The last time I went to London was at age 3; I ran around Trafalgar Square in multi-colored clothing and chased pigeons. I finally visited again this past June, where I did basically the same thing, but with more photos, food, and dranks. In the span of a weekend, I covered quite a lot, and wanted to share some of my favorite places (and observations) during my 72-hour stay.
London was my first stop en route to Paris. One my good friends recently moved there, so I had a good reason to visit and play tourist—and by play tourist, I mean make Anshu take me everywhere and roll his eyes as I took photos of food. I would say I’m sorry about this, but I’m totally not.
Reasons why I like London: The city loves puns. Every major street is filled with facetiously-named establishments like Nincomsoup and Kings Cross Eyes, and you know whoever thought of that is lol-ing real hard.
London is also a city of white kicks. I swear every single person has a pair of them, and I can see why. They go pristinely well with literally any item of clothing you have. I’ve since proven this by purchasing my own pair in London (in the kids department, cuz #smallfeet) and wearing them pretty much nonstop since I’ve come back to San Francisco.
Like most European cities, London is large but extremely accessible because public transportation is amazing; we went all over the city in relatively short time. While I couldn’t see myself living in London (I’m not the biggest fan of traditional British food), it’s awesome for a quick jaunt (did I use that right??).
Getting around:
If you can, purchase an Oyster card that you can reload money onto. It’s the fastest way to pay for the metro.
My favorite neighborhood was—unsurprisingly—Shoreditch. It’s got tons of good food, bars, and shopping. If you don’t stay here, stay by Kings Cross, where you can catch a glimpse of Platform 9 3/4.
My favorite spots to eat and drink:
Casita Andina { Peruvian food in Soho. For some reason, they also serve tater tots, which I don’t recommend, but everything else is delicious. }
London Cocktail Club { There are multiple locations, and all serve good drinks. }
Borough Market { For anyone who loves food, local stuff, and markets, this is a go-to. There is everything under the sun here. Come hungry and try a little of everything. }
Monmouth Coffee Company { Great coffee spot right next to Borough Market. Lines are longish but worth it. }
Dishoom { For anyone who’s Indian, this is basically a pilgrimage. But whether you’re Indian or not, this is undeniably some of the best food out there. Make reservations and be prepared to eat your face off. }
Naked Dough { A place that only serves flavored cookie doughs! Funny names are obviously included. }
Magic Roundabout { A beer garden in a subway station! }
Happiness Forgets { Cool cocktail places with stiff drinks and gorgeous servers. I’m serious. }
Lyle’s { A prix fixed menu but very affordable and delicious. Think fine dining British food. Make a reservation. }
Smokehouse { Can’t leave London without a traditional Sunday roast! Settle in for a roast meat, Yorkshire pudding, and many pints of beer. }
Ottolenghi { It goes without saying that this place is a must for anyone visiting. Some of the freshest food in existence, with a RIDICULOUS carrot cake that I definitely sat by myself at the bar and ate in its entirety. You can get away without reservations if you go for lunch. }
Things to Do:
Southwark Cathedral { Cool place with lots of history. The day we came, there was a bell ringing competition, because that’s a thing that happens. }
Boxpark { Great selection of local shops that are hosted in shipping containers because #Shoreditch. Get some cool clothes, or at least a bunch of Korean sheet masks because they are amazing. }
Tate Modern { Museums are free in London, so come at any time and peruse through whatever the latest exhibits are. }
Barry’s Bootcamp { I can’t go too long without a Barry’s class, and after a Sunday roast, I needed this class more than ever. There are three locations and each minute of sweat is worth it. }
Ben @Focus:Snap:Eat says
LOVE London! It’s my favorite city in the world (have visited three times). I feel like the food scene has grown a bit too since I last visited so I need to plan a trip there again. You definitely ate a lot in 72 hours. 🙂