What is the Best Food to Eat When Visiting London?

If there’s one thing that London is known for, it’s its stellar culinary reputation. This beloved UK metropolis is jam-packed with amazing options when it comes to food and drinks. From classic pubs to award-winning restaurants, food-lovers will be spoiled for choice during a visit. To make the most of your culinary adventure, here’s a rundown of the best dishes to sample when visiting London.

Fish and Chips

Few dishes are as British as fish and chips! This crunchy delight features deep-fried cod or haddock that’s served with hot, crispy fries, traditional malt vinegar, and a side portion of mushy peas. For the ultimate experience, why not try the classic version of fish and chips that you can pick up from an independent chip shop? As anyone who knows will tell you, there’s nothing quite like getting your order served in newspaper!

London-Style Pie

Pies are a beloved British classic – and right up there at the top of the list should be the London-style pie. While every region of the UK tends to put its own spin on this classic dish, it’s hard to beat London’s unique version. Enjoy a freshly-baked pastry pie filled with minced beef and topped with mashed potato – truly a meal fit for kings!

Cockles & Muscles

Looking for a traditional favorite that can be chowed down on the go? Then it has to be cockles and muscles! This popular snack is made of steamed cockles and muscles served in a traditional white ‘licker’ paper bag. It’s usually accompanied by some malt vinegar and plenty of fuel-filled energy – perfect for sightseeing away the day!

Curry

No discussion about the best food to eat when visiting London would be complete without mentioning curry! This iconic dish is made with a range of spices, some cream or yogurt, and plenty of aromatic flavors. Not only can you find great curry in authentic Indian restaurants across London, but takeaways tend to offer great value too.

London Gin

Let’s not forget about the drinks side of London’s cuisine too! Whether you’re an expert on gin or are just looking for a tipple to enjoy during your trip, London Gin is definitely something you’ll want to try. Many boutique brands and established names offer their own unique varieties of this classic alcohol staple. Best of all, you don’t have to look too far to find a great bar or distillery for a taster.

A Walking Tour of Food & Drinks

You can’t visit London without experiencing its wonderful food and drinks. To do just that, why not book one of GetYourGuide’s London East End British Food & Drinks Private Walking Tours ? Not only does this incredible tour provide the chance to sample some of the city’s fabulous food, but it also offer insight into local life. Perfect for foodies or anyone wanting that little bit extra from their stay, this tour takes you to off the beaten track tickers and markets. You’ll then get guided around London’s lesser known areas as well as getting the insider knowledge from an experienced local guide.

At the end of it all, you’ll have sampled a variety of foods and drinks from cultures around the world. In addition, you’ll gain a unique insight into London life. It really is the best way to end a stay in this megacity!

Whichever option you go for – whether it’s fish and chips, pie & mash, curry, gin and tonic, or even a walking tour – you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience during your visit to London. With so many amazing culinary options on offer, all you have to do is decide what to try first!

The Insider’s Guide to London: Beyond the Tourist Spots

London is a vibrant city, full of history, culture, and unique culinary experiences. As a local, I have uncovered some hidden gems that I believe every tourist should check out. This guide will take you beyond the typical tourist spots and help you experience the authentic London.

Local Attractions: Discover London’s Hidden Gems

Most tourists flock to the well-known attractions of London, like Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and the Tower of London. However, the city has numerous hidden gems to explore. Head to Columbia Road Flower Market on a Sunday morning, where you’ll find an array of beautiful flowers, antiques, and vintage clothing. Don’t miss the brightly painted houses on Notting Hill’s Portobello Road, made famous by the iconic 90’s film starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts. Explore the beautiful Highgate Cemetery, which is the resting place of important figures like Karl Marx, Malcolm McLaren, and George Eliot.

Dining Spots: Indulge in London’s World-famous Cuisine

London has some incredible local cuisine, with diverse flavors and cultures blended together. Decide to indulge in fish and chips, pie and mash, and Sunday roast. For some of London’s best fish and chips, head to Poppie’s in Camden. You can’t miss a visit to Brick Lane, known for its incredible curry houses and street food markets. Don’t forget to try London’s famous tea and enjoy a classic afternoon tea experience, which has been a tradition since the early 1800s. Check out the Ritz or the Sanderson Hotel, London’s best spots to get a splendid tea service.

Cultural Experiences: Dive into London’s Art, Music, and Festivals

London is perhaps the arts capital of the world, with countless museums, galleries, theaters, and live music venues. The Tate Modern museum, located on the South Bank, is home to some of the world’s best contemporary art. The Barbican is a multi-arts center that hosts an array of performances, from opera to rock concerts. As a local, we love to attend the Notting Hill Carnival, a two-day festival in August that celebrates the city’s Caribbean culture with live music, dance, and street food.

Local History: Discover Fascinating Stories from London’s Past

London has a long and fascinating history, with stories of heroes, villains, and legendary figures. Did you know that the Great Fire of London, which occurred in 1666, destroyed almost 80% of the city but led to the creation of more fire-resistant buildings? The Churchill War Rooms, located underneath the government district in Westminster, is a subterranean museum that offers visitors a unique glimpse into Britain’s wartime past. Take a walk across Abbey Road, the iconic location for the Beatles’ album cover photo – a must-visit for all music fans.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Create Unforgettable Memories

If you want to experience London like a local, take a trip to Greenwich, a quaint neighborhood in East London. Here, you can visit the world-famous maritime museum and stand at the prime meridian, where the eastern and western hemispheres meet. Go for a dip at the Hampstead Heath Bathing Ponds, London’s only freshwater swimming pools. Don’t forget to try some of London’s lesser-known delicacies, such as jellied eels and salt beef bagels, which can be found in the city’s East End.

Conclusion

From unique dining experiences to lesser-known museums, London has so much to offer beyond the typical tourist spots. Use this insider’s guide and explore the city like a local, and I guarantee that you will fall in love with this vibrant and exciting city. So, put on your walking shoes, grab a map, and prepare to discover the best of London.