London, a city steeped in history and brimming with iconic landmarks, is a magnet for tourists worldwide. From Buckingham Palace to Big Ben, the well-trodden tourist path offers a curated experience of the city’s grandeur. But for the intrepid explorer seeking something more, London’s culinary scene holds a hidden world waiting to be discovered.
Venture beyond the predictable pub fare and explore a diverse gastronomic landscape, where international flavors dance on your palate and hidden gems surprised with their authenticity. This guide from CJ Digital takes you on a ten-stop journey through London’s lesser-known culinary corners, showcasing the vibrant tapestry of tastes the city has to offer.
1. Breakfast at Dishoom (Bombay Cafes): Start your day with a vibrant explosion of Indian flavors at Dishoom. This award-winning chain, inspired by the Irani cafes of Bombay (now Mumbai), transports you to another world with its bold décor and aromatic spices. Tuck into their signature Bacon Naan Roll, a decadent fusion of crispy bacon and creamy scrambled eggs nestled within a fluffy naan bread. Pair it with a milky Irani Chai for a truly authentic experience.
2. Lunch at Bao (Taiwanese Steamed Buns): For a quick and casual lunch break, Bao in Soho or Fitzrovia offers a taste of Taiwanese street food done right. Their fluffy steamed buns, known as bao, come filled with an amazing variety of savory and sweet options. Opt for the signature Taiwanese-style braised pork belly with pickled mustard greens, or for a lighter option, try the crispy tofu bao with a vibrant peanut sauce.
3. Afternoon Tea at The Clermont Fizroy (Victorian Themed): Channel your inner Victorian with a luxurious afternoon tea at The Clermont Fizroy. This opulent hotel offers a delightful spread of finger sandwiches, delicate pastries, and freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam. Their extensive tea menu boasts an impressive selection from around the world, ensuring a perfect afternoon indulgence.
4. Dinner at Mr. Steak (Hammersmith – Argentinian Steakhouse): Escape the city bustle and head to Hammersmith for a taste of Argentina at Mr. Steak. This unassuming restaurant is a haven for meat lovers, with an extensive menu of perfectly grilled Argentinian steaks. Their signature Bife de Chorizo (ribeye) is a carnivore’s dream, boasting exceptional flavor and tenderness. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff make Mr. Steak a perfect choice for a relaxed and satisfying evening.
5. Late-Night Eats at Breddos Tacos (Peckham – Mexican): Peckham’s vibrant food scene offers a plethora of exciting options, and Breddos Tacos is a must-try for late-night adventurers. Their authentic Mexican street food, served from a brightly-lit food truck, will tantalize your taste buds. Sink your teeth into their succulent al pastor tacos, featuring marinated pork cooked on a vertical rotisserie, or opt for the vegetarian tinga de poblano with creamy cheese. Don’t forget to add a squeeze of fresh lime and a drizzle of their homemade hot sauce for an extra kick.
6. Drinks at The Dead Rabbit (Irish Pub with a Cocktail Twist): London’s pub scene is legendary, but The Dead Rabbit in Belfast Road, Shoreditch, takes it a notch higher. This award-winning Irish pub boasts an extensive and creative cocktail menu, alongside an impressive selection of Irish whiskeys. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere with a handcrafted cocktail like the “Sean Connery” (featuring whiskey, ginger, and lime) or explore the world of Irish whiskey with a knowledgeable bartender guiding your journey.
7. Brunch at The Breakfast Club (American Classics): Cure your weekend hangover or fuel your day’s adventures at The Breakfast Club, a London institution known for its American-style comfort food. Their extensive brunch menu caters to all dietary preferences, with options ranging from fluffy buttermilk pancakes smothered in maple syrup to hearty breakfast burritos overflowing with chorizo eggs and avocado. Don’t forget to share a giant cinnamon roll – it’s practically a requirement here!
8. Dinner at Fuji Hiro (Leeds – Japanese): While this guide focuses primarily on London, a special mention goes to Fuji Hiro in Leeds. This unassuming restaurant, nestled in the heart of the city, serves some of the most authentic Japanese food outside of Japan. Their melt-in-your-mouth sushi and sashimi platters are prepared with meticulous attention to detail, while their flavorful ramen broths and perfectly seared teppanyaki dishes will transport you to the heart of Tokyo.
9. Afternoon Tea at Sketch (Multi-Sensory Experience): For an unforgettable afternoon tea experience, look no further than Sketch in Mayfair. This Michelin-starred restaurant boasts multiple themed dining rooms, each offering a unique sensory experience. Their iconic pod-shaped booths in the futuristic ‘Pods’ room are a visual treat, while the ‘Milkmaid’ room evokes a whimsical farmyard theme. Regardless of the chosen room, the afternoon tea itself is a decadent affair. Delicate finger sandwiches, house-made pastries, and fluffy scones are presented like miniature works of art, accompanied by a selection of premium loose-leaf teas.
10. Late-Night Eats at The Palomar (Clerkenwell – Middle Eastern): Conclude your culinary adventure with a taste of the Middle East at The Palomar in Clerkenwell. This vibrant restaurant offers a menu of sharing plates inspired by the cuisines of Israel, Lebanon, and Turkey. Sample their signature charcoal-grilled octopus with a vibrant harissa dressing, savor the melt-in-your-mouth lamb shawarma, or dive into a selection of their homemade mezze dips with warm flatbreads. The lively atmosphere and sharing-style plates make The Palomar perfect for a fun and social late-night gathering.
Beyond the Obvious:
London’s culinary scene is a living tapestry, constantly evolving with new trends and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. This guide merely scratches the surface of the incredible range of flavors the city has to offer. So, ditch the tourist traps, grab your adventurous spirit (and a healthy appetite!), and embark on your own culinary journey through the diverse neighborhoods of London. You might just stumble upon your new favorite restaurant, a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more.
Bonus Tip:
For the truly adventurous eater, explore London’s many food markets. Borough Market near London Bridge, Brixton Market in South London, and Broadway Market in Hackney all offer a dazzling array of fresh produce, international ingredients, and street food stalls perfect for a delicious and affordable on-the-go bite.
With its ever-evolving culinary landscape, London promises an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. So, come hungry, explore with an open mind, and discover the hidden flavors that make this city a true foodie paradise.
