Jamie's London: Exploring the UK Capital Through the Celebrity Chef's Favorite Foodie Finds
Jamie's London: Exploring the UK Capital Through the Celebrity Chef's Favorite Foodie Finds - The Best Fish and Chips in Town
No trip to London would be complete without sampling some of the city's iconic fish and chips. This quintessentially British dish holds a special place in the hearts and stomachs of Londoners and visitors alike. Jamie Oliver, one of Britain's most celebrated chefs, has shared some of his favorite spots to get crispy, flaky fish paired with thick-cut chips doused in malt vinegar.
One of Jamie's top recommendations is Poppies Fish and Chips in Spitalfields. This no-frills joint serves up fish and chips the traditional way, wrapped in newspaper. According to Jamie, they nail the batter - it's light and crispy without being greasy. The chips are thick-cut and cooked to fluffy perfection. Regulars rave about the cod, but you can also get haddock, plaice and rockfish depending on the day's catch. Be sure to ask for some mushy peas on the side to round out your meal. Despite its humble environs, this place is popular, so expect a queue at peak times.
For a more upscale fish and chips experience in a charming setting, check out The Golden Hind in Marylebone. This retro restaurant has been serving fish and chips since 1914. Portions here are enormous - perfect for sharing. The fish is sustainably sourced and melts-in-your-mouth delicious. The chips are hand cut and made from Maris Piper potatoes. Tartar sauce, mushy peas and a selection of pies round out the menu. Check ahead as The Golden Hind has somewhat quirky opening hours.
If you find yourself near Borough Market, pop into Fish! for a fresh take on fish and chips. This no-fuss stall sources fish daily from the market, ensuring the catch is local and sustainable. Beer-battered haddock is their signature, but they also offer daily specials like lemon sole and plaice. Their chips are hand-cut and cooked in beef drippings for maximum flavor. Grab your food to go and enjoy it picnic-style nearby along the Thames. Just be prepared for a crowd - this popular market stall often has a line.
Jamie's London: Exploring the UK Capital Through the Celebrity Chef's Favorite Foodie Finds - Afternoon Tea Fit for Royalty
Afternoon tea is a refined British tradition dating back to the 19th century that no visit to London is complete without. While many hotels and tea rooms offer versions of this experience, some truly stand out for their royal connections and over-the-top presentations. According to Jamie Oliver, afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason is fit for a queen - quite literally, as Queen Elizabeth II has been a frequent guest.
Step inside Fortnum & Mason, the venerable luxury British department store, and you'll instantly be transported back to a more genteel era. Head up to the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, named in honor of the Queen's 60th year on the throne. This elegant space features chandeliers, fresh flowers, and views of the store's central atrium. Scones are baked fresh every 30 minutes, so they arrive at your table still warm. The teas come from royal warrant holders and you can select from over 40 single estate and blend offerings. Standouts include the Royal Blend, a mix specifically made for the royal family, as well as Queen Victoria's 1837 Blend.
Of course, the real star of the show is the tower of sweets that arrives, including five finger sandwiches, warm raisin and plain scones, and sweet treats like chocolate eclairs, macarons, and jam tartlets - all crafted and beautifully presented by their pâtissiers. With its pedigree and perfect execution, Jamie proclaims that afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason provides the ultimate royal treatment.
For tea with a side of history, Jamie recommends ascending the grand staircase of The Wolseley on Piccadilly. This glamorous all-day brasserie with old world ambiance has been hosting members of the royal family since the 1920s. The Wolseley harkens back to Vienna's grand cafes, so pastries take center stage. Homemade scones are served with spoonfuls of Cornish clotted cream and pots of colorful jam. Tea sandwiches include cucumber and cream cheese on dark rye and smoked salmon with lemon butter on brioche. Mini desserts lean French, with macarons, eclairs, and fruit tarts. With its elegant setting and delicate bites, The Wolseley offers a taste of Continental indulgence.
Jamie also adores afternoon tea at The Goring Hotel, a favorite retreat of Kate Middleton's family prior to her marriage to Prince William. This luxury boutique property has been family-owned for over a century and was granted a Royal Warrant for hospitality services in 2013. The Goring's tea is served in its conservatory amidst tropical plants and palms. Mini savory croque monsieurs and Welsh rarebit tartlets accompany homemade scones and sweets like rosewater cheesecake and chocolate and pistachio bites. For a true taste of royal living, treat yourself to their Queen Victoria 1837 signature tea blend.
