middle East, make your way to Edgware Road, affectionately known as the “Arabian strip,” where the air is fragrant with shisha smoke and grilled meats. Here you can feast on Lebanese mezze, Persian kebabs, and Egyptian street food. Meanwhile, in South London, Brixton Market is the vibrant heart of the city’s Caribbean community, offering up some of the best jerk chicken, goat curry, and Jamaican patties you’ll find anywhere.
Local Food Markets & Hidden Gems
While Borough and Camden are the big names, London is dotted with smaller, more local markets that are well worth a visit. These are the places where you can escape the biggest crowds and get a real feel for a neighborhood’s food scene. One of the best is Maltby Street Market in Bermondsey. Tucked away under a set of railway arches, this weekend market has a more intimate, curated feel, with a fantastic selection of street food stalls and artisan producers.
On Saturdays, head east to Broadway Market in Hackney. This single street, which runs from London Fields to the Regent’s Canal, transforms into a bustling market packed with locals. It’s a great spot for people-watching and grazing, with stalls selling everything from organic produce and fresh bread to gourmet doughnuts and Vietnamese coffee. It has a hip, trendy vibe that feels quintessentially East London.
For a dose of history, visit Leadenhall Market in the City of London. This is one of London’s most beautiful markets, a gorgeous Victorian covered arcade with an ornate painted roof. You might recognize it as the location for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter films. While it’s more of a collection of shops, pubs, and restaurants now than a traditional food market, its stunning architecture makes it a must-see for any visitor.
Michelin-Starred Dining
For those special occasions or for travelers seeking the pinnacle of culinary excellence, London’s fine dining scene is world-class. The city boasts over 70 Michelin-starred restaurants, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of some of the world’s best chefs. This isn’t just about stuffy, formal dining rooms anymore; London’s top restaurants are innovative, exciting, and diverse.
Many of the city’s most acclaimed restaurants are championing modern British cuisine, using the finest local and seasonal ingredients to create dishes that are both familiar and surprising. Restaurants like Core by Clare Smyth and Restaurant Gordon Ramsay are temples of fine dining, offering multi-course tasting menus that are a true journey of flavor and artistry. Explore the full list and find your special occasion spot on the official Michelin Guide for London.
But the Michelin stars in London also reflect the city’s global palate. You can find starred restaurants specializing in everything from West African-inspired cuisine at Ikoyi to sophisticated Indian food at Gymkhana, and minimalist Japanese dining at Umu. A Michelin-starred meal in London is a chance to see food treated as an art form, an experience that will stay with you long after the last plate is cleared.
Best Areas for Food Lovers
Certain neighborhoods in London have become magnets for food lovers, concentrating an incredible variety of dining options into a few city blocks. Soho is arguably the epicenter of London’s food scene. This vibrant, sometimes chaotic, neighborhood is packed with restaurants of every description. You can find cheap and cheerful dumplings, trendy small-plate restaurants, legendary institutions, and late-night eateries all within a five-minute walk.
For a taste of what’s new and cool, head to Shoreditch in East London. Known for its street art and creative energy, Shoreditch is home to some of the city’s most innovative restaurants, pop-ups, and food halls. It’s a neighborhood that’s always on the cutting edge, perfect for those who want to see where London’s food scene is heading next.
If luxury and elegance are what you’re after, Mayfair is the destination. This affluent neighborhood is home to a high concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants, exclusive private members’ clubs, and the dining rooms of London’s most famous five-star hotels. Finding the right place to stay is key to your culinary adventure. To be close to the action in areas like Soho or Shoreditch, you can find great hotel deals that put you right in the heart of London’s food scene.
Day Trips for Food Adventures
While London has more than enough to keep any food lover occupied, the surrounding English countryside offers some fantastic culinary day trips. Just a short train ride from the city, you can discover charming towns and villages with their own unique gastronomic claims to fame. A trip to the seaside town of Whitstable in Kent, for example, is a must for oyster lovers. You can eat them fresh from the sea at the town’s famous oyster shacks.
