Eat Your Way Through the City: Top Places to Dine in London

London is a city known for its diverse culture and its vast array of dining options. With so many options, it can often be overwhelming choosing which restaurants to visit. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to dine in London, so you can enjoy the city’s amazing culinary delights.

Traditional Cuisine

When it comes to traditional British cuisine, London is definitely a destination to consider. The classic tastes of dishes such as fish and chips, bangers and mash and steak and ale pie, can all be enjoyed at some of the city’s world-famous restaurants.

  1. Rules – Established in 1798, Rules is one of the oldest restaurants in London and is renowned for its traditional British dishes. This iconic restaurant has hosted some of the most influential and famous people throughout history and continues to keep classics such as steak and kidney pie, and jugged hare on the menu.

  2. The Camden Grocer – This family-run business is a favourite amongst locals due to its delicious traditional British cuisine and cosy atmosphere. Their menu includes dishes such as potted beef and lamb, sausage rolls, and pork pies and offers a number of vegan and vegetarian options as well.

  3. Albion – Perfectly located in Aldgate, Albion offers a menu that celebrates the best of British fare. This restaurant combines traditional favourites such as toad-in-the-hole and steak and ale pie, as well as some delicious vegetarian/vegan options such as Wild Mushroom and Cashew Nut Tart.

International Cuisine

London is a melting pot of different cultures, which results in a wide variety of international restaurants throughout the city. Whether you’re looking for something spicy, a taste of the Mediterranean or a hint of Asia, you’ll find something that suits your tastes.

  1. Yauatcha – With two locations in the city, Yauatcha is a renowned dim sum teahouse that serves dim sum classics such as har gow and char siu bao. The authentic flavours come from carefully selected ingredients and meats, and all dishes are made in-house.

  2. La Bodega Negra – For modern Mexican cuisine, this Soho restaurant is definitely a place to visit. Their menu includes tacos, burritos, enchiladas and quesadillas, as well as a range of dishes created using authentic Mexican spices and flavours.

  3. Oklava – If you’re looking to explore the flavours of the Mediterranean, then Oklava is a great choice. The menu is inspired by the cuisine of Turkey and Greece and includes delicious dishes such as seared aubergine, courgette, and crispy lamb köfte.

Fine Dining

If you’re looking for an extra special experience, then there’s no better place to find it than London. Whether you’re looking for classic French food or modern British fare, you’ll find something to tickle your taste buds.

  1. Dinner – Housed at London’s iconic Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, this two Michelin starred restaurant offers some of the best in modern British cuisine. From its signature ‘Tipsy Cake’ dessert to its delicious steamed guinea fowl, you’ll find something that will delight.

  2. The Ivy – Known as the ultimate destination for a sophisticated evening out, The Ivy is renowned for its British Classics menu. Its indulgent menu includes fish and chips, shepherd’s pie and beef Wellington, which are all cooked with the freshest ingredients.

  3. Le Gavroche – For classic French haute cuisine, this is the place to go. The two Michelin starred restaurant located in Mayfair uses only the best ingredients to create mouth-watering dishes such as Langoustine Ravioli, and a delectable Macaroni Cheese with Truffle.

Desserts

No meal is complete without a sweet treat and in London there is no shortage of delicious desserts. From traditional ice cream parlours to creative cakes and pastries, you’ll find something to satisfy your sweet tooth.

  1. Hummingbird Bakery – This bakery produces some of the best cupcakes in the city, with a variety of flavours including the classic red velvet, peanut butter and jelly, salted caramel, and cinnamon. Also available are traditional cakes, brownies, and cookies.

  2. Glacé – If you’re looking for a traditional ice cream parlour, then Glacé is a great bet. This famous ice cream parlour serves a number of flavours, including salted caramel, chocolate, and strawberry.

  3. Comptoir Gourmand – For an extra special dessert experience, visit this patisserie located in London’s Notting Hill. Their menu includes a range of creative cakes, pastries and desserts, such as the Chocolate Fondant, the Caramel Mille Feuille, and the Spice Apple Pie with Streusel.

London has a wealth of amazing dining opportunities and no matter what type of cuisine you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find something that you’ll love. From traditional British fare to international dishes, and luxurious fine dining experiences, there is something for everyone. So, if you’re planning to visit London make sure to eat your way through the city!