Did you know that London has around 15,000 restaurants? This means the selection available can be a bit overwhelming, especially for food lovers who want to eat at the best spots around. This total also doesn’t include other places to grab a bite such as the famous markets or street vendors who also have a selection of culinary delights on offer.
In this article, we’ll share where foodies can visit to try some of London’s most iconic dishes and some other unique options. We will also offer additional advice for ensuring any food-focused trips run like clockwork by recommending the best areas to stay and places to visit based on your foodie preferences.
Keep reading if you are planning a tour filled with delectable bites and treats for all the senses.
What Types of Cuisines Is London Known For?
London is known as being a diverse and cultured city which are trends that run through the culinary items on offer. The broad selection ensures there is something for everyone, with many eateries mindful of the diverse preferences of the millions of tourists that flock to London each year.
The most popular cuisines in London are Italian, British, Indian, French and Mediterranean, but there are plenty of other delights to explore. London is also known for being a hub of creativity when it comes to cuisines, with many spots offering fusion experiences that combine different flavours into new and innovative meals. It should also be noted that, like other cities, London also has other areas that are known for certain cuisines. For example, North London is known for its Middle Eastern and Greek treats, whereas in West London, European meals are more commonly found.
Whether you are looking to finish a day shopping or visiting attractions with a memorable bite to eat, there is something for everyone in London.
Where Are the Best Places to Eat In London?
Now for the reason you have clicked on this blog, the best places to explore culinary marvels around London. From food markets in some of the must-visit parks to worldwide famous restaurants, this list covers it all!
Traditional Pubs
We couldn’t start our list without including a place to eat and drink that London is most famous for, a good old-fashioned pub.
While pubs are known for offering plenty of beverages, in London, there are also a number of spots available which provide delicious snacks and meals. While all pubs are likely to offer things to eat, to find the best food options, you want to look for a traditional pub which combines both a comfortable setting and a restaurant-style menu.
Some of the best options available include the following:
- The Princess of Shoreditch, Old Street – This venue combines the delights of a gastropub with a traditional experience thanks to its varied menu and quiet location. There are also not many other pubs in London that offer a tasting menu experience, which is why this place is worth visiting.
- Harwood Arms – Fulham – As London’s only one-Michelin star pub, this venue is ideal for food lovers. Their most famous dishes include the standout Sunday roast and gourmet take on a traditional scotch egg which both play homage to traditional meals you would find in a British pub.
- Pig and Butcher, Islington—This is another pub with a long-standing history that still serves traditional-inspired food. The decor is like something from a countryside pub, which, combined with the comforting dishes, transports anyone instantly to a rural relaxing spot.
Food Markets
A large proportion of London’s 280+ markets feature culinary delights that any food lover must visit. Some of London’s most iconic food markets are Borough Market, Old Spitalfields Market, Bermondsey Street Market, and Camden. Each includes a mix of British dishes and vendors inspired by other cultures to offer a broad selection of sweet and savoury treats.
Food lovers should also keep an eye out for any seasonal markets, as delights such as the Christmas Markets are known for serving up delicious bites.
Fine Dining Delights
London is also known for being a city with one of the highest totals of Michelin stars, which currently sits at an impressive 74. This trend has led to an increase in the amount of fine-dining restaurants in recent years, meaning foodies can find a delicate bite to eat in various spots across the city. Some of the best fine-dining spots in London include The Clove Club, Lyle’s, Core by Clare Smith, Ikoyi and The Ritz.
Afternoon Tea Venues
Another iconic London eating experience that we recommend is afternoon tea. London is filled with places to sit down and enjoy a mixture of fine sandwiches, savoury delights, cakes and scones with options ranging from traditional services to modern-takes on classic flavours.
Some of the most popular places to visit for afternoon tea in London include The Lanesborough, The Savoy, The Beaumont and Rosewood London. Other notable eateries that stand out for offering unique tea experiences include Pan Pacific London and Maison Assouline.
Are There Pubs and Eateries Available for All Dietary Requirements?
Yes, something London is known for is offering culinary delights for all dietary requirements. Not only do most places to eat include special menus for the likes of those who need free-from courses, but there are also a wide selection of eateries that focus on meeting certain dietary needs. From gluten-free spots to completely vegan or vegetarian restaurants, there is a broad selection available for any visitor.
Additionally, as many places to eat understand that a diverse selection of visitors are likely to attend their eatery, many spots also make special arrangements for anyone who has certain dietary needs.
Some of the best free-from places to eat in London include the following:
- Paladar
- Bonoo Indian Tapas
- The Park Room
- Mallow
- Holy Carrot
- Sitara
Top Tips When Eating In London
As well as knowing where the best places are to eat in London, there are also some other key pieces of information any food-lovers should be aware of.
The first is that it’s always best to book in advance if you have a certain place in mind. This is especially important for popular eateries, as some can be reserved months in advance! Some places may also require a deposit to ensure the diner arrives or may charge penalty fees if a reservation is missed.
Most places to eat will also open later in the day, so be sure to check out business hours before planning an entire day for your food plans. The best way to manage this is to check out opening hours and then plan other activities such as walking tours, visiting attractions like The London Eye and other outdoorsy things to do.
If you want to stop off at a place to eat, you should also consider the best way to get around London easily. For example, certain modes of transport are not available after hours, so you may need to plan a cab or journey on foot if you are having a late meal. Finally, tipping is also not essential in UK places to eat, but it is a nice gesture if you’ve had a positive experience.
Where to Stay In London When Planning a Foodie Tour?
Whether you want to spend your time in London exploring royal landmarks or are visiting for business, we know planning where to eat is an important consideration.
Luckily for you, each of our hotels is conveniently located near a selection of places to eat and well connected to transport links. Whether you book a room at the Great St Helen Hotel, Hatton Garden Hotel, Bloomsbury Palace Hotel, Mabledon Court Hotel, Hotel Cavendish, or Arran House Hotel, a culinary delight will be nearby.
To plan your perfect foodie-escape to London, check out our special offers and click here to book now. You can also contact us if you require further information.
