London surpasses its popular landmarks and historical significance because it maintains its status as a worldwide gastronomic powerhouse. This city showcases its cultural diversity through its enthusiastic food establishments with their various cuisines. As London has thousands of restaurants & cafes, filtering the best places to eat in London can be quite difficult, but don’t worry we are here to help you out with that.
The city provides residents and visitors with an extensive variety of eating options from traditional British dishes to modern international menus available at different price points. The city presents diverse dining options which both local foodies and casual visitors can discover authentic food choices to fulfil their preferences.
The food scene of London is special because it merges historical dishes with modern innovations. A perfect Sunday roast will delight you inside a vintage historic pub but turning to next day’s innovative fusion cuisine awaits. London offers comfort-rich British food such as fish and chips along with nourishing shepherd’s pie to satisfy those who desire classic food memories.
Afternoon tea stands as a London tradition where sophistication unites with the pleasure of sweet treats along with tea. The culinary expedition through London leads visitors to its best food destinations which blend traditional British cuisine with contemporary and worldwide dining options.
This article provides practical information about every recommendation including precise details about where to find best places to eat in London and cost as well as available seating. Every visitor to London will find that these essential dining locations in Soho and Brixton and Mayfair areas make their travel experience in the city more enjoyable.
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So, let’s discover the best places to eat in London and what you should eat at these places.
1. Fish and Chips at Poppies
Experience the essence of London with a must-try dish: fish and chips. For an unforgettable taste, head to Poppies, one of the finest establishments in the city. The fish is expertly cooked, enveloped in a delicate, golden batter that boasts a satisfying crunch on the outside while remaining tender and flaky within. This dish, paired with hearty, hand-cut chips, is the ultimate comfort food classic.
Enhance your meal by incorporating mushy peas and tartar sauce for a delightful touch. Poppies exudes a delightful 1950s vibe, where the enchanting sounds of jukebox music and charming retro uniforms come together to create an irresistible atmosphere. Nestled close to Spitalfields Market, this spot is ideal for recharging after a day filled with shopping and exploring.
Pricing is £14 – £18 per person
Seating Capacity is Approximately 70 seats
Poppies Location: 6-8 Hanbury Street, Spitalfields, London E1 6QR
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2. Sunday Roast at Hawksmoor Seven Dials
The Sunday Roast stands as a hallmark of British culture, and Hawksmoor presents an extraordinary rendition of this classic feast. The star of the show is the slow-roasted beef, expertly cooked to achieve tender perfection, accompanied by a crispy Yorkshire pudding that absorbs the luscious, savoury gravy.
The roasted potatoes boast a delightful crispiness on the outside, complemented by a fluffy interior, while the seasonal vegetables bring a fresh and vibrant flair to the dish. Hawksmoor’s Covent Garden location radiates sophistication with its inviting lighting, plush leather seating, and charming exposed brick walls, creating an ideal atmosphere for a leisurely Sunday get-together.
Pricing is £25 – £35 per person
Seating Capacity is Around 140 seats
Hawksmoor Seven Dials Location: 11 Langley Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9JG
3. Afternoon Tea at Sketch
Sketch presents an unparalleled high tea experience. Indulge in an exquisite afternoon tea featuring delicate finger sandwiches filled with gourmet delights like smoked salmon and crisp cucumber. Complementing this are freshly baked scones, perfectly paired with rich clotted cream and luscious homemade jam.
The true star of the show is the stunning array of exquisite pastries and cakes, each one a masterpiece that seems almost too beautiful to indulge in. The gallery, bathed in soft pink tones, offers a stunning visual experience, featuring luxurious seating and ever-changing art displays that evoke a sense of whimsy. Sketch takes great pride in delivering exceptional service, making each visit a memorable experience.
Pricing is £60 – £80 per person
Seating Capacity is Approximately 150 seats
Sketch London Location: 9 Conduit Street, Mayfair, London W1S 2XG
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4. Curry at Dishoom
Dishoom transports you to the bustling streets of Bombay right in the heart of London, offering a menu that is both authentic and creatively inspired. The Black Daal, slow-cooked for 24 hours to create a luxurious, creamy texture, is an absolute must-try.
Don’t miss out on the Chicken Ruby, a delightful tomato-based curry that offers comforting flavours. The velvety naan bread is ideal for soaking up those rich, savoury sauces. Dishoom’s Carnaby location boasts vintage Bollywood posters, elegant marble tabletops, and inviting soft lighting, creating a warm and vibrant dining atmosphere.
Their chai tea, infused with aromatic spices and served piping hot, is the ideal finale to your meal.
