There’s no doubt about it: London is one of the world’s gastronomic capitals. From knock-your-socks-off haute cuisine to finger-licking street food, this diverse city is designed to please every palate. Here’s what’s cooking:

Best Afternoon Tea: The Wolseley

Address: 160 Piccadilly, London W1J 9EB, UK

Phone: +44 20 7499 6996

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The much-adored Wolseley off Piccadilly Circus is the pinnacle of refinement and British poise—making it the ideal spot for a spot of tea. Afternoon tea here features well-fluffed scones, jam, clotted cream, finger sandwiches, and traditional sweet treats—truly a full-scale event. The grand, old-world European setting coupled with an accessible price point (cream tea starts at just £12.75 per person) makes this teatime experience a must.

Best Cheap and Cheerful Dishes: Bao

Address: 53 Lexington Street, London W1F 9AS, UK

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Bao is a straightforward and minimalistic eatery with locations in Soho and Fitzrovia, known for their cheap yet delicious offerings. Indulge in fluffy Taiwanese bao buns, filled with options like braised pork, fried chicken, and daikon radish, complemented by sides such as eggplant fried rice and sautéed scallops with yellow bean garlic. Don’t miss their fried dessert bao with malted ice cream.

Best Indian: Dishoom

Address: 7 Boundary Street, London E2 7JE, UK

Phone: +44 20 7420 9324

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Dishoom offers fun and feisty versions of Indian street food, making it a notable spot for both locals and visitors. With several locations including the original Shoreditch, its affordable prices, attentive staff, and stylish interiors create an inviting atmosphere for groups.

Best Farm-To-Table: The Shed

Address: 122 Palace Gardens Terrace, London W8 4RT, UK

Phone: +44 20 7229 4024

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The Shed showcases the best of the farm-to-fork movement, emphasizing ethical sourcing, seasonal ingredients, and local produce. Located in Notting Hill, this rustic eatery presents dishes like gin-cured stream trout, highlighting its commitment to top-quality food. Other notable farm-to-table locales include Plot in Tooting and Craft London in Greenwich.

Best Blowout Meal: Hélène Darroze at The Connaught

Address: Carlos Place, London W1K 2AL, UK

Phone: +44 20 3147 7200

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Boasting two Michelin stars and an ambiance of French sophistication, Hélène Darroze at The Connaught is a premier fine dining destination in London. Guests choose their courses using a solitaire board filled with marbles labeled with various dishes, all in a plush, creamy setting. The menu changes seasonally, offering fresh experiences with every visit, justifying the premium prices.

Best Roast Dinner: Simpson’s in the Strand

Address: 100 Strand, London WC2R 0EZ, UK

Phone: +44 20 7420 2111

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Simpson’s in the Strand is a historic British restaurant known for its impressive roast dinners—carved and served tableside from silver-domed carts. Diners can choose from lamb or beef and enjoy traditional accompaniments like duck fat-roasted potatoes, horseradish sauce, gravy, and a Yorkshire pudding. It evokes a classic British dining experience.

Best Street Food: Borough Market

Address: London SE1 9AL, UK

Phone: +44 20 7407 1002

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Borough Market is renowned as London’s artisan food marketplace, steeped in history. It offers a wide range of produce—from fruits and vegetables to cheeses and meats—and is open every day. It’s perfect for lunch; try grilled chorizo rolls, cheese toasties, and award-winning doughnuts for a flavorful excursion.

Best Full English Breakfast: Dean Street Townhouse

Address: 69-71 Dean Street, London W1D 3SE, UK

Phone: +44 20 7434 1775

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The classic full English breakfast usually consists of eggs, toast, bacon, sausage, black pudding, baked beans, mushrooms, and roasted tomatoes, making it quite filling. Dean Street Townhouse serves a top-notch version that will satisfy your hunger for the day.

Best Unexpected Plates: Osh

Address: 14-15, Beauchamp Place, London SW3 1NQ, UK

Phone: +44 20 3935 9555

Osh serves small dishes that reinterpret Central Asian cuisine, featuring dishes like Uzbek Plov and Bulgarian cabbage rolls. The experience is exciting and unique, and do not miss their signature osh—a hot rice and lamb dish that has become quite popular.

Best For Sweet Tooths: Ole & Steen

Ole & Steen is a charming Danish bakery offering a range of delicious pastries, including the addictive Cinnamon Social swirled with cinnamon and vanilla custard. Their Raspberry Slice is another favorite—a gourmet twist on the classic pastry. Other notable sweet spots include Cakes & Bubbles, designed by famed pastry chef Albert Adrià, and the Mediterranean pastries found at Ottolenghi Notting Hill.

Best Gastropub: The Harwood Arms

Address: Walham Grove, London SW6 1QJ, UK

Phone: +44 20 7386 1847

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The Harwood Arms is London’s exclusive Michelin-starred pub, serving delicious British cuisine featuring wild game and seasonal produce. Despite its upscale offerings, they provide affordable prix fixe menus ideal for lunch or dinner.

Best For A Celebration: Bob Bob Ricard

Address: 1 Upper James Street, London W1F 9DF, UK

Phone: +44 20 3145 1000

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Bob Bob Ricard is a lavishly decorated restaurant known for its champagne and caviar offerings, making it a perfect venue for celebrations. The atmosphere is stunning, with a menu that features both British and Russian delicacies, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

Best Steakhouse: JW Steakhouse

Address: JW Marriott Grosvenor House London, 86-90 Park Lane, London W1K 7TN, UK

Phone: +44 20 7399 8460

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In the competitive London dining scene, JW Steakhouse stands out by offering mouthwatering steak options, including Creekstone Kansas Black Angus and Aberdeen Angus cooked on their top-rated grill. Moreover, their cheesecake is a must-try, making your visit well worth it.

Best Fish And Chips: Toff’s

Address: 38 Muswell Hill Broadway, London N10 3RT, UK

Phone: +44 20 8883 8656

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For a classic fish and chips experience, Toff’s is the go-to destination. Choose from a variety of fish types, which are cooked to order, served with thick-cut chips, and make sure to add a side of mushy peas to complete your meal authentically.

Best Burgers: MEATLiquor

Address: 37-38 Margaret Street, London W1G 0JF, UK

Phone: +44 20 7224 4239

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If you’re craving an exceptional burger, head to MEATLiquor. Celebrated for its vibrant punk-rock atmosphere, this establishment serves up hearty bar food including burgers and fried pickles. The Dead Hippie Burger, stacked high with beef patties, is particularly popular among patrons.