We cannot say that England is known for its cuisine.
The royal family, the rock and roll, the charming accent, yes, but the gastronomy… The fact remains that London is today a recognized
foodie
destination and that many typical dishes originate from the capital and its region.
Here are five of them, as well as our favorite places to taste them.
The full English breakfast
Commonly known as “
full English breakfast
”, “
full monty
” or “
the works
”, the English breakfast is a national pride.
It is even said to be able to cure a hangover... Its base consists of eggs, sausages and bacon, accompanied by toast, white beans, tomatoes, mushrooms and black pudding.
In the Middle Ages, nobles offered it to visitors to show the quality of the products of their lands.
Since the industrial revolution, it has been everywhere.
It is found in particular in
greasy spoons
, these small fried restaurants that England has, such as Terry's and E Pellicci in London.
Our preference is the Regency Cafe in Pimlico, with its authentic decor and friendly prices (from €7.50 for breakfast with tea/coffee).
Taste the “
bubble and squeak
”.
These vegetable pancakes prepared from leftovers from Christmas meals or
Sunday roasts
owe their name to the noises they make when cooked.
Fish and chips
The first fish and chip restaurant was opened in London in 1860 by Joseph Malin.
But some suggest the dish was invented near Manchester.
AdobeStock
Haven't had your fill of fried foods for the day?
Have a
fish and chips
lunch and that’s it!
According to historians, this fish rolled in beer breading was first served with thick fries in the 19th century, by Joseph Malin, a trader from east London.
During the two world wars, it was the only dish not rationed.
It has also been served since 1914 at the Golden Hind in Marylebone.
Its crispy cod and haddock are safe bets (from €14), to be enjoyed with pea puree, as it should be.
Not far from there, we also mention the Seashell of Lisson Grove, acclaimed by Alain Ducasse and Lady Gaga.
The pie and mash
Pie and mash is a typically Cockney dish, traditionally served with eel jelly, or without for the less adventurous.
Richard Griffin / Richard Griffin - stock.adobe.com
If you're trying to stay away from starchy foods, move on because here's the marriage of a pie and a mash!
This very healthy alliance was born in the 19th century in the East End.
A certain Robert Cooke decided to combine a meat pie with potatoes and a parsley sauce called “
liquor
”, and to add eel jelly.
Today you can discover this culinary curiosity in the
remaining
pie and mash shops .
Notable highlights include F Cooke in Hoxton, and M Manze on the South Bank.
From the decor to the prices (€9 per
pie and mash
), these canteens frozen in time are worth a visit.
Many pubs and good restaurants also serve excellent pies, such as Rochelle Canteen in Shoreditch.
Afternoon tea
Pastries and sandwiches made from white bread – without the crust!
– delicious afternoon tea is everywhere in London.
Here on the Brigit's Bakery double-decker bus.
Sebastian Coman Photography
More than a dish,
afternoon tea
is a meal, a sweet and savory snack.
Its name refers to “
tea time
”, a late afternoon ritual popularized by Anna Maria Russell, friend of Queen Victoria and Duchess of Bedford.
This feast of mini treats on pretty displays includes small cucumber or salmon sandwiches, muffins, scones and other sweets, accompanied by tea and/or sparkling wine.
For an unforgettable experience (between €80 and €100), head to central London, including Claridge's, the royal grocery store Fortnum and Mason or the eccentric restaurant Sketch.
With children or a tight budget, count on the Biscuiteers tea room, the
Jurassik Afternoon Tea
at Ampersand or the fashion elite HQ, The Wolseley, which also offers a
cream tea
(scones, clotted cream, jam and tea) at €22.
Sunday roast
Beef is the most popular meat at the Sunday roast, especially among the guards of the Tower of London, hence their nickname "Beefeaters".
Sebastian Coman Photography
The English equivalent of our Sunday chicken, the
roast
is a Sunday tradition dating back to the 15th century.
It traditionally took place after mass, but the whole of the United Kingdom now performs it between midday and 6 p.m.
Like afternoon
tea
, the
roast
can serve as lunch or dinner and consists of roasted meat and potatoes, accompanied by vegetables – parsnips, Brussels sprouts, cauliflowers, carrots, etc. – and a
Yorkshire pudding
, a sort of large savory choux pastry muffin.
All topped with gravy or mint sauce.
You can enjoy them in local homes, but also in pubs, with more and more vegetarian and vegan options, like those at the welcoming Sun in Camberwell or the historic Spaniards Inn in Hampstead.
Count €17-23.
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