London Food Markets‏

It is simply a sin not to take advantage of London’s food markets whilst visiting the city. Swamped with colours, aromas, wonders and flavours, nothing will satisfy your senses more. Moreover, the goody bag of quality treats which you carry back to your London apartment can be transformed into a dish to rival those found in top restaurants.

There are numerous food markets dotted around London, not only selling fresh ingredients but also tasty street food. These are my top picks.

London’s Borough Market / Garry Knight

Borough Market is probably the most famous food market in London with a huge range of delicious produce.  The food market’s location can be traced back to the 13^th century and whilst times have changed and the variety of food available has grown considerably, the ethos has remained the same, with quality produce and knowledgeable vendors. Borough Market is open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

Open from 5am-8.30am (Tuesday to Saturday), a visit to Billingsgate Fish Market certainly rules out a lie-in but, if you enjoy new experiences, it will be worth it. The early morning banter and passionate salesmen, not to mention the powerful fishy fragrance, will be sure to wake you up. Not only is this the place to get the freshest of fish, it also offers a seafood training school (varying in price depending on the level). The market is steeped in tradition and was once the largest fish market in the world. ‘Billingsgate’ has even been coined as a catchphrase to describe the coarse language used by the vendors. Don’t let this put you off though as it creates an unforgettable experience and the fish bought home will be the star of any meal.

If you are looking for unique and authentic food from around the world, make your way to edgy Brick Lane Sunday UpMarket (open every Sunday from 10am to 5pm). The market also has stalls selling fashion and art, probably equating to a very long day of browsing! Luckily, fuel is on offer in the form of huge pans of Spanish paella, punchy Indian street food or perhaps a refreshing mango lassi.

Broadway Market, London / Jeff Easter

Broadway Market in Hackney is open from 9 until 5 every Saturday.  It offers an excellent variety of food, such as organic meat, fruit, vegetables and bread, which is often cheaper than that in the supermarkets. Visit F.Cooke’s pie and mash shop (established in 1900 and now run by Fred’s grandson) to try some traditional jellied eels, an acquired taste but one which must be experienced!

Finally, London Farmers’ Markets are dotted all over the city and provide high-quality, locally sourced produce. Their website, www.lfm.org.uk, provides directions and opening times for all the market locations and specifies what they sell (it also has some recipes for inspiration).

After a day of looking at, smelling and tasting food your stomach will be expecting only the best. Whether it be organic fillet steak with seasonal veg or perhaps a fragrant chicken curry with fresh herbs and exotic chutneys, nowhere can compete with the eclectic and superior produce of the London food markets.

Tags: aromas, authentic food, banter, borough market, catchphrase, coarse language, fish market, food market, food markets, largest fish, london apartment, new experiences, salesmen, seafood training, street food, thursdays

Category: Cities, Cities