Pricing is £12 – £20 per person
Seating Capacity is Around 200 seats
Dishoom Location: 22 Kingly Street, Carnaby, London W1B 5QP
5. Bao Buns at BAO Soho
BAO Soho is a paradise for enthusiasts of Taiwanese street cuisine. Experience the delight of their signature bao buns, which are irresistibly pillowy-soft and generously filled with an array of options, including the timeless pork belly topped with peanut powder and the mouthwatering crispy fried chicken drizzled with hot sauce.
Shiitake mushroom bao, infused with soy-braised perfection, is a delight that vegetarians will adore. Complement your bao with delightful small plates such as Taiwanese fried chicken or aubergine featuring century egg. The restaurant’s sleek design, characterised by its clean lines and warm wood accents, elevates the cozy dining atmosphere.
Price ranges are £8 to £15 per person.
There has roughly forty seating capacity.
BAO Soho Location: 53 Lexington Street, Soho, London W1F 9AS.
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6. Pizza at Franco Manca
Franco Manca has mastered the craft of sourdough pizza. The dough, allowed to ferment for more than 24 hours, results in a crust that is delightfully chewy with a hint of char, providing an ideal foundation for fresh, premium toppings. Indulge in the timeless Margherita or explore our seasonal specials, showcasing delightful ingredients such as wild mushrooms and prosciutto.
Located in a bustling market area, the Brixton branch offers a dynamic setting for your dining experience. The laid-back atmosphere offers the perfect backdrop for a fast and fulfilling meal.
Price ranges from £6 to £12 per person.
There has roughly fifty seating capacity.
Franco Manca Location: 4 Market Row, Brixton, SW9 8LD
7. Borough Market Street Food
Borough Market is a haven for food lovers, showcasing an array of British favourites alongside vibrant global street food options. Begin your experience with freshly shucked oysters from Richard Haward’s, then transition to the indulgence of raclette or the vibrant flavours of sizzling Spanish paella.
Indulge in Bread Ahead’s doughnuts for dessert, featuring luscious custards or zesty jams that are simply irresistible. The vibrant atmosphere and inviting outdoor seating of the market offer an engaging experience like no other. Borough Market offers an unforgettable experience for everyone, from passionate food lovers to those who simply enjoy a good meal.
Every dish costs £5 to £15.
There is open-air seating with varying vendor availability for seating capacity.
Location: 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL
8. Ramen at Kanada-Ya
Kanada-Ya is renowned for its tonkotsu ramen, showcasing a broth that is meticulously slow-cooked for hours to create a luxurious, creamy texture. Freshly made every day, the noodles boast a delightful springy texture that pairs flawlessly with the rich broth. Indulge in the Truffle Ramen, enhanced with luxurious black truffle oil for a sumptuous take on the traditional dish.
Alternatively, savour the Chashu Don, a delightful rice bowl crowned with succulent pork, providing a truly gratifying option. The restaurant features a subtle decor and prompt service, establishing it as the perfect destination for a swift yet satisfying meal.
Pricing is £11 to £16 apiece.
There are roughly 50 seating capacity.
Kanada-Ya Location: 64 St Giles High Street, London WC2H 8LE
9. Doughnuts @ Crosstown Doughnuts
Crosstown Doughnuts elevates the classic doughnut experience with exquisite flavours and masterful craftsmanship. Every doughnut is meticulously hand-crafted, featuring delightful options such as Matcha Tea, Tongan Vanilla Bean Glaze, and Peanut Butter & Blackcurrant Compote.
Delicious vegan and gluten-free options guarantee that everyone can indulge in these delightful sweet treats. The Soho spot, while cozy, is ideal for a swift coffee and doughnut break as you wander through the lively streets of the neighbourhood.
Price ranges are £4–£6 for each doughnut.
Seating Capacity is very less — roughly ten.
Crosstown Doughnuts Location: 4 Broadwick Street, Soho, London W1F 8HW
10. Cocktails and Small Plates in the Darwin Brasserie at Sky Garden
Darwin Brasserie delivers a dining experience that is as stunning as the vistas it showcases. Nestled in the Sky Garden, the restaurant offers a delightful selection of small plates, including Cornish crab salad, duck confit, and grilled pork belly, each crafted with meticulous attention and style.
The cocktails, expertly crafted with seasonal ingredients, rival the breathtaking panoramic views of London’s skyline. Featuring a contemporary design and vibrant indoor gardens, Darwin Brasserie stands out as an exceptional destination for an unforgettable dining experience.
Individual pricing ranges from £40 to £60.
Seating Capacity is about 150 seats
Darwin Brasserie Location: 20 Fenchurch Street London EC3M 8AF
