Foodies from all over the world descend on London to sample its culinary delights, and it’s not hard to see why. Here are five of the reasons why gourmands across the globe love the English capital.
World-class restaurants
The city is dotted with some of the world’s very best restaurants. A great example is Le Gavroche, on Upper Brook Street located in Mayfair. This stunning eatery offers French cuisine and has been awarded an impressive two Michelin stars.
Another top choice is Texture on Portman Place. Set up by Raymond Blanc protégés Agnar Sverrisson and Xavier Rousset in 2007, this high-end Michelin starred restaurant serves up Icelandic cuisine at its very finest and uses the freshest of both British and Icelandic ingredients. It is a particular treat for fish lovers .
Meanwhile, on Royal Hospital Road Chelsea you’ll find Restaurant Gordon Ramsay. Since 2001, this modern French dining establishment has held no fewer than three Michelin stars and it is now led by chef patron Clare Smyth.
Stunning street food
Of course, not all food in London is served up on neatly pressed white table clothes with sparkling cutlery. The city’s burgeoning street food scene is also a major tourist draw. You can get everything on London’s pavements, from hot dogs and burgers to burritos, meatballs, pizzas, pulled pork and lobster.
Leading the way is the city’s pioneering night market Street Feast. Staged every Friday and Saturday evening in east and south-east London, it brings together some of best local street food traders, chefs and restaurants. As well as filling up on tasty treats, you can sup pint-sized cocktails, craft beers and great wine.
Afternoon tea in total luxury
No trip to the English capital would be complete without sampling one of the country’s finest traditions: afternoon tea in london. For the ultimate in luxury, you can head to The Landmark London. There, you can enjoy an assortment of sandwiches, French pastries and freshly baked scones, as well as leaf and herbal teas. If you want to go all out, you can add a class of chilled Champagne to the experience.
Food markets galore
London is also famed for its many markets. For some guaranteed foodie treats, you can visit Spitalfields Produce Market, where you’ll be able to pick up an array of seasonal local vegetables, fruits, meats, cheeses, cakes, preserves and more.
Another highlight is Borough Market. With up to 70 stalls and stands, it features producers from all over the country and specialised stalls also provide imported foods.
In Soho, you’ll find Berwick Street Market, which is perfect if you’re after some sumptuous street food or artisan bread.
A dining room with a view
There’s no shortage of tall buildings in the capital and restaurateurs have made the most of this. For a dining room with a view, you can head to Oblix. Located half way up the iconic Shard building, it offers stunning views across the metropolis.
Another superb option is the Oxo Tower Restaurant at Oxo Tower Wharf. From this dining room and brasserie, you can look out through a glass frontage and watch the Thames as it ambles by.
