Skip to main content

Taste the Many Sides of London

If you’ve got a craving, London has just the dish. With spices that surprise and thoughtfully-sourced ingredients, this city has redefined modern gastronomy and brought near-forgotten techniques back from the brink. So, join us in taking a culinary tour of one of the world’s most cosmopolitan dining scenes.  


Quintessential London Eats

Poppies’ Fish & Chips

Known for its authentic seafood dishes, Poppie’s is the perfect spot to enjoy a plate of fish and chips. Here, the atmosphere is more than a little cozy with kitschy decor and a friendly waitstaff. The iconic British dish comes in generous, perfectly-battered portions. If you’re feeling adventurous, the menu also offers some unique options like jellied eels and a hot seafood platter.

6-8 Hanbury St., Spitalfields, London E1 6QR

Hawksmoor

For steak that’s something special, you can’t go wrong with one of Hawksmoor’s London locations. Part of what makes the beef so tasty is Hawksmoor’s commitment to sourcing British cattle from small farms that adhere to specific standards. Unlike much of today’s cattle, which are quickly fattened on a diet of grain, these farms let the cattle mature slowly in a stress-free environment where they can feed on a diet of grass and hay.

157A Commercial St., London E1 6BJ
 


Dining Of Note

Texture

Grab a glass of champagne and enjoy Scandinavian cuisine with Asian influences at Texture. Situated in a restored Georgian, this Michelin-starred eatery is bright with big windows and high ceilings. Yet, the atmosphere is surprisingly warm and welcoming. After perusing the wide-ranging champagne list, choose from a menu that’s been described as “imaginative” by critics. Dishes range from Icelandic cod and pigeon to ribeye or duck, depending on the season.

34 Portman St., Marylebone, London W1H 7BY

Gaucho Piccadilly

The first thing you notice when entering this Argentinian steakhouse is the sleek and stylish furnishings. While Gaucho Piccadilly has earned a rep for topnotch steaks, people also rave about the Electro Brunch Feast on Saturdays. With bottomless food and cocktails and a DJ keeping the mood festive, there are definitely worse ways to spend an afternoon in London.

25 Swallow St., Mayfair, London W1B 4QR

Veeraswamy

Fine dining meets historic London at the city’s oldest surviving Indian restaurant. Established in 1926, Veeraswamy has stood the test of time by presenting the extraordinary tastes and flavors from the palaces and gourmet homes of several regions of India. This Michelin-starred restaurant draws on recipes from different regions, including popular street foods. The kitchen is known for dishes that combine locally-sourced ingredients with spices directly from India, making for a completely unique dining experience.

Victory House, 99-101 Regent St., Mayfair, London W1B 4RS


Markets

Borough Market

Taste your way through one of London’s most historic and robust food markets at Borough Market. Located in Southwark, the market serves both the general public and grocers looking to stock up on fresh meat and produce. Take note: The market can attract a crowd, so if you’re looking for something a bit more toned down, try to visit early Saturday or during weekday afternoons. It’s best to come hungry and with an open mind, as there are local goods like plumb bread, which you can’t find on every corner.

8 Southwark St., London SE1 1TL

Maltby Street Market

If you’re looking for a spot with more locals than out-of-towners, Maltby Street Market has you covered. When the market comes alive on weekends in Southeast London, there’s always something new on the docket. The market tends to switch up traders, with offerings ranging from decadent scotch eggs and craft coffee to Moroccan dishes and muddled gin cocktails. And don’t let the alfresco nature of the market fool you. While these dishes may technically be “street food,” many could double as gourmet meals with lavish trimmings and high-quality ingredients.

37 Maltby St., London SE1 3PA

Broadway Market

On any given day, you’ll find the sidewalks lined with quaint cafes, retailers and a bookshop. But on Saturdays, the street fills with about 120 stalls selling everything from crepes and eclairs to hot salt beef and pad Thai. Among the most well-known markets in London, this is the perfect spot to grab some delicious street food for now and stock up on produce for later.

Hackney, London

 

The information provided herein is sponsored by Diners Club International®. It is intended for informational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Content on this website may contain information from third parties and/or links to third-party websites. Diners Club International bears no responsibility for the accuracy, legality or content of this information.