London is one of the most diverse culinary capitals in the world, offering a melting pot of flavors influenced by cultures from all over the globe. From classic British dishes to international delights, the city is a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re visiting London for the first time or you’re a local looking for new foodie experiences, this guide highlights the top 10 must-try foods in London that you shouldn’t miss.
1. Fish and Chips 🐟🍟
No trip to London is complete without indulging in a classic plate of fish and chips. This dish consists of crispy battered fish, usually cod or haddock, served with chunky, golden fries and a side of mushy peas. The best fish and chips are made fresh, deep-fried to perfection, and served with malt vinegar, salt, and tartar sauce.
Where to Try:
- The Golden Hind (Marylebone) – Serving authentic fish and chips since 1914.
- Poppies (Soho & Camden) – A 1950s-style fish and chip shop with a great reputation.
- The Mayfair Chippy (Mayfair) – An upscale take on the traditional dish.
2. Full English Breakfast 🍳🥓
A hearty full English breakfast is the ultimate way to start your day in London. This traditional dish includes eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast – all served with a steaming cup of tea or coffee.
Where to Try:
- The Regency Café (Westminster) – A no-frills, old-school café loved by locals.
- E. Pellicci (Bethnal Green) – A family-run café with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
- Dishoom (Multiple Locations) – Their Bombay-inspired version, the “Big Bombay,” is a must-try.
3. Sunday Roast with Yorkshire Pudding 🥩
A Sunday roast is a British tradition that brings people together over a hearty meal. This dish consists of roasted meat (beef, lamb, chicken, or pork), crispy roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, stuffing, gravy, and the iconic Yorkshire pudding – a golden, airy pastry that soaks up the delicious gravy.
Where to Try:
- Hawksmoor (Multiple Locations) – Known for their exceptional roast beef and gravy.
- The Harwood Arms (Fulham) – London’s only Michelin-starred pub, serving a top-tier roast.
- Blacklock (Soho & Shoreditch) – Specializes in slow-roasted meats with all the trimmings.
4. Pie and Mash 🥧
Pie and mash is a beloved London dish that dates back to the 19th century. Traditionally, it consists of a meat pie (often beef or minced meat) served with creamy mashed potatoes and liquor, a green parsley sauce. Some places even serve it with jellied eels, a true East London delicacy.
Where to Try:
- Goddards at Greenwich (Greenwich) – Serving classic pie and mash since 1890.
- M. Manze (Tower Bridge & Peckham) – One of London’s oldest pie shops.
- Mother Mash (Soho) – A modern twist on traditional pie and mash.
5. Chicken Tikka Masala 🍛🔥
London is home to some of the best Indian food outside of India, and chicken tikka masala is often considered Britain’s national dish. This rich, creamy tomato-based curry with tender chunks of marinated chicken is a must-try when in the city.
Where to Try:
- Dishoom (Covent Garden & Shoreditch) – A Bombay-inspired eatery serving exceptional curries.
- Gymkhana (Mayfair) – A Michelin-starred Indian restaurant with an elegant take on the dish.
- Tayyabs (Whitechapel) – A legendary spot for Punjabi cuisine.
6. Afternoon Tea ☕🍰
For a true London experience, indulge in a classic afternoon tea. This delightful tradition includes finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of pastries and cakes, all served with a pot of fine tea.
Where to Try:
- The Ritz (Mayfair) – The most iconic afternoon tea experience in London.
- Sketch (Mayfair) – A quirky, Instagram-worthy setting with a luxurious menu.
- Fortnum & Mason (Piccadilly) – A classic choice for an elegant afternoon tea.
7. Scotch Egg 🥚🍖
A Scotch egg is a delicious snack consisting of a boiled egg wrapped in seasoned sausage meat, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried to crispy perfection. It’s a popular pub snack and a great on-the-go treat.
Where to Try:
- The Harwood Arms (Fulham) – Their venison Scotch egg is legendary.
- Scotchtails (Borough Market) – A stall specializing in gourmet Scotch eggs.
- The Drapers Arms (Islington) – A classic pub with top-tier Scotch eggs.
8. Bangers and Mash 🌭🥔
Another British comfort food classic, bangers and mash consists of sausages (bangers) served with creamy mashed potatoes and onion gravy. It’s a simple but satisfying dish, often found in traditional pubs.
Where to Try:
- Mother Mash (Soho) – A great spot for mashed potatoes with different sausages.
- The Jugged Hare (Barbican) – A gastropub with excellent sausage varieties.
- The Guinea Grill (Mayfair) – A historic pub known for its quality meats.
9. London’s Famous Street Food 🍔🌮
London’s street food scene is booming, offering flavors from all over the world. Some must-try street foods include:
- Salt beef bagels from Beigel Bake on Brick Lane.
- Duck confit burgers from The Duck Truck at Spitalfields Market.
- Bao buns from Bao in Soho.
- Pad Thai from Khaao Street Food in Camden Market.
Where to Find Street Food:
- Borough Market – One of London’s best food markets.
- Camden Market – Known for its variety of international street food.
- Maltby Street Market – A hidden gem for food lovers.
10. Sticky Toffee Pudding 🍮
End your London food adventure with a decadent dessert – sticky toffee pudding. This rich, moist sponge cake is made with finely chopped dates and served with a luscious toffee sauce and vanilla ice cream or custard.
Where to Try:
- Rules (Covent Garden) – London’s oldest restaurant, serving a legendary sticky toffee pudding.
- Hawksmoor (Multiple Locations) – Their take on the dessert is highly praised.
- The Ivy (West End & Kensington) – A sophisticated spot for a delicious pudding.
Final Thoughts
London is a city where traditional British cuisine meets global flavors, creating an incredible food scene that caters to every taste. Whether you’re savoring a classic fish and chips, indulging in an elegant afternoon tea, or exploring the vibrant street food markets, there’s always something delicious to try.
Next time you’re in London, use this guide to embark on a foodie’s dream journey through the city’s must-try dishes. Bon appétit! 🍽️
