How to Eat Out in London

Summary

London is a vibrant, food-filled city with an array of diverse dining options. From the iconic fish and chips to Michelin-starred restaurants, it offers something for everyone. The city’s love for curry makes it the best place to enjoy Indian cuisine outside of India. Traditional British experiences, such as afternoon tea with scones and jam, and the Sunday roast with Yorkshire pudding, are also must-tries. For those looking for great deals, early dinner options are available in pre-theater menus, while tipping ranges from 10% to 15% depending on the bill. London truly stands as a global food capital.

Takeaways

• 🍟 British food used to be known for fish and chips, but London’s food scene is now incredibly diverse.
• 🌍 London has more Michelin-starred restaurants than anywhere else in the world.
• 🍛 Curry is Britain’s most popular cuisine, and London has some of the best Indian restaurants outside India.
• ☕ Traditional afternoon tea includes scones, jam, small sandwiches, sweets, and of course, tea.
• ⏰ Afternoon tea is typically served at 5 PM in fancy hotels.
• 🍖 Sunday roast is a British tradition, featuring roast meat, potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy.
• 🍽️ Brits tend to eat dinner earlier than other Europeans, but many restaurants offer pre-theater set menus.
• 💸 When a bill includes service charge, no additional tip is needed; otherwise, a tip of 10-15% is typical.
• 🎭 Eating early at restaurants can help you take advantage of pre-theater discounts.
• 🇬🇧 London is a food capital, offering everything from classic British fare to global cuisine.

Q & A

What was the common perception of British food 20 years ago?

20 years ago, people commonly associated British food with fish and chips.

How has London's culinary scene evolved over time?

London now has more Michelin-starred restaurants than anywhere else in the world, showcasing a diverse and exciting food scene.

What is London's best-known dish today?

Curry is the most popular and widely loved cuisine in London today, with the best Indian restaurants outside of India located there.

When is the traditional British afternoon tea usually served?

Traditional afternoon tea is typically served at 5:00 p.m., and includes scones with jam, small sandwiches, sweet desserts, and tea.

What is the Sunday roast and when is it typically served?

The Sunday roast is a British tradition featuring roasted meat, roast potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy. It is typically enjoyed on Sundays.

What are some dining habits of Brits regarding dinner times?

Brits tend to eat their dinner earlier than other Europeans, but many high-end restaurants offer pre-theater set menus for those who eat early.

How do restaurant tipping practices work in Britain?

If a bill includes a service charge, no additional tip is necessary. If it doesn't, a tip of 10-15% is the norm.

What type of food does London excel in besides British cuisine?

London is renowned for its excellent Indian food, with a rich variety of curry dishes.

What is a key feature of London's food scene today?

London’s food scene is highly diverse, offering a variety of international cuisines, making it one of the most exciting food capitals in the world.

Where is the best place to experience traditional afternoon tea in London?

The best places to experience traditional afternoon tea in London are at posh hotels.