Written by star on May 12, 2025

London Must-Try Food List: From Street Eats to Michelin Stars

Food . Travel Tips

London is a city where culinary diversity meets history, where the aromas of street food mingle with the elegance of Michelin-starred restaurants. Exploring London through its food is like taking a journey across continents without leaving the city. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual traveler, there’s a taste waiting around every corner. From hearty pies to refined dining experiences, London offers something for every palate. Here’s your ultimate guide to the must-try food in London, spanning street eats, casual dining, and haute cuisine.

1. Street Food: Quick, Flavorful, and Iconic

London’s street food scene is vibrant and constantly evolving. Markets, food trucks, and small vendors offer dishes that are rich in flavor yet easy on the wallet.

Borough Market

Borough Market is arguably the heart of London’s street food scene. Here, stalls line the cobbled streets, offering everything from freshly baked sourdough bread to artisanal cheeses. One must-try is the classic British pie. Whether you go for the traditional steak and ale or a vegetarian mushroom and stilton pie, the flaky crust and hearty filling make it an unforgettable bite. Don’t miss the gourmet scotch eggs, which elevate a classic snack to a flavorful delight with perfectly seasoned fillings.

Brick Lane

Brick Lane is famous for its multicultural food offerings. If you’re a fan of curries, the Bangladeshi and Indian options here are unmatched. Chicken tikka, lamb korma, and the spiciest vindaloo will leave you craving for more. For those seeking something sweet, grab a bag of bagels or doughnuts from local bakeries—the perfect energy boost as you wander through the bustling streets.

Camden Market

Camden Market is a playground for street food lovers. From vegan burgers to exotic Asian dumplings, the variety is staggering. One standout is the Halloumi fries—crispy, salty, and utterly addictive. Another favorite is the bao buns, often stuffed with pork belly or tofu and topped with fresh herbs and sauces that explode with flavor. Walking through Camden, you’ll find it impossible to resist sampling everything.

Southbank Centre Food Stalls

Along the Thames, near the Southbank Centre, food stalls offer international flavors with a view of the river. Spanish churros, Middle Eastern falafel wraps, and freshly made pasta dishes are just some of the offerings. The ambience is unbeatable: you can grab your food, sit by the water, and watch the city drift by.

2. Casual Dining: Comfort Food with a Twist

After indulging in street food, you may want a sit-down experience that balances taste with comfort. London’s casual dining scene offers everything from gastropubs to modern bistros.

Fish and Chips at Poppies

No visit to London is complete without tasting the city’s iconic fish and chips. Poppies, located in Spitalfields, serves crispy, golden batter over tender cod, paired with perfectly cooked chips. The mushy peas and tangy tartar sauce complete the quintessential British experience. It’s comfort food elevated to an art form, and the retro diner vibe adds to the nostalgia.

Afternoon Tea at Sketch

While technically not casual in pricing, afternoon tea at Sketch is a must for its playful presentation and delicious pastries. Tiny sandwiches, delicate scones with clotted cream, and a selection of teas turn this experience into a feast for the senses. The iconic pink room adds an Instagram-worthy backdrop to your culinary indulgence.

Dishoom: Bombay Café in London

Dishoom brings the flavors of Bombay’s old cafés to London streets. Their black daal, served with fluffy naan, is a comfort food masterpiece, and the house chai is aromatic and rich. Whether you go for breakfast or dinner, the menu offers a perfect balance of familiar and exotic flavors.

Flat Iron: Steak on a Budget

For meat lovers, Flat Iron provides high-quality steak without the Michelin-star price tag. Served with simple sides like roasted vegetables and creamed spinach, the steak is tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. The casual atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

3. Gourmet & Michelin-Starred Dining

For those seeking an elevated dining experience, London’s Michelin-starred restaurants offer creativity, precision, and unforgettable flavors.

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay

For a world-class culinary experience, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in Chelsea stands out. Each dish is a masterpiece, blending flavors, textures, and artistic presentation. Signature dishes, such as roasted lamb with seasonal vegetables or delicate seafood creations, showcase why this restaurant has retained three Michelin stars for so long.

Core by Clare Smyth

Core, helmed by Clare Smyth, is an elegant restaurant where British ingredients shine. The tasting menu is an exploration of both traditional and modern techniques. Expect dishes that surprise your palate, from perfectly seared scallops to inventive desserts that look like miniature works of art.

