London, a culinary melting pot, offers a dizzying array of global cuisines. But what about the classics? Traditional British fare often gets lost in the noise, relegated to tourist-trap pubs with inflated prices and questionable quality. Fear not, fellow food lovers! This post is your guide to unearthing authentic, delicious British dishes in London, away from the throngs of tourists.
Pie and Mash: a classic London dish of minced beef pie, creamy mashed potatoes, and parsley liquor. A true taste of Cockney history, best enjoyed in a traditional pie shop.
- Goddard’s at Greenwich: Traditional pie and mash shop serving classic flavors like steak and kidney or eel.
- Mother Mash: Soho institution specializing in various mash and pie combinations with a modern twist.
- G Kelly in Bow: Old school white-tiled cafeteria serving pie and mash and jellied eels. Not sure you will find a cheaper meal in central London!
Sticky toffee pudding: Sticky toffee pudding is a classic British dessert that’s basically a warm hug on a plate. Imagine this: a moist, spongy cake studded with dates and drenched in a rich, buttery toffee sauce. It’s often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of custard, creating a heavenly combination of warm, gooey sweetness and cool creaminess.
- The Devonshire: This gastropub in Soho serves a sticky toffee pudding that’s the stuff of legend. It’s intensely rich and treacly, with a perfect balance of moist sponge and decadent sauce. Don’t even think about sharing!
- SMOKESTAK: While known for its barbecue, Smokestak also offers a divine sticky toffee pudding. It’s served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
- Sweetings: This historic City institution is a haven for classic British puddings. Their sticky toffee pudding is a traditional rendition, generously portioned and perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.
Fish and chips is arguably Britain’s most iconic dish. A simple yet delicious combination of crispy, golden-brown battered fish and fluffy chips, it’s a beloved treat enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
- Golden Hind: A traditional fish and chip shop that has been serving up delicious food for over 100 years. Their fish is always fresh and the batter is crispy and golden.
- Poppies Fish & Chips: This family-run chippy has been serving up award-winning fish and chips for generations. Their secret recipe batter is light and crispy, and their fish is always fresh.
- Fish Lounge: Local legend, serving up perfectly crispy, golden fish and chips with a side of friendly vibes. This family-run spot has been a Brixton Hill staple since 1979, so you know they’re doing something right!
Scones: Let’s be honest, few things in life are as delightful as a warm, fluffy scone slathered with clotted cream and jam. This quintessential British treat is the perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea, and thankfully, London offers a plethora of places to indulge in this simple pleasure.
- The Wolseley: This grand European-style cafe is an institution, and their afternoon tea is legendary. Expect perfectly formed scones, served with generous portions of clotted cream and their own exquisite jams. It’s an experience, not just a snack.
- Gail’s Bakery: With multiple locations across London, Gail’s is a reliable go-to for freshly baked goods. Their scones are consistently excellent, with a lovely crumbly texture and a delightful buttery flavor. Grab a couple to go and enjoy them in a nearby park.
- Cake Hole: Located in East London, its a Bijou cafe in vintage homeware shop offering home-baked cakes and cream teas. As it is open Sat and Sun only, it is a perfect way to visit Columbia Flower Market too.
Bangers and mash: A dish as quintessentially British as a cup of tea and a rainy day. This humble combination of sausages (“bangers”) and mashed potatoes (“mash”) is a true comfort food classic, guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.
- The Harwood Arms: This Michelin-starred gastropub in Fulham elevates bangers and mash to new heights. Expect top-quality sausages, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich, flavorful gravy.
- Mother Mash: With locations in Soho and Covent Garden, Mother Mash is a haven for mashed potato enthusiasts. They offer a variety of sausages and mash combinations, along with a selection of delicious gravies.
- The Brownswood: This gastropub in Finsbury Park is a local favorite with a focus on quality ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere. Their bangers and mash features locally sourced sausages, creamy mash, and a generous helping of onion gravy.
London Like a Local 