London is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of culinary experiences to discover. While the city is known for its high-end restaurants and Michelin-starred eateries, some of the best food can be found at its street food markets. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of the top street food markets in London and the delicious dishes that can be found there.
Borough Market :
Borough Market is one of London’s most famous and historic markets, located in the heart of the city in Southwark. It is one of the oldest food markets in the city, with a history dating back over 1,000 years to the time of the Anglo-Saxons.
Today, Borough Market is a foodie’s paradise, offering a wide variety of fresh and artisanal produce, street food, and gourmet goodies. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike, and is often featured in travel guides and food shows.
The market is open from Monday to Saturday, with different traders and stalls operating on different days. Here are some of the highlights of Borough Market that you won’t want to miss:
- Fresh produce: Borough Market is home to over 100 stalls selling fresh produce, including fruit and vegetables, meat and poultry, fish and seafood, and cheese and dairy. Many of the traders are local farmers and producers, offering seasonal and locally sourced products.
- Street food: Borough Market is known for its delicious street food, with vendors serving up a diverse range of cuisines from around the world. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic British bacon sandwich, a French crepe, or a spicy Indian curry, you’ll find it here.
- Artisanal products: The market is also home to a number of artisanal producers, offering handmade and small-batch products such as bread, pastries, chocolates, and jams. These are perfect for taking home as souvenirs or gifts.
- Tasting experiences: Many of the traders offer tasting experiences, allowing visitors to sample their products before they buy. This is a great way to discover new flavors and find your new favorite food.
- History and culture: Borough Market is steeped in history and culture, and a visit here is not just about the food. You can learn about the market’s long history, dating back to the Middle Ages, and its role in feeding the city. There are also regular events and festivals celebrating the market’s heritage and the diversity of its traders.
Borough Market is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus and train routes serving the area. It is also within walking distance of other popular attractions such as the Southbank and the Tate Modern. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a unique shopping experience, Borough Market is a must-visit destination in London.
Camden Market :
Camden Market is one of London’s most famous street food markets, located in the vibrant and eclectic neighborhood of Camden. The market is open seven days a week and features over 1,000 stalls selling everything from vintage clothing and handmade jewelry to street food from around the world.
One of the highlights of Camden Market is the street food section, which features dozens of vendors serving up a wide variety of delicious and unique dishes. Here are a few of the must-try options:
- The Cheese Wheel – This vendor specializes in fresh, handmade pasta dishes cooked in a giant wheel of Parmesan cheese. Watching the pasta being tossed in the cheese wheel is a spectacle in itself, and the resulting dish is rich and flavorful.
- The Mac Factory – Macaroni and cheese lovers will want to make a beeline for The Mac Factory, which serves up a range of inventive twists on the classic comfort food. Options include truffle mac and cheese and a vegan version made with cashew cream.
- Yum Bowl – For a healthy and flavorful option, head to Yum Bowl for a bowl of fresh vegetables, rice, and protein (such as chicken, tofu, or shrimp) topped with a variety of flavorful sauces.
- The Ethiopian Coffee Company – This stall offers a taste of Ethiopia with its traditional coffee ceremony, which involves roasting and brewing coffee beans in front of customers. Pair your coffee with a traditional Ethiopian snack like injera bread or spiced nuts.
- The Cheese Bar – Cheese lovers won’t want to miss The Cheese Bar, which offers a wide variety of cheeses from across the UK and Europe, as well as cheese-themed dishes like grilled cheese sandwiches and cheese fondue.
In addition to the street food, Camden Market also has a number of bars and cafes where visitors can grab a drink or a snack. The market is also home to a range of shops and boutiques selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts.
Overall, Camden Market is a must-visit for any foodie visiting London. With its diverse range of street food options and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring and trying new flavors.
Maltby Street :
Maltby Street is a hidden gem located in Bermondsey, South East London. It is a narrow street that is home to a bustling and lively food market, which is perfect for foodies looking for something unique and delicious. Here’s a closer look at what Maltby Street has to offer:
- Unique Food Stalls: Maltby Street is home to a variety of food stalls selling delicious and unique foods from all over the world. From artisanal cheeses to freshly baked bread, from cured meats to fresh seafood, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
- Cosy Atmosphere: Unlike some of the larger and more crowded markets in London, Maltby Street has a more intimate and cosy atmosphere. The narrow street is lined with quirky shops and cafes, and there are plenty of benches and tables for visitors to sit and enjoy their food.
