London is a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and, increasingly, its exceptional food scene. On my recent trip, I had the pleasure of sampling dishes across the city, from pub classics to elegant fine dining and international flavors. Here’s a roundup of the most memorable meals I enjoyed. If you’re heading to London soon, consider this your must-try list.
The George, Fitzrovia:
Tucked away in Fitzrovia, The George is a quintessential British pub with a modern twist. I stopped in for dinner and ordered the George Dog: (Ogleshield Cheese, Mustard, Pickled Cabbage, Guinness Gravy, Fries) for 22 pounds —and I’m so glad I did. It’s not your average sausage dog; this one comes packed with bold flavors and the generous helping of toppings elevate it from street food to something genuinely memorable. If you find yourself near Regent Street, this is a no-brainer.
The Ivy Chelsea Garden, Chelsea:
Dining at The Ivy Chelsea Garden is an experience in itself, with its lush interior and garden-like ambiance. I went for the Chicken Milanese with Truffle Sauce, (Crumbed chicken breast with a fried hen’s egg, Parmesan and salad mâche) for 22 pounds. It was light, elegant, and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that proves simple food can be utterly delicious when done right. I just wish I had taken a photo. I did however get a picture of the AMAZING sourdough bread we had as an app.
Harrods Food Hall, Knightsbridge:
You can’t visit London without wandering through Harrods, and their food hall is a gastronomic treasure trove. I grabbed a Truffle Egg Salad Sandwich— it was only 8 pounds and it was love at first bite. Rich, creamy, and luxuriously earthy thanks to the truffle, this sandwich turned a humble egg salad into a gourmet delight. Harrods isn’t just a shopping destination—it’s a lunch stop worth planning around. The only thing to mention is seating. There isn’t much that I found.
Harry’s, Victoria:
Located just a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace, Harry’s Victoria offers a charming escape into classic Italian dining with a dash of old-school glamour. I stopped in for a meal and was immediately impressed by the warm ambiance and impeccable service. I ordered the Truffle Ravioli, and it was nothing short of indulgent—delicately made pasta parcels filled with rich truffle (My favorite). Each bite was silky, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. If you’re after a comforting yet elevated Italian meal in the heart of London, Harry’s is an absolute must.
Cafer Errol, Knightsbridge
Right across the street from Harrods on Brompton Road, Cafer Errol felt like a hidden gem. I ordered a slice of baklava with ice cream, what was essentially a tres leches cake (I forgot the name) alongside a cup of their strong, aromatic iced coffee, and it was the perfect pick-me-up. The baklava was beautifully sticky and nutty, which paired so well with the ice cream, the cake was incredible, and the coffee had a deep, satisfying flavor that complemented it perfectly. A small spot with big flavor—don’t skip it.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea, Covent Garden
Afternoon tea is a must in London, and the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory tea at One Aldwych is a whimsical twist on the tradition. Think candy floss, and inventive takes on classic tea treats. It’s a full sensory experience—delicious, theatrical, and just plain fun. Ideal for anyone with children or a love of childhood nostalgia. I can’t think of one thing I didn’t like. We paid 75 pounds for tea and a cocktail.
Gymkhana, Mayfair
To round out the trip, I opted for the set lunch menu at Gymkhana, the Michelin-starred Indian restaurant and it completely blew me away. The meal began with a vibrant aloo chaat that was bursting with flavor and texture. From there, you choose your courses, and I went with the beetroot chops pao (a beautifully spiced, plant-based take on a classic street food snack) and the chicken butter masala, which was rich, creamy, and overall amazing. It came with perfectly steamed rice and naan—and let me tell you, I will dream about that naan forever. Fluffy, warm, slightly charred, and perfect for soaking up every drop of sauce. I paired it all with a refreshing pink gin and tonic that added just the right botanical kick to the meal. This was, without a doubt, the best Indian food I’ve ever had. It was enough food that my friend and I could have split it easily.
Final Thoughts
I am not sure why Britain’s food gets such a bad rap. London is a food lover’s playground, with something for every palate and occasion. Whether you’re indulging in playful afternoon tea, savoring elevated pub fare, or discovering global flavors, the city never disappoints. Every place I visited brought something unique to the table—literally. If you’re planning a culinary tour of London, let this be your inspiration.
PS. If you are interested in seeing more of my travels, follow me on TikTok @heyyitssalex and Instagram @alexx_kozak
Alex Travels 