With over 300 spoken languages, London is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. This multiculturalism is reflected in its vibrant and varied restaurant scene, offering authentic cuisines from all corners of the globe. From Peruvian ceviche to Polish pierogi to Malaysian laksa, food lovers can take their taste buds on an international tour across London. The city’s cosmopolitan population has brought their home cooking traditions to neighborhoods across the city. Londoners and visitors alike can experience these global flavors and discover new cuisines without even needing to leave town. The international cuisine options are seemingly endless.
Peruvian Cuisine: Aji and Ceviche
Peruvian cuisine has become increasingly popular in London over the past decade. Peruvian restaurants are now staples in foodie neighborhoods like Shoreditch and Soho. Ceviche, raw fish marinated in citrus, is Peru’s most well-known dish. The marinade “cooks” the fish, resulting in a fresh, tangy flavor profile. Another essential Peruvian ingredient is aji, a yellow chili pepper that provides a distinctive kick. Aji peppers flavor many Peruvian dishes like lomo saltado, a stir-fry of meat, onions, tomatoes and french fries. For an authentic Peruvian meal in London, try classic dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado and papa a la huancaina, a chilled potato appetizer in a spicy cheese sauce.
Vietnamese Food: Phở and Bánh Mì
Vietnamese cuisine is also thriving in London, brought over largely by immigrants coming in the 1970s after the Vietnam War. Two quintessential Vietnamese dishes are phở and bánh mì. Phở, the famous noodle soup, features a savory broth, rice noodles, herbs and meat – usually beef or chicken. It’s considered Vietnam’s national dish and can be found at eateries across London. Bánh mì are Vietnamese sandwiches served on crispy baguettes and stuffed with ingredients like cilantro, pickled carrots, cucumber, meat and chili. Vietnamese restaurants around London serve authentic versions of classics like phở, bánh mì, and Vietnamese coffee.
Polish Eateries: Pierogi and Bigos
After Poland joined the EU in 2004, many Polish people immigrated to London seeking work and opportunities. They brought their cuisine with them, contributing to London’s diverse food landscape. At Polish restaurants around the city, popular dishes include pierogi (dumplings stuffed with meat, cheese or fruit), bigos (hearty meat and cabbage stew) and zapiekanki (an open-faced baguette pizza). Polish delis also offer kielbasa sausage, pickled vegetables, stuffed cabbage rolls and potato pancakes. For comfort food and a taste of Eastern European fare, London’s Polish eateries serve up specialties that provide a flavor of Poland.
Malaysian Cuisine: Laksa and Nasi Lemak
Malaysian cuisine is also becoming more prominent in London as the Malaysian population grows. Malaysian food is noted for blending Chinese, Indian and Southeast Asian influences into delicious dishes. Laksa is a Malaysian favorite – a spicy coconut noodle soup often containing seafood and garnished with herbs. Nasi lemak is another national dish, consisting of coconut rice served with sambal chili paste, fried anchovies, cucumber, hard-boiled egg and meat. London’s Malaysian restaurants serve up authentic fare like roti canai flatbread, beef rendang curry and rich desserts like cendol. The mix of Chinese and Indian flavors makes Malaysian cuisine a distinctive addition to London’s diverse food tapestry.
Indian Eateries: Tandoori Chicken and Samosas
Of course, Indian cuisine has long been popular in London. The UK has a large Indian and South Asian diaspora, influencing British food culture. London is home to thousands of Indian restaurants serving classic Northern and Southern Indian fare. Dishes like chicken tikka masala were even invented in the UK. Other customer favorites include tandoori chicken, samosas (fried pastries with potato and peas), and fragrant curries. Indian restaurants offer extensive menus covering vegetarian dishes, meat specialties, clay oven flatbreads and more. With so many eateries to choose from, Londoners can explore regional Indian cuisines at their convenience.
Bringing the World to Your Plate in London
Londoners are lucky to have such diverse and authentic international cuisine readily available around town. The city’s multicultural fabric allows food lovers to easily experience flavors from around the globe without even having to leave home. From Peruvian ceviche to Polish pierogi to Malaysian laksa, the vibrant restaurant scene brings the world to your plate. London truly offers a culinary journey across cultures, and there are always new flavors and dishes to discover. The international food options reflect the city’s openness to diversity and passion for good eats.
Conclusion
London’s cosmopolitan character has resulted in a thriving and varied food scene that allows locals and visitors to take a culinary journey around the world. The city’s diverse immigrant communities have shared their native cuisines, creating an expansive selection of authentic international restaurants. From Peruvian ceviche to Polish pierogi to Malaysian laksa, food lovers can explore new flavors and experience global cultures through cuisine. The vibrancy and multiculturalism of London is reflected in the diversity of its food. The international restaurant offerings provide both new and familiar flavors, satisfying any craving. So take your tastebuds on a global tour and sample London’s diverse international fare.