From Pubs to Michelin Stars: Dining in London

11 November 2025

When you think about London, what springs to mind first? Big Ben? The London Eye? Maybe the Queen’s guards in their red uniforms and fuzzy hats? Sure, those are iconic. But if you’re a food lover, there’s something else that deserves your full attention — London's absolutely electric food scene.

Let’s be honest. If your travel itinerary doesn’t factor in food stops, are you even doing London right? This city serves up everything from hearty pub grub to award-winning cuisine that’ll knock your socks off — and it does it with style. So buckle in, because we’re taking a tasty tour from old-school pubs to posh Michelin-star restaurants. Whether you're a curious foodie, a budget backpacker, or an upscale dining aficionado, London’s got a plate ready for you.

The Heart of British Culture: The Traditional Pub

You can't talk about eating in London without tipping your hat to the beloved British pub. It’s more than just a place to grab a pint; it’s a cornerstone of the UK’s social life.

What Makes London Pubs So Special?

First off, they’re steeped in history. Some London pubs have been around for hundreds of years, and when you step inside, you’re literally walking through history. Think low wooden beams, fireplaces, cozy corners, and names like "The Spaniards Inn" or "The Churchill Arms."

But it’s not just about the ambiance. The food has seen a serious glow-up over the last couple of decades. Gone are the days of limp fish and soggy chips (thankfully). Today, many pubs offer what’s known as "gastropub" fare — a blend of traditional dishes with gourmet flair.

Must-Try Pub Dishes

Let’s be real for a second — if you leave London without trying a classic Sunday roast, did you even visit? Think roasted meat (usually beef, chicken, or lamb), crispy roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, seasonal veggies, and rich gravy.

Other crave-worthy pub staples include:

- Fish and Chips (crispy on the outside, tender as a pillow inside)
- Bangers and Mash (sausages with mashed potatoes and onion gravy)
- Steak and Ale Pie (hearty, savory, and satisfyingly British)

Hidden Pub Gems

- The Harwood Arms (Fulham): The only Michelin-starred pub in London — yes, you read that right.
- Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (Fleet Street): A historic pub rebuilt after the Great Fire of London (in 1667, no big deal).
- The Churchill Arms (Notting Hill): Famous for its wild flower-covered exterior and a surprisingly excellent Thai menu inside.

Food Markets: London’s Culinary Playground

Before we hit the fine dining circuit, let’s take a stroll through London’s food markets — where flavors from all over the planet come together.

Borough Market: The OG

You can’t talk food in London without starting here. Located near London Bridge, Borough Market is a maze of mouth-watering stalls, artisan produce, and international delights. Smell the fresh-baked sourdough, sample the truffle cheese, grab a gourmet sausage roll and sip your organic flat white — heaven.

Camden Market: More Than Just Punk Rock

Yes, Camden is edgy and alternative, but its food scene? Wildly impressive. From Korean BBQ tacos to vegan Ethiopian stews, it's a buffet of global cuisines in one buzzing location.

Other Must-Visit Markets

- Maltby Street Market (for small-batch bakeries and gin)
- Broadway Market in Hackney (hipster central with top-tier bites)
- Mercato Metropolitano (a more sustainable and community-driven food hall)

International Eats: A Global Feast in One City

London is one of the most multicultural cities in the world — over 300 languages spoken and residents from every continent. That means one thing: food diversity that’s next-level.

Indian Cuisine

The UK’s love affair with Indian food runs deep, and London’s Indian restaurants? Just wow. From wallet-friendly curry houses on Brick Lane to fine-dining gems like Dishoom and Gymkhana, the city spoils you.

Let’s just say you haven’t lived until you’ve had a buttery chicken tikka masala in London — preferably with warm naan and a side of mango lassi.

