A boozy getaway in London, spanning over the weekend.
Discovering London's Culinary Delights: A Guide to the City's Finest Eateries and Wineries
London, a city steeped in history and tradition, is also a haven for food lovers. Over two centuries, it has been the epicentre of the global wine trade, offering a diverse and exquisite selection of culinary experiences.
Pubs and Gourmet Dining
The Harwood Arms in Fulham is a standout establishment, being London's only Michelin star pub. Known for its roast meat feast, it also serves ale and boasts a short, concise wine list tailored for lazy afternoons. Another pub worth mentioning is The Draper's Arms in Islington, which offers an exceptional wine list, making it a British pub with a refined touch.
Mallorcan-Inspired Delights
Mountain on Beak Street, ranked No 74 on The World's 50 Best Restaurants 51-100 list, offers a Mallorcan-inspired menu. The whole turbot may not always be available, but the fish is equally good. Tomos Parry's Mountain restaurant also provides both small plates and full meals, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Chinese Fine Dining
A Wong in Pimlico offers Chinese fine dining with dishes from the emperor's banquet reimagined for the modern day. Nearby, Hunan offers a 'no menu' small plate experience with a distinctive wine list.
Indian Cuisine
Gymkhana and Trishna, two-Michelin star Indian restaurants, serve rich and bold food and fish, respectively. Both restaurants have compelling wine lists tailored towards the food being served.
British Traditions
St John on St John Street offers a British tradition of elevenses, including Eccles cake, Lancashire cheese, Madeira, and bone marrow on toast. The River Cafe has a terrace with a view for lunch, and serves pasta and Pieropan Soave on ice for lunch on sunny days.
Wineries for Asian Cuisine
For those interested in Chinese cuisine, the two recommended wineries are Pierre Trichet, known for its Brut Blanc de Blanc Premier Cru which pairs well with Asian cuisine, and Doppler, which offers wines that suit light and aromatic food styles often found in Asian dishes.
Special Mention
The Ledbury and Core are fine dining restaurants in Notting Hill. Quality Wines in Farringdon offers small plates and a wide selection of by-the-glass options. The Black Book on Frith Street serves fine wine and cocktails until 3am.
Traditional 'Caffs' for Breakfast
E Pellicci, Regency Cafe, and River Cafe are traditional 'caffs' for a full English breakfast. The Wolseley on Piccadilly is considered an iconic breakfast spot in London, with devilled kidneys and kedgeree among its staple dishes.
Fine Wine Encounter London 2025
For those eager to explore more, Fine Wine Encounter London 2025 is an event where tickets can be booked. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just starting your culinary journey, London's vibrant food scene promises an unforgettable experience.
