In one of the world’s most diverse global cities, you can eat your way around the globe (and a multitude of fusions too) in London alone. Try Ethiopian stews and lentils, Japanese ramen, Lebanese mezze, Vietnamese pho, Peruvian ceviche, Afghan mantu, Korean BBQ, Georgian khachapuri, Polish kielbasa, Caribbean jerk chicken, Colombian arepas, Swedish cinnamon buns, Nigerian jollof rice, Spanish paella, and so much more. You’ll still find traditional British fare to enjoy too.
There are estimates of anywhere from 20,000 to 30,000 places to eat in London alone. Choose from trendy restaurants, traditional pubs, street food market stalls, supper clubs, cozy cafes, gourmet food trucks, pop-up eateries, riverside patios and other establishments. Research reviews and listen to the advice of locals you meet along the way and ASA staff to help narrow down your options!
Among the above, don’t miss these top foods to try while you’re studying abroad in London:
1. FISH AND CHIPS. Fish and chips might not be the absolute staple food it once was, but this simple meal still holds a special place in the hearts of many Londoners. Find some of the best not too far from the University of Roehampton at Fishers in Fulham. Choose from cod or haddock. The batter should be light and crispy, the fish fresh, and the chips thick-cut. Add some mushy peas, tartar sauce and a slice of lemon for the full experience.
2. FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST. Be sure to make at least one of your breakfasts a hearty full English! Inclusions can vary but usually, your plate will be filled with a combination of the following: eggs, sausages, bacon, baked beans, black pudding, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, toast, or even a serving of bubble & squeak.
3. CHICKEN TIKKA MASALA. London is famous for its curry houses, especially those around the Bangladeshi community in Brick Lane. Chicken tikka masala (marinated chicken pieces cooked in a spiced tomato-based sauce, served with rice and, usually, naan) is considered a national favorite, even though it has Indian roots, and it showcases the amazing multicultural influence you’ll find in London’s culinary scene.
4. SUNDAY ROAST. Get yourself to a cozy pub with comfy seats and settle in for a long afternoon indulging in a traditional Sunday roast. You can choose from roasted beef, lamb, pork, chicken, or usually a vegetarian option like a nut loaf. Depending on where you go, this is usually accompanied by roast potatoes, carrots, parsnips, brussels sprouts, stuffing, gravy, and Yorkshire pudding – not too far stretched from a Thanksgiving meal!
5. AFTERNOON TEA. From the elegant to the inventive, there are many different ways to experience an afternoon tea. For just a few options, dress up for a treat at Claridge’s or The Ritz if you have some cash to splash, make it whimsical at Sketch, go for an Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland experience at The Sanderson, hop on the B Bakery’s Afternoon Tea Bus Tour, have afternoon team with a view at The Shard, or put a science-themed twist on it at The Ampersand. You can expect a variety of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, an assortment of sweat treats, and, of course—tea! An afternoon tea is as much about the experience itself as it is about the food.
There are many other delicious, interesting, and unusual foods to try when you study abroad in London: Jellied eels (a traditional East End delicacy), pie and mash (a classic), bangers and mash (sausages with mashed potatoes and gravy), scotch eggs (a popular pub snack which is a boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat and covered in breadcrumbs before frying or baking), cornish pasties (savory pastry filled with meat and veggies), Eton Mess (crushed meringue, strawberries, and cream), and sticky toffee pudding (a sweet and filling dessert made with dates and toffee sauce).
Have pics of something you’ve eaten abroad that you can’t easily find at home? Tag us on Instagram at @ASAStudyAbroad or #AwayWithASA. We’d love to see your best foodie finds!