London is one of the most multicultural cities in the entire world, home to a plethora of cultural and culinary experiences at almost every corner. But what food experiences in London should you try first?
From tranquil cafes and trendy gastropubs that honour generations past to waterside pubs and immersive, unusual dining experiences, you could dedicate an entire book to all that London has to offer. What’s more, additional places keep sprouting up seemingly every year, so it’s hard to cover them all.
In the interest of catering to those who fancy something beyond traditional dining, the opportunity to revel in some unique settings and try some different food-related activities, we’ve shortlisted a handful of places you simply must visit next time you’re in the capital.
Feasting with feline friends
Have you ever thought about afternoon tea surrounded by cats? Well, Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium in Bethnal Green provides a purr-fect setting for you to indulge in some sweet treats and interact with some friendly resident rescue cats.
This pioneering cat cafe is known for its charming, relaxed ambience, its cosy setting, and convenient location in the heart of Central-East London, offering cat lovers a must-see experience one afternoon.
Dining in the dark
For a truly sensory experience, venture into the world of pitch-black dining at Dans Le Noir in Clerkenwell. The last thing many diners would expect is waiters with walkie-talkies and to be greeted with night vision gear, consuming a meal in complete darkness.
This eye-opening experience aims to heighten the sense of taste and make you reflect on the way you perceive flavours and textures without any preconceptions about the food in front of you. Make of that what you will.
Authentic and artisan cake decorating
Those with a penance for creativity and an everlasting sweet tooth will find many cake decorating classes on offer in the city of London.
Suffice it to say, you’ll be spoiled for choice; whether you’re interested in a one-off experience or a more comprehensive decorating course, you can learn the art of creating stunning pastries, from three-tier wedding cakes and cherry blossom sugar flowers to delicacies known around the world. Explore your artistic side and indulge in some truly exotic cakes with an artisan touch!
Bustronome: gourmet dining on wheels
Combine sightseeing with fine dining aboard Bustronome, a luxury double-decker bus that tours London’s iconic landmarks while serving a gourmet meal.
As you cruise past all the quintessential London landmarks – Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and Buckingham Palace – indulge in a multi-course menu featuring seasonal British ingredients. It’s a moving feast that satisfies both your appetite and your wanderlust.
Time-travelling tipples
Step back in time at Mr Fogg’s, a collection of Victorian-themed cocktail bars inspired by Jules Verne’s adventurous character Phileas Fogg. Each venue offers a unique experience, from the gin parlour in Covent Garden to the explorer’s apothecary in Mayfair. Sip on eccentric cocktails amid a backdrop of antique globes, maps, and vintage memorabilia.
High-altitude dining
For those with a head for heights, Duck & Waffle in the City of London offers a 24/7 dining experience 40 floors above the bustling streets of Bishopsgate. Enjoy crispy duck confit on a waffle (yes, we’re serious), a traditional Sunday roast, or a late-night snack while taking in panoramic views of the city skyline. The iconic Shard by London Bridge also offers a tremendous view of the capital from 100+ floors high, especially when the sun has gone in, leaving you with a pristine view of the city while you enjoy a glass of champagne.
Kebabs reimagined
No, we’re not talking about grabbing one from your nearest spot after a night out on the town. The humble kebab forms the centrepiece of an entire tasting menu at Maison Bab in Covent Garden. Kebab Queen is hidden beneath a traditional kebab store, offering an intimate chef’s table experience that celebrates the kebab at its finest. Diners can eat directly off the heated countertop, enjoying innovative dishes that push the boundaries of this street food staple.
Theatrical dining
Bunga Bunga in Drury Lane, Covent Garden offers a hybrid of over-the-top cabaret dancing and singing with Italian aperitivo meals and cocktails. Yes, of course we’re serious! Enter through a “launderette” to discover a hidden world of Italian-themed entertainment, complete with live performances and karaoke, with Negronis and Aperol Spritzes’ flowing. It’s dinner and a show rolled into one unforgettable package.
Molecular gastronomy adventures
Experience innovation like no other at Kitchen Theory, a multisensory dining experience that blurs the lines between psychology, food, and art. Featuring experimental tasting menus that incorporate a mixture of sights, sounds, and textures, a bite to eat here is hardly going to feel like a routine meal at any traditional London restaurant. If anything, it’ll bend your mind and give you something to remember, in a good way, of course!
Foraging in the city
Forage London and Beyond offers bespoke foraging tours and events that help you discover edible plants, berries and more that grow wild in the city’s green spaces. Urban wild food walks, mushroom hunting, and botanical foraging offer a practical and healthy experience to help you find wild food and plants, ending the day with a meal prepared using your fresh and foraged ingredients.
Authentic cheese tasting
Visit Neal’s Yard Dairy – a London artisanal cheesemonger that offers an immersive cheese-tasting experience. With shops in Borough Market, Covent Garden, Bermondsey and Islington, you can taste and sample a blend of worldwide cheeses and specialities. From Shropshire Blue and Yoredale Wensleydale to Appleby’s Cheshire and Wittenham goat’s cheese, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite.
Cocktail masterclasses
Shake things up at TT in Shoreditch, where you can participate in cocktail masterclasses in a former police station turned mixology haven. With a specialist Liquor Store, a subterranean Cellar Bar, an independent cinema and even spirit-tasting sessions with live music, cocktail fans must make time to stop by here during Happy Hour!
A feast for all senses
London’s food scene is as diverse and exciting as the city itself, offering experiences that cater to every palate and interest. This list merely scratches the surface of what’s on offer – there’s no shortage of ways to explore the capital and immerse yourself in its multicultural food spots at almost every juncture in the city.
After indulging in these quirky and unmissable food experiences in London, why not explore more of what the capital and the UK have to offer? We provide a wide range of high-quality guided tours and experiences across London and beyond.
Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks, cultural hotspots, or hidden gems off the beaten path, our expert guides will ensure you see the best of British culture and heritage. Book your next adventure with us and turn your London visit into an unforgettable journey of discovery.
