Don’t Miss These Famous Food Markets in London

London might not be the first city that comes to mind when it comes to world-famous food. But the UK capital is as rich in cuisine as it is in culture. 

TasteAtlas ranks London above the Italian city of Bologna as one of the world’s top food destinations, and while it might not boast the weather of the likes of Rome, Florence or Lisbon, its food can compete with even the best European cities.

London’s Food markets offer an abundance of British classics, from delicious cheeses to hearty steak and ale pies to fresh pastries to fish and chips and sweet custard treats. You'll also find stalls showcasing international dishes, a testament to the city's diverse culture. 

Here are our top 5 food markets in London to get the best out of British cuisine.

Borough Market

Borough Market is a haven for foodies, featuring gourmet foods from British and international vendors in a vintage Victorian setting. 

There’s plenty to choose from, but we especially love:

• Dishoom's for its Bacon Naan Roll, a delicious treat combines smoky bacon with a soft naan bread and various chutneys;
• The Big Easy Bar.B.Q & Lobstershack for surf n’ turf snacks with a twist, such as lobster rolls, pulled pork sandwiches, and smoked meats;
• Porteña's authentic Argentine empanadas, filled with beef, chicken, cheese, and vegetables. 

How to get there: Take the Northern or Jubilee Line to London Bridge.

Nearest attractions: The Shard and Southwark Cathedral

Get a True Taste of London with Carpe Diem Tours

Looking for the most traditional, filling food tour that doesn’t break the bank? Our Borough Market Food Tour treats your tastebuds to all the sweet and savoury British classics.

Greenwich Market

Greenwich Market offers plenty of arts, crafts, and antiques along its cobbled pathways. But its food section is equally diverse, serving dishes from around the world. Here are our must-visits, but click here for the complete list of Greenwich food markets.

• Meantime Brewery Tasting Rooms: Meantime is a must for fans of craft beer. Here you can try their range of craft beers, including lagers, ales, and stouts in a cool, industrial setting. Book a table if you want burgers to soak up the booze.  
• Meru Galettes: There’s no better place in Greenwich for fresh, natural and wholesome galettes prepared with loving hands. Vegan options are available too.
• Bad Brownies: These guys won an award for the Best Brownies in London at the London Chocolate Festival. What more to say.

How to get there: Your nearest station is Cutty Sark DLR

Nearest attractions: Royal Observatory and Cutty Sark

Brick Lane Market

Brick Lane Market is synonymous with London's East End charm. Sundays are the most vibrant, and as long as you don’t mind crowds this is the place to be for food enthusiasts looking for traditional British and international cuisine.  

• The Rib Man serves some of London's finest ribs and the 24/7 Brick Lane Beigel Bake bakes some of the tastiest bagels you’ll find outside New York"
• For street food, head to Ely's Yard at the Old Truman Brewery during the week.
• If you want to try out the area's curry houses, Aladin Brick Lane does a bang-up balti and tandoori.

How to get there: Aldgate East or Shoreditch High Street stations are close options

Nearest attractions: Whitechapel Gallery, The Old Truman Brewery

Given that Brick Lane Market is just around the corner from Whitechapel, why not explore the borough of Whitechapel on our top-rated Jack the Ripper Tour.

Maltby Street Market

Tucked in Bermondsey, Maltby Street Market is a hidden gem. It enjoys a reputation as a magnet for discerning foodies, and the artisanal foods, gourmet treats and craft beverages on offer beneath its brick railway arches will convince you that it is.

Visit the Steak and Chips stand for delicious triple-cooked chips and juicy steak sandwiches, the Ethiopian stand for the beef /chicken combo with the tiff injera and sour fermented flatbread and practically any of the beer or wine bars for light refreshments.

How to get there: The nearest stations are Bermondsey or London Bridge.

Nearest attractions: Tower Bridge and HMS Belfast.

Brixton Village and Market Row

Brixton Village and Market Row is a foodie’s paradise, housing a cornucopia of Caribbean delights and Asian specialities. Whether it’s authentic global cuisine, experimental cocktails bars or craft beers you’re after, you’ll find a world of flavour in this London food market.

Here is a complete list of where to eat and drink in Brixton Village and Market Row, but our personal favourites are these:

• Franco Manca: Franco Manca is famous for its sourdough pizzas, known for their simple yet delicious toppings and high-quality ingredients. It's a popular spot for a casual and satisfying meal.
• Mama Lan: If you're in the mood for authentic Chinese dumplings and noodles, Mama Lan is your best choice. They serve a range of delicious and freshly made dumplings, along with other Chinese specialities.
• KaoSarn: KaoSarn is a Thai street food restaurant in Brixton Village known for its flavorful and affordable dishes. Try their Pad Thai or one of their fragrant curries for a taste of Thailand.

How to get there: Brixton tube station on the Victoria line is the nearest.

Nearest attractions: Brixton Academy and Brockwell Park.

End Your Day with a London Tipsy Tour!

All that food tasting can be thirsty work, and there’s no better way to follow a day exploring London’s flavours than by taking a London Tipsy Tour!

Our London Tipsy Tour combines the best of traditional British drinks in buzzing bars and pubs with saucy, scandalous stories that get the pulse racing. It’s also a great way to meet fun, like-minded travellers looking for a good night out in London! 

Book your Tipsy Tour!