London has so many excellent restaurants, but with only one stomach, it’s crucial to save space for the crème de la crème. If you’re looking for variety, there are a ton of food tours available—from a cheese tour, vegan food tour, to Indian food tour, you’ll surely find one that suits your dietary preferences. First-time visitors shouldn’t miss out on London’s most famous and iconic dishes. Read on for our list of must-try foods in London.

1. Fish and chips

Fish and chips first appeared in the United Kingdom in the 1860s; since then, it’s often been called Britain’s national dish. In fact, the government even safeguarded the supply of fish and chips during both World Wars. This dish was a staple of the working class, and became popular in wider circles by the mid-19th century. In London, you’ll typically find cod, haddock, and other types of white fish being used.

While you’ll find fish and chips in most of London’s pubs and bistros, we recommend checking out a local “chippy,” referring to a dedicated fish and chip shop. Once called “The Pope of Chips” by the BBC, Fishers serves fresh fish in a light, almost tempura-like batter, accompanied by heaps of chips. Portions here are huge, so ask for the small size if you don’t have a big appetite. Fishcotheque, located near the London Eye, is also a great choice after a whirl around the observation wheel.

2. Full English breakfast

When you’re in London, there’s no excuse for skipping breakfast. Since the 13th century, the English have prided themselves on providing hearty breakfasts for visiting friends and relatives—to the point of creating a staple dish. The full English breakfast, also known as a fry up, typically consists of bacon, fried egg, sausage, mushrooms, baked beans, toast, grilled tomatoes, and coffee or tea.

A full English breakfast is so popular in London that you’ll find it offered all day in cafes and pubs. Bursting with flavor, Kennington Lane Cafe’s English breakfast is exactly what you need first thing in the morning. If you’re near Wembley, drop by The Lounge Cafe, once named the best restaurant in London. This humble cafe offers a full English for only £3.95 ($5).

3. Sticky toffee pudding

Sticky toffee pudding is a British dessert made of a moist sponge cake with a muffin-like texture, filled with dates and covered in a toffee sauce. This treat is often topped with vanilla custard or a scoop of ice cream, as the vanilla flavor complements the richness of the pudding.

Head to The Abingdon for one of London’s best sticky toffee puddings, where you’ll even get to choose a side of either clotted cream or ice cream. Leave space for dessert at Sophie’s Steakhouse—their puddings are warm, spongy, and absolutely worth the extra calories.

4. Beef Wellington

One of Gordon Ramsay’s most famous dishes, the classic Beef Wellington is made of filet steak coated with pâté and duxelles (a mixture of chopped mushrooms) and baked in a puff pastry. Why not try this signature dish from the master himself? Savoy Grill, run by Gordon Ramsay, will blow you away with its Beef Wellington, served on a trolley and so tender it’ll melt in your mouth. You’ll also find Beef Wellington on the menu in Gordon Ramsay’s other restaurants in London.

5. Scotch eggs

A Scotch egg is a hard-boiled egg wrapped in sausage meat, coated in breadcrumbs, and baked or deep-fried. Supposedly invented by Fortnum & Mason, Scotch eggs are a common picnic food in the UK.

You’ll spot Scotch eggs being sold in supermarkets and corner shops, but if you’re keen to try them fresh, Scotchtails is an expert, serving them perfectly fried with a runny yolk. This food truck is located in Borough Market, and we recommend checking out other delicacies in this market by joining a food tour. A post-pandemic newcomer, Blue Boar Pub has quickly made a name for itself in Westminster. Don’t expect a traditional English pub experience here—Blue Boar is modern and sophisticated, and serves an amazing coronation chicken Scotch egg.

6. Sunday roast

One of the highlights of the weekend, the British Sunday roast is akin to Christmas dinner—filling, scrumptious, and best shared with loved ones. A traditional meal of Sunday roast includes potatoes, gravy, Yorkshire pudding, vegetables, and of course, roasted meat (usually beef, pork, or chicken). The reason this dish is served on Sunday dates back to when early Britons gathered to break their fast with a large meal after church on Sundays.

Like most iconic British fare, Sunday roast is served all over London. Our top picks include Blacklock Soho, Hawksmoor Air Street, and The Pig & Butcher—be sure to make reservations as they’re all very popular restaurants.

7. Bangers and mash

What on earth is a banger? During World War I, when the UK faced a meat shortage, sausages had such a high water content that they popped with a bang when cooked—hence the name “banger.” Usually served with gravy, sausages and mashed potatoes are a popular pub grub in London.

Located near the Imperial War Museum, The Prince of Wales is a traditional Irish pub that serves great bangers and mash. Its friendly owners, Tom and Margaret, are always up for a chat. Mother Mash serves affordable British comfort food—we suggest saving space for some custard after your bangers and mash.

8. Eton mess

Eton mess is a traditional English dessert made with strawberries, meringue, and whipped cream. Legend has it that a strawberry pudding was dropped during a cricket match held at Eton College in the late 19th century. Rather than waste it, the pudding was simply scooped up off the floor and served in messy chunks. Try this exquisitely messy dessert at Tuttons or Roast. Bob Bob Ricard Soho serves a creative rendition of Eton mess that is neatly contained inside a chocolate sphere, giving you the pleasure of smashing it up yourself.

9. Afternoon tea

We have the seventh duchess of Bedford to thank for this extra meal. In 1840, Duchess Anna often became hungry between lunch and dinner, and developed the habit of eating sandwiches, cakes, and tea in the late afternoon. Soon after, afternoon tea became a fashionable social event, particularly for ladies. Traditionally, afternoon tea is displayed on three-tier stands, featuring savory and sweet treats.

Treat yourself to a luxurious afternoon tea while you’re in London. Head to the Oscar Wilde Lounge to embark on a magical tasting journey through Van Gogh’s artworks. The Michelin-starred Céleste, located within the Lanesborough Hotel, also serves a classic afternoon tea under a domed glass roof.

10. Bubble and squeak

Yet another oddly named British food item, bubble and squeak alludes to the sounds you hear when the dish is being fried. While bubble and squeak used to feature cooked beef, modern variations consist of pan-fried potatoes and cabbage, likely due to the scarcity of beef during World War II.

Today, you’ll find bubble and squeak in London markets like Borough Market—specifically, in Maria’s Market Cafe, where you can watch Maria fry it up in front of you. Caravan, in Exmouth Market, offers a version that resembles more of a crispy patty.

Amelia is a writer and traveler based in Singapore. Some of her favorite cities include Tokyo, New York, and Taipei. Amelia is fluent in English, Chinese, basic Korean, and intermediate Japanese.