London is a vibrant multicultural megapolis with an abundance of things to see and experience, ranging from the musicals on the West End to street art in Shoreditch. There are thousands of fantastic restaurants to try that offer a fusion of flavors from across the globe as well as traditional English cuisine. I have narrowed down four must-try places to grab food that I go back to whenever I’m in the city.
1. Burger & Lobster
36-38 Dean St, Soho, London W1D 4PS
Check out this tasty London chain lobster roll and burger spot and cocktail bar. There are twelve Burger and Lobster locations in the city including one in Harvey Nichols, an upscale mall situated in Knightsbridge. Try out the one located in Soho as it is one of the more spacious locations, then stroll by Carnaby street for some high-street shopping. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, with exposed brick walls, barstools, and bright lobster-red couches. The menu offers three simple dishes: lobster roll, lobster or burger. Alternatively, you can order half a burger and half a lobster.
2. Duck and Waffle
Heron Tower, 110 Bishopsgate, 38th Floor, London EC2N 4AY
This place is the highest 24/7 restaurant in London. Located on the 38th floor with wide windows, the restaurant offers incredible views of the city. The food is a funky take on traditional British cuisine featuring a delicious spicy ox cheek donut and the signature duck on waffles. Creative cocktails are offered such as White Chocolate Gin Fizz and Cookie D’oh! Flip. Duck and Waffle is great for brunch, dinner, and midnight feasts but if your thinking of dinning here make sure to reserve in advance as time slots are tight. I reserved two weeks in advance and the only time available was 2 am!
3. Royal China
24-26 Baker St, Marylebone, London W1U 3BZ
To dine on authentic dim sum comparable to the best places in Hong Kong, come to Royal China. There are several Royal China spots across London but be sure to go to the flagship in Baker street. This restaurant has the best dim sum in London. There is usually a large queue to get in, especially for Sunday brunch but its worth the wait. The interior is contemporary and the atmosphere is warm with walls decorated in minimalistic golden patterns. The place is packed with large round tables which are always filled with people. With quick service and cuisine that even foodies from Hong Kong applaud, Royal China is a must when in London.
4. Sketch
9 Conduit St, Mayfair, London W1S 2XG
If you want to experience proper English afternoon tea then check out Sketch, a quirky 18th century tea room that transforms into a cocktail lounge in the evenings. There are three menus: à la Carte, Desserts and afternoon tea. For afternoon tea Sketch offers an assortment of sandwiches, scones, Malabar marshmallows and a selection of cakes. The Desert menu features five signature deserts including the So British, a chocolate mint yogurt. You may choose to eat in the lecture room and library, lined by plush red armchairs or garden themed parlor.