- Local Produce: Many of the food stalls at Maltby Street use locally sourced produce, ensuring that visitors get to taste the freshest and most seasonal ingredients. This also means that the food is often more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
- Artisanal Drinks: In addition to food, Maltby Street also has a great selection of artisanal drinks. Visitors can enjoy a cold beer from one of the craft breweries or sample some of the delicious wines from the local vineyards.
- Brunch Spots: Maltby Street is also a great place to go for brunch. There are several cafes and restaurants that serve up delicious brunch dishes, including avocado toast, pancakes, and Eggs Benedict.
Overall, Maltby Street is a must-visit for foodies looking for a unique and delicious food experience in London. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, or a cold craft beer, you’ll find it all at Maltby Street.
Street Feast :
Street Feast London is a food and drink event that features a rotating lineup of street food vendors and bars in various locations throughout the city. The event typically takes place in outdoor spaces, such as markets or car parks, and is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse selection of cuisines.
Street Feast was founded in 2012 and has since grown into one of the most popular food events in London. Some of the vendors that have participated in past events include Bao, Yum Bun, and Smokestak, among many others.
In addition to the food and drink offerings, Street Feast also often features live music, DJs, and other forms of entertainment. The event is a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking for a unique dining experience in London.
Kerb :
Kerb is a street food market and events company based in London. It was founded in 2012 and has since become one of the city’s most popular destinations for street food.
Kerb operates a number of food markets across London, including markets in Camden, King’s Cross, and West India Quay. Each market features a rotating lineup of street food vendors, with a focus on high-quality, innovative food.
Some of the vendors that have participated in Kerb events include Le Bao, Mother Clucker, and Anna Mae’s, among many others. The company also hosts special events, such as themed markets and collaborations with other organizations.
In addition to its food offerings, Kerb is known for its commitment to sustainability and community. The company works with its vendors to reduce waste and minimize its environmental impact, and it also partners with local organizations to support community initiatives.
Overall, Kerb is a vibrant and exciting addition to London’s street food scene, and is a must-visit destination for foodies and anyone looking for a unique dining experience in the city.
Greenwich Market :
Greenwich Market is a historic covered market located in the heart of Greenwich, a neighborhood in southeast London. The market dates back to the 17th century, and has been a popular destination for locals and visitors alike for centuries.
Today, Greenwich Market is known for its eclectic mix of stalls and vendors, offering everything from handmade crafts and artwork to vintage clothing and antiques. The market is also a great place to sample a variety of food and drink, with vendors selling everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine.
Some of the popular food vendors at Greenwich Market include The Fudge Patch, serving a wide variety of handmade fudge, and Crosstown Doughnuts, offering creative and delicious doughnut flavors. The market also features a variety of events throughout the year, such as live music performances and food festivals.
In addition to its market offerings, Greenwich is also home to a number of historic and cultural attractions, including the Royal Observatory and the National Maritime Museum, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Southbank Centre Food Market :
The Southbank Centre Food Market is a popular food market located on the Southbank, adjacent to the River Thames in central London. The market takes place every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and features a rotating lineup of street food vendors.
The market is known for its diverse selection of cuisines, with vendors serving everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine. Some popular vendors include The Cheese Truck, serving grilled cheese sandwiches made with British cheese, and Horn Ok Please, offering Indian street food.
In addition to its food offerings, the market also features live music and entertainment, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy their food while taking in views of the river and the iconic landmarks of London, such as the London Eye and the Houses of Parliament.
The Southbank Centre Food Market is part of the larger Southbank Centre, which is a cultural center that hosts a variety of events and performances throughout the year. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, the Southbank Centre Food Market is a must-visit destination for foodies and anyone looking for a unique dining experience in London.
In conclusion, London’s street food markets are a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse range of culinary experiences to discover. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional British cuisine or international street food, these markets are sure to satisfy your cravings.