A journey to the historic city of Bath offers a perfect blend of stunning Georgian architecture and a thriving independent food scene. It’s a beautiful place to wander, with plenty of charming cafes, pubs, and restaurants to discover. Don’t leave without trying a Sally Lunn bun, a large, brioche-like bun that’s a local specialty, from the historic house where it was first created.
For the serious fine-dining connoisseur, a pilgrimage to the small village of Bray in Berkshire is essential. This unassuming village is a culinary heavyweight, home to two of the UK’s three-Michelin-starred restaurants: The Fat Duck, Heston Blumenthal’s temple of molecular gastronomy, and The Waterside Inn, a bastion of classic French cooking. It’s a remarkable concentration of culinary talent in one tiny place.
Getting Around for Food Exploration
Navigating London’s sprawling culinary landscape is surprisingly easy thanks to its excellent public transport system. The London Underground, or the “Tube,” is the fastest way to get around. With a network of lines covering the entire city, you can zip from a market in South London to a restaurant in the West End in no time. Simply use a contactless credit/debit card or your phone to tap in and out at the barriers.
The iconic red double-decker buses are a more scenic, if slower, way to travel. They offer a great perspective on the city and can often get you closer to your destination than the Tube. Plus, sitting on the top deck is a classic London experience in itself. For many journeys, however, the best way to travel is on foot. Walking between neighborhoods allows you to soak in the atmosphere and, most importantly, stumble upon hidden cafes, pubs, and bakeries you would have otherwise missed.
While public transport is excellent within the city, you might consider renting a car for those food-focused day trips to the countryside, giving you the freedom to explore charming villages and farm shops at your own pace. Just be aware that driving in central London is not recommended due to congestion and expensive charges.
Budget-Friendly Food Tips
Eating in London doesn’t have to break the bank. While the city is home to some of the world’s most expensive restaurants, it also offers a wealth of delicious and affordable options if you know where to look. One of the best budget tips is to embrace the supermarket “meal deal.” For around £3-£5, you can get a sandwich or salad, a snack, and a drink from places like Marks & Spencer, Pret A Manger, or Tesco. It’s a lifesaver for a quick and cheap lunch on the go.
Street food markets are your best friend for affordable, high-quality meals. A dish at a market like Camden, Borough, or Maltby Street will typically cost between £7 and £12 and is often more creative and satisfying than a meal at a mid-range restaurant. Similarly, exploring the city’s multicultural enclaves will lead you to cheap eats, from a salt beef bagel on Brick Lane to a falafel wrap on Edgware Road.
Look out for set lunch or pre-theatre menus. Many high-end restaurants offer a two or three-course menu for a fraction of their evening à la carte prices, making it a great way to experience fine dining on a budget. To make your money go further, it’s also smart to handle your currency exchange beforehand. Using a service like Wise can help you get better rates than you would at airport kiosks, leaving more in your pocket for that extra plate of pie and mash.
Travel Insurance & Booking Essentials
Before you get completely lost in daydreams of sticky toffee pudding and Sunday roasts, it’s important to take care of the practicalities. Planning a trip, especially an international one, involves a few essential steps to ensure everything goes smoothly. A little preparation beforehand means you can relax and focus on the important things, like deciding which food market to visit first.
Before you even start dreaming of that first bite of a bacon butty, it’s wise to sort out the essentials. Booking your flights to London is the exciting first step, but securing a good travel insurance policy is just as crucial. It provides peace of mind, protecting you from any unforeseen hiccups on your culinary journey, such as trip cancellations, lost luggage, or unexpected medical issues. It’s a small investment for a huge amount of security.
Once your flights and insurance are sorted, you can move on to the fun parts, like planning your itinerary and booking accommodation. With so many distinct neighborhoods to explore, choosing where to stay can significantly impact your trip. Having your bookings in order before you arrive means you can hit the ground running and waste no time in starting your food adventure.
