Did you know that there used to be a time when London and its damp weather left very little to be desired for its visitors as far as food is concerned? Well, much time has passed since then, and today, visiting London is a foodie's dream. Today's London is the home to multiple Michelin starred restaurants; it is also the city where little cafes and pubs around corners are as popular as those Michelin starred restaurants.
Then there are the street side stalls! Very few can compare to the popularity of these ethnic, inexpensive eateries where customers are greeted with very selected yet widely sought-after items on the menu. However, it is the warm smiles and small talk that are the real charms. So, if you have been planning to visit this eclectic city, for the first time or for the umpteenth time, here is how you must take some time out for a gastronomic tour.
Have a solid plan if you want to try the A to Z of cuisines:
Well, that is quite a wish, isn't it? As stated earlier, London offers a great variety when it comes to gastronomic experiences. Of course, there is much variety available in the aspect of cuisines too. If you are in search of some authentic Afghan food, head to Afghan Kitchen in Islington. For delicious Ethiopian dishes, visit Lalibela in Kentish Town. Queen of Sheba in Paddington will make you fall in love with Yemeni dishes, while Little Georgia of Benthal Green will satiate your craving for Georgian numbers. Oh! Do not forget to stop by at Soho for some unforgettable Peruvian grub.
Stick to the very British platters:
While in London, eat like an Englishman does! Yes, you can try out the variety of cuisines offered by the countless restaurants in the city, but do not forget to try out the classic British dishes, especially in the Greater London restaurants. You certainly cannot miss the city's oldest restaurant, Rules, located in Covent Garden. It has been running for more than two hundred and fifteen years! That is got to be a reason enough to go and grab a bite there. Needless to say that they are going as strong as ever. Then there is St.John in Clerkenwell (you must have heard about nose-to-tail dining, right?), Great Queen Street in Covent Garden, Albion in Shoreditch, where dishes are as British as they can get.
Do not miss out on the stars:
Giving the Michelin starred restaurants a pass is not an option. So be ready to splurge on Chinese food at Yauatcha or pasta at Locanda Locatelli. Indian food at Tayyabs and Turkish food at Dalston also offer tastes worth cherishing.
If you want to do it yourself:
Food markets have always been one of the best attractions of London. While Londoners have been dining at Borough market since the thirteenth century, the comparatively newer Broadway Market and Spa Terminus Market and the food halls in Harrods and Selfridges offer the guarantee that you are going to find some new dish here that you have never heard of before.
London is a foodie’s delight. If you like trying new dishes, chances are you will find the city to be both exciting and comforting. So, go ahead and indulge. You will love every moment of it!articles can be found on Gourmetguide.co.uk.
Lucy Jones is a food blogger who has reviewed the restaurants of London extensively.