Food & drink – Guides to London

The tradition of afternoon tea has been around since the mid-19th century, when Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, decided she needed a 4 pm pick-me-up before her evening meal (relatable). Since then, there have been many different takes on the quintessential British tradition, including Indian varieties...

Afternoon tea is a long-standing tradition and in London we don't leave anyone behind. This means you can find afternoon tea experiences in the capital that cater to a range of dietary needs, including teas that are suitable for Muslim diners. If you want to enjoy afternoon tea but you require a hal...

Although they originated in Sweden, cinnamon buns are popular across Northern Europe, the USA, and London. When you're craving a sweet and sticky pastry that's full of flavour, the cinnamon buns London bakeries and cafés sell are sure to satisfy you. Numerous cinnamon rolls are available all over th...

London is a carnivore's paradise, especially for those with a discerning palate for prime cuts, artisanal charcuterie, and sustainably sourced meats. Our guide to the best butchers in London covers the full range of meat vendors, from a world-famous London meat market to independent, family-run butc...

Welcome to our guide to the best birthday cake shops in London! Whether you're celebrating a milestone birthday, an anniversary, or just want to indulge in a sweet treat, finding the perfect cake is essential. London is home to some of the best cake bakeries in the world, offering an array of flavou...

In this guide we'll take you on a sugary journey through the city's most enchanting sweet shops. From little boutiques reminiscent of a bygone era to contemporary confectionery shops, London offers plenty of tempting treasures to satisfy every sweet tooth. Explore the sugary landscape of London's to...

Whisky and whiskey are beloved spirits that have been enjoyed for centuries around the world. In London, you can find a plethora of options when it comes to whisky tastings and masterclasses, from intimate, cosy bars to grand, luxurious venues. Whether you're a seasoned whisky connoisseur or a curio...

Going out for a gourmet meal is always a great treat, but cooking something special at home can be equally enjoyable. And for a top-quality homemade meal you need top-quality ingredients, so you need to know where in London you can buy delicious food. If you like to eat fish and seafood at home, it'...

One of the advantages of living in London is having access to so many global cuisines, in terms of both restaurants and shops and supermarkets. If you're after authentic Asian ingredients and products for your recipes or you're an ex-pat craving a taste of home, there are a wide variety of Asian sup...

Churros are a popular Spanish dessert that has gained worldwide recognition. The long and slender deep-fried doughnuts are perfect for dipping or filling with different sauces, and they come coated in a generous layer of cinnamon and sugar. London might not boast the temperate climate of most churro...

Afternoon tea is a great British tradition first introduced in England in 1849 by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, who enjoyed afternoon tea to curb her appetite as dinner was usually served late in her household. Since we Londoners love to get boozy, we took this quintessential English custom...

Afternoon tea is a time-honoured treat that you can enjoy all over the city. Dietary requirements are no obstacle either, with many London venues offering a choice of tea menus to suit different needs. Vegetarian diners certainly aren't left out, with a great range of veggie-friendly afternoon tea m...

It's no secret that London is full of ice cream spots, but sometimes all we crave is a big bowl of frozen yoghurt, and if you're the kind of person who prefers to get their creamy fix from fro-yo, you're in luck. Most frozen yoghurt is healthier than ice cream, contains a lot less sugar and is lower...

Had enough of the junk and looking to freshen up your meal plan with some tasty veggies? Well then, our guide to the best salads in London is your new best bud. We've explored the top places to find delicious, healthy salads throughout the capital, from one-off surprises hidden on refined restaurant...

When it comes to event catering, it can be challenging to find a company that can meet your needs and deliver high-quality, delicious food that your guests will enjoy. That's why we've put together a guide to the best catering companies in London, highlighting those that have established themselves...

Yes, you can have your cake and eat it, too – at least when it comes to combining two of the most indulgent experiences London has to offer. If you're looking for an afternoon of pampering for yourself or a loved one, a spa and afternoon tea package is just the thing. Combining the relaxation of wel...

Welcome to our guide to the best children's afternoon tea in London! There are numerous charming afternoon tea spots in the capital that cater specifically to families, ensuring that even the youngest members can enjoy this quintessentially British experience. Whether you're seeking a whimsical kids...

If you're entertaining or enjoying a drink at home and you want a fantastic bottle of wine, there are no shortage of wine merchants London-wide stocking great quality vintages from all over the world. If you're wondering about the best wine shops London has to offer, including natural wine shops, we...

If you’re planning a food-filled trip to the capital and want to know where to eat, stay and play, you’ve come to the right place. It’s no secret that London thrums with world-famous restaurants, award-winning bars and streetfood markets showcasing an eclectic variety of cuisines f...

Restaurants are nice and all, but when you're looking for variety, affordable prices and food you can take with you to a sunny park nearby, there's no place quite like a food market. London's food markets are known around the world for their fresh ingredients, incredible variety and relaxed atmosphe...

The search for the best croissant in London is ongoing. Buttery, flaky, beautifully glossy pastries aren't particularly hard to come by in the city, but whittling it down to the very best croissants in London is the real challenge. From Popham's marmite, Schlossberger and spring onion pastry to Cris...

Are you a cheese lover on the hunt for the best cheese shops in London? Look no further! In this guide to the best cheese shops in London, we'll take you on a tour of the city's finest cheese stores, from traditional cheesemongers with centuries of history to trendy new spots offering the latest art...

Welcome to our guide to the best afternoon tea in Central London, where tradition meets modern luxury in the heart of one of the world's most vibrant cities. Afternoon tea, a venerated British custom, has evolved in London from a simple mid-afternoon refreshment to an elegant and sought-after experi...