Jamie's London: Exploring the UK Capital Through the Celebrity Chef's Favorite Foodie Finds - Finding Hidden Gems in Borough Market
Sitting in the shadow of London Bridge, Borough Market transforms every week into a bustling foodie paradise, teeming with stalls selling everything from artisanal cheeses to seasonal fruits and vegetables. This iconic market has been operating in some form since the 13th century and continues to be one of London's main food and drink attractions. While tourists flock to some of the more well known vendors, Birmingham chef Jamie Oliver knows all the market's hidden nooks and crannies to uncover culinary treasures. We enlisted his help to highlight a few of Borough Market's lesser-known gems that should not be missed by hungry visitors and locals alike.
Wander down Stoney Street to find one of Borough's more unique vendors, Gringa Dairy. Run by American expats Sarah and Andrew, Gringa specializes in authentic Mexican-style queso made from raw milk sourced from grass-fed cows. Their Oaxaca-style string cheese is hand-pulled to create its signature stringy texture and mild, milky flavor. For something more adventurous, try dipping their quesabirria tacos into intensely flavored chile-infused quesos for an explosion of spice. This is authentic regional Mexican fare at its finest from two passionate cheesemongers.
Tucked into a side alley is Neal's Yard Dairy, a stall that Jamie proclaims is a must-visit for cheese aficionados. Their knowledgeable staff guide you through tasting rounds of Britain and Ireland's best farmhouse cheeses. Look out for seasonal specialties like crumbly, cave-aged Montgomery Cheddar and oozing Stichelton, an English take on French blue cheese. Pair your cheese board with crusty sourdough from nearby stall The Flour Station - their naturally-leavened loaves have a toothsome chew and hearty, wholesome flavor.
On the periphery of the main market, look for a tucked-away stone archway leading to Jubilee Place. Here lie several vendors Jamie highlights like Elliot's, a top spot for seasonal seafood. Their oysters from Britain's coastlines are impeccably fresh, with bright brininess. Handsome crab and lobster salads are prepared daily. Pair yours with a crisp glass of English sparkling wine from Wiston Estate, another refuge in Jubilee Place. Their chalky soils impart minerality reminiscent of Champagne into their traditional method bubblies.
Jamie's London: Exploring the UK Capital Through the Celebrity Chef's Favorite Foodie Finds - Pubs with Character and Craft Beer
No trip to London would be complete without stopping for a pint at a historic pub brimming with character. Lucky for beer lovers, craft brewing has exploded in recent years and London boasts stellar breweries turning out inventive concoctions. Jamie Oliver enjoys nothing more than unwinding after a long day at one of his favorite gastropubs, hoisting a perfectly poured pint of local ale.
According to Jamie, The Harp in Covent Garden is a must-visit for top-notch real ales served in convivial Victorian surroundings. With its dark wood paneling, etched glass, and cozy snugs, The Harp harkens back to the city's literary pubs of yore that hosted Dickens and his ilk. Cask ales reign supreme here - look for guest taps from local breweries like Fuller's and Sambrook's alongside cider offerings. An added bonus: the bar snacks are excellent. Opt for Scotch eggs wrapped in sausage or posh fish and chips made with beer batter. Just arrive early to beat the crowds - The Harp is tremendously popular with discerning beer enthusiasts.
For a dizzying selection of craft beers in industrial-chic environs, Jamie recommends heading to Mother Kelly's in Bethnal Green. This beloved beer paradise stocks nearly 50 rotating taps showcasing the best of British and international brewing, both established and up-and-coming. Sip New England-style IPAs from Northern Monk Brew Co. or quaff mixed fermentation sours from The Kernel Brewery. With so many options, the bartenders help guide you to picks that match your tastes. They can also expertly recommend pairings with the menu of Southern-inspired fare, like fried chicken served with hoppy IPA or smoky brisket matched with roasty porter.
Further afield in East London's Hackney Wick, it's worth the trek to Crate Brewery, an edgy warehouse operation along the canal. Crate helped lead the hazy IPA revolution in the UK and brews super vibrant hoppy offerings like the Citra IPA bursting with tropical fruit aromas. For those who prefer maltier libations, Crate's Meddler oat cream porter overflows with smooth chocolatey goodness. Fill a growler straight from the source at their bar, or grab a pint to sip by the waterside as you admire the striking graffiti art decorating the walls. It captures East London's creative spirit through bold can art and boundary-pushing brews.
Jamie's London: Exploring the UK Capital Through the Celebrity Chef's Favorite Foodie Finds - Restaurants for Date Nights and Special Occasions
When it's time for a romantic date night or momentous celebration in London, Jamie Oliver heads to restaurants that combine exceptional cuisine with an ambiance to remember. According to the famed chef, Mandira's Kitchen in Notting Hill transports you to India with vibrant flavors in a chic, contemporary setting ideal for an intimate meal. Run by celebrated British-Indian cookbook author Mandira Bedi, this inviting restaurant balances tradition and innovation. Standouts include flaky garlic naan, fragrant chicken tikka biryani, and creamy kheer rice pudding, all beautifully plated. With its warm service and vibrant yet soothing décor accented by hand-painted murals, Mandira's Kitchen provides a memorable backdrop for special occasions.
