written by Kim Wyatt

From vibrant, bustling market stalls to comforting street food and flashy five-star luxury – London is the ultimate destination for globetrotting foodies. Offering a dizzying array of culinary options, this iconic city has something for everyone and with the famous Underground Tube at your fingertips, getting around London’s foodie hotspots is a breeze. London has endless options to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

Foodie hotspots

Here are just a few recommendations from the one of the greatest food capitals of the world!

1. TING, Shangri-La At The Shard London – Tea in the Clouds

Afternoon tea is a foodie ‘must do’ in the British capital and TING has taken this classic tradition to another level - literally. Located on the 35th level of London’s highest hotel, TING is set in one of the globe’s most iconic buildings – The Shard. Offering a luxurious afternoon tea (aptly named Tea in the Clouds) with sweet and savoury treats including the world-famous British scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, over 30 varieties of tea and delicate sandwiches with scrumptious fillings such as watercress, cream cheese and smoked salmon plus lots of sweet treats. Floor to ceiling glass windows offer stunning panoramic views across London including the River Thames, Canary Wharf and Tower Bridge. Comfy low lounges and chairs make this a perfect spot for settling in for the afternoon and feasting on delicious treats with breathtaking views of one of the world’s most stunning cities. Not to be missed.

Address: TING, Shangri-La Hotel, At The Shard London, 31 St. Thomas Street, London, SE1 9QU

Website: http://www.ting-shangri-la.com/afternoon-tea/

2. Borough Market – Global delights

Only a hop, skip and jump from TING is one of the best foodie spots in town - Borough Market. This bustling, thriving market dates back to the 12th century and offers over 100 food stalls serving up everything from oysters to doughnuts and pickles. A favourite of tourists and locals alike, the market provides a local hub for innovative food entrepreneurs, home cooks and restaurateurs. Lots on offer from fresh produce, home baked goods to take away snacks. Be sure to visit on an empty stomach and try to sample some of the lip-smacking delights such as goat kebabs served with soft pillowy pittas, Sri Lankan street food or delicate sweet breads and pastries.

Address: 8 Southwark St, London, SE1TL 1TL, London

3. Harrods Food Hall - Ultimate foodie destination

Opened in 1834, the Harrods Food Hall has long been a major innovator and supplier in food retail and recently underwent a three-year transformation. The Food Hall features a bakery, charcuterie, tea tailor, spice section, hampers, vegetable butchery, cheese concierge, seafood section plus a mind-blowing array of food from stunning specialty cakes to tea, coffee, honey, truffles, artisanal baked goods and seasonal produce. This foodie hotspot is a true feast for the culinary senses and offers the finest luxury products from around the world. The architecture is jaw droppingly beautiful too.

Address: Ground Floor, 87 – 135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7XL

Website: www.harrods.com

At a glance

With so much on offer in the London food scene, it can seem a bit daunting to choose a spot. Try these popular areas for an amazing range of foodie outlets from Michelin five star to franchises and innovative international flavours.

1. Islington

North London has a treasure trove of culinary delights from gluten free bakeries to artisanal coffee shops, high-end restaurants and food markets. This cool and laid-back area offers lots on the foodie front and worth a visit from Central London.

2. Soho

This West London enclave has undergone a transformation over the years and is considered one of the most vibrant, thriving areas on the London food scene. Michelin starred restaurants sit comfortably side by side with burger and pizza outlets. For a true taste of a more exotic side of London, this is the place to be.

3. Covent Garden

Located in the West End of London and well known as a busy tourist spot, Covent Garden offers so much more on the foodie front. From Japanese to Peruvian and Mexican plus five-star restaurants, hotels, bakeries and specialty chocolate – it’s a treasure trove of food from around the globe.

Great British food classics

The Brits are famous for their comfort food. With the winter season in full swing, these Great British classics will keep you toasty and warm during the chilly temperatures:

1. Fish and chips with mushy peas
2. Pie and mash
3. Sunday roast dinner with Yorkshire pudding
4. Jellied eels
5. Eton Mess
6. Bangers and Mash
7. Sticky Toffee Pudding
8. Beef Wellington
9. Cornish pasty
10. Scotch egg

Are you travelling to London soon? Don't forget to try out these foodie hotspots in London and let us know in our Comments section how your experience was. Like and share the article - it keeps us going!

Cover image credit: Pixabay

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