In partnership with IHG
London is considered one of the most important cultural centers of the world, and it’s known to have some of the most renowned historic attractions. There are plenty of things to do in London and neighborhoods in which to stay throughout this incredible city.. Though it’s a city that embraces its rich past, London never stops being a prominent player in all things current. You can see this in the city’s fashion, architecture, and nightlife.
In my younger days, London was never considered a culinary destination. Much has changed since, and today, London is one of the leaders in all things culinary.
Explore This Diverse Destination
Before satisfying your appetite, get to know this metropolis. The City of London itself isn’t all that large. When you take the surrounding 32 boroughs into account, however, London is expansive.
These boroughs give London incredible diversity. My suggestion is to explore different neighborhoods throughout your stay and absorb the many parts of this rich city. You’ll best experience the city’s culture and significance through its people and culinary offerings.
Find a Place to Eat
In London, you’ll find great food from just about every part of the world. For example, there’s no shortage of authentic Italian food. For an excellent and lively experience, Jamie’s Italian at Covent Garden is unequaled. The celebrity chef’s Mediterranean outpost dishes out some of the most beautiful and rustic dishes. This is amplified by a succulent dish aptly named Jamie’s Favourite Porchetta.
It doesn’t end with Italian food, though. There’s a wide range from which to choose, including fantastic reinterpretations of tapas. Check out those offered at Fernandez and Wells, and one of our family favorites, or Ottolenghi in Notting Hill, which doles out Israeli-inspired dishes. Both these places have a wonderful, clean aesthetic and knowledgeable and hospitable service.
For my money, however, London’s food scene is best highlighted by its gastropubs. Unlike the past, today the focus is on food first and drink second. It’s in these taverns and public houses that a family, group of friends, or a couple can find a corner to enjoy the food that put England on the culinary map. Our personal favorites, especially for the famous Sunday roast, are The Clarence in the City of Westminster and the Holly Bush in Hampstead Village.
Sunday Roast at The Clarence
If a traditional setting is what you’re looking for, look no further than Rules near Covent Garden. Walking through this place that specializes in wild game inspires a romanticized sense of the England of yore. For the best of high-end British grub, try to score a table at our favorite restaurant in town, St. John in Smithfield.
Deviled Kidneys at St. John’s.
Decide on Somewhere to Stay
Whether you’re in the City of London, Westminster, Notting Hill, or Hampstead, there’s plenty to see and do. Visit London and book a room or two in any of the boroughs. Our suggestion is to start somewhere in Central London for some sightseeing, and then pick another hotel in the outskirts. There you can get lost in London’s diverse people and food.
More than ever, it’s an excellent time to visit this city. Start planning your trip to London, and get ready to satisfy your appetite for great food.
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Whenever I go to London, there’s always something new to do and experience there! Such a beautiful country with lots of scenic countryside as well as a cultural haven!!!
I love going to Borough Market to taste all the different food and also the markets in Shoreditch . I love street stalls and London has some amazing food trucks around the city!
I always thought London is all about rains, metro, and shopping. Ethnic food from around the world would have never occurred to me , had you not mentioned here. Thanks for sharing.
I’m so glad you mentioned Gastropubs as they are my favourite in London!
I love how London has really embraced ethnic food from around the world. And you can still get a pretty amazing burger and a beer.
I loved the Notting Hill market in London. I generally just love trying food.
Thanks for the great tips. I am heading to London next week so I will check them out!
Oh yes, I would go to London just for the food! I like your idea to try the foods in different neighborhoods. So many times we hear about good places to eat and just go to those restaurants but really to get out and be adventurous you might find that hidden gem you’ve been looking for in the city.
I enjoyed trying all of the different dishes when I was in London. I think it’s good to try the local stuff as you mentioned, but they also have food from around the world. I ate the best hamburger i had in Europe at an American restaurant in London. I felt like I was back home…