Discover the South: Best Food Tours in London’s South Side
London is known for its vibrant food scene, with a plethora of restaurants, markets, and food tours to satisfy any culinary craving. While the city as a whole offers a diverse range of cuisines, it is South London that truly stands out as a must-visit destination for foodies. From the hidden gems of Southwark to the bustling food markets of Borough Market and Bermondsey, there is something for every palate in South London.
South London has long been overlooked by tourists and even locals when it comes to dining out. However, in recent years, the area has experienced a culinary renaissance, with new restaurants and food stalls popping up all over the place. The diverse communities that call South London home have brought their own unique flavors and culinary traditions to the area, resulting in a melting pot of cuisines that is sure to delight any food lover.
Key Takeaways
- London’s South Side is a foodie’s paradise with hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
- The best way to explore the culinary delights of South London is through food tours.
- Borough Market and Bermondsey are just some of the foodie hotspots in South London.
- South London’s food scene is a fusion of cultures, offering traditional and vegan options.
- Craft breweries, distilleries, and street food trucks are also worth exploring in South London.
The Best Food Tours in London’s South Side: A Comprehensive Guide
One of the best ways to explore South London’s food scene is through a food tour. These guided tours take you on a culinary journey through the area, allowing you to sample a variety of dishes and learn about the history and culture behind them. There are several food tour companies that offer tours in South London, each with their own unique itineraries and specialties.
On a food tour in South London, you can expect to visit a mix of restaurants, markets, and street food stalls. You’ll have the opportunity to try a wide range of dishes, from traditional British fare to international cuisines. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will share interesting facts and stories about the area’s food culture, making for an educational and delicious experience.
Some recommended food tour companies in South London include Eating London Tours, which offers a “Flavors of Southwark” tour that takes you through the historic borough of Southwark, and Secret Food Tours, which offers a “South London Food Tour” that explores the diverse culinary offerings of the area.
Discovering the Hidden Gems of Southwark: A Foodie’s Paradise
Southwark is a borough in South London that is known for its rich history and vibrant food scene. From traditional British pubs to trendy restaurants, there is no shortage of dining options in this area. However, it is the hidden gems of Southwark that truly make it a foodie’s paradise.
One must-visit restaurant in Southwark is Padella, a pasta bar that has gained a cult following for its handmade pasta dishes. The menu features classics like tagliarini with nduja and mascarpone, as well as more adventurous options like pappardelle with 8-hour Dexter beef shin ragu. Another hidden gem in Southwark is The Coal Shed, a steak and seafood restaurant that offers a menu of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
When it comes to traditional British fare, The Anchor Bankside is a must-visit. This historic pub dates back to the 17th century and offers a menu of classic dishes like fish and chips, bangers and mash, and steak and kidney pie. For something a bit more modern, head to Elliot’s Café, which serves up seasonal British dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
From Borough Market to Bermondsey: A Journey Through London’s Foodie Hotspots
| Location | Food Specialties | Price Range | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Borough Market | Artisanal cheese, fresh produce, baked goods | £-££ | 4.5/5 |
| Maltby Street Market | Craft beer, street food, artisanal coffee | £-££ | 4/5 |
| Bermondsey Beer Mile | Craft beer, brewery tours | £-££ | 4/5 |
| Bermondsey Street | Modern European cuisine, cocktails | ££-£££ | 4.5/5 |
No visit to South London would be complete without a trip to Borough Market and Bermondsey. These two areas are home to some of the city’s best food stalls, restaurants, and bars, making them a haven for food lovers.
Borough Market is one of London’s oldest food markets and has been operating for over 1,000 years. Here you’ll find a wide range of stalls selling everything from fresh produce and artisanal cheeses to street food and international cuisines. Some must-visit stalls include Brindisa, which offers a selection of Spanish cured meats and cheeses, and Bread Ahead, which is famous for its freshly baked bread and pastries.
In Bermondsey, you’ll find a thriving food and drink scene that is centered around Maltby Street Market. This hidden gem is tucked away under the railway arches and offers a range of food stalls selling everything from gourmet burgers to artisanal chocolates. Be sure to stop by The Kernel Brewery, a craft brewery that specializes in small-batch, handcrafted beers.
A Taste of History: Exploring the Traditional Foods of South London
South London is steeped in history, and this is reflected in its traditional cuisine. From hearty pies to comforting puddings, there are several dishes that have been enjoyed by locals for generations.
One must-try traditional dish in South London is jellied eels. This East End delicacy consists of eels that have been boiled and then set in a savory jelly made from the cooking liquid. While it may not be to everyone’s taste, it is a quintessentially British dish that has been enjoyed in the area for centuries.
Another traditional dish to try is pie and mash. This classic British comfort food consists of a meat pie served with mashed potatoes and a parsley liquor sauce. One of the best places to try pie and mash in South London is Manze’s, a historic pie shop that has been serving up this traditional dish since 1902.