Sample 3-Day London Food Itinerary
To help you piece it all together, here is a sample itinerary for a whirlwind 3-day food tour of London. This is just a suggestion, designed to give you a taste of the city’s incredible diversity. Feel free to mix and match to suit your own tastes and interests.
Day 1: The Classics & Covent Garden. Start your day with a Full English Breakfast at a traditional “caff” like E. Pellicci in Bethnal Green. Spend the late morning exploring the South Bank, then dive into Borough Market for a long, grazing lunch. In the evening, head to the West End for a pre-theatre dinner in Covent Garden, followed by a show and a nightcap in a historic Soho pub.
Day 2: East London & Global Flavors. Begin with specialty coffee and a pastry in trendy Shoreditch. Make your way to Camden Market for a street food lunch, sampling as many different cuisines as you can handle. In the afternoon, explore the vintage shops and street art of Brick Lane before settling in for a fantastic curry dinner at one of its legendary canteens.
Day 3: Markets, Roasts & Tea. Spend your morning wandering through the charming streets and Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill. As midday approaches, find a cozy pub for a traditional Sunday Roast with all the trimmings (if it’s a Sunday!). For your final act, indulge in a classic Afternoon Tea experience at a grand hotel or a quirky tea room, a perfect, elegant end to your London food adventure.
Conclusion
London’s culinary landscape is a story of evolution. It’s a city that has gracefully transformed itself from a culinary underdog into a global heavyweight, all while holding onto the traditions that give its food scene so much heart. The journey from a simple pub pie to a Michelin-starred tasting menu, from a greasy-spoon breakfast to a world-class flat white, is the story of London itself—a city that respects its past while eagerly embracing the future.
Eating here is an adventure that engages all the senses. It’s about more than just sustenance; it’s about culture, community, and discovery. It’s the warmth of a pub on a rainy day, the vibrant chaos of a street food market, the quiet elegance of a tea room, and the delicious proof that a city’s soul can often be found on its plates. Whether you’re a seasoned gourmand or a curious traveler, London’s food scene has a table waiting for you, ready to surprise and delight you at every turn.
London’s culinary story is waiting for you to take a bite. When you’re ready to plan your own delicious adventure, let us help you book smarter and create the perfect itinerary.
FAQs
What is one dish I absolutely must try in London?
If you only have time for one quintessential British meal, make it a Sunday Roast in a traditional pub. It’s a cultural experience as much as a culinary one, featuring roasted meat, Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, vegetables, and gravy. It’s the ultimate comfort food.
Is London food expensive?
It can be, but it doesn’t have to be. While the city has many high-end restaurants, you can eat very well on a budget. Take advantage of street food markets, supermarket meal deals, and lunch specials. Exploring multicultural neighborhoods also offers fantastic, affordable food.
Do I need to tip in London restaurants?
A service charge of 12.5% is often automatically added to the bill in restaurants. If it is, you don’t need to tip extra. If no service charge is included, a tip of 10-15% is customary for good service. Tipping is not expected in pubs when you order drinks at the bar.
What’s the best food market for a first-time visitor?
Borough Market is the best choice for a first-time visitor. Its historic setting, sheer variety of high-quality produce, and excellent street food stalls make it an iconic and unforgettable London food experience.
Are there good vegetarian and vegan options in London?
Absolutely. London is one of the most vegetarian and vegan-friendly cities in the world. Almost every restaurant will have dedicated veggie/vegan options, and there are hundreds of fully vegetarian and vegan restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls across the city.
What time do people eat dinner in London?
Dinner time is typically between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. However, if you are going to the theatre, you’ll find many restaurants in the West End offer “pre-theatre” menus, with service starting as early as 5:00 PM or 5:30 PM.
Is it safe to eat street food in London?
Yes, it is very safe. All food businesses, including street food stalls, are inspected by the Food Standards Agency and must display their hygiene rating (from 0 to 5). Look for stalls with a rating of 4 or 5 for peace of mind.
