London's culinary landscape is a tapestry of traditional British dishes, making it a true foodie haven.  

From the iconic fish and chips to the hearty bangers and mash, the cuisine of the city captivates with its comforting classics.  

 

London neighborhoods offer a plethora of international flavors, reflecting its cosmopolitan spirit. Yet, the unique traditional dishes of London stand out and are iconic, maintaining global fame, and providing a gastronomic experience that appeals to both locals and tourists alike, even amidst the international cuisine that thrives in many of its neighborhoods. 

 

Discover what to eat in London and what are the best foods you cannot miss when visiting the city! 

 

Best English food to eat in London: the 6 iconic dishes 

 

Here’s a guide of what (and where) to eat in London! These are the 6 iconic traditional British dishes you need to try: 

• Fish & Chips: the quintessential British dish, originated in the 19th century as a hearty meal for the working class. Traditionally served wrapped in newspaper, this crispy fried fish paired with chunky chips quickly became a national favorite and a symbol of British culinary heritage. 

 

Where to eat Fish & Chips in London:  

For a very British experience in London, indulging in fish and chips is a must. At Camden Town, Poppies Fish & Chips offers a delightful taste of tradition. Located at 30 Hawley Crescent, this establishment is renowned for its authentic offerings and nostalgic decor. If you find yourself in Mayfair, the upscale ambiance of The Mayfair Chippy awaits you at 14 North Audley Street. Here, you'll enjoy a refined take on the classic dish, perfectly blending tradition with a touch of elegance. 

 

• Sunday Roast: A staple of British culture, this meal features roasted meat, typically beef, lamb, or chicken, served with roasted potatoes, vegetables, and Yorkshire pudding, gathering families together weekly. 

 

Where to eat Sunday Roast in London: when in London, experiencing a traditional Sunday Roast is a culinary delight not to be missed. For those exploring the vibrant area of Soho, Blacklock Soho at 24 Great Windmill Street offers a superb Sunday Roast in a cozy and inviting setting, renowned for its succulent meats and hearty portions.  

Alternatively, if you come directly from the London City Airport, in the first district you that you meet, the trendy Shoreditch, The Culpeper at 40 Commercial Street provides a charming atmosphere with a rooftop garden, offering a delicious take on this classic British meal, complemented by locally sourced ingredients and an inviting ambience. 

 

• English Breakfast: Known also as a "fry-up," it includes eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, tomatoes, and toast, delivering a hearty start to the day and showcasing a variety of traditional British ingredients. 

 

Where to eat English Breakfast in London: for a true taste of the traditional English Breakfast in London, two standout locations are worth visiting. In the heart of Westminster, the iconic Regency Cafe at 17 Regency Street is a must-visit, known for its classic no-frills setting and hearty breakfast offerings that remain true to British tradition. Meanwhile, in the eclectic neighborhood of Shoreditch, E. Pellicci offers a welcoming vibe at 322 Bethnal Green Road, serving a delicious English Breakfast with a touch of family charm and a rich history that makes each visit memorable. 

 

• Shepherd's Pie: a comforting blend of minced lamb and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this dish reflects the resourceful use of leftovers, providing warmth and sustenance. 

 

Where to eat Shepard’s Pie in London: for a taste of traditional Shepherd's Pie in London, head to Mother Mash in Soho. Located at 26 Ganton Street, this charming eatery is celebrated for its comforting and hearty Shepherd's Pie, paired with their signature creamy mashed potatoes. If you're in Mayfair, The Windmill at 6-8 Mill Street offers an authentic British experience with their delicious take on this classic dish, served in a warm and inviting pub atmosphere. 

 

• Beef Wellington: a luxurious dish featuring a fillet steak coated with pâté and duxelles, all wrapped in puff pastry; believed by many to be the best English food, it symbolizes the culinary sophistication of the country. 

 

Where to eat Beef Wellington in London: indulge in the luxurious taste of Beef Wellington at Bob Bob Ricard in Soho, located at 1 Upper James Street. Known for its glamorous setting, this restaurant promises a sumptuous dining experience with its expertly crafted Beef Wellington. Alternatively, The Grenadier in Knightsbridge, situated at 18 Wilton Row, is famed for its cozy ambiance and superb rendition of this British classic, steeped in history and flavor. 

 

• Bangers and Mash: this traditional British dish consists of sausages served with mashed potatoes. It is often accompanied by onion gravy and is a staple in British comfort food. 

 

Where to eat Bangers and Mash in London: for a classic plate of Bangers and Mash, visit The Porchester in Notting Hill at 88 Bishops Bridge Road. This lively pub offers a hearty and delicious take on the dish, perfect for a comforting meal in a vibrant setting. Additionally, The Victoria in Mayfair, located at 10a Strathearn Place, offers a refined version of Bangers and Mash, served in a traditional pub environment that exudes classic British charm. 

 

5 typical British desserts in London 

 

Exploring what to eat in London should undoubtedly include a journey through its delectable British desserts. 

• The delightful Sticky Toffee Pudding, a rich and moist sponge cake smothered in toffee sauce, offers a heartwarming taste crafted from its origins in the 20th century. This dessert, beloved for its sweet flavors and comforting texture, exemplifies British culinary tradition. 

• The whimsical Eton Mess is a must-try for lovers of fruit-filled delights. Originating from Eton College, it combines crunchy meringues, juicy strawberries, and fluffy cream, providing a refreshing contrast of textures and tastes that's perfect for a summer day. 

• For a true British experience, savoring Scones with Afternoon Tea is unparalleled. This ritual, steeped in history, represents the essence of British elegance. When paired with clotted cream and jam, the scones become the perfect accompaniment to a calming cup of tea, making afternoons luxurious and relaxed. 

• The Treacle Tart, famously revered by fans of classic British literature, boasts a golden syrup filling poured into a buttery crust, a delight since the late 19th century. It offers a sticky-sweet flavor that has found its way into the hearts of many dessert aficionados. 

• Lastly, the Trifle, with its layered sponge cake, custard, jelly, and whipped cream, is not just visually appealing, but also a flavorful journey through various textures. Its origins date back to the 16th century and it remains a centerpiece at British celebrations. Each of these desserts provides a delightful snapshot of British culinary heritage, offering a taste of tradition with every bite. 

 

London street food and Markets 

Exploring London's culinary scene is not complete without venturing into its bustling markets, where street food aficionados can savor authentic British flavors.  

 

At Camden Market, visitors can savor the delicious Scotch eggs, a traditional British classic consisting of a hard-boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat and breadcrumbs, perfectly paired with a cold pint of traditional English beer.  

 

Portobello Road Market delights food lovers with its pork pies, filled with seasoned pork and rich jelly, and offers sweet, creamy fudge in a variety of flavors as an irresistible dessert.  

 

Brick Lane Market is renowned for its satisfying bacon butty, a simple yet flavorful sandwich of crispy bacon on buttered bread, and also serves up hearty jacket potatoes loaded with toppings.  

 

Finally, the Shepherd Market provides a culinary journey, showcasing classic British fare like savory pies and artisanal cheeses, delighting every palate with its flavorful offerings. 

 

Don't miss this culinary journey— trying London street food is an essential part of your visit!