Take a Bite Out of London: FT Globetrotter's Monthly Guide to Exploring the City's Vibrant Food and Culture Scene

Take a Bite Out of London: FT Globetrotter's Monthly Guide to Exploring the City's Vibrant Food and Culture Scene - Tuck into London's Best Brunches

Londoners love a good brunch, and the city offers plenty of delicious options to satisfy cravings for both savory and sweet weekend fare. With its cosmopolitan culture and diverse dining scene, brunch in London delivers an experience that is distinctly different from other major cities. From indulgent five-star hotel offerings to hip neighborhood joints dishing out creative takes on classics, you'll want to save room to leisurely feast across London's brunching hot spots.

For an upscale brunch experience that blends elegance with excellent cuisine, head to The Wolseley in ritzy Mayfair. Housed in a former 1920s car dealership, the grand cafe exudes old world charm with marble pillars, lofty ceilings and glittering chandeliers. Their brunch menu showcases European influences like buttery croissants, smoked salmon with scrambled eggs and rich French toast drizzled with maple syrup. Compliment your meal with a refreshing bellini or mimosa while soaking in the sophisticated ambiance.

In contrast, Granger & Co. in Notting Hill embodies laid-back Aussie vibes and serves brunch fare inspired by cuisines from across the globe. Tuck into Moorish baked eggs with spiced tomato sauce and feta or Asian-style rice bowls heaped with kimchi fried rice, greens and a soft boiled egg. Brunch cocktails are not to be missed - try the Gunpowder Plot with chai-infused rye whiskey, Drambuie and apple juice. With an airy, industrial chic interior and sidewalk seating, it's a perfect spot for weekend lounging.

For inventive brunch plates in a trendy East London locale, make a reservation at Brawn on Columbia Road. Situated adjacent to the iconic flower market, the cozy cafe focuses on nose-to-tail cooking and serves imaginative dishes like grilled octopus with romesco sauce, burrata toast with smashed avocado and creative takes on hash using ingredients like ham hock and fennel. Wash it down with their signature bloody mary loaded with grilled prawn, chorizo and olives.

Scottish-inspired restaurant The Wee Dram delivers a brunch menu to satisfy any hearty appetite. Feast on plates like tattie scones with poached eggs, haggis bon bons with homemade HP sauce and a full Scottish breakfast loaded with sausage, bacon, haggis, beans, mushrooms and tomatoes. Brunch cocktails range from spicy bloody marias to refreshing mimosas and bellinis. With dark wood, tartan accents and whiskey barrels, the cozy pub ambiance enhances the flavorful fare.

Take a Bite Out of London: FT Globetrotter's Monthly Guide to Exploring the City's Vibrant Food and Culture Scene - Savor Afternoon Tea Traditions

Afternoon tea is a beloved British tradition, and no visit to London is complete without partaking in this refined ritual. More than just sipping tea, afternoon tea is an experience to savor that offers insight into local customs. From elegant hotels to cozy tea shops, London venues provide the perfect settings to sample this iconic pastime.

With origins dating back to the 19th century, afternoon tea traditionally consists of dainty sandwiches, scones and pastries served on a tiered platter, complemented by a pot of loose leaf tea. While you'll find classic offerings at many spots around London, some savvy locales are putting modern twists on the tradition. For instance, sketch in Mayfair has dreamed up a couture-inspired Alice in Wonderland theme with outlandish décor and whimsical treats like blue sugared fruit and a Mad Hatter chocolate cake. Food for Thought in Covent Garden takes inspiration from art movements like pop art and impressionism, with creative concoctions like smoked salmon pinwheels resembling painter's palettes.

Seeking a taste of tradition? Afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason's Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon is served with Old World flair, with waistcoated waiters delivering tiered stands bearing the iconic department store's signature scones and jams. For Royal pomp, afternoon tea at Claridge's glitzy Foyer & Reading Room evokes the majesty of Buckingham Palace, with finger sandwiches fit for a queen and ornate china. The Langham's Palm Court channels turn of the century opulence with live piano and harp music setting the mood as guests nibble dainty bites under a stained glass ceiling.

To steep yourself in literary charm, the wood-paneled dining room at The Wolseley conjures 1920's era enchantment reminiscent of author Agatha Christie. Meanwhile, afternoon tea at historic Brown's Hotel's English Tea Room pays homage to beloved British writers who were former guests like Rudyard Kipling and Alexander Pope. For Beatlemaniacs, a trip to the Hard Days Night Hotel delivers Fab Four-themed fare in a psychedelic lounge splashed in pop art prints.

