As a tourist visiting London, I was excited to dive into the city’s diverse food scene. From traditional British dishes to international cuisine, there’s something for every palate in this vibrant metropolis.
One of the first things I noticed is the abundance of Indian restaurants. London has a large South Asian population, and it shows in the variety and quality of Indian food available. I highly recommend trying a traditional dish like chicken tikka masala or biryani, as well as the popular street food snack, samosas.
Another staple of London’s food scene is fish and chips. This classic dish, consisting of deep-fried fish and chips (french fries), can be found all over the city, but for a true authentic experience, I suggest visiting a traditional “chippy” (fish and chip shop). I had mine with mushy peas, a traditional British side dish made from mashed peas.
Speaking of traditional British dishes, I also had the pleasure of trying some delicious roast beef and Yorkshire pudding at a pub. The pub scene in London is also not to be missed, with a wide variety of pubs to choose from, each offering a unique atmosphere and selection of drinks and food.
London is also a melting pot of cultures, and that diversity is reflected in the city’s international cuisine offerings. From Chinese dim sum to Italian pasta to Caribbean jerk chicken, the options are endless. I particularly enjoyed some delicious Ethiopian food at a small restaurant in East London.
One thing I was surprised by was the number of vegan and vegetarian options available. Many restaurants now offer plant-based alternatives to traditional meat dishes, and there are also many exclusively vegan and vegetarian restaurants to choose from.
Lastly, I have to mention the markets. London is home to some of the most famous markets in the world, like Borough Market and Camden Market. These markets offer a wide variety of food, from fresh produce to street food, as well as other items like clothing and crafts. It’s a great place to explore, sample different foods and pick up some unique souvenirs.
Overall, London’s food scene did not disappoint. The variety and quality of food available is truly impressive, and there’s something for every budget and taste. I can’t wait to go back and explore more of it.
Travel Foodie 