Just to set the boundaries here, this isn’t a “must go to”, or “best places to visit” type of list. This is simply my take on some great foods that represent London as a whole. There are traditional, modern, traditional with modern twists, and of course places that represent and celebrate the incredible diversity of England’s capital city. Basically, what I am saying here is, if you are in the area there are some great places to eat in London.
Breakfast
There really isn’t a more definitive English breakfast than the “Full English” which has been around in some form for over 500 years, originating as a noble’s breakfast but now enjoyed by everyone (in moderation).
For a traditional working man (read “us ordinary folk”) version of the amazing breakfast, look no further than Terry’s Menu — Terry’s Cafe (terryscafe.co.uk)
On the south side of the river, incredible quality, a genuinely warm and welcoming atmosphere, and delicious food. Make sure you order “The Works” consisting of Cumberland Sausage, Baked Beans, Back Bacon, Grilled Tomatoes, Black Pudding, Bubble and Squeak, Mushrooms, and Bacon. You probably won’t need lunch.
High End Breakfast
Taking it up a notch and getting on a high-end breakfast, you might want to check out Hawksmoor. They have several locations specializing in some incredible quality steaks. Yes, it is a steakhouse but this singular location of theirs serves breakfast and…. Oh my, what a breakfast!
Crafted for two or three people to share, this definitely pushes the boundaries both in size and quality, simply amazing. Smoked bacon chop, Sausages (pork, beef, and mutton), short-rib bubble and squeak, grilled bone marrow, eggs, grilled tomatoes, black pudding, “hock” beans, portobello mushrooms and…I think that’s it? Get there shortly after it opens at 7 am to make sure you can get a table.
Borough Market reinvented itself back around the late 1990s and early 2000s, prior to this for the last couple of hundred years it had pretty much been a common fruit and vegetable market. However, modernization has seen it transform into an artisanal market for fine quality and diverse high-quality food. You can’t really go wrong here, it’s definitely worth a stop-off since it offers something for everyone and you will walk around with your senses assaulted with incredible aromas and wonderful sights.
A couple of my highlights are the hot sausage rolls from The Ginger Pig (grab a Scotch Egg as well while you are there). If you haven’t had breakfast yet, try one of the breakfast baps from Maria’s Market Café. You will get the best-grilled cheese at Kappacasein Dairy, just trust me on that one.
That’s quite an eclectic mix of dining experiences, please let me know if you need any other recommendations. Click here to schedule a complimentary consultation call to discuss your trip to London and to experience all this lovely food.
Check out my other blog posts:
OLD TOWN LONDON
