Mark Wiens Abroad in London: 1 Spot

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for London

Must-try foods in London

• Confit Potato Latkes with Toum
  Confit Potato Latkes with ToumA modern London favorite found at Bubala (with locations in Spitalfields and Soho), these ultra-crispy, multi-layered potato cakes are served with 'toum' (a potent Lebanese garlic sauce) and Aleppo chili. They have become a cult-favorite 'interesting' food that blends traditional Jewish latkes with bold Middle Eastern flavors trending across the city.
• Falafel Pita Pocket
  Falafel Pita PocketA street food sensation from 'Pockets' in Netil Market, this dish is famous for its handmade, freshly steamed pita filled with fried falafel, hummus, creamy tahini, sumac onions, and a unique crispy battered potato topper. It is widely considered one of the best value-for-money vegetarian meals in London, often drawing long queues of locals.
• Vegan Caribbean Fried Chicken
  Vegan Caribbean Fried ChickenTrending heavily in 2026 at Jam Delish in Angel, this dish uses king oyster mushrooms or proprietary plant-based proteins to recreate the soul-satisfying crunch of Caribbean fried chicken. Served with authentic Jamaican gravy and 'festival' (sweet fried dumplings), it reflects London's diverse cultural heritage through a modern vegetarian lens.
• Sichuan-Style Numbing Tofu
  Sichuan-Style Numbing TofuAuthentic Sichuan cooking without meat is a major 2026 trend, epitomized by the dishes at Tofu Vegan. Their signature silken tofu is coated in a vibrant, 'numbing' chili oil made with authentic Sichuan peppercorns, offering a bold heat and flavor profile that has made it a staple for spice-seeking vegetarians in Islington and Spitalfields.
• Masala Dosa
  Masala DosaA long-standing favorite in London's vibrant Indian food scene, particularly in Covent Garden and Soho at spots like Sagar. This thin, fermented rice and lentil crepe is stuffed with a spiced potato filling and served with sambar (lentil stew) and coconut chutney, offering a naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and iconic South Indian experience.
• Smoky Aubergine Parmigiana Pizza
  Smoky Aubergine Parmigiana PizzaCombining London's love for sourdough pizza with classic Italian flavors, the Parmigiana pizza at Purezza (Camden) uses house-made cashew mozzarella and smoky roasted aubergine. It is a standout example of how the city's pizza scene has evolved to prioritize high-quality plant-based ingredients over simple meat alternatives.

Trip guide

• About London
  About LondonLondon, as of 2026, functions as a major administrative and cultural center characterized by a chronological progression of architectural styles and historical heritage. Established in 1066 by William the Conqueror, the Tower of London serves as a specimen of Norman military infrastructure and currently houses the Crown Jewels.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit London is during the late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October) for mild temperatures and blooming parks without the extreme summer crowds. While summer offers the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, it is also the most expensive and crowded peak season. For lower prices and fewer tourists, visit during the off-peak winter months (January to March), though you should be prepared for cold, damp weather and shorter days.
• Getting around
  Getting around London

  • International Air Travel London is served by six major airports, including Heathrow and Gatwick, which connect to the city center via dedicated express trains like the Heathrow Express or the extensive Underground network.
  • London Underground (The Tube) This iconic rapid transit system covers most of the city across eleven lines; it is the most efficient way to navigate central London using a contactless payment card or an Oyster card for fare validation.
  • Eurostar and National Rail High-speed Eurostar trains connect St Pancras International directly to mainland Europe, while the comprehensive National Rail network provides frequent service to various UK regions and suburban London neighborhoods.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always stand on the right side of escalators in the London Underground to allow others to pass on the left and avoid public disapproval.
  • Pay for all public transport using a contactless credit card or mobile device to benefit from automatic daily fare capping without needing a physical Oyster card.
  • Check your restaurant bill for a discretionary service charge, typically 12.5%, before adding an additional tip as it is often already included.
• What’s new
  What’s new in London

  • V&A East: The opening of a massive new museum and storehouse in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, featuring the David Bowie Centre.
  • Urban Saunas: A major wellness trend with high-profile openings like Hackney’s Rooftop Saunas, recently ranked as a top global travel adventure.
• VisitBritain↗
  VisitBritainThe official destination guide for London from the British Tourist Authority, providing travel information, attractions, and itineraries for the capital.