The Best Places to Eat Traditional British Food in London

London, the capital of the United Kingdom and one of the most visited cities in the world, is known for its rich history and many attractions. The city is also widely recognized for its eclectic food, which blends various flavors from different parts of the world. However, if you’re looking to enjoy a traditional British meal without having to leave London, there are plenty of great places to choose from. Here, we will provide an overview of some of the best places to enjoy traditional British food in London.

Giovanni’s Fish and Chips

First on our list is Giovanni’s Fish and Chips, a traditional British fish and chip shop that has been in business since 1964. The recipes haven’t changed much since then and the fish is fried in vegetable oil for a crispy coating. The chips (aka fries) are fried to perfection in a cast-iron skillet and both are served with a variety of condiments. Attention to detail is key here—from the special blend of seasoning for the fish to the homemade tartar sauce—making this one of the most authentic fish and chips restaurants in London.

The Poppins

The Poppins is a British-style pub that serves up traditional British dishes in a lively, cozy atmosphere. The menu consists of popular favorites such as bangers and mash, steak and ale pie, and fish and chips. There are also veggie options like veggie sausages with onion gravy, plus a selection of delicious desserts such as sticky toffee pudding. The patrons love The Poppins, and rightfully so – the pub was voted “Best Pub in Haringey” in 2016.

Carluccio’s

Carluccio’s is a popular Italian restaurant chain that also serves classic British dishes. Their menu includes options like grilled north sea haddock, scotch eggs, steak pie, and the most classic of them all – shepherd’s pie. The shepherd’s pie alone has earned Carluccio’s rave reviews from countless customers.

Dishoom

Dishoom is an acclaimed Indian food joint with several London branches. While it certainly isn’t a traditional British restaurant, it does serve up some classic dishes like poppadums and chips, chicken tikka masala, and the British-Indian favorite, chicken korma. What sets Dishoom apart from other Indian joints is its commitment to providing quality ingredients sourced from all over India.

Maltby & Greek

Maltby & Greek is another top-notch traditional British restaurant that was founded by two English brothers in 2014, specifically to share their love of traditional British cuisine with the world. They offer classic dishes like roast lamb with mint sauce and butter-stuffed Yorkshire puddings, as well as more adventurous dishes like pan-roasted beaver meat. Vegans and vegetarians can also enjoy the homemade veggie dishes like aubergine & mozzarella fritters and warm quinoa & roasted root veg salad

Borough Market

Borough Market is one of London’s oldest and most vibrant markets, having been around since 1014 AD. It’s home to a variety of stalls that offer traditional British fare including artisan cheeses, meats, puddings, pies, breads and cakes. Stop by for breakfast on your next visit and try an iconic scotch egg – a soft-boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat before being deep-fried. There’s also classic British puddings like spotted dick, bubble & squeak, sticky toffee pudding and much more. Be sure to try a freshly-brewed local ale too!

Conclusion

London has countless restaurants that serve up traditional British dishes, so there’s no shortage of places to get your fill of classic British meals while in the city! For a truly authentic experience, be sure to research the best places ahead of time or even take a food tour with an experienced guide. You could also book a London: East End British Food & Drinks Private Walking Tour. This tour takes you through the streets of East London and lets you sample local dishes while discovering the history and culture of the area. No matter where you choose to eat while in London, you’ll be sure to find wonderful traditional British fare that will satisfy your appetite!

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to London

As an assistant and writer, I’ve heard so many clichéd things about London that I’m dizzy. It’s always the same old story of Big Ben, the London Eye, and Buckingham Palace. But there’s so much more to this vibrant city. If you’re planning a trip soon and want to experience the real London, I’ve got you covered. Here’s your ultimate insider’s guide to London!

Local Attractions Off the Beaten Path

London is a city filled with hidden gems that you won’t necessarily find in a guidebook. One such place is Horniman Museum and Gardens. It’s a quirky and charming museum located in South East London, and it’s perfect for those who want to indulge their inner child. Another must-visit place is St Dunstan in the East, an old church ruin that has been transformed into a beautiful public garden. Similarly, if you love street art, take a stroll through Shoreditch and Brick Lane.

The Best Places to Eat Traditional British Food in London

London is the perfect place to indulge in traditional British food. Start your day with a full English breakfast at Hawksmoor Guildhall. For lunch, head to Borough Market and try fish and chips from Fish! Kitchen, pie and mash from Cockney’s Pie & Mash, or jellied eels from Tubby Isaacs. In the evening, head to Rules, which has been serving traditional fare since 1798 or try a Sunday roast at the Princess Victoria pub in Shepherd’s Bush.

Cultural Experiences to Have in London

London is a cultural hub. From the Tate Modern gallery to the British Museum, there are plenty of art and history museums to explore. But if you’re looking for something different, why not visit a local market? Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill is perfect to immerse yourself in local music, fashion, and food culture. Alternatively, explore the city’s theater scene by visiting the Globe Theatre or catching a show in the West End.

Local History to Explore in London

London has a rich and fascinating history that spans several centuries. To understand it better, visit the Tower of London and learn about the city’s royal past. Similarly, take a trip to the Churchill War Rooms and learn about the city’s role during World War II. To explore some of the city’s lesser-known history, head to Highgate Cemetery or the Cross Bones Graveyard.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Tips for an Unforgettable Experience

Want to do something unique and memorable in London? Visit the Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities, which is filled with oddities like a two-headed lamb fetus and a mummified fairy. For something a little gentler, book a ride on the Emirates Air Line cable car, which goes across the Thames River. Finally, for those who want a bird’s eye view of London, take a helicopter ride with The London Helicopter.

Now that you have your insider’s guide to London, you can explore this beautiful and exciting city with a fresh perspective. There’s so much more to see beyond the usual tourist hotspots, so go beyond your boundaries, try something new and make the most of your time in London.