For French fare in a glamorous art deco space, Jamie adores Café De Paris Brasserie in Covent Garden, an offshoot of the opulent cabaret venue. Settle into a red leather banquette beneath glittering chandeliers and mirrored walls for a taste of Parisian glitz. Jamie recommends starting with U10 scallops seared à la plancha and topped with velvety truffle gnocchi. Mains such as duck à l'orange prepared tableside are elegant yet unfussy. Save room for the Grand Marnier soufflé - it emerges from the kitchen dramatically puffed. With live jazz piano setting a romantic mood, Café De Paris transports diners to another era, making it ideal for anniversaries or engagements.
When only London's best seafood temple will do, J Sheekey Atlantic Bar & Grill has been a special occasion mainstay since 1896. Hidden within a discreet alley in Covent Garden, its wood-paneled rooms lined with photos of celebrity regulars provide a classic West End haunt feel. Begin your meal with Colchester oysters before moving on to standouts like lobster Thermidor baked in the shell, dover sole meunière, or Sheekey's iconic fish pie overflowing with chunks of salmon and cod. Top it off with their famous apple crumble tart with vanilla ice cream. Legendary patrons from Charlie Chaplin to Elizabeth Taylor have come for Sheekey's impeccable seafood and old-world charm through the decades. Its heritage and expertise make it Jamie's cherished spot for milestone meals.
Jamie's London: Exploring the UK Capital Through the Celebrity Chef's Favorite Foodie Finds - Cafes for People Watching Over Brunch
As the weekend arrives, Londoners emerge from their homes seeking that longstanding weekend tradition – a languid, lingering brunch. For Jamie Oliver, brunch offers not only the chance to refuel on eggs Benedict and caffeine, but also provides prime people watching opportunities. The celebrated chef recommends several bustling cafes where you can settle in with a cappuccino and scone to observe the vibrant human spectacle unfold around you.
According to Jamie, Granger & Co in Notting Hill is an ideal spot for an Australian-inflected brunch accompanied by top-notch people watching. Patrons queue out the door of this sunny cafe to secure tables littered with magazines and drenched in natural light. As crowds tuck into smoked salmon royales, ricotta hotcakes and chia puddings, observe family groups conversing with animation and couples poring over the real estate listings. In nice weather, snag an outdoor seat to watch locals strut by with dogs and toddlers in tow on their way to Portobello Market. The atmosphere buzzes all morning with the convivial din of mingling voices peppered with peals of laughter.
For a more bohemian vibe, head to The Breakfast Club in Spitalfields. Young creatives flock to this hip all-day diner crammed with shared tables and retro décor for brunch favorites like pancakes, waffles and huevos rancheros. Artists sketch inspiration from the eclectic crowds and freelancers clack away on laptops propped between tabletop cacti. Eavesdrop on heated debates about Banksy's latest street art intervention or discussions of experimental theatre. Observe rumpled partygoers recharging with fried chicken and French toast after late clubbing nights. A constant flow of patrons checking in for brunch ensures a rotating cast of characters to watch.
In Covent Garden, discerning palates head to Petersham Nurseries Café nestled picturesquely within a plant nursery. Light streams through the greenhouse walls as diners tuck into ricotta hotcakes and avocado toast alongside flowering orchids and succulents. Watch solo diners reading the newspaper while nursing flat whites as shoppers pop in carrying cachepots brimming with fresh blossoms. The handful of tables fill up quickly so arrive early to secure a spot for prime people watching.
Jamie also suggests heading to Granger & Co's newer outpost in nearby Holborn. Tucked away on a pedestrian side street, its floor-to-ceiling windows offer views of locals en route to the British Museum or law offices nearby. Brunch draws media types discussing the morning headlines and university students fueling up on poached eggs and pancakes during term. The two-story space affords plenty of all-day diners to observe going about their morning rituals as you enjoy your own leisurely brunch.
Jamie's London: Exploring the UK Capital Through the Celebrity Chef's Favorite Foodie Finds - Local Markets Brimming with Fresh Ingredients
Though London's supermarkets overflow with produce, Jamie Oliver knows that scoring the freshest, seasonal ingredients means heading to the city's bountiful farmers' markets. These vibrant weekly affairs offer a chance to shop, people watch, and discover new tastes all in one. Meandering the stalls at a farmers market provides a snapshot of the country's rich harvest in a singular spot. Visitors gain insight into British cuisine and connect with food producers passionate about their wares. According to Jamie, visiting London's farmers markets yields edible treasures that complement any foodie itinerary.
