5 Foods Visitors Must Try in London

Being that PenniBlack are one of London’s premier catering companies, we like to think we have our finger on the pulse of food. Whilst we like pushing the boundaries when it comes to our own culinary delights, for those visiting the capital, there are some quintessential British foods that you must try!

So, wherever you are visiting from, make sure you get to taste test the following dishes from the capital. Most are available from traditional British pubs.

The Punch and Judy Pub in Covent Garden, London.

Pie and Mash

Pie and mash with gravy.

London’s oldest pie shop is M Manze. The pie, mash and eel shop sits on Tower Bridge Road and opened in 1891.

Whilst indulging in jellied eels is a London tradition we don’t expect everybody to try, having a beef pie with mash potato drowned in pie liquor is definitely a traditional treat we highly recommend.

Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea selection.

If you want to put aside a couple of hours to enjoy yourself in the capital, afternoon tea is the perfect excuse.

One of Britain’s most recognised foodie traditions, it traditionally comprises of delicate finger sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, and a selection of pastries or cakes. All washed down with whatever tea takes your fancy!

Fancy some bubbles? Champagne is a recognised accompaniment too!

Full English Breakfast

Full English breakfast with egg and bacon.

They are famed for being hearty and a hangover remedy. However, we suggest you try your first full English breakfast with a clear head!

The ‘Full English’, as it is commonly referred to, usually comprises of sausage, eggs, bacon, tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, hash browns and (if that wasn’t filling enough) toast.

Whilst the mighty meal is a mighty experience, it is tasty and a staple treat for Brits, especially on a Sunday morning.

Traditional Sunday Roast

Sunday roast dinner with veg and Yorkshire pudding.

Talking of Sundays, nothing warms the heart of British citizens than sitting the family around a large dining table and enjoying a Sunday roast together. It is a very family orientated meal which is part of what makes it so special. The meal is usually eaten in the afternoon and can consist of turkey, chicken, beef, pork or lamb.

Whatever the meat, you absolutely must have Yorkshire puddings and roast potatoes, oh, and a helping of yummy vegetables. Doused in gravy and with second helpings often available, be ready to have a snooze afterwards.

Fish and Chips

Fish and chips in newspaper.

Okay, we know that this is a favourite worldwide, but we don’t think anywhere does it quite like England.

The dish became popular in the middle of the 19th century around London and South East England. Charles Dickens even referred to a ‘fried fish warehouse’ in Oliver Twist!

Make history and indulge in some fish and chips if you visit London … and don't forget the mushy peas!