London is one of those cities where eating well feels easy. Walk down almost any street and you’ll find smells, flavors, and ideas from all over the world. From classic pies to modern tasting menus, the best food in London, UK, reflects the city’s mix of cultures, history, and creativity. It’s a place where comfort food sits next to fine dining, and both feel equally exciting.
In this guide, you’ll discover must-try dishes, iconic dining experiences, and local favorites that help define the best food in London, UK. If it’s your first visit or your fifth, these spots and experiences will help you eat with confidence and joy!
1. Start with classic British dishes on a guided food tour
Traditional British pub meal with meat pie, mashed potatoes, gravy, and a pint of beer | Photo from Klook
One of the easiest ways to understand the best food in London, UK is by tasting it with a local guide. A guided food tour introduces you to traditional British dishes while explaining their stories and history. You can try fish and chips, sausage rolls, pies, and classic desserts, all in one walk.
Booking this food tour in London will help you explore neighborhoods you may not see on your own. Guides usually mix famous spots with hidden gems, like small family-run bakeries and classic pubs, so every stop feels rewarding. You can sample many flavors without planning each meal. This experience is a great intro to places to eat in London, especially for first-time travelers!
📍Location: Meet-up at Central London (exact meeting point confirmed after booking)
🗺️How to go: Take the Tube to the meeting station listed in your Klook voucher and arrive 10–15 minutes early.
2. Enjoy afternoon tea at the British Museum
Classic afternoon tea in London with sandwiches, scones, and pastries served in a cozy café setting | Photo from Klook
Afternoon tea is one of the most famous food traditions in the city and a true example of famous food in London. Enjoying it inside the British Museum adds extra charm. You’ll enjoy tea, sandwiches, scones, and pastries in a calm and elegant space. It feels special without being too formal.
This experience works well between sightseeing stops. You can explore world-famous exhibits, then relax with tea and treats by booking the afternoon tea at the British Museum in London (it will surely add a calm and filling pause to your visit!). It’s also a good break from walking and crowds. Even if you’re short on time, this classic food moment fits nicely into your day.
📍Address: British Museum, Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG
🚊How to go: Take the Tube to Tottenham Court Road or Holborn Station, then walk 5–7 minutes.
3. Taste global flavors at Borough Market
Street food stalls at Borough Market offering sweet treats and local snacks in London | Photo from Stephen Noulton on Pexels
Borough Market is one of the best places to see why London’s food scene stands out. This historic market brings together British producers and international food stalls. You can snack on new bread, cheese, pastries, street food, and desserts from around the world. Every visit feels different.
The market is perfect if you enjoy casual eating and variety. You don’t need reservations, and you can try small bites from many stalls. If you prefer to eat with a group, you can book the London Borough & Leadenhall Market Tour. It’s popular with both locals and tourists (which is always a good sign!).
📍Address: Borough Market, 8 Southwark Street, London SE1 1TL
🚊How to go: Take the Tube to London Bridge Station and walk 3 minutes.
4. Dine with a view on the Bustronome Luxury Bus
Luxury dining inside a glass-roof Bustronome bus while sightseeing through London at night | Photo from Klook
If you want something memorable, dine on a moving restaurant. The Bustronome is located in central London and serves gourmet meals while driving past famous landmarks. With the Bustronome Gourmet Bus Dining Experience, you enjoy dishes inspired by British and European cooking as the city moves around you. Dinner becomes part sightseeing, part dining.
This option is good if you’re short on time but still want something special. You can see famous sights while enjoying a well-prepared meal. It’s a fun choice for couples or celebrations. The mix of views and food gives you something truly unique.
📍Address: Victoria Embankment, London WC2N 6PB (departure area)
🚊How to go: Take the Tube to Embankment Station and walk to the departure point.
5. Try traditional English foods while sightseeing in Central London
Cozy London bakery window showcasing cakes, bread, and pastries freshly made for the day | Photo from David Baraldi on Pexels
London is full of landmarks, and pairing them with food makes the day even better. In central London, you can explore famous sights while stopping for classic English dishes along the way. Drop by local bakeries, pubs, and snack shops to try meat pies, puddings, and small bites as you move through the city!
This approach works well for travelers who want both culture and cuisine. You can move at your own pace, take breaks when needed, and enjoy food stops that keep your energy steady. Eating while exploring helps you enjoy more without stress.
📍Address: Central London
🗺️How to go: Take the Tube to central stations like Covent Garden, Westminster, or Soho, then explore the area on foot.
6. Book a table at Rules for historic British dining
Rules restaurant exterior in Covent Garden, London’s oldest restaurant serving classic British food | Photo from Tom Morris on Wikimedia Commons
For a true taste of old London, dine at Rules, the city’s oldest restaurant. This spot includes classic British dishes like pies, game meats, and traditional desserts! The dining room feels warm and historic, helping you connect with London’s past.
Rules is a good choice if you want a sit-down meal that feels deeply British. The menu focuses on seasonal ingredients and long-standing recipes. It’s popular, so reserving ahead helps.
📍Address: Rules Restaurant, 35 Maiden Lane, London WC2E 7LB
🚊How to go: Take the Tube to Covent Garden Station and walk about 5 minutes.
7. End your food journey with a classic London pub meal
Friends enjoying pints of beer together at a lively London pub | Photo from Klook
No food trip feels complete without dropping by a traditional London pub. With the London Bar Hopping Tour, you can explore some of the city’s most loved pubs while enjoying hearty British comfort food like fish and chips, Sunday roast, and sticky toffee pudding! The setting is relaxed, social, and welcoming, making it easy to enjoy good food and meet fellow travelers.
This is a good way to slow down and enjoy everyday London life. You usually don’t need reservations, and menus are clear and affordable. Pub meals help complete your experience of the best food in London, UK, in a simple and satisfying way.
📍Address: Soho or Covent Garden area pubs, Central London
🚊How to go: Take the Tube to Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, or Covent Garden Station, then walk to nearby pubs.
FAQs about the best food in London
What is the famous food in London?
London is famous for dishes like fish and chips, Sunday roast, meat pies, and afternoon tea. These foods reflect British history and comfort cooking. You’ll find them everywhere, from pubs to high-end restaurants.
Where should tourists eat in London?
Tourists should mix classic spots with markets and local favorites. Borough Market, traditional pubs, and neighborhood cafés are great starting points. To easily find places to eat, check menus, and navigate the city, stay connected with a UK eSIM through Klook (this will make exploring food spots much easier!).
What is Kate Middleton's favorite restaurant in London?
Kate Middleton has been linked in interviews and reports to The River Café. The restaurant is known for simple, seasonal Italian cooking and a relaxed atmosphere. While tastes can change, it remains a favorite among many London locals and celebrities.
What is the UK's signature food?
The UK’s signature food is often considered fish and chips. It’s simple, filling, and deeply tied to British culture. You’ll find excellent versions across London, especially near rivers and historic areas.
Is London good for food lovers on a budget?
Yes, London can be budget-friendly if you plan smart. Markets, bakeries, and casual eateries offer great value across the city. Using the London City Pass helps save on major attractions and transport, leaving more room in your budget to enjoy great food without overspending.
Ready to eat your way through London?
London invites you to explore it one bite at a time. From markets and museums to buses and historic dining rooms, the best food in London, UK, is full of flavor and fun. Start planning your meals, book a food experience, and let curiosity guide you. Eat boldly, explore happily, and make every meal part of your London story.
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