The Rise of Veganism in South London: A Guide to the Best Vegan Food Tours
In recent years, veganism has become increasingly popular in South London, with a growing number of restaurants and food stalls catering to plant-based diets. If you’re a vegan or simply looking to try some delicious plant-based dishes, there are several vegan food tours in South London that are worth checking out.
One recommended vegan food tour is offered by Vegan Food Tours London. This tour takes you through the vibrant neighborhoods of Brixton and Peckham, where you’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of vegan dishes from local restaurants and food stalls. From vegan burgers to plant-based curries, there is something for every taste on this tour.
Another vegan food tour to consider is offered by Veggie Vibes. This tour takes you through the trendy neighborhoods of Shoreditch and Hackney, where you’ll discover some of the best vegan eateries in East London. From vegan sushi to dairy-free ice cream, this tour showcases the diverse range of vegan options available in the area.
South London’s Best Street Food: A Tour of the City’s Vibrant Food Trucks
If you’re a fan of street food, then South London is the place to be. The area is home to a vibrant street food scene, with food trucks and markets offering a wide range of cuisines from around the world.
One must-visit street food market in South London is Pop Brixton. This shipping container village is home to a variety of food stalls, serving everything from Caribbean jerk chicken to Vietnamese banh mi. The atmosphere at Pop Brixton is lively and bustling, making it the perfect place to grab a quick bite to eat.
Another popular street food market in South London is Model Market in Lewisham. This market is set in an old 1950s market building and offers a range of street food stalls, as well as bars and live music. Some must-try dishes at Model Market include Korean fried chicken, wood-fired pizzas, and gourmet burgers.
A Guide to South London’s Best Craft Breweries and Distilleries
South London has seen a boom in craft breweries and distilleries in recent years, with a number of small-batch producers popping up in the area. If you’re a fan of craft beer or spirits, there are several breweries and distilleries in South London that are worth a visit.
One must-visit brewery in South London is The Kernel Brewery, located in Bermondsey. This craft brewery specializes in small-batch, handcrafted beers that are made using traditional brewing methods. The Kernel Brewery offers a range of styles, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, and has gained a reputation for producing some of the best beers in London.
For gin lovers, a visit to Jensen’s Gin Distillery is a must. Located in Bermondsey, this distillery produces small-batch gins that are made using traditional methods. The distillery offers tours and tastings, where you can learn about the history of gin and sample their range of handcrafted gins.
Exploring the Fusion of Cultures in South London’s Food Scene
South London is known for its diverse communities, and this is reflected in its food scene. From Indian curries to Caribbean jerk chicken, there are several restaurants and food stalls in South London that showcase fusion cuisine.
One must-visit restaurant that showcases fusion cuisine is Kricket in Brixton. This modern Indian restaurant takes traditional Indian flavors and combines them with British ingredients and cooking techniques. The result is a menu of innovative dishes like samphire pakoras with date and tamarind chutney, and Keralan fried chicken with curry leaf mayonnaise.
Another restaurant to check out is Mama’s Jerk Station in Peckham. This Caribbean eatery offers a range of jerk chicken dishes, as well as fusion dishes like jerk chicken burgers and jerk chicken wraps. The flavors at Mama’s Jerk Station are bold and spicy, making it a favorite among locals.
Why London’s South Side is a Must-Visit Destination for Foodies
In conclusion, London’s South Side is a must-visit destination for foodies. With its diverse range of cuisines, hidden gems, and vibrant food markets, there is something for every palate in South London. Whether you’re a fan of traditional British fare, international cuisines, or plant-based dishes, you’ll find it all in this culinary haven.
From the historic borough of Southwark to the bustling food markets of Borough Market and Bermondsey, there are endless opportunities to explore and discover new flavors in South London. So why not plan a trip to London’s South Side and embark on a culinary adventure? You won’t be disappointed.
FAQs
What are food tours?
Food tours are guided tours that take you to different food establishments in a particular area. They offer a chance to sample different types of food and drinks while learning about the history and culture of the area.
What are the best food tours in the south of London?
The best food tours in the south of London include the Brixton Food Tour, the Bermondsey Beer Tasting Tour, and the Borough Market Tasting Tour.
What is the Brixton Food Tour?
The Brixton Food Tour is a guided tour that takes you through the vibrant and diverse food scene in Brixton. You will sample food from different cultures and learn about the history and culture of the area.
What is the Bermondsey Beer Tasting Tour?
The Bermondsey Beer Tasting Tour is a guided tour that takes you to some of the best craft breweries in Bermondsey. You will sample different types of beer and learn about the brewing process.
What is the Borough Market Tasting Tour?
The Borough Market Tasting Tour is a guided tour that takes you through the famous Borough Market. You will sample food from different vendors and learn about the history and culture of the market.
How long do food tours last?
Food tours can last anywhere from 2-4 hours depending on the tour.
How much do food tours cost?
Food tours can cost anywhere from £30-£80 depending on the tour and the number of samples included.
