Foodie Bucket List: Iconic Dishes to Try in London
London is a foodie’s dream come true. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden gems serving mouthwatering street food, this city has something for every palate. If you’re ready to indulge in some unforgettable culinary experiences, 2025 is the perfect year to tick these iconic dishes off your foodie bucket list. Let’s dive into the must-try eats in London that will have your taste buds thanking you!
1. Beef Wellington at The Savoy Grill
When it comes to classic British cuisine, few dishes are as iconic as Beef Wellington. And where better to try it than at the legendary Savoy Grill? Gordon Ramsay’s take on this dish features perfectly cooked beef fillet encased in golden puff pastry, served with a rich red wine jus.
Pro Tip: Make a reservation in advance to secure your table.
2. Duck & Waffle at Duck & Waffle
Head to London’s highest 24/7 restaurant for their signature dish: Duck & Waffle. This sweet-and-savory masterpiece features crispy confit duck leg served on a fluffy waffle, topped with a fried egg and drizzled with mustard maple syrup. The breathtaking skyline views are a bonus!
Pro Tip: Visit during sunrise for a magical dining experience.
3. Salt Beef Bagel at Beigel Bake
For a true taste of East London, a visit to Beigel Bake on Brick Lane is a must. Their salt beef bagel is a thing of beauty: tender, juicy beef piled high on a freshly baked bagel, served with a dollop of mustard and a pickle on the side.
Pro Tip: Go late at night for freshly baked bagels straight out of the oven.
4. Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s
Afternoon tea is a quintessential London experience, and Claridge’s does it best. Enjoy delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of exquisite pastries—all paired with a perfectly brewed pot of tea.
Pro Tip: Treat yourself to their seasonal tea menus for a festive twist.
5. Chicken Tikka Masala at Dishoom
London is famous for its curry scene, and Dishoom is the place to go for a modern twist on Indian classics. Their Chicken Tikka Masala is rich, creamy, and perfectly spiced—a true crowd-pleaser that embodies London’s multicultural food culture.
Pro Tip: Order the garlic naan to soak up every last bit of the sauce.
6. Scotch Egg at The Harwood Arms
For a gastropub experience with a Michelin star, head to The Harwood Arms in Fulham. Their Scotch egg is a revelation: perfectly soft-boiled egg encased in flavorful sausage meat, coated in crispy breadcrumbs, and served with a tangy mustard dressing.
Pro Tip: Pair it with one of their locally sourced craft beers for the full experience.
7. Bao Buns at BAO Soho
If you haven’t tried the legendary bao buns from BAO Soho, you’re missing out. These fluffy, pillowy buns are filled with delectable options like braised pork belly, fried chicken, or shiitake mushrooms—each bite bursting with flavor.
Pro Tip: Try their fried Horlicks ice cream bun for a unique dessert.
8. Fish and Chips at Poppies
No foodie bucket list is complete without classic fish and chips. Poppies in Spitalfields serves golden, crispy fish paired with thick, hand-cut chips and mushy peas. It’s comfort food at its finest, served with a retro twist.
Pro Tip: Ask for a side of curry sauce for a true British experience.
9. Sticky Toffee Pudding at Hawksmoor
End your culinary journey with a quintessentially British dessert. Hawksmoor’s sticky toffee pudding is rich, moist, and served with a generous helping of clotted cream or vanilla ice cream. It’s the perfect sweet finale to any meal.
Pro Tip: Pair it with a glass of their dessert wine for a truly indulgent treat.
London’s food scene is as diverse as it is delicious, making it the perfect city for any foodie’s bucket list. From traditional British classics to global culinary delights, the city offers endless options to tantalize your taste buds.
Happy eating!