Come with me to London!
London happens to be one of my favorite cities. There’s just something magical about this city that makes me so happy whenever I’m there. I feel like people have a certain perception of the food there but honestly some of the best food I’ve ever eaten has been in London. You just need to know where to look. Here is a list of some of my favorites in the area that I always go to whenever I visit!
“A bad day in London is still better than a good day anywhere else.”
Where to Eat:
Maggie Jones
If I had to choose, I’d probably say this is my all-time favorite restaurant in London. I had the best roasted lamb here and a great martini. They’ve been closed due to a fire so hopefully they open soon. When it does you must go!
Old Bank of England
One of the coolest pubs that a friend recommended. As the name suggests, its in an old bank (1888-1975). The drinks of course are solid, but the food is actually incredible. The fish and chips, bangers and mash and the burger are musts!
Rules
Established in 1798 and boasted as London’s oldest restaurant. You feel the history as you walk in and sit down. The service is amazing, and the food is delicious. The Roast Rib of Beef for Two is a definite highlight.
The knave of clubs
Some of the best food I’ve ever eaten at a pub. A bit out of the way but worth the trek trust me. It’s filled with locals which is always a good sign. The prawn scotch egg and the rotisserie chicken are absolute hits, don’t sleep on them!
The churchill Arms
A pub worth visiting just for the decor alone. Also, a pub that serves Thai food? Count me in. It’s the perfect spot to go when you want to eat something other than fish and chips and other classic British food. It’s an experience!
Arancina, Notting Hill
Super chill, “fast food” spot. I stumbled upon it one day randomly when walking around Notting Hill. The pizza, served by the slice, is amazing. If they have the potato and sausage one that day, get it! It’s the best one!
Where to Drink:
Duke’s Bar
If you’re looking for (one of) the world’s best martinis, then this is your spot. They take it very seriously here and make it table-side. It’s an art form. Keep in mind that they have a strict dress code (collared shirts) and it’s walk-ins only.
Three Sheets
Such a cool and sleek bar with light snacks. There’s actually a stipulation that food needs to be ordered (at least something small) when ordering drinks. The drinks are classic but with slight twists. A great date-night spot.
Lyaness
Another great spot recommended to me by a friend. It’s on the Thames. The drinks are swanky. The vibe is immaculate. A great place for pre or after dinner snacks. It’s inside the Sea Containers London hotel.
American Bar
Missing home? American bar at The Savoy Hotel is worth checking out. There’s live music. The cocktails are always a hit. And the vibe is perfection. Supposedly the longest surviving cocktail bar in London.
Mr. Fogg’s
There are several locations throughout London, but my favorite is the Society of Exploration. They’re all themed differently so worth checking out. The drinks are themed and served in cool glassware. It’s a fun experience.
The Gin Bar
Calling all gin lovers! The Gin Bar at Holborn Dining Room offers London’s largest collection of gin. There’s gin there that you’ve never heard of and the bar itself is beautiful. Of course there are other drinks on offer too.
What to Do:
afternoon Tea
There are so many great afternoon tea’s in London. I can’t name them all. However, my favorite is the one at The Connaught Hotel. The sandwiches are delicious! The room is modern and the champagne addition is a must.
The Cheese Bar
Technically this is an eating option, but it’s more of an experience so I’m adding it here. If you love revolving sushi, then you’ll love this because it’s revolving cheese (with some charcuterie. Just grab the cheese you want and enjoy!
Borough Market
A foodie lover’s paradise! It’s a fun spot to walk around, try bits of food here and there and people watch. Grab oysters at one of the stalls. Or a Pimm’s cup and enjoy the afternoon as you see, taste and feel(?) London!
Fortnum and Mason
A department store since 1707, I always come here for a visit. There is literally something for everyone. They have afternoon tea. They have shopping. They have a bar. They have groceries. They have gin tasting. You’ll love it!
Notting Hill
Yes the colorful houses are cool but the real star is the weekend market in the street. So many cool vendors with lots of vintage offerings. It’s a great spot to spend the morning walking around perusing through the local fare. There are food stalls here too!
St. Paul’s Cathedral
Even if you’re not religious, this for me is a must. It’s absolutely beautiful. Especially if you go late afternoon/early evening with the setting sun shining through the windows. You can also make the climb all the way up and get some amazing views of the city!
