What to Eat in London England: Dishes Every Visitor Should Try
Updated 2026-10-26. Written with AI assistance and checked against our editorial rules; entry rules and prices change, so confirm with the official source before you travel.
London's diverse food scene offers a wealth of classic dishes to try, from traditional pub fare to international flavors. For a quintessential London experience, head to the historic Covent Garden area, where you'll find plenty of street food and markets serving up local specialties. From fish and chips to classic roasts, you'll find something to suit every taste and budget.
Quick answer: dishes to try in London England
You'll find a diverse array of international cuisines in London, from traditional British fare to international flavors. To get you started on your culinary journey, here are some must-try dishes that showcase the city's rich food scene.
Classic British dishes
- Fish and Chips
- Full English Breakfast
- Sunday Roast
- Pasties
- Bangers and Mash
International flavors
- Chicken Tikka Masala (Indian-inspired dish)
- Chicken Shawarma (Middle Eastern-style street food)
- Lamb Koftas (Greek-style skewers)
- Vegetarian options like Veggie Burgers (popular in London's food scene)
- Jamaican Jerk Chicken (spicy Caribbean flavors)
Must-try dishes
London's culinary scene is a vibrant reflection of its diverse cultural heritage. You'll find an array of traditional pub fare, international flavors, and modern twists on classic dishes. To experience the best of London's food scene, try the following must-try dishes:
Classic comfort food
- Bangers and Mash: sausages and mashed potatoes, often served with a side of vegetables
- Shepherd's Pie: a hearty casserole of ground meat, vegetables, and mashed potatoes
- Ploughman's Lunch: a simple, satisfying meal of cheese, bread, and pickles
International flavors
- Chicken Tikka Masala: a popular Indian-inspired dish of marinated chicken in a rich tomato sauce
- Fish and Chips: battered and fried fish, often served with chunky chips (fries) and mushy peas
- Jerk Chicken: a Caribbean-inspired dish of marinated chicken with a spicy kick
Street food and markets
When exploring London's markets and street food stalls, be sure to try some of the city's famous international flavors, such as traditional Greek souvlaki or Mexican tacos. For a truly authentic experience, check out the Best Places to Travel in October: Where to Go and Why for insider tips on where to find the best street food in London.
Fish and Chips
Fish and Chips is a quintessential British dish that's a must-try when visiting London. This classic comfort food consists of battered and fried fish, served with crispy chips (fries) and often accompanied by mushy peas. You'll find Fish and Chips on menus throughout the city, from street food stalls to high-end restaurants.
Where to Try Fish and Chips
Locals often enjoy Fish and Chips from street food vendors or markets, where you can find authentic, no-frills versions. For a more traditional experience, look for restaurants that specialize in British cuisine.
How to Eat Fish and Chips
To eat Fish and Chips like a local, try dipping your chips in the malt vinegar provided, and enjoy your fish with a squeeze of lemon. Be sure to use a fork and knife, as this is a more formal dining experience.
- What to look for: Look for fresh, sustainable fish options, such as cod or haddock, and chips cooked to a golden crisp.
- Dietary options: Many restaurants offer gluten-free or vegetarian alternatives, so be sure to ask your server.
- Etiquette tip: Use a napkin to wipe your mouth and hands before and after eating.
- What to pair it with: A side of mushy peas or a green salad can complement the rich flavors of Fish and Chips.
Full English Breakfast
A traditional English breakfast is a hearty plate featuring a variety of cooked meats, eggs, and vegetables. You can find this classic dish in many cafes, pubs, and restaurants throughout London.
What to Expect
A Full English Breakfast typically includes bacon, eggs, sausages, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast. You might also find baked beans, black pudding, and hash browns on the plate. This filling meal is perfect for a morning pick-me-up after a night out or a long day of sightseeing.
Where to Enjoy
Locals often start their day with a Full English Breakfast at a traditional pub or cafe. You can also find street food vendors and market stalls serving up this classic dish. Be sure to check opening hours and availability before heading out, as some places may have limited hours or seasonal offerings.
- Try to avoid eating at peak tourist hours (check Best Time to Book Flights in Advance: A Simple Guide for tips on planning your trip).
- Be prepared for a wait, especially on weekends, when locals and visitors alike flock to enjoy this traditional breakfast.
