21 LONDON FOODS TO ENTICE YOUR TASTE BUDS in 2024

London foods scenes are a treasure trove waiting to be explored, From the iconic Fish and Chips served piping hot at local pubs to the decadent Beef Wellington fit for royalty,. As you wander through the bustling streets of London, a symphony of flavors awaits to serenade your taste buds on an unforgettable culinary journey.

 21 BEST LONDON FOODS AND DRINKS TO TRY

Indulge in the classic British dish, Fish and Chips, at Poppies Fish & Chips in Spitalfields. This iconic meal of crispy battered fish and chunky fries is a must-try for any food enthusiast visiting London.

For a taste of the vibrant street food scene, head to Borough Market and treat yourself to a gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwich from Kappa casein Dairy. Melted cheese oozing between perfectly toasted bread will take your taste buds on a delicious journey through London’s culinary diversity.

Quench your thirst with an innovative cocktail experience at The Alchemist in Covent Garden. Try their signature drink, The Lightbulb Moment, which features a mesmerizing mix of flavors that will leave you spellbound by the creativity and expertise of London’s mixologists.

FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST – TRY AT A TRADITIONAL ‘GREASY SPOON’ CAFE

One of Britain’s most iconic dishes, the Full English breakfast, is a hearty feast that embodies comfort and tradition. At a traditional greasy spoon cafe, this classic meal comes to life with sizzling bacon, plump sausages, golden fried eggs, and crispy hash browns. Each element contributes to a symphony of flavors and textures that promises to invigorate your senses from the first bite.

PLOUGHMAN’S LUNCH – TRY AT A TRADITIONAL LONDON PUB

The Ploughman’s lunch, a beloved pub classic, is a hearty and satisfying meal that embodies the essence of traditional British cuisine. Perfect for those craving a simple yet flavorful dish, this rustic platter typically includes elements like crusty bread, a selection of cheeses, pickles, chutney, and cold meat such as ham or roast beef.

When dining at a traditional London pub, one can expect to find the Ploughman’s lunch on the menu at an affordable price point. This quintessential British fare is often made fresh daily using high quality ingredients sourced locally whenever possible.

AFTERNOON TEA – TRY AT A TOP LONDON HOTEL

Afternoon tea at a top London hotels is not just a meal, but a true experience of elegance and tradition. Step into the luxurious surroundings of the hotel’s dining room, where you will be greeted with an exquisite array of teas, freshly baked scones, delicate finger sandwiches, and decadent pastries. The attention to detail in both presentation and flavor is unparalleled, making each bite a delightful journey for your taste buds.

FISH AND CHIPS – TRY AT THE SEASIDE (TIME PERMITTING) OR A PUB

When it comes to fish and chips, there’s a special magic in enjoying this classic dish by the seaside or at a cozy pub. The fresh sea breeze mixes with the aroma of crispy batter and flaky fish, creating an experience that transcends mere dining. While typically associated with casual beachside eateries, fish and chips have also found a place on upscale pub menus, elevating their status from humble comfort food to gourmet delight.

BANGERS AND MASH – TRY AT A LOCAL CAFE OR PUB

When it comes to trying out traditional British comfort food like bangers and mash, heading to a local café or pub is the ideal choice. The dish, consisting of juicy sausages served with creamy mashed potatoes and rich onion gravy, is often a favorite among patrons looking for a hearty and satisfying meal.

 TOAD IN THE HOLE – TRY AT A LONDON PUB OR CAFE

 When it comes to quintessential British comfort food, few dishes can rival the hearty and satisfying allure of Toad in the Hole. A visit to a traditional London pub or cozy cafe offers the perfect opportunity to savor this classic dish that combines savory sausages with fluffy Yorkshire pudding. The aroma of golden brown batter enveloping succulent sausages creates an irresistible temptation for any food enthusiast looking for a taste of authentic British cuisine.

 SCOTCH EGG – TRY AT A LONDON GASTROPUB

As you stroll into the cozy gastropub in London, make sure to order their famous Scotch egg. This delectable dish features a perfectly boiled egg, encased in flavorful sausage meat and crispy breadcrumbs. Despite being a traditional British snack, this gastropub adds its own unique twist with an array of seasonings and spices that elevate the flavors to a whole new level.

