You can find everything-food here… From great pub staples to awful tourist traps, and everything in between. Over the years, I have found some great places to eat in London and a few of them I make a point of returning for at least one meal every time I visit the city.
Although I am aware London has a great ethnic food scene, I personally have more “basic” tastes and tend to keep to simple fare. I value high-quality ingredients and great taste over a luxurious ambiance any day.
With all this said, I have eaten in each one of the restaurants below, always in the company of friends and we all agree these are great. So give these a try and you won’t be fooled by tourist traps!
Breakfast in London
Le Pain Quotidien
My favorite breakfast place. From the top of my head, I have been to at least 3 branches in London, Brussels, Paris, Amsterdam, and Aix-en-Provence. Fresh bread, so many delicious spreads, fresh juices… They also serve soups and salads, so an afternoon snack here goes down well too. I’m getting hungry just thinking about it.
Muriel’s Kitchen
Small place in South Kensington, it serves a great breakfast. They also serve afternoon tea, but I haven’t tried it yet.
Afternoon tea
The English Rose
This was a great discovery from a couple of years ago. Our favorite afternoon tea, though they also serve breakfast. An independent shop tucked away not far from Buckingham Palace. The scones with cream are to die for.
Proper meals – eating lunch/dinner in London
fish!
There are two places on this list that I visit every single time, without fault. One of them is fish! It’s our absolute favorite fish&chips in town. You can choose different fishes and everything is fresh, coming straight from the surrounding Borough Market. Even if not cheap, this is a great cost/benefit because the food is just that good, so it’s worth it. I prefer to go for lunch and also enjoy the hustle and bustle of Borough Market before or after my meal.
Nando’s
This was a discovery by my sister but everyone heartily approved. Their Afro-Portuguese specialties are almost too spicy for me, but you can choose how strong when you order. It’s all chicken, in many varieties but definitely not a boring menu. It’s great food at super affordable prices, and that’s really something saying when we’re in London.
The Grill @ Harrods
This might be aimed at tourists, yes, but it is so good. This is mostly a walk-in place with few seats and great for a quick lunch and break in sightseeing. The roast chicken with saffron paired with wine is my usual choice and it’s always yummy.
Rossopomodoro
Beware of the insane amount of tourist traps serving “Italian” food in London. But if you’re in the mood and want authenticity, go to Rossopomodoro. This is a Neapolitan chain, that actually started and thrives in Italy, so it’s a safe bet.
Fast-Food
Byron
Even with great proper meals, we all want to have some tasty burgers from time to time. I know some people say Byron Burgers are overhyped and overpriced. But this a solid choice for eating well in London, as I am yet to find a better burger. Try and see it for yourself 🙂
Gelato
Grom
The last time I visited I was pleasantly surprised when I saw my darling Grom has opened a branch in London. For gelato, this is where it’s at!
What do you think? Got any suggestions for eating in London that I can try next time? Let me know!
See also:
London 101: Arriving & Getting Around
Sleeping in London: Piccadilly | South Kensington/Earl’s Court | Paddington
Pin this post and happy travels!
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