East Asian Flavors

Craving ramen? Dim sum? Katsu curry? No problem. Head to Soho, Chinatown, or Shoreditch for some of the best:

- BAO (Taiwanese buns that melt in your mouth)
- Din Tai Fung (Xiao Long Bao heaven)
- Bone Daddies (rock-and-roll ramen spot)

Middle Eastern & North African Cuisine

You’ll find cozy falafel joints and elegant Moroccan restaurants scattered across neighborhoods like Edgware Road, Notting Hill, and Hackney. Get your fix of shawarma, couscous, tagine, and more.

Michelin Stars: Dining at the Top

Now let’s talk luxury. London’s fine dining scene is nothing short of dazzling. It’s home to over 70 Michelin-starred restaurants. Whether you want art on a plate, multiple-course tasting menus, or a sensory experience that’ll mess with your mind (in the best way), this is your playground.

Core by Clare Smyth

Three Michelin stars. Female-led. Flawless. Serving modern British dishes with heart and precision, Core is about as elevated as it gets — and still feels like a warm hug.

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay

Another three-star heavyweight. Ramsay’s flagship restaurant in Chelsea is tight, elegant, and serious about the food. Expect French-inspired perfection and world-class wine pairing. It’s not cheap, but who needs savings when you’re tasting heaven?

Sketch (The Lecture Room & Library)

Come for the food, stay for the vibes. From the surreal interiors (think Wes Anderson on acid) to the high-concept dishes, this place is both a feast and a fantasy.

Fine Dining That Won’t Break the Bank

Look, not all of us have royalty-sized bank accounts. The good news? London’s got options for upscale eats without the high-society price tags.

Michelin on a Budget?

Yep, some Michelin-starred or Bib Gourmand restaurants offer lunch menus under £50 — some even around £30. Hit up:

- Brat in Shoreditch (wood-fired Basque-style cuisine)
- Barrafina (Spanish tapas worth elbowing someone over)
- The Ninth (simple, stylish, and surprisingly accessible)

Afternoon Tea: The Quintessential British Experience

Is it a meal? A snack? A ritual? Who cares — afternoon tea in London is a full-blown event. And if you’ve never had buttery scones with clotted cream and jam alongside finger sandwiches and dainty cakes, now’s the time.

Best Places for Afternoon Tea

- The Ritz: Classic, opulent, and iconic.
- Sketch: Yup, them again. Their tea is like stepping into a pastel dream.
- Fortnum & Mason: If you want class without the pretension, this is the spot.

Feel free to raise that pinky finger — nobody’s judging.

Late-Night Bites and Food Trucks

No matter what time your cravings kick in, London’s ready to feed you.

24/7 Spots and Food Trucks That Slap

- Duck & Waffle: Open 24/7, with views over the city and duck confit on a waffle. Need we say more?
- KERB (in various spots like King's Cross): A rotating lineup of food trucks bringing the flavor fire.
- Tayyabs: Late-night Punjabi spot near Whitechapel — spicy, hearty, unforgettable.

Where Locals Eat (That Tourists Miss)

Let’s drop some insider secrets, shall we? Forget the tourist traps — here’s where savvy Londoners actually go:

- Flat Iron: Seriously good steak, shockingly low prices.
- Dishoom Breakfast: Their bacon naan roll might change your life.
- E. Pellicci: A legendary East End Italian café that feels like a movie set.

Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free Friendly

Whether you're plant-based, gluten-sensitive, or just looking to eat better, London has your back.

- Mildreds: A vegetarian institution with locations across town (the Sri Lankan curry is a game-changer).
- Farmacy (Notting Hill): Organic, health-forward, and Instagram-worthy.
- Club Mexicana: 100% vegan tacos with big flavor and bold attitude.

Final Thoughts: A City That Feeds the Soul

London isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a place to experience food. From cozy pubs and multicultural markets to cloud-nine fine dining, there’s something for every palate, mood, and budget. So, whether you're sipping a pint by the Thames or melting into a 12-course tasting menu in Mayfair, one thing is certain — London serves, and it serves well.

So come hungry. You're gonna need the room.