- Consider ordering a smaller portion or sharing with a friend to save room for the rest of your day's adventures.
Sunday Roast
Sunday Roast is a quintessential British institution, typically served on Sundays. You'll find it on menus in pubs, restaurants, and even some cafes. This hearty meal consists of roasted meat, usually beef, pork, or lamb, served with a variety of roasted vegetables and a rich, savory gravy.
Roasted Meats
The star of the show is the roasted meat, which can vary depending on the establishment. You might find slow-cooked beef, such as prime rib or rump, or pork, like belly or shoulder. Lamb is also a popular choice, often served as a leg or shoulder.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are an integral part of the Sunday Roast experience. You can expect to find a selection of carrots, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, and potatoes, all cooked to perfection. Some places may also offer additional options, such as cauliflower, broccoli, or sweet potatoes.
- What to drink: Pair your Sunday Roast with a glass of red wine, a pint of beer, or a cup of tea.
- Where to eat: Try a traditional pub or a family-run restaurant for an authentic Sunday Roast experience.
- Dietary tips: Ask for your meat to be cooked to your liking and request extra gravy or vegetables if needed.
Pasties
Pasties are a classic British snack that originated in Cornwall, a region in the southwest of England. These savory pastries are filled with a mixture of meat, potatoes, and vegetables, making them a satisfying and filling treat.
Traditional Filling
The traditional filling of a pasty consists of beef, potatoes, onions, and swede (a type of rutabaga), all wrapped in a crimped pastry crust. This hearty filling is designed to be easy to eat on the go, making pasties a popular choice for workers in the mines and fields of Cornwall.
Where to Find Pasties
You can find pasties at many traditional bakeries and cafes throughout London, particularly in areas with a high concentration of Cornish immigrants. Some popular places to try a pasty include street food markets and food stalls, where you can enjoy a freshly baked pastry hot from the oven.
- Try a traditional Cornish pasty at a local bakery or market stall.
- Look for places that use high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
- Consider visiting a Cornish festival or event to try a variety of pasties.
- Check out the local food scene to see how pasties are adapted and innovated by modern chefs.
- For more information on planning your trip to London, check out Best Time to Book Flights: A Practical Planning Guide.
Bangers and Mash
Bangers and mash is a hearty British dish consisting of sausages and mashed potatoes, often served with a side of vegetables or gravy. This comforting meal is a staple of traditional English cuisine and can be found in many pubs and homes throughout the city.
Sausages
You can find various types of sausages in London, including pork, lamb, and Cumberland-style sausages. Some sausages are made with a combination of meats, while others are vegetarian or vegan options.
How to Enjoy Bangers and Mash
- Order bangers and mash at a traditional pub, often served with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts.
- Visit a street food market or a food stall for a quick and affordable option.
- Try making bangers and mash at home by cooking sausages in a pan and serving with mashed potatoes and your choice of vegetables.
Tips
- Be sure to ask for the type of sausages used, as some may be made with meat or vegetarian options.
- If you're dining at a pub, consider ordering a side of gravy to complement your meal.
- Don't be afraid to ask for seconds, as bangers and mash is a filling and satisfying dish.
Frequently asked questions
What are some popular food options in London?
You'll find a diverse range of international cuisines, including traditional British fare, Indian, Middle Eastern, and Caribbean flavors. Try classic dishes like fish and chips, full English breakfast, and Sunday roast.
What is a traditional British Sunday roast?
A Sunday roast typically consists of roasted meat, often beef-free options like pork or lamb, accompanied by roasted vegetables and gravy.
What are some vegetarian options in London?
London offers a variety of vegetarian options, including veggie burgers, pasties, and ploughman's lunch, which often feature cheese, bread, and pickles.
Where can I find street food in London?
Explore London's markets and street food stalls to discover international flavors like traditional Greek souvlaki, Mexican tacos, and Jamaican jerk chicken.
What is a ploughman's lunch?
A ploughman's lunch is a simple, satisfying meal consisting of cheese, bread, and pickles, often served with a side of vegetables.
What are some popular international flavors in London?
London's diverse food scene offers international flavors like Indian-inspired chicken tikka masala, Middle Eastern-style chicken shawarma, and Caribbean jerk chicken.
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