Global Major Cities Guide

London's diversity is reflected in its vast array of international food options, from Indian curry houses to Italian trattorias.

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Guide to International Cuisine in London, United Kingdom

London is one of the most diverse cities in the world, and its culinary scene reflects this global influence. From Michelin-starred restaurants to bustling food markets, the city offers a wide array of international cuisines to suit every palate and budget. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you explore London’s vibrant food scene.

Popular Types of International Cuisine in London

Indian Cuisine
London is often considered the home of some of the best Indian food outside of India. From traditional curries to modern fusion dishes, Indian cuisine is a staple in the city.
- Notable Dishes: Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Rogan Josh, Biryani, Dosas, and Chaat.
- Notable Restaurants:
  - Dishoom (multiple locations): A Bombay-style café offering a mix of classic and modern Indian dishes.
  - Gymkhana (Mayfair): A Michelin-starred restaurant serving refined Indian cuisine.
  - Tayyabs (Whitechapel): A family-run Punjabi restaurant known for its affordable and flavorful dishes.
Chinese Cuisine
London’s Chinatown in Soho is a hub for authentic Chinese food, but excellent Chinese restaurants can be found across the city.
- Notable Dishes: Dim Sum, Peking Duck, Sichuan Hot Pot, and Bao Buns.
- Notable Restaurants:
  - Hakkasan (Mayfair and Hanway Place): A Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern Cantonese cuisine.
  - Yauatcha (Soho): Known for its exquisite dim sum and desserts.
  - Four Seasons (Chinatown): Famous for its roast duck.
Italian Cuisine
Italian food is a favorite in London, with options ranging from casual trattorias to fine dining establishments.
- Notable Dishes: Pizza, Pasta (Carbonara, Bolognese, etc.), Risotto, and Tiramisu.
- Notable Restaurants:
  - Padella (Borough Market): Known for its fresh, handmade pasta at affordable prices.
  - Locanda Locatelli (Marylebone): A Michelin-starred restaurant offering authentic Italian dishes.
  - Franco Manca (multiple locations): A popular chain specializing in sourdough pizza.
Middle Eastern Cuisine
Middle Eastern food is widely celebrated in London, with options ranging from Lebanese to Persian and Turkish cuisines.
- Notable Dishes: Falafel, Shawarma, Hummus, Kebabs, and Baklava.
- Notable Restaurants:
  - The Palomar (Soho): A modern take on Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine.
  - Honey & Co. (Fitzrovia): A cozy spot for authentic Middle Eastern dishes.
  - Ottolenghi (various locations): Known for its vibrant salads, pastries, and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes.
Japanese Cuisine
Japanese food has a strong presence in London, from sushi bars to ramen shops and izakayas.
- Notable Dishes: Sushi, Ramen, Tempura, and Katsu Curry.
- Notable Restaurants:
  - Nobu (Mayfair and Shoreditch): A high-end restaurant blending Japanese and Peruvian flavors.
  - Tonkotsu (multiple locations): Specializing in rich, flavorful ramen.
  - Sushi Tetsu (Clerkenwell): A small, intimate sushi bar with an excellent reputation.
Caribbean Cuisine
London’s Caribbean food scene is vibrant, particularly in areas like Brixton and Notting Hill.
- Notable Dishes: Jerk Chicken, Curry Goat, Rice and Peas, and Plantains.
- Notable Restaurants:
  - Cottons (Camden, Notting Hill, and Shoreditch): Known for its jerk dishes and rum cocktails.
  - Fish, Wings & Tings (Brixton): A casual spot for authentic Caribbean flavors.
  - Roti Joupa (Clapham): Famous for its Trinidadian roti wraps.
French Cuisine
French dining in London ranges from casual bistros to luxurious fine dining.
- Notable Dishes: Escargot, Duck Confit, Croissants, and Crème Brûlée.
- Notable Restaurants:
  - Le Gavroche (Mayfair): A two-Michelin-starred restaurant offering classic French cuisine.
  - Balthazar (Covent Garden): A brasserie-style restaurant with a Parisian vibe.
  - Casse-Croûte (Bermondsey): A cozy bistro serving traditional French dishes.
African Cuisine
African food is gaining popularity in London, with Ethiopian, Nigerian, and Moroccan cuisines leading the way.
- Notable Dishes: Jollof Rice, Injera, Tagines, and Suya.
- Notable Restaurants:
  - Ikoyi (St. James’s): A Michelin-starred restaurant offering West African-inspired dishes.
  - Lalibela (Tufnell Park): Known for its Ethiopian platters and injera.
  - Tagine (Balham): A Moroccan restaurant specializing in slow-cooked tagines.

Food Markets for International Cuisine

Borough Market (London Bridge)
A historic market offering a wide range of international street food, fresh produce, and artisanal products.
Camden Market (Camden)
Known for its eclectic mix of global street food, including Venezuelan arepas, Korean BBQ, and Polish pierogi.
Brick Lane Market (Shoreditch)
Famous for its Bangladeshi curry houses and a variety of international food stalls.
Maltby Street Market (Bermondsey)
A smaller market with high-quality food vendors offering everything from Spanish tapas to Brazilian churros.

Average Costs for Dining

Street Food/Markets: £5–£15 per meal.
Casual Dining: £15–£30 per person.
Mid-Range Restaurants: £30–£60 per person.
Fine Dining: £60–£150+ per person.

Cultural and Dietary Considerations

Dietary Accommodations
- Vegetarian/Vegan: London is very accommodating, with many restaurants offering plant-based options. Look for spots like Mildreds (various locations) or By Chloe (Covent Garden).
- Halal: Many restaurants, especially those serving Middle Eastern, Indian, and African cuisines, offer halal options.
- Gluten-Free: Gluten-free options are widely available, especially in health-conscious areas like Shoreditch and Notting Hill.
Tipping Culture
- A service charge (usually 12.5%) is often added to the bill in restaurants. If not, tipping 10–15% is customary.
Reservations
- For popular or high-end restaurants, it’s advisable to book in advance, especially on weekends.

Tips for Navigating London’s Food Scene

Explore Neighborhoods
- Visit areas like Soho, Shoreditch, Brixton, and Camden for a mix of international cuisines.
Use Food Apps
- Apps like OpenTable, Deliveroo, and Time Out can help you find and book restaurants.
Try Food Tours
- Join a guided food tour to explore hidden gems and learn about the city’s culinary history.
Check Dietary Labels
- Menus often indicate dietary information (e.g., vegan, gluten-free), but don’t hesitate to ask staff for clarification.
Be Adventurous
- London’s food scene is incredibly diverse, so step out of your comfort zone and try something new!

London’s international cuisine is a testament to its multicultural identity. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a good meal, the city offers endless opportunities to explore flavors from around the world. Bon appétit!