Borough Market may be London's most famous, but Broadway Market in Hackney has loyal devotees. Each Saturday, Broadyway fills with young creatives browsing organic vegetables, artisanal cheese, baked goods, and global street food. Jamie suggests starting at Growing Communities, a stall providing produce from the city farms they support through community-supported agriculture shares. Try sliced samples of fragrant honeycrisp apples or tangy rhubarb before selecting seasonal vegetables like purple sprouting broccoli and rainbow chard. Nearby Broadway Bees draws London chefs and foodies chasing single-origin raw honey with distinct terroir. Their Hackney honeys made from neighborhood Tawny mining bees have caramel hints, while hives near London Fields yield lighter, floral honey.
Further on, queues form at Otto's Cheese Shack, where British and Irish farmhouse cheeses reign. Crowds clamor for crumbly Lancashire, aged cheddar with crunchy calcium crystals, and Stichelton - the English take on silky Stilton blue cheese. Dazzled diners sample and compare creamy Ogleshield and tangy Gorwydd Caerphilly before deciding. Seek out the Camden Honey Man for a dizzying selection of raw and infused honeys paired with cheeses, charcuterie, and chutneys. Finish up with pastries at E5 Bakehouse, whose focaccia and brioche use market ingredients like river cottage spelt flour and Camden honey.
Each Sunday, Jamie suggests visiting Marylebone Farmers Market, where London's top chefs shop for restaurants. The historic Church of St. Marylebone serves as a charming backdrop as shoppers peruse stalls stocked with bounty from the English countryside. Scope out seasonal game like pheasants and venison at Wild Beef's stand or pick up aged grass-fed Ogleshield beef from The Soused Meat Company. Exmoor Caviar purveyor Shaun Leonhardt answers questions about his sustainably raised sturgeon roe from Somerset's lakes and rivers while educating curious crowds on caviar varieties. Seek out fruit bursting with late summer sweetness like figs and greengages or hubbard squash overflowing fall harvest bins. Visitors assemble the components for impressive cheese boards or dinner party menus as they rub shoulders with London's culinary experts.
Jamie's London: Exploring the UK Capital Through the Celebrity Chef's Favorite Foodie Finds - Eclectic Eats Along Brick Lane
As one of London's most culturally diverse neighborhoods, Brick Lane offers a delicious opportunity to taste the city's multiculturalism through cuisine. This dynamic East End street draws foodies eager to explore flavors from around the world, all conveniently located within a small radius ideal for culinary wanderings. According to Jamie Oliver, no food-focused visit to London would be complete without an afternoon feasting along the tantalizing tastes of Brick Lane.
This vibrant thoroughfare traces its eclectic eats heritage back centuries when immigrants began settling in the area, infusing it with their global traditions. Today, Brick Lane remains a blend of old and new, with vintage shops and markets sitting alongside sleek galleries and international eateries. As you amble along the street, tempting aromas mingle in the air as stalls and storefronts proffer Turkish kebabs, Bangladeshi curries and Jewish baked goods. Part of the fun is letting your nose guide you to whatever tantalizing twist on tradition catches your fancy.
Bagel aficionados make the pilgrimage to Beigel Bake, which has been serving hearty stuffed bagels 24/7 since the 1970s. Join the late-night queue for warm, chewy salt beef-packed beigel sandwiches, perfect after a night on the town. Nearby rival Kossoff's has been baking traditional Jewish bagels and challah bread since the '60s using recipes handed down through generations. Their old-fashioned approach and simply delicious hand-rolled bagels keep loyal crowds coming back.
Further along, queues often snake out the door at Tayyabs for their legendary Punjabi curries. Since the '70s, this lively BYOB spot has been dishing up tender lamb chops in spicy gravy, fluffy saag paneer and perfumed chicken tikka masala on communal tables. Regulars know to arrive early or late to avoid long waits. Down the road, Yardo Restaurant offers a cozy spot to sample regional Turkish fare like addictive haydari yogurt dip, aromatic lentil soup, and doner kebabs stuffed with seasoned lamb. Solo diners at the counter swap travel tales over çay tea and syrupy baklava.
Sweet tooths make the detour off Brick Lane down Cheshire Street to find St. John Bakery, the no-frills offshoot of famed British chef Fergus Henderson's gourmet restaurant. Early birds can snag their cultish salted chocolate and marmalade doughnuts along with crusty sourdough loaves. Nearby dim sum specialists Baozi Inn churn out steaming Chinese dumplings, steamed buns, and duck pancakes from their tiny kitchen. Watching the nimble staff work their folding magic makes for an ideal quick stop.