London's Cuisine

The British Restaurant Scene

Oct 19, 2009 Sara Vigrass

London cuisine has delicous menu options that reflect the city's international influences and social refinement.

Black pudding, shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash; these are the foods that many people associate with the cuisine of London, England. Once regarded as food that could only be eaten when forced down with a pint of beer, London’s culinary scene has long changed its image. What was once bland and boring is now refined and edgy, on par with the social power of London’s thriving art and fashion scenes. Though traditional British dishes are still popular among gastropub fare, restaurants’ recipes are now exciting the palate, instead of coating it with grease.

International Influence on London's Cuisine

The reformation of London’s cuisine was aided by the many international flavors arriving with immigrants from India, Asia and continental Europe. An array of spices and colors fill the many restaurants on Brick Lane, famous for its delicious Indian and Bangladeshi food and frequented by London citizens. In fact, curry is more popular now than fish and chips. Menus are sometimes written in both English and Hindu/Bangladeshi, and can have different items listed in both languages. Dining with a translator guide is often the best way to get the most authentic meal.

Formal Restaurants in London

Diners who wish to sample refined yet creative dishes can pick from the many venue options with a formal affair. British celebrity chefs have become more abundant in London, satisfying the epicurious and delighting the elite. Chefs Gordon Ramsay and Tom Aikens have each opened highly- praised restaurants that showcase their talent and exhibit their dedication towards perfection. Ramsay has also achieved in gaining three Michelin-stars, the most of any London restaurant.

Trendy Restaurants in London

For tasty food with a trendy flair, Nobu, The Square or Hakkasan are favorites among London diners. Artistic elegance is flaunted not only in the dishes and décor, but also in the clientele that frequent these establishments. They are great restaurants for diners looking to hob-knob with those in the cultural forefront of London’s social, art or fashion scenes.

British Tea

Though London is a melting pot of cuisines and cooking styles, traditional afternoon tea is still very popular. Those wishing to sample a British tea will feel like the Queen herself at the Lanesborough or the Dorchester. Pinkies out ladies!

Visitors to London are usually excited by the many delicious dining options the city yields. London has long broken through its previous culinary image, developing fine food and integrating foreign flavors while still holding on to its traditional roots. Diners can eat at world famous establishments, sampling interesting taste combinations, and cooking styles. They can embark on a flavorful and creative culinary adventure.

The copyright of the article London's Cuisine in U.K./Ireland Travel is owned by Sara Vigrass. Permission to republish London's Cuisine in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

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