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London food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to London.
Photo by Nick van den Berg on Unsplash
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
$10–$18
A hearty breakfast featuring fried eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and fried bread or toast. It's a substantial start to the day, often found in cafes and pubs across the city.
Where to try: Traditional pubs and cafes in areas like Bermondsey and Clerkenwell
Fish and Chips
$12–$20
Battered and deep-fried white fish (typically cod or haddock) served with thick-cut fried potatoes. Best enjoyed fresh and hot, often with a side of mushy peas and malt vinegar.
Where to try: Chippies (fish and chip shops) in coastal-adjacent neighbourhoods like Greenwich and in markets such as Borough Market
Sunday Roast
$18–$30
A traditional Sunday lunch consisting of roasted meat (beef, lamb, chicken, or pork), roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, vegetables, and gravy. A quintessential British experience, especially in pubs.
Where to try: Pubs throughout London, particularly in historic areas like Hampstead and Notting Hill
Chicken Tikka Masala
$15–$25
While its origins are debated, this creamy, spiced tomato-based curry with chunks of marinated chicken is a beloved staple in Britain. It represents the UK's vibrant South Asian culinary scene.
Where to try: Indian restaurants and curry houses in areas like Brick Lane and Southall
Pie and Mash
$8–$15
A classic working-class dish of minced beef pie, mashed potatoes, and a green parsley sauce (liquor). Traditionally served in dedicated pie and mash shops.
Where to try: Traditional pie and mash shops in the East End, such as around Smithfield Market
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Borough Market
Bustling, artisanal food market with a huge variety of global street food, fresh produce, and artisan products.
Street foodArtisan producersLunchtime exploration
Shoreditch
Trendy and eclectic, known for its street art, independent boutiques, and a diverse range of global street food and innovative restaurants.
Street foodGlobal cuisineCasual dining
Soho
Vibrant and diverse, offering a dense concentration of restaurants, cafes, and bars catering to all tastes and budgets, from quick bites to fine dining.
International cuisinePre-theatre diningNightlife
Covent Garden
Lively and theatrical, with a mix of market stalls, chain restaurants, and independent eateries, often with street performers.
Pre-theatre diningCasual mealsPeople-watching
Dietary notes
London is very accommodating for dietary needs. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in most restaurants and cafes, with many establishments offering dedicated plant-based menus. Gluten-free options are also increasingly common, though cross-contamination can be a concern in traditional kitchens.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated for good service; 10-12.5% is customary in restaurants if a service charge isn't already included.
- •Card payments are widely accepted, but carrying some cash can be useful for smaller market stalls or independent shops.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekend evenings.
- •Queuing is a national pastime; always wait your turn patiently in lines.
- •Meals are generally eaten earlier than in some Southern European countries; lunch is typically between 12 PM and 2 PM, and dinner from 6 PM onwards.
Plan the rest of your London trip
Food guides elsewhere