Clayton and I recently returned from an unforgettable five-day adventure in London! It was a first-time experience for Clayton, and even for me, having visited many years ago, it felt completely new and exciting.
London is a sprawling metropolis, and while we managed to explore incredible landmarks and indulge in amazing food, we certainly couldn’t cover everything on our extensive list. Many of the recommendations you’ll find here are inspired by your suggestions and personal favorites, all conveniently saved on my Google Maps for easy location-based browsing.
If you’re planning a trip to London and seeking advice on travel arrangements, exciting activities, and most importantly – where to find the best dishes – you’ve come to the right place! Consider this your essential Guide Dish to navigating London’s vibrant offerings.
A Culinary Guide Dish: Where to Eat & Drink in London
The London food scene truly surprised and delighted us – shattering any outdated stereotypes! We didn’t encounter a single disappointing meal. The food quality was exceptional, the service was top-notch, and what stood out most was the genuine friendliness of everyone we met. Let’s dive into some specific recommendations to guide your dish discoveries in London.
Pubs and Bars: Your Guide Dish for Classic Drinks
For a truly authentic London experience, exploring the pubs is a must. They offer not just drinks but a slice of British culture.
- The Churchill Arms: A famously beautiful pub, especially during Christmas with its elaborate floral displays. Enjoy traditional ales and a cozy atmosphere.
- The French House: A historic Soho pub with a literary past, known for its intimate setting and excellent wine selection.
- The Mayflower: London’s oldest riverside pub, offering stunning views and a taste of history. Perfect for a relaxing drink by the Thames.
- Mr Fogg’s Residence: An immersive Victorian-era bar that feels like stepping back in time. Known for its theatrical cocktails and eccentric decor.
Lunch/Dinner: A Dish Guide to London’s Diverse Cuisine
London’s dining scene is incredibly diverse, offering everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine. Here are some highlights to guide your dish choices:
- Dishoom: (Multiple Locations) Experience Bombay-style comfort food in a vibrant and bustling setting. Their breakfast naan rolls and black daal are legendary.
- Bao: (Multiple Locations) Indulge in delicious Taiwanese steamed buns with innovative and flavorful fillings. A must-try for a quick and tasty meal.
- Flat Iron Steak: (Multiple Locations) Enjoy high-quality, affordable steak in a relaxed atmosphere. Simple, delicious, and consistently good.
- Padella: Borough Market – Fresh, handmade pasta dishes that are worth the wait. Expect a queue, but the cacio e pepe is a must-try dish.
- Firehouse: Chiltern Firehouse – A trendy spot in a converted fire station, offering modern European cuisine and a celebrity-spotting atmosphere.
Additional Highly Recommended Dish Spots:
- Sketch: (Mayfair) – An iconic and Instagrammable venue with multiple rooms, each offering a unique dining experience, from afternoon tea to fine dining.
- Hawksmoor: (Multiple Locations) – For serious steak lovers, Hawksmoor is a top-tier steakhouse known for its quality cuts and classic cocktails.
- Borough Market: A historic food market offering a vast array of food stalls and artisanal products. Perfect for lunch or a foodie adventure.
Things To Do: Beyond the Dish in London
London offers a wealth of attractions beyond its culinary delights. Here’s a guide dish of must-see activities:
- Churchill War Rooms: Delve into history at this underground bunker that served as the center of British command during World War II. Consider a guided tour for an enhanced experience.
- Tower of London: Explore this historic fortress, discover its dark past, and marvel at the Crown Jewels. A self-guided tour allows for flexible exploration.
- Art Gallery Hopping in Mayfair: Immerse yourself in the art world in Mayfair, home to numerous prestigious galleries showcasing a range of styles and periods.
- Attend a Football Match: Experience the electric atmosphere of a Premier League football match. We attended a Chelsea vs. Arsenal game and loved it! Explore the lively pubs surrounding the stadiums for pre- or post-match drinks.
- Westminster Abbey: Visit this magnificent Gothic church, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the coronation church of British monarchs.
- Kensington Palace & Gardens: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Kensington Gardens and explore the historic Kensington Palace, home to royalty for centuries.
- Changing of the Guards at Buckingham Palace: Witness this iconic and traditional ceremony, a quintessential London experience.
- Shoreditch & Street Art: Explore the vibrant and trendy Shoreditch area, known for its street art, eclectic shops, and buzzing nightlife.
- Parliament Square & Big Ben: Stand in awe of the iconic Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) and the Houses of Parliament, symbols of London and British democracy.
- Private Thames River Boat Ride: Enjoy a unique perspective of London’s landmarks with a relaxing private boat ride along the Thames.
Where to Shop: A Guide Dish for Retail Therapy
London is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from luxury boutiques to vintage finds.
- Mayfair, Belgravia, Knightsbridge: Indulge in high-end shopping at world-renowned department stores like Harrod’s, Liberty London, and Selfridge’s, and explore luxury streets like Bond Street, Oxford Street, and Regent Street.
- Portobello Market: Discover antiques, vintage clothing, and unique finds at this famous market in Notting Hill.
- Vintage Shopping: Explore London’s vintage scene at stores like Rellik, Found and Vision, One of a Kind Archive, Annie’s Vintage, and Vintage Modes for unique fashion treasures.
How to Get Around: Navigating Your London Guide Dish
We found walking to be the best way to experience London, but the Tube (underground) and Uber are efficient and readily available. For seamless travel planning, consider using a travel advisor. Ours helped us with everything from flights and restaurant reservations to guided tours and curated shopping experiences tailored to our preferences. Her expert assistance truly elevated our trip, and we highly recommend her services for an unforgettable vacation planning experience! You can find more information about her services here.
That concludes my London Travel Guide – for now! I’m sure there are countless other incredible places waiting to be discovered. Please share your favorite London spots in the comments below for others to explore and enrich their own guide dish to this amazing city! And don’t forget to save my GOOGLE MAPS for easy access to all these recommendations!
