Explore London's incredible food scene, from historic pie and mash shops to Michelin-starred restaurants. Discover the best markets, street food, traditional British dishes, and international cuisine the capital has to offer.
London's Food Scene: A World on a Plate
London is one of the world's great food cities — a place where you can eat your way around the globe without leaving the city limits. With over 70 Michelin-starred restaurants, thousands of independent eateries, and some of the planet's best street food markets, London's dining scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. Whether you crave a classic Sunday roast, fiery Brick Lane curry, or cutting-edge tasting menus, London delivers.
Traditional British Food You Must Try
Fish and chips: The quintessential British dish. For an authentic experience, head to Poppies in Spitalfields or The Golden Hind in Marylebone, both serving perfectly battered fish with thick-cut chips and mushy peas since the mid-20th century.
Full English breakfast: A proper fry-up includes bacon, eggs, sausages, baked beans, toast, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and black pudding. The Regency Café near Westminster and E. Pellicci in Bethnal Green are beloved institutions.
Sunday roast: A British tradition featuring roast meat, Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, vegetables, and gravy. The Lamb Tavern in Leadenhall Market and The Gravy Train in various locations serve excellent versions.
Pie and mash: A true East End classic. M. Manze on Tower Bridge Road has been serving pies with mash and liquor (a parsley sauce) since 1902.
Afternoon tea: An elegant British institution featuring finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and delicate pastries. The Ritz, Claridge's, and The Savoy offer iconic experiences, but you can find excellent afternoon teas at many hotels and tea rooms across the city.
Best Food Markets
Borough Market
London's oldest and most famous food market, operating in some form since the 13th century. Today it is a foodie paradise with over 100 stalls selling everything from artisan cheeses and cured meats to fresh pasta, gourmet doughnuts, and street food from around the world. Open Monday to Saturday, with the fullest selection on Thursday to Saturday.
Camden Market
An eclectic market with an incredible international food section. Sample everything from Japanese ramen and Argentinian steaks to Caribbean jerk chicken and Venezuelan arepas. The food stalls around Camden Lock offer some of London's best value street food.
Maltby Street Market
A more intimate alternative to Borough Market, tucked under railway arches in Bermondsey. Known for its artisan producers, craft beer, and a more local, less touristy atmosphere. Open Saturdays and Sundays.
Broadway Market
A vibrant Saturday market in Hackney with excellent street food, fresh produce, and a strong community feel. The surrounding area has some of East London's best independent cafés and restaurants.
International Cuisine Highlights
Indian: Brick Lane is London's curry mile, but Dishoom (multiple locations) has become the city's most beloved Indian restaurant with its Bombay café-style menu. For high-end Indian, Gymkhana and Trishna have earned Michelin stars.
Chinese: Chinatown around Gerrard Street offers everything from dim sum to Sichuan hot pot. For authentic dim sum, head to Royal China on Queensway or Yauatcha in Soho.
Middle Eastern: Ottolenghi's delis and restaurants have transformed London's relationship with Middle Eastern food. The Palomar and Bala Baya offer vibrant Israeli-inspired dining.
Japanese: From Nobu's high-end fusion to Kanada-Ya's exceptional ramen, London's Japanese food scene rivals any city outside Japan.
Street Food & Casual Dining
London's street food revolution shows no signs of slowing. KERB operates rotating street food markets across the city, including at King's Cross and the West End. Boxpark in Shoreditch and Croydon houses dozens of independent food vendors in converted shipping containers. Mercato Metropolitano near Elephant & Castle is an enormous Italian-inspired food market.
Food Tips for Visitors
Lunch in London is significantly cheaper than dinner — many top restaurants offer set lunch menus at a fraction of their evening prices. Markets are best visited mid-morning before the lunchtime rush. Tipping in restaurants is usually 12.5% (often added automatically) — check your bill before adding more. For the freshest market produce and best atmosphere, visit Borough Market on Friday morning. Check the London weather forecast before planning outdoor market visits.
