Tucked away in central London, Victoria is an underrated food neighbourhood with an incredibly diverse dining scene. Beyond the well-known spots near Victoria station and Westminster Cathedral lurk hidden gem restaurants only the locals know about. From Indian to Italian, you can explore places to eat in London, Victoria, with an international selection of cuisines.
Key Takeaways
- Victoria is an underrated food neighbourhood in central London with a diverse dining scene beyond its well-known spots.
- The area offers a mix of international cuisines, high-end restaurants, and budget-friendly options, catering to various tastes and price points.
- Victoria’s proximity to attractions like Buckingham Palace and theatres influences its dining landscape, with options for pre-show meals and quick bites.
Beyond the Well-Known Spots: Victoria’s Hidden Gem Restaurants
- Locals love The Cinnamon Club (The Old Westminster Library, Great Smith St., London SW1P 3BU), an upscale Indian restaurant serving innovative Modern Indian cuisine. Their venison curry and South Indian fish curry stand out. With white tablecloths and dramatic decor, it’s a hidden upscale dining experience.
- For a cosy farm-to-table meal, check out The Jugged Hare (172 Vauxhall Bridge Rd, London SW1V 1DX). Their seasonal British fare served in the charming gastro-pub setting keeps regulars coming back. Don’t miss their signature seared scallops starter.
Victoria’s International Food Scene
While its central location means plenty of British fare like fish and chips shops, Victoria also boasts an international dining scene.
Indian
The Curry Room at The Rubens (39 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 0PS) offers an intimate and refined dining experience that showcases the rich flavours of Indian cuisine in an elegant setting near Buckingham Palace. Must-orders include butter chicken, spicy beef vindaloo, and freshly baked naan bread. And if you’re craving something sweet, try their gulab jamun.
Italian
For authentic regional Italian pasta, fritti, and salads, check out TOZI Restaurant & Bar (8 Gillingham St, Pimlico, London SW1V 1HJ). This cosy trattoria shines with their classics like buffalo ricotta ravioli and lobster linguine. Save room for tiramisu.
Best Restaurants for Impressing a Date
For an intimate ambience perfect for a date night, snag a table at Pétrus by Gordon Ramsay (1 Kinnerton Street, Belgravia, London SW1X 8EH) as candlelight flickers throughout the romantic townhouse dining rooms. Splurge on their prix fixe menu for French fine dining at its best. Their exquisite and flawlessly executed dishes, like foie gras and rack of lamb, make for a truly indulgent date experience.
What is Victoria Known For?
Once a bustling transportation hub, Victoria is now a historic dining and shopping district near top London attractions like Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, and the Houses of Parliament. It’s a food lover’s paradise!
Where to Grab a Quick Bite Before a Show at Victoria Palace Theatre
Before catching a musical at the Victoria Palace Theatre (Victoria St, Westminster, London SW1E 5EA), stop into Pimlico Fresh (86-87 Wilton Rd, London SW1V 1DN) for tasty, quick bites like flatbreads, salads, and hearty soups perfect for taking to your seat.
For a pre-show pastry and espresso, Ole & Steen (1 Sir Simon Milton Square, Westminster, London SW1E 5DJ) hits the spot. Their skilled baristas whip up perfect cappuccinos, and they offer fresh Danish pastries and cakes for a decadent treat.
Top Cafes for Coffee, Tea, and Pastries
Start your day right with Notes Coffee (10 Sir Simon Milton Sq., London SW1E 5DJ), a Kiwi-owned cafe serving specialist coffees from New Zealand roasters like Havana Coffee Works. Beyond excellent flat whites and pour overs, they also offer sweet and savoury toasties.
Unwind after a day out at Bea’s of Bloomsbury (83 Watling Street, London EC4M 9BX) over their beautiful teas, macarons, and desserts.
Saving Money: Restaurants with the Best Daily Deals
Enjoy Indian street food on a budget at Dishoom during their daily happy hour when small plates and naan rolls are just £4-£5. Score their famed black daal for cheap.
Petrus (1 Kinnerton Street, Belgravia, London SW1X 8EH) offers an affordable £24.50 prix fixe lunch menu on weekdays with choices like risotto, French onion soup, and smoked salmon. It’s the perfect chance to indulge in French classics.
Victoria truly offers diverse dining options for all tastes and budgets. From international cuisine to buzzy cafes to wallet-friendly happy hours, it has delicious surprises for every appetite. Venture beyond the well-known spots to eat like a true local.
Georgian House Hotel: Your Base for the London Victoria Food Tour
After savouring Victoria’s culinary delights, retreat to our charming Georgian House Hotel. We blend Victorian elegance with modern comfort, making us the perfect base for your food adventures.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at our Pimlico Pantry, where we offer contemporary twists on British classics from 7:00 am on weekdays and 7:30 am on weekends. For a magical touch, indulge in our wizard-themed experiences, including a spellbinding afternoon tea and potion-making sessions on weekends.
Ready to make us your Victoria culinary headquarters?
Check availability and book your stay. Don’t forget to pre-book our wizard experiences for an extra dash of enchantment. For any questions or to personalise your visit, reach out to our friendly staff at reception@georgianhousehotel.co.uk.
Secure your spot at our centrally located gem and prepare for an unforgettable food tour in the heart of London!
FAQs
What area of London is best for food?
While Victoria offers diverse dining options, Soho is widely considered London’s best area for food. It boasts a high concentration of restaurants, cafes, and street food markets representing cuisines from around the world.
What food must you eat in London?
Essential London foods include fish and chips, a full English breakfast, afternoon tea, Sunday roast, and curry from Brick Lane. Don’t miss trying traditional pub fare like shepherd’s pie or bangers and mash.
Which street is famous for food in London?
Brick Lane in East London is famous for its food scene, particularly its curry houses and bagel shops. It’s known as the curry capital of the UK and offers a vibrant street food market on Sundays.