Sketch (The Lecture Room & Library)

Sketch’s Michelin-starred restaurant offers a multi-sensory experience. Beyond the playful décor, the culinary creations are precise and imaginative. Each plate tells a story, balancing textures and flavors that are at once luxurious and comforting.

Hakkasan

Hakkasan blends modern Chinese cuisine with a sleek, luxurious setting. Dim sum, Peking duck, and other signature dishes are elevated through technique and presentation. It’s a perfect spot for travelers who want a taste of Asia without leaving London.

4. Sweet Treats: Dessert Adventures

London is a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. Beyond pastries and chocolates, the city offers creative desserts that are both delicious and visually stunning.

Dominique Ansel Bakery

The creator of the Cronut brings inventive pastries to London. The bakery offers seasonal creations that combine texture, flavor, and whimsy. A must-try is the salted caramel kouign-amann, a perfect balance of sweetness and buttery crunch.

Cutter & Squidge

Known for their “Biskies” (a combination of biscuit, meringue, and cream), Cutter & Squidge is a haven for dessert lovers. Each treat is colorful, imaginative, and utterly delightful to bite into.

Gelato at Grom or Chin Chin Labs

For a refreshing treat, London’s gelaterias deliver world-class gelato. Chin Chin Labs adds an extra twist with liquid nitrogen ice cream, creating a theatrical and creamy dessert experience. The flavors range from classic chocolate to inventive seasonal fruits, perfect for a sunny afternoon stroll.

Fortnum & Mason

For traditional British sweets, Fortnum & Mason offers luxurious chocolates, tea cakes, and preserves. A stop here is like stepping into a confectionery wonderland, where the packaging is as beautiful as the treats themselves.

5. Food Markets: A Global Culinary Tour

London’s food markets allow you to sample dishes from around the world in a single day.

Borough Market

As mentioned, Borough Market is ideal for street food, but it’s also a place to explore international flavors. Try fresh oysters from the sea, Spanish jamón, or artisan cheeses from across Europe.

Maltby Street Market

A smaller, yet equally charming market, Maltby Street is famous for its ropewalk lined with food stalls. Try the gourmet sandwiches, hand-crafted sausages, or innovative desserts prepared by local chefs.

Broadway Market

Broadway Market in Hackney combines a farmers’ market with food stalls offering global cuisine. Vegan tacos, Ethiopian stews, and homemade pastries make it a delightful exploration of London’s culinary diversity.

6. Drinks and Nightlife: Beyond the Meal

No food experience is complete without drinks. London offers everything from craft beers to world-class cocktails.

Craft Beer at Bermondsey Beer Mile

For beer enthusiasts, the Bermondsey Beer Mile is a must. Independent breweries offer unique flavors, from fruity IPAs to rich stouts. Sampling a flight of beers allows you to experience the creativity of London’s brewing scene.

Cocktails at Nightjar

For an atmospheric night out, Nightjar in Shoreditch serves innovative cocktails with a vintage speakeasy vibe. Each drink is crafted with precision, often incorporating seasonal ingredients and theatrical presentation.

Afternoon Tea Cocktails

Some bars, like The Bloomsbury Club, offer cocktail versions of traditional afternoon tea. Imagine sipping a tea-inspired martini alongside delicate pastries—a fusion of old and new that captures the spirit of London’s culinary innovation.

7. Tips for Food Exploration in London

1. Plan Ahead for Popular Spots: Michelin-starred restaurants often require reservations weeks in advance.
2. Explore Markets Early: Arriving early at food markets ensures you get the best selection and avoid crowds.
3. Mix Street and Fine Dining: A balanced itinerary allows you to experience London’s culinary diversity without breaking the bank.
4. Ask Locals for Hidden Gems: Some of the best dishes are found in small, tucked-away eateries not widely advertised.
5. Consider Dietary Preferences: London is incredibly accommodating, with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options widely available.

London’s food scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, cultures, and culinary creativity. From savory street food to indulgent Michelin-starred experiences, there’s something to delight every palate. Markets offer a taste of the world, casual dining provides comfort and flavor, while high-end restaurants showcase the artistry of modern cuisine. Add in the city’s sweet treats and innovative drinks, and you have a culinary adventure that’s truly unforgettable. Exploring London through its food not only fills your stomach but also tells the story of a city where tradition and innovation meet on every plate.

Whether you’re wandering through bustling markets, savoring a classic fish and chips, or indulging in an elaborate tasting menu, London proves itself as a top destination for food lovers. Your taste buds are in for an adventure, and the memories of these flavors will linger long after you leave the city.