My time studying abroad in London was packed with unforgettable experiences, both academically and culturally. From the moment we arrived, highlights included touring the historic Houses of Parliament, exploring the Tower of London, and soaking in the views from the Shard. I loved wandering through Borough Market, enjoying afternoon tea at Kensington Palace, and experiencing a traditional curry on Brick Lane. We also visited major financial institutions like the Bank of England and Lloyd’s of London, giving us a real-world look at global banking systems. A financial walking tour of Canary Wharf and our discussion with a Member of Parliament made classroom lessons come to life. Beyond the learning, I got to connect with new friends, eat great food, and see London from a totally new perspective. It was an incredible way to explore one of the world’s most iconic cities.
Favorite Foods in London:
Dishoom was easily the best Indian food I've ever had. When I say this place is a must-try, I mean it. I ordered the renowned Chicken Ruby, a rich and creamy tomato-based curry that's very popular. Paired with their warm, buttery garlic naan, it was the perfect combination to savor every flavorful bite. I highly recommend trying these dishes, along with their iconic House Black Daal and tender lamb chops, for an unforgettable dining experience. I stayed near the location in Kensington, which is marked on the map to the right. There are locations all throughout London.
Borough Market is a food lover’s paradise packed with everything from artisan cheeses and fresh oysters to loaded raclette sandwiches and legendary sausage rolls. One must-try is the spicy chorizo sandwich from Brindisa or the warm duck confit wrap from Le Marché du Quartier. The market is buzzing with local vendors, global flavors, and high-quality ingredients that make every bite feel special. Whether you're craving street food, sweet treats, or just want to soak in the energy, Borough Market is a must-visit spot in London.
London’s Chinatown is the perfect spot to grab authentic dim sum, with steaming baskets of dumplings, bao buns, and siu mai served fresh throughout the day. I stopped at a popular spot and ordered a spread of prawn har gow, BBQ pork buns, and crispy turnip cake—all bursting with flavor. The streets are always lively, lined with glowing lanterns and delicious smells coming from every doorway. If you’re looking for a casual, flavorful meal with lots of variety, Chinatown’s dim sum scene is a must.
Lina Stores in Soho is a charming Italian restaurant known for its fresh, handmade pasta and vintage-inspired decor. I visited their Greek Street location and enjoyed the Agnolotti Verdi con Ricotta e Tartufo, featuring delicate green pasta parcels filled with creamy ricotta and topped with fragrant black truffle shavings . The Pici alla Norcina, a thick, chewy pasta served in a rich porcini mushroom and sausage sauce, was another standout dish . With its cozy atmosphere and reasonably priced, high-quality dishes, Lina Stores is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Italian cuisine in London.
Medz Corner in Kensington quickly became one of my favorite food spots in London, thanks to its great student deals and impressive variety. The indoor food court brings together vendors offering everything from Japanese and Lebanese cuisine to fast food and Neapolitan-style pizza. The prices are reasonable, certainly better than your average takeaway, and the space is kept quite clean with lots of tables. Whether you're craving halal French tacos or a comforting bowl of ramen, Medz Corner offers a vibrant, budget-friendly dining experience perfect for students and foodies alike
Truffle Burger in Soho is a must-visit for burger enthusiasts seeking a gourmet twist on a classic favorite. Their signature Truffle Burger features 90-day aged British beef, melted raclette cheese, homemade fig jam, crispy onions, and black truffle mayonnaise, all nestled in a demi-brioche bun. The cozy, industrial-chic setting on Bateman Street offers a welcoming atmosphere to enjoy these indulgent creations. For those craving a unique and flavorful burger experience in the heart of London, Truffle Burger delivers on all fronts
The Devonshire in Soho is known for serving some of the best pub food in London, with standout dishes like their rich beef cheek suet pudding, perfectly cooked steaks, and crispy duck-fat chips. Upstairs in the Grill Room, everything is made with top-quality ingredients from their own in-house butcher and baker. On the drinks side, their Guinness has gained a cult following for being extra creamy and smooth, poured with a custom gas blend. Whether you're there for a hearty meal or just a perfectly poured pint, The Devonshire delivers every time.
The George Inn is in Southwark, it offers a delightful mix of traditional British pub fare and a diverse selection of drinks, all within its historic 17th-century setting. As London's only surviving galleried coaching inn, it's a unique spot to enjoy hearty meals and refreshing beverages. I tried the Fish n Chips, highly recommend!