Beyond the expected scones and sandwiches, some spots showcase local flavors from diverse global cuisines. For example, the exquisite Eastern & Oriental afternoon tea at St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel features aromatic coconut chicken curry tarts and cardamom chai spiced cake. Even cheese tea gets a spin at Bubblewrap London, with frothy cups of cheese foam-topped Assam to accompany savory and sweet nibbles.

Take a Bite Out of London: FT Globetrotter's Monthly Guide to Exploring the City's Vibrant Food and Culture Scene - Pub Hop Through History in Old Neighborhoods

London's historic pubs offer a glimpse into the city's rich social history and culture. Every neighborhood boasts its share of historic watering holes once frequented by locals, intellectuals and even literary legends. Pub hopping through these iconic establishments provides an immersive experience that transports you back in time.

In literary Bloomsbury, The Lamb & Flag on Rose Street was a haunt of early 20th century writers like T.S. Eliot. Hidden down an alleyway, the cozy pub with creaky wooden floors and exposed brickwork has hardly changed since Eliot and his contemporaries discussed poetry and philosophy over pints. Nearby, The Museum Tavern was a gathering spot for famed authors like Charles Dickens and Karl Marx. Sip a pint beside the same 19th century mahogany bar where Marx would discuss revolutionary ideas.

The atmospheric haunted pubs of Highgate make for an intriguing pub crawl. At The Flask on Highgate West Hill, remnants from an old coffin workshop add to the pub’s spooky vibe. Visiting poets like Lord Byron and John Keats may have sipped ale in the leafy beer garden. The Gatehouse Inn next door is said to be haunted by the ghost of notorious highwayman Dick Turpin, with paranormal activity reported inside its 18th century walls.

South of the river, Greenwich is home to some of London's oldest and most idyllic riverside pubs. The waterfront Trafalgar Tavern dates back to the 1830s and has a rich maritime heritage - Dickens even featured it in Our Mutual Friend. Order a pint and some pub grub in the grand Regency dining room or relax outdoors in the sprawling garden overlooking the Thames. Nearby, The Cutty Sark pub resides in a historic wharf warehouse from the 1790s, making it one of London's last remaining riverside smugglers' taverns.

London's oldest galleried coaching inn, The George Inn in Borough dates back to medieval times. The atmospheric timber-framed pub hosted the likes of Charles Dickens and Shakespeare. Grab a pint inside its historic Courtyard Bar, surrounded by leaning walls and overhead galleries. Soak up 500 years of history at this Southwark treasure.

Take a Bite Out of London: FT Globetrotter's Monthly Guide to Exploring the City's Vibrant Food and Culture Scene - Experience London's Multicultural Melting Pot

As a global hub attracting immigrants and expats from around the world, London delivers an unparalleled melting pot of cultures that season the city with cosmopolitan flair. Waves of migration over centuries have woven together a rich tapestry of diversity, making the city a microcosm of world cuisines. From aromatic curries to succulent kebabs, vibrant Chinatowns to bustling Brazilian enclaves, eating your way across London doubles as a culinary world tour.

Of course, Indian food holds a special place in London's culinary landscape. Brick Lane in East London serves as the city's original Little India, where the smell of cumin and coriander waft from curry houses and sari shops line the streets. Seek out classics like fluffy naan bread and rich curries at decades old Shampan or innovative fusion fare like jackfruit biryani tacos at Bubbledogs. Nearby Ealing boasts a thriving South Asian community, with top spots like sweet shops selling mithai confections.

The tantalizing aromas of fresh baked pide and doner kebabs draw crowds to the Turkish restaurants and cafes along Green Lanes in North London. Sip Turkish coffee, nibble pistachio baklava and puff on fruit flavored shisha amid lively chatter at Çayır. Try Gaziantep-style lamb kebabs at Oklava for a true taste of Turkey.

Flanked by red lanterns, the bustling Chinatowns in Soho and Kings Cross transport you to the busy markets of Hong Kong. From authentic dim sum restaurants hidden down side streets to trendy basement cocktail bars, it's easy to forget you're in London. Indulge in delicate soup dumplings at Yauatcha Soho or slurp noodles at Jen Cafe.

The tempting aroma of pasteis de nata - crispy Portuguese egg custard tarts - leads many to discover South London's Little Portugal in Stockwell. Grab an espresso, pasteis de nata and sandwiches like presunto ham on crusty bread at Lisboa Patisserie. Nearby Victorian terraced houses now house Brazilian restaurants dishing out flavorful feijoada stew and caipirinha cocktails, echoing Rio de Janeiro.

