A traditional English meal is usually based on meat, chicken, beef, pork, lamb or fish, served with potatoes and other vegetables. Such are the ingredients of the most popular dishes: the Yorkshire pudding, roast beef, meat pies, fish and chips and the classic full English breakfast with bacon, eggs, fried bread, sausages, baked beans and mushrooms. However, recent years have seen the emergence of the so-called New British cuisine. This interesting new trend is gradually breaking the monotony of traditional British cooking, encouraging an original combination of local ingredients with exotic herbs and spices. The renewed interest in high-quality food can also be partially ascribed to the immense popularity of celebrity chefs such as Nigella Lawson and Jamie Oliver.

Samples of these intriguing culinary experiments are widely available at London's numerous eateries. The choice of available food varieties is truly staggering. All you have to do is think of a type of cuisine that you’d like to try, and a perfect spot for tasting it won't be further than a few streets away. Traditional British restaurants are ever-present. Porters English Restaurant will satisfy your curiosity about the English flavour, with a menu including all of the classic pies and a great roast beef. Notting Grill guarantees the finest quality steaks of all types of meat. For unforgettable cod and chips, try Seashell. Covent Garden's Rules is London's oldest restaurant, serving the best of traditional delights and probably the best seafood in the city. See some reviews of some restaurants in London

A wide range of ethnic eateries, combining African, Turkish, Lebanese, Chinese, Vietnamese and Japanese influences are also an important section of London's culinary scene. For Chinese food, the best choices are Yauatcha and Hakkasan. A great Indian menu including their famous curry can be found at Madhu's. Guanabara is a lively place, perfect for a Brazilian dinner. A family restaurant called Hanoi Café serves all Vietnamese specialities, and wonderful versions of Japanese delights are prepared at the stylish and luxurious Ubon.