London, England
Yes, you’ll want to go to London because you have always dreamed of seeing Buckingham Palace live, riding the London Eye and strolling through the gorgeous streets while admiring London’s unique architecture. But… the real reason you’ll be visiting London is for the FOOD and the culture. Rain or shine, everyone is outside in London: enjoying laughs and drinks with friends, family and colleagues at the local pubs, restaurants and markets. The energy is lively and incredible contagious. Of course you must walk Hyde Park and spend an afternoon in the Tate Modern Museum, and an evening at Ronnie Scots Jazz Club….. but you must go ready to EAT.
WHERE TO EAT IN LONDON
Padella Pasta - Before or after you walk through Borough Market, get in line for pasta here!
Dinerama - Split level global food market with food stalls and bars. It is lively and a lot of fun. Great spot for a nice dinner outside: burgers, pizza, chinese, mexican and more.
The Dumpling House - The name says it all.
Sketch - High tea with Instagram worthy pink cushions and bathroom.
Cecconis - If you are staying in Mayfair or spending the day in Mayfair, eat at Cecconis for lunch or dinner.
Cereal Killer Cafe - If you are travelling with kids, this is a cute spot to visit before or after walking through Brick Lane Market.
Sticks n’ Sushi - They have multiple locations in London. I believe I went to the one in Soho. Truly delicious sushi with a similar vibe to Nobu (which you can also eat in London).
Duck & Waffle - Open 24/7 on the 40th-floor with floor to ceiling windows and the most incredible view of the city. A great spot at all hours.
Ping Pong - Another chain in London for good dim sum.
Farm Girl - If you are going to have a Julia Roberts / Anna Scott day exploring Notting Hill. Start your day with brunch here.
Bluebird Chelsea - Gorgeous restaurant and a great stop for breakfast before shopping through Oxford and Soho.
The Ivey - We went to the Ivey Chelsea, and I would recommend you do the same. Imagine eating the best brunch while sitting in a flower garden.
Balthazar - If you love it in New York, you will love it here. Think lobster, oysters, steak frites, pate and french onion soup.
Bistrotheque - Keywords here: boozy brunch.
Bob Bob Ricards - Take a break from shopping in Soho for lunch and champagne. They are known for the famous “press for champagne” button.
Chiltern Firehouse - Fancy, but gorgeous spot for dinner.
Other spots worth noting that are popular in the U.S. and can be found here if you're craving their food and environment: Hakkasan, Mr. Chow and Zuma.
Sunday Roast is the MOST IMPORTANT meal you will be eating in London. If you are in Hoxton/Shoreditch area, go to The Hoxton, and if you are in or near Islington, spend your Sunday afternoon at Smokehouse Islington.
And of course, not all meals should be spent at restaurants because London has and is known for the best MARKETS, and you can eat/shop your way through them all: Borough Market, Portebello Market, Spitalfields Market, Camden Market and Brick Lane Market.
And when you need a break from eating and sightseeing, make sure to find time to empty your wallets shopping at London’s elaborate department stores / food halls: Liberty London, Harrods, Harvey Nichols and Selfridges.