Take a Bite Out of London: FT Globetrotter's Monthly Guide to Exploring the City's Vibrant Food and Culture Scene - Shop Fresh Fare at Colorful Markets

London's markets are a sensory delight, bursting with colorful fresh produce, artisan goods and tempting street food stalls that provide a taste of global flavors. From historic icons like Borough Market to lively newcomers like Kerb Camden, shopping the city's markets offers visitors a vibrant slice of local life.

No trip to London would be complete without a visit to Borough Market, a historic foodie paradise nestled under Victorian railway arches near London Bridge. Ranked as the UK’s top food retailer, the market has been running for over 1,000 years. Today it remains a pilgrimage site for food lovers seeking farm-fresh fare. Stroll through the bustling warren of stalls and shops to sample artisan cheeses, cured meats, handmade chocolates, freshly baked breads, gourmet canned goods and some of the city’s best street food. Local specialties like chorizo scotch eggs, venison burgers and Swiss raclette with boiled potatoes offer international twists.

For those savvy travelers seeking London’s next big foodie destinations, head to Kerb Camden - a vibrant collection of up to 30 food stalls taking over Camden's historic canal side at weekends. The ever-changing line-up showcases exciting rising chefs and street food startups, with cuisine spanning from freshly made rice paper rolls to sourdough pizza cooked in a vintage oven on wheels. Don't miss the chance to try inventive new treats rarely found elsewhere in London, with many vendors using the market as a testing ground for potential restaurants. A few favorites include Goan fish curry from Masala Kitchen, juicy Chinese street food baozi buns stuffed with braised pork, and Instagram-worthy freakshakes from patty&bun.

In East London's hipster hub of Hackney, Broadway Market charms visitors with its laid-back artsy vibe. The long-running weekend market stretches down the picturesque high street lined with plane trees and independent shops. Over 100 stalls offer a bonanza for food lovers, from luscious cakes and artisan chocolate to sustainably sourced meats, cheeses and produce. Refuel with snacks from street food trucks and some of London's best coffee. The neighboring Netil Market also hosts a monthly Makers Market showcasing over 70 independent designers and artists.

Take a Bite Out of London: FT Globetrotter's Monthly Guide to Exploring the City's Vibrant Food and Culture Scene - Mix and Mingle at Hot Cocktail Bars

After a day of city exploring or museum meandering, London's vibrant cocktail scene provides the perfect opportunity to unwind and mingle with locals and fellow travelers alike. From hidden speakeasies to buzzing hotspots, pulling up a bar stool in one of London’s expertly mixed cocktail dens offers a lively glimpse into the city’s nightlife.

In the heart of Soho, London Cocktail Club encapsulates the neighborhood’s lively spirit with three floors of craft cocktails, dancing and DJ beats. Kick back with inventive tipples like the Marmite Martini with Laphroaig whisky and Marmite syrup or the Liquorice Old Fashioned with liquorice-infused bourbon. The laid back ground floor bar gives way to an edgy basement Dance Hall and chilled out attic hangout decked in greenery. With globally inspired small plates and sharing dishes like ceviche and Asian-style tacos, the vibe here is geared to a young trendy crowd ready to mix, mingle and dance the night away.

For intimate mingling in an upscale yet approachable setting, Girls Don’t Cry offers a tucked away haven off busy Brick Lane. Candlelit wooden booths, vintage china and blooming florals set a feminine yet edgy ambiance, with classic cocktails given creative twists by an expert female team. Sip bespoke creations like the pink peppercorn infused Pink Panther or the floral Eternal Sunshine, then nibble on perfectly paired small bites like buttermilk fried chicken with red eye gravy. With stellar service, charm and elegance, it’s a delightful escape from the city rush.

At laid back Happiness Forgets, exposed brick walls and vintage barber chairs create a neighborhood pub feel, while serious mixology pedigree shines through in their innovative cocktails. Botanical infusions and homemade syrups bring out vibrant flavors in drinks like the refreshing Garden Party spiked with homegrown mint, cucumber and lime or the comforting Spiced Hazelnut Manhattan laced with nutty nocino walnut liqueur. Their famous giant ice cube keeps drinks icy cold while you banter with fellow imbibers and bar staff. Off the main drag in Hoxton, it's an ideal retreat for conversing over quality quaffs.

Take a Bite Out of London: FT Globetrotter's Monthly Guide to Exploring the City's Vibrant Food and Culture Scene - Catch a Show in the West End Theater District

As the glittering heart of London's performing arts, the West End buzzes with theatrical magic and star power that lures audiences from around the globe. From renowned long-running musicals to avant-garde fringe productions, the stages that make up this world-famous theater district offer visitors a stellar array of showstopping entertainment.

