Food & Drink in London

London is the biggest city in the UK and is the most culturally diverse offering many different foods to enjoy from around the world. One of the most famous areas in London’s West End is Chinatown offering a choice of many Chinese restaurants and fast-food outlets followed closely by Brick Lane, an area on the east side of the city centre which is known for its Indian restaurants.  All areas in London are connected by what is possibly the best transport links in a world capital city, underground, overground train networks, buses, and many different cab companies however the most popular and cheapest way around the city is The London Underground (The Tube). Below are some links that will give you ideas on where to eat out in London

Indian –                                 28 Best Indian Restaurants in London – Time Out London

Chinese –                              London’s best Chinese restaurants – Time Out London

West end / Soho –           The best restaurants in Soho – Time Out London

Turkish –                               London’s best Turkish restaurants – Time Out London

Italian –                                 The best Italian restaurants in London – Time Out London

Japanese –                           London’s best Japanese restaurants – Time Out London

Filipino –                               THE BEST Filipino Food in London (Updated 2023) – Tripadvisor

Greek –                                 London’s best Greek restaurants – Time Out London

French –                               London’s Best French Restaurants | 36 French Fancies

Spanish –                             The Best Tapas Restaurants in London | 20 Top Spanish …

Vietnamese –                    London’s best Vietnamese restaurants – Time Out London

African –                               London’s best African restaurants – Time Out London

Alcoholic beverages can be purchased from supermarkets and pubs (public houses). Some local shops or “corner shops” will sell beers wines and spirits but a license is needed to sell alcohol in the UK so not all shops will sell alcoholic drinks.
Most restaurants will sell alcoholic drinks and there are approximately 3500 public houses (pubs) in London all of them catering for different tastes and backgrounds primarily offering a range of beers, spirits, cocktails and wine. Many pubs will offer a food menu from bar snacks to main meals and desserts. This is commonly known as “pub grub”. Pub culture is an integral part of British life. Pubs are a place to go to socialise, relax and have a drink.
There is an age limit on the consumption of alcohol which is 18 years of age. It is against the law for both males and females under the age of 18 to consume alcoholic beverages. It is also against the law to sell to or purchase alcoholic beverages on behalf of a minor (a person under the age of 18 years) Breaking this law can result in a legal prosecution and a fine. You may be asked to provide proof of age when purchasing alcoholic drinks. Some venues may require you to be at least 21 years of age.

NHS discount: Lots of venues in London offer a discount for NHS staff, sometimes up to 15%. All you need is your staff identification badge issued by your Trust. Simply ask at the venue if they offer a discount and present your identification badge and they will apply the discount if they offer one.

Ian Henry

Business Support Officer