One thing that has struck me this time around in London is that the food has improved! Perhaps it is also because I have become more invested in it myself, and am thus more aware of what is on offer. I aim to buy organic options where feasible; enjoy buying produce from farmer’s markets; and try to be conscious of seasonal offerings as well; and it seems London has the capacity to provide on all fronts!
Although my time here was short and I didn’t sample extensively, I feel I did come across a few gems that are worthwhile sharing.
Market fare: A food-related highlight of this visit for me were the two trips I made to Brick Lane market. Along with its clothing, prints, and general bric-a-brac, there is a wonderful array of international food offerings at very reasonable prices. There are also plenty of delectable desserts available as well. My brother, who is quite an aficionado when it comes to Middle-Eastern cuisine, has proclaimed that the spinach and feta gozleme we both sampled from Middle East Fusion at these markets is the best he has found. It truly was delicious, served with hummus and salad, along with the best felafel I have ever had. £5 well invested! If Middle Eastern is not to your liking, there are plenty of Indian; Ethiopian; Japanese; Mexican; and other cuisines on offer here, so you won’t go home hungry!
Borough Markets, London
Gourmet market: Another worthwhile trip for foodies is to check out the Borough market in Southbank, just alongside the Southwark Cathedral (which is also worth a look). Plenty of good quality, gourmet produce on offer here, and a number of stalls featuring ready-made food to keep you satisfied while you browse.
Cafe/Coffee: Not being a coffee drinker, I am borrowing this recommendation from my sister-in-law, who continues to be disappointed with the quality of coffee in London. She views coffee as an art form, and appreciates the skill in making and pouring a good cup. Therefore, if you’re in the vicinity of Brick Lane or Soho Square, she swears by the soy cappuccinos at Nude Espresso, where they roast and blend their own coffee. So Antipodeans rejoice – good coffee in London is possible to find! And don’t despair if you can’t make it in to one of their two locations, you can buy your coffee online from their website. Nude also offers a menu focusing on local and seasonal produce, so is a great spot for breakfast or lunch. The ricotta pancakes I had with roasted grape and pomegranate molasses and creme fraiche were deelish!
Sandwiches: Even the proliferation of gourmet sandwich bars has struck me, with the lunchtime crowds swarming to my old favourite Pret-A-Manger. With its assortment of gourmet sandwiches; soups; organic coffee; and numerous natural and healthy snack options, there is plenty of well-priced, healthy fare on offer to go.
Vegetarian: Mildred’s in Soho has a yummy menu of mains and desserts that will keep the vegetarian or vegan coming back for more.
Duo of scones & hot chocolate @ Fortnum & Mason, London
Cream tea: No visit to England is complete without experiencing a cream tea. As a scone lover, I was keen to partake in the experience – without the hefty price tag that usually accompanies the privilege! Enter Fortnum & Mason on Piccadilly. There are five eating venues to choose from in this old-fashioned, up-market department store. We opted for The Parlour on the first floor for our dining experience. This is the pick for amazing ice-cream sundaes, milkshakes, Viennese cakes, tea blends, and scones! We were not disappointed. And at just £6.95 for a duo of scones with jam and clotted cream, it is justifiable on any budget. Yum!
Bar/Eatery: A final mention goes to the venue I visited on my last night in London: SushiSamba in the Heron Tower, near Liverpool St station. A bizarre-sounding fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian food and drinks, we took the swift glass elevator up to the 38th floor of the building to be greeted with vast city views, a slick bar, and a modern dining experience. We couldn’t secure a table (even on a Monday night it is imperative to book), but we managed to get a casual seat in the bar area. All four of us could not fault the food options we selected, washed down with a fruity cocktail for £9.50 – considering the location and the prime views, very reasonable indeed. As the sun set, we were treated to great views over St Paul’s, the Gherkin, and the Thames. Put it on your list!
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And so as I depart, I look forward to sampling more of what London has to offer when I return…….
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