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Got a birthday brunch or a spontaneous catch-up on the horizon? There's nothing better than sharing food with friends, and what better way to make sure that everyone’s tastes are catered for than visiting one of London’s many vibrant markets and food halls. Here are five of the best.
Written by Rosie Hewitson
Borough Market
One of the city’s best-known foodie destinations, tourist favourite Borough Market dates all the way back to the 1200s and is home to a host of artisanal bakers, butchers, cheesemakers and organic farmers as well as a huge variety of street vendors selling everything from salt beef beigels and raclette sandwiches to Ethiopian stews and bratwurst rolls. There are usually plenty of free samples on offer, especially from the cheese stalls, so make sure to sweep them all up before digging in. I’d definitely recommend picking up some coffee beans from Monmouth while you’re there too.
Market Hall
Pictured Victoria Halls
Located in the lovingly restored Edwardian ticket hall near Fulham Broadway station, Market Hall is one of London’s prettiest foodie destinations, and its delightful roof terrace makes it the perfect spot for summer hangouts. Vendors include specialty roasters Press Coffee the California-inspired Ahi Poké and Peckham pizza purveyors Made of Dough, whose basil aioli crust dip I would happily eat gallons of on its own. The sister venue in Victoria is also worth checking out, and a third will open in the West End this summer.
Brixton Village
Formerly the site of a run-down old arcade, Brixton Village and Market Row have been transformed in recent years and now boast a range of quirky little shops and delicious eateries. Favourites include Agile Rabbit pizzeria, where you’re serenaded with live music during supper, French-inspired shop and bistro Champagne + Fromage and Mexican joint Jalisco. The market stays open late on Thursday and Friday, making it the perfect place to grab a bite before a night out.
Broadway Market
East London’s favourite Saturday market plays host to legendary confectioners Crosstown Doughnuts (I highly recommend the peanut butter and blackberry compote one) and the ever-Instagrammable Meringue Girls, as well as a huge range of street food vendors such as Lord of the Wings and Hanoi Kitchen and a variety of permanent locations worth checking out when the market is closed.
Deptford Market Yard
Deptford has become the go-to foodie destination in South East London in recent years and is championed by the likes of Guardian food critic Grace Dent. As well as the market, which operates on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, the recently regenerated Market Yard is home to a variety of permanent spots that are well worth checking out, like Caribbean street-food venue Mama’s Jerk, award-winning cocktail bar Little Nan’s, who play host to some great slam poetry and live music nights, and Dirty Apron, whose seasonal British menu changes weekly.
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