While massive commercial hits like The Phantom of the Opera, The Lion King and Mamma Mia! draw crowds year after year, the West End provides a platform for innovative and emerging talent as well. Keep an eye out for some of London's edgier theater companies taking up residence in unconventional fringe venues, where you may catch tomorrow's rising stars in boundary-pushing original works. For instance, the Yard Theatre in Hackney Wick occupies a former warehouse beside canalside artist studios, allowing audiences to soak up the vibrant creative spirit of the neighborhood.

After securing tickets to a West End show, arrive early to soak up the buzzing scene around London's historic theaters. Many venues like the Apollo Victoria and Lyceum boast grand Edwardian exteriors and opulent interiors decked out in red velvet and gold accents that capture the excitement of showbusiness. Before the curtain rises, chat with fellow theater-goers in the bustling bars to swap recommendations for productions to catch on a return trip.

When the lights dim, prepare to be dazzled by spectacular sets, costumes and special effects that rival Broadway and beyond. But London's West End shows also exude a uniquely British charm. Long-running classics like Les Miserables and Mary Poppins incorporate iconic London sights and scenery to transport viewers to historic Covent Garden and magical rooftops accessible only by chimney sweep.

While musicals may reign supreme, London's tradition of acclaimed straight theater still shines brightly along Shaftesbury Avenue. The Harold Pinter Theatre's 2018 production of Betrayal starring Tom Hiddleston electrified audiences with crisp dialogue and simmering chemistry between characters. Nearby, The Play That Goes Wrong at The Duchess Theatre keeps audiences in stitches as a corny murder mystery goes hilariously awry despite the cast's best efforts.

Beyond blockbusters, the West End provides platforms for diverse voices. The Tina Turner Musical at Aldwych Theatre chronicles the Queen of Rock's life through soaring numbers, while the Young Vic's fairytale stage adaptation of Cinderella puts a modern spin on the classic fable. Thought-provoking works at venues like Royal Court Theatre provide insight into contemporary British life and culture.

Take a Bite Out of London: FT Globetrotter's Monthly Guide to Exploring the City's Vibrant Food and Culture Scene - Indulge in Inventive Fine Dining

Beyond pub fare and afternoon tea, London’s ever-evolving fine dining scene entices foodies with avant-garde culinary experiences from some of the world’s most creative chefs. At innovative restaurants across the city, pioneering culinary minds are pushing boundaries and reinventing haute cuisine in exhilarating ways. Whether it’s imaginative takes on traditional ingredients, high-concept tasting menus or multisensory feasts, London’s inventive dining destinations offer travelers food for thought as well as palate-pleasing flavor combinations.

For an immersive culinary adventure, Cakes and Bubbles fuses food with art, music and humor for a completely unique tasting menu. Diners nibble playful bites like sea bream ceviche with tapioca pearls and caviar amidst an over-the-top ‘Alice in Wonderland’ décor accented by floating cake sculptures. An in-house pianist provides a melodic soundtrack as servers enthusiastically explain each audacious course. With champagne pairings and desserts served in bathtubs, it’s whimsy dialed up to 11.

At creative fine dining hotspot Endo at the Rotunda, the omakase dining experience delivers a masterclass in Japanese tradition with subtle modern flair. Sit at the counter while head chef Endo Kazutoyo prepares edomae-style sushi and artfully plated dishes using select seasonal ingredients. Luxurious offerings like toro tartare, delicately seared wagyu beef and uni tempura provide pure umami delight. It's an intimate experience that opens diners' eyes to nuances in Japanese cuisine.

For Michelin-starred Indian food with a contemporary twist, Benares pays homage to regional Indian flavors while showcasing modern techniques. Start with creative small plates like quail egg papdi chaat before moving on to artfully composed mains like duck breast with coconut curry sauce. Don't miss the famous martini trolley, where you can watch mixologists blend aromatic bespoke gin and vodka infusions tableside. Elegant yet approachable fine dining ambiance complements the graceful service.

At minimalist Leroy, unexpected flavor combinations keep rotating tasting menus exciting across four to ten courses. Dishes like scallop flavored with frankincense smoke, quail with truffle and fig leaf oil and clever deconstructions of British classics play with diners' preconceptions. Book the exclusive Kitchen Table for a front-row seat to witness head chef Nick Bril's kitchen choreography as he plates each artistic course.

For an avant-garde take on Nordic cuisine, A.O.C presents a seasonally inspired tasting menu in an urban glass cube overlooking St Paul’s Cathedral. Dishes like smoked reindeer heart with blackberries, truffle-topped scallops and decadent chocolate with hay ice cream provide an immersive sensory experience. Carefully chosen wine pairings enhance flavors throughout the choreographed meal. Prepare to have your perceptions of Scandinavian fare challenged and elevated.