Afternoon tea is a time-honoured tradition, served with refined nibbles and delicate china cups...except for when it isn't. Afternoon tea doesn't have to be stale and stuffy – the city is home to a variety of more unusual experiences with a bit of extra character. If you love doing something a littl...

East London may have a reputation for being edgy and innovative, but it's not all about entertaining the hipsters. There are places in this part of the city where you can indulge in an experience as traditional as afternoon tea. Of course, alongside the more classic experiences there are a few after...

London is renowned for its love of traditional British cuisine, and one dish that holds a special place in the hearts of Brits everywhere is pie and mash. This hearty meal, made up of a savoury pie served with creamy mashed potatoes and a tangy green liquor sauce, has been a staple of the country's...

London boasts an array of exquisite venues that go above and beyond to create unforgettable moments during the most magical time of the year. From twinkling lights and seasonal decorations to mouth-watering treats and aromatic teas, join us as we explore the best festive afternoon tea experiences in...

London is a thriving culinary hub that brings together flavours and culinary traditions from around the world. Foodies on a tight schedule, visitors trying to get their footing, or locals looking for a fun day out can join one of London's food tours for an entertaining and informative gastronomic ex...

Chinese New Year follows the moon's cycle, which means it falls every year on a different day. In 2024, it starts on 10 February and runs for 15 days, with the first day being the most important. It's the Year of the Wood Dragon, symbolising power, nobleness, honour, luck, and success. Chinese New Y...

Similar to Cornish pasties, empanadas are a light pastry snack that originated in South America, but today can be found all over the world. The popularity of these traditional pockets of flavours is due to a variety of reasons, including the different fillings, ease of transport, affordability, and...

You can't visit London without sampling a classic roast dinner, the traditional British meal that is typically served on a Sunday and is basically a weekly ritual in homes across the country. From slow-cooked leg of lamb served with ample mint sauce and twice-cooked short rib beef with dripping roas...

If you're looking for a drink that's refreshing and fun, look no further than bubble tea. Originating in 1980s Taiwan, it's exploded in popularity, and bubble tea shops are now a common fixture on the city's streets. Whether you want something fruity or creamy, there are plenty of great places to bu...

In this guide, we'll explore the hidden gems of the city's underground dining scene via supper clubs, where passionate chefs and hosts invite you into their homes and unique venues for a feast that goes beyond a traditional restaurant meal. Discover the diverse range of cuisines, from global fusion...

Cupcakes bring together and highlight some of the best features of desserts – they're pretty to look at, they're available in different flavours, they're just the right size to get your sugar fix without overdoing it, and they suit a range of occasions, from a quick pick-me-up snack with your coffee...

From Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded establishments to those cherished for their authentic family recipes, London is a treasure trove of restaurants serving hearty and delicious curries, but with so many options, knowing where to go and what to order can be challenging. That's why we've written this g...

If we had it our way, we'd be eating pancakes for breakfast, lunch and dinner every single day. Classic with lemon and sugar, fluffy buttermilk American-style or French-style crêpes, we're not really fussy. Lucky for Londoners, there are heaps of flippin' great places to get your fill of panca...

Combining several of the most popular things to do on a visit to London – traditional afternoon tea, sightseeing, and riding a double decker – afternoon tea bus tours offer a convenient and comfortable way of seeing the city. Hop aboard one of the specially modified double decker buses and relax ove...

Just like elsewhere around the world, tacos have become a staple in many Londoners' diets, and the city's dining scene has responded with an array of amazing taquerias to satisfy all taco cravings. We've scoured the streets of London to bring you the top taco spots, offering authentic Mexican tacos...

Waffles were long considered a sweet breakfast treat or snack but these days you can pair yours with a piece of fried chicken just as easily as with cream and fruit. It doesn't matter whether you prefer to have yours sweet or savoury, you'll find plenty of places to enjoy waffles London-wide. Around...

If you're a doughnut fanatic or simply on a quest to satisfy your sweet tooth, this guide will point you in the right direction for the best doughnuts the city has to offer. From traditional glazed classics to innovative flavour combinations, London is chock full of legendary bakeries and must-visit...

Fancy a gourmet treat or authentic ingredients to give your cooking some zing? You need to check out some delis in London to find the tastiest products around. Whether you want high quality staples like bread and cheese, delicious ready-made meals, or specialist ingredients from Poland, Lebanon, Gre...

Whilst some foodies are comfortable with a vegan lifestyle all year round, others find it more challenging. If you’re aiming to eat more plant-based foods or just try out something new, Veganuary is a great time to get involved. Thanks to London having so many options for vegan dining –...

With a distinctive taste and aroma and often a hefty price tag too, truffles really are a little taste of luxury. Their unique flavour can divide opinion but if you're one of the people who loves truffle oil, truffle honey, and grated truffle, it's worth knowing about where you can go in London to e...

With 47% of the city dedicated to parks and green spaces and 3,000 parks designated as public open space, it's safe to say London is officially a green city. It is, in fact, one of the greenest capitals in the world. So if you're looking for the perfect spot to pitch up and have a picnic, look no fu...

It’s fair to say that mulled wine tends to steal the limelight during the winter months in London. Which is totally fair, we all love mulled wine. But nothing quite cuts the mustard like a steaming mug of hot chocolate on a chilly day and there are a fair few places where you can get your swee...

As the winter chill begins to settle in the streets of London, there's nothing quite like the warm, aromatic allure of mulled wine to invoke the spirit of the season and make you feel all cosy inside. A cherished wintertime tradition, spiced wine can be found all over the world, with variations incl...