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London food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to London.
What to eat in London
5 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Full English Breakfast
A hearty plate featuring fried eggs, bacon, sausage, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, and fried bread or toast. It's the quintessential start to a weekend in London, offering a substantial and savory meal.
Fish and Chips
Battered and deep-fried white fish (usually cod or haddock) served with thick-cut fried potatoes. Look for a crisp batter and flaky fish, best enjoyed piping hot from a traditional 'chippy'.
Sunday Roast
A traditional Sunday meal of roasted meat (beef, lamb, chicken, or pork) served with roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, vegetables, and gravy. It's a communal feast, best experienced in a cozy pub.
Pie and Mash
A classic working-class dish of minced beef pie, mashed potatoes, and a parsley sauce known as 'liquor'. Often served with jellied eels for the adventurous.
Chicken Tikka Masala
While its exact origins are debated, this creamy, spiced tomato-based curry with chunks of marinated chicken is a beloved staple of British Indian cuisine. It's a flavorful and comforting dish that reflects London's multicultural food scene.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Hipster, vibrant, street art-covered
Bustling, artisanal, historic food market
Chic, diverse, theatrical
Multicultural, energetic, market-driven
Dietary notes
London is incredibly accommodating to dietary needs, with most restaurants offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. However, traditional British fare like pies and roasts can be meat-heavy, so be sure to check menus or ask staff.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is not obligatory but a service charge of 10-12.5% is often added to bills in restaurants; if so, no further tip is needed. If no service charge is added, a tip of around 10% for good service is appreciated.
- •Contactless card payments are widely accepted everywhere, from large retailers to small market stalls. Cash is still accepted but less common.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekend evenings.
- •Dress codes are generally relaxed, but some high-end restaurants may expect smart casual attire.
Plan the rest of your London trip
Food guides elsewhere