PORK PIE – TRY AT A LONDON GASTROPUB

 One of the signature dishes you absolutely must try at a London gastropub is the classic Pork Pie. With its flaky pastry crust and savory pork filling, this traditional British snack will satisfy your cravings for a hearty treat. What sets it apart is the quality of ingredients from premium pork to carefully-seasoned meat, every bite is packed with flavor.

When visiting a London gastropub, keep an eye out for their Pork Pie offering. While prices may vary, you can usually enjoy this delectable dish at a reasonable cost that won’t break the bank. The availability of Pork Pie might depend on the pub’s menu rotation, so seize the opportunity whenever you see it on offer and savor this timeless British delight in all its deliciousness.

 SAUSAGE ROLL – TRY AT A LOCAL LONDON BAKERY

 When craving a delicious snack in London, look no further than the humble sausage roll from a local bakery. Packed with flavorful meat encased in golden, flaky pastry, this classic treat never fails to satisfy. With prices typically ranging from £1 to £3, it’s an affordable indulgence that can easily fit within any budget.

JELLIED EELS – TRY AT AN EAST END SHOP OR STALL

Picture yourself wandering the bustling streets of London’s vibrant East End, weaving through the lively markets and quaint shops. Your senses are suddenly piqued by the sight of a small stall adorned with a sign proudly displaying Jellied Eels. Intrigued, you decide to take a leap of faith and dive into this uniquely East End delicacy. The price is surprisingly affordable, making it an accessible treat for both locals and adventurous visitors alike.

As you tentatively take your first bite, you are pleasantly surprised by the delicate balance of flavors a combination of savory eel jellied in flavorful broth. The availability of jellied eels at these traditional shops and stalls adds to their charm, giving you a taste of authentic East End culture that has remained unchanged for generations.

 OYSTERS – TRY AT BOROUGH MARKET

 As you stroll through Borough Market, the briny scent of fresh oysters fills the air, calling out to seafood enthusiasts seeking a taste of the ocean. These prized mollusks come in various sizes and species, attracting both seasoned connoisseurs and curious newcomers alike. The price point for oysters at Borough Market may surprise some visitors, as they are often more affordable than upscale seafood restaurants in the city.

CORNISH PASTY – TRY AT A CITY BAKERY

As you enter the quaint city bakery, the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pasties fills the air. Displayed on a rustic wooden shelf, the golden brown crusts glisten under the warm glow of the light, beckoning you to take a bite. The Cornish pasties are priced modestly, offering an affordable taste of traditional Cornish cuisine right in the heart of the city.

CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA – TRY AT A BRICK LANE INDIAN RESTAURANT

 Located in the heart of London’s Brick Lane, the aromatic Chicken Tikka Masala served at Indian restaurants is nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. The blend of spices marinated in yogurt and grilled to perfection creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. With tender pieces of chicken bathed in a rich, creamy tomato based sauce, each bite is a journey through India’s vibrant food culture.

The sheer availability and affordability make Chicken Tikka Masala a popular choice for locals and tourists alike. Priced reasonably, this iconic dish can be enjoyed by anyone looking to delve into the world of Indian cuisine without breaking the bank.

SUNDAY ROAST – TRY AT A CLASSIC OR CONTEMPORARY LONDON PUB

London is renowned for its traditional Sunday roasts, a comforting meal served in many classic and contemporary pubs across the city. One such establishment that stands out for its exceptional Sunday roast is The Harwood Arms in Fulham. Here, guests can savor succulent roast meats accompanied by perfectly roasted potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and rich gravy, all prepared with utmost precision and care.

BEEF WELLINGTON – TRY AT A FINE DINING RESTAURANT

 Beef Wellington is a classic dish that has stood the test of time in fine dining menus due to its exquisite flavors and elegant presentation. The price tag on this gourmet creation may often be on the higher side, but the experience it offers is truly worth every penny. However, despite its popularity, Beef Wellington might not always be readily available in all fine dining restaurants, adding an air of exclusivity to those establishments that do feature it on their menu.

The allure of indulging in a perfectly executed Beef Wellington lies not only in its luxurious taste but also in the meticulous preparation required to achieve that perfect balance of textures and flavors. From the tender beef fillet encased in buttery pastry to the rich mushroom duxelles and decadent foie grass, each element plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious sensory explosion.

STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING – TRY AT A PUB FOR PUDDING

 At first glance, sticky toffee pudding might seem like a simple dessert option on the menu of a typical pub. However, one bite into this luscious treat will transport you to a realm of unparalleled indulgence. The warm and rich flavors of moist sponge soaked in decadent toffee sauce create a symphony of sweetness that is impossible to resist.

 BANOFFEE PIE – TRY AT A LONDON CAFE OR BAKERY

 When in London, one must not miss the opportunity to indulge in a slice of Banoffee pie at one of the city’s charming cafes or bakeries. Known for its decadent layers of ripe bananas, creamy toffee, and whipped cream atop a buttery biscuit base, this dessert is a delightful treat for those with a sweet tooth.

The availability of Banoffee pie in London is quite high, with many cafes and bakeries offering their own unique twist on this classic dessert. From traditional recipes to innovative variations featuring additions like salted caramel or chocolate drizzle, there is no shortage of options to choose from.

 FRUIT CRUMBLE – TRY AT A PUB OR RESTAURANT

 When it comes to ordering a fruit crumble at a pub or restaurant, the price can often be a determining factor. While some establishments may offer this delectable dessert at a higher price point due to elaborate presentation or premium ingredients, others may provide a more affordable option without compromising on taste. It’s essential for customers to consider the value they place on quality and portion size when selecting where to indulge in this satisfying treat.

The availability of fruit crumble on the menu can vary depending on the season and the establishment’s focus. Some places may feature this classic dessert year round as a staple offering, while others might only serve it during specific months when certain fruits are in peak season.

ETON MESS – TRY AT A RESTAURANT OR PUB

 When you find yourself at a pub or restaurant offering Eton Mess on their menu, don’t hesitate to dive into this delightful British dessert. The combination of crushed meringue, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream creates a textural symphony that is both light and satisfying. Although prices may vary depending on the establishment, the experience of indulging in a well-prepared Eton Mess is truly priceless.

Moreover, the availability of this classic dessert might not always be guaranteed, so seize the opportunity whenever you spot it on the menu. The balance of sweetness from the meringue and tartness from the strawberries creates a harmonious flavor profile that is bound to leave your taste buds craving for more.

GIN AND TONIC – TRY AT A SMART BAR OR RESTAURANT

As you sit down at a smart bar or restaurant and glance through the menu, consider opting for a classic gin and tonic to elevate your evening. This timeless cocktail has been enjoying a resurgence in popularity due to its refreshing taste and versatility. Despite its simplicity, the quality of the ingredients can greatly enhance the overall experience. Many high end bars now offer premium gins and artisanal tonics, providing a wide range of flavors to choose from.

While the price of gin and tonic may vary depending on the establishment, it is worthwhile to indulge in this sophisticated drink at least once in a while. The availability of different brands of gin and tonic waters allows for experimentation, giving you the opportunity to discover new flavor profiles that cater to your preferences.

PIMM’S – TRY AT A LONDON PUB IN SUMMER

As the sun sets over London, the allure of a refreshing Pimm’s at a bustling pub becomes irresistible. The vibrant mix of fruit, herbs, and gin creates a symphony of flavors that perfectly embodies summer in the city. Despite its popularity, finding a reasonably priced Pimm’s can be challenging during peak hours, making it a coveted choice among locals and tourists alike.

Amidst the lively atmosphere of the pub garden, sipping on a glass of Pimm’s feels like an essential London experience. The limited availability of this quintessential summer drink adds to its charm, inviting patrons to savor each sip while basking in the warm evening air.

OUR TOP PICKS: BEST FOOD TOURS IN LONDON

• For those seeking an immersive and delectable culinary experience in London, look no further than the Borough Market Food Tour. Priced reasonably at £50 per person, this tour offers a fascinating journey through one of the city’s oldest and most renowned food markets. With limited availability, booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot on this gastronomic adventure.
• If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, spice up your taste buds with the Brick Lane Curries and Indian Food Tour. Priced at £35 per person, this tour takes you on a flavorful exploration of London’s vibrant East End. With tours running only on weekends, make sure to plan ahead to indulge in the diverse array of Indian dishes offered along Brick Lane.
• Looking for a unique dining experience atop the iconic Shard? The Ultimate Gourmet Food Tour offers just that, with prices starting at £150 per person for a luxurious culinary journey overlooking the stunning cityscape of London. Due to its exclusivity, this tour has limited availability and is ideal for those looking to splurge on an unforgettable gourmet adventure high above the bustling streets below.