It’s fair to say that we Londoners love our food. Whether it’s homegrown fare from a Michelin starred restaurant or something comforting and carb-y from a local chip shop, we can’t get enough of it.
And as we’re proud to be such a multicultural nation – there are people from over 270 different nationalities in the city, speaking over 300 languages – we also benefit from some incredible and diverse dishes and ingredients, too.
If you’re heading to the capital soon, and are a true foodie, you’ll be pleased to know there are some amazing culinary delights in the calendar to sink your teeth into. We’ve rounded up some of our favourites to get you started (and hungry).
And don’t forget to seek out London hotels special offers well in advance, as the best hotels (including our own!) get booked up swiftly around the big events below.
Here is what you have to look forward to:
Pub in the Park
Starting strong with two Michelin starred chef Tom Kerridge and his Pub in the Park festival, which will grace Chiswick House for the first time this September.
From the 6th to the 9th, attendees will experience and mingle amongst the rising stars of the country’s pub and bar scene, including Kerridge’s own – The Hand and Flowers. Other big names on the bill include (but aren’t limited to) Claude Bosi’s Oyster Bar at Bibendum, Rick Stein’s Barnes Restaurant, and The Hinds Head in Bray. Though it’s not all food – after you’ve got your fill, enjoy music from the likes of Gabrielle, Clean Bandit and Texas. Entry is from £32.10.
Keep the luxury going with a stay at a top Marble Arch Hotel.
Japan Matsuri Festival
Into Japanese food? This is the one for you! Trafalgar Square isn’t just statues and crowds – it’s often the home to some of the city’s top multicultural festivals and celebrations, and this is a particular favourite.
This free food festival on the 29th of September celebrates the best of Japanese culture, bringing attendees together to experience and enjoy Japanese food, music, dance and entertainment. As well as having plenty to discover, from origami to calligraphy, visitors can get stuck into the likes of sushi, takoyaki and yakitori, served from top food vendors.
London Wing Fest 2019
Veggies, look away now. Europe’s biggest chicken wing show-down returns to London this September to provide the answer to that age-old question of who does the best chicken wings in the country. And this has got to be the best way to find out! On the 7th and 8th of September in the London Stadium, in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, competitors from all over the UK will compete for the coveted title of wing king or queen. It’s guaranteed to get messy.
London Oktoberfest
Fancy an event that rivals the true German Oktoberfest experience? Look no further. Oktoberfest is a time where beer and meat lovers come together to celebrate German cuisine, fun and frolics, so it’s only natural that London wanted a slice of this tasty pie (or should that be schnitzel?).
Three different venues across the city are transformed into a German meat mecca you won’t want to miss. Prices and admission options vary throughout the different weekends at the venues, so check out their website to make sure you’re covered. If you’re travelling with little ones in tow, they don’t have to miss out.
Children are allowed in on Sundays with their parents, meaning this is perfect for those staying at our Marble Arch hotel. Winner!
Journey to the Underworld immersive theatre and dining experience
In the capital over Halloween and fancy something a little spooky as well as tasty? You’re in for a treat (and perhaps a few tricks!). For Journey To The Underworld, Funicular are assembling the otherworldly assistance of renowned restauranteur and 2017 MasterChef The Professionals finalist – Louisa Ellis.
Best known for her strong and artistic flavours, this very special guest is designing an imaginatively put-together three-course menu fit for all dietary requirements and needs. It will serve as the main course in an evening of frightening fun – the evening promises a dark fairytale where fantasy, fear, peril, lust, hope and love awaits.
Tickets are available for various dates from the 5th of September.
Africa In London – London Jollof Rice Day Fest
Don’t miss this chance to experience the best of Africa in the heart of London. Do you consider yourself seasoned in international cuisines? Perhaps you’re one of those who are always looking for new cuisines and ingredients? Then add October the 19th to your diary, as Jollof Rice Day is perfect for you.
Here you’ll get the chance to discover a huge range of jollof rice making traditions, and you’ll find the ones that you love the most. You just might realise that this dish is exactly what you have been missing in your weekly meals, as you find out how the best restaurants around the UK prepare it. Let your taste buds be the judge and vote for the best dish at the end.
Victoria & Albert Museum – FOOD: Bigger than the Plate
Stuffed? Thought so. Now for something a little different. Take a big bite out of the V&A’s FOOD: Bigger than the Plate exhibition as it enters its last month of showings in October. Travel on a sensory journey to discover the food cycle from compost to table, to investigate what our food future might look (and taste) like. Explore how we experience, share and create food and discover how the choices we make today can lead to a more sustainable, and just-as-delicious food future in unexpected and playful ways. It will certainly make you think.
Taste of London
For those in the restaurant or general hospitality industry, add this one to your diary. Taste of London is an important event promoting the food industries worldwide. This event showcases the likes of mouth-watering summer dishes via live demonstrations, enables attendees to get hands-on with interactive masterclasses, indulge in champagne, wine, and whiskey tastings and sample unique ingredients you may not have come across before.
It’s taking place at the Tobacco Dock from 21st of November to the 24th.
With so many events on, you’re sure to find London hotel special offers and even package deals that will make your trip extra special. Book now to ensure you have a space at the Marble Arch Hotel by Montcalm.
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