London’s been a bit of slow starter when it comes to the street food revolution…that is, until now. From the popularity of the Borough and Broadway market, to the pop-up vendors at Southbank and King’s Cross, Londoners have tasted this foodie culture and are hungry for more. Here’s our list of London’s 10 best street food hot spots for your next hop across the pond.
Smoke’n’Roll
The carnivorous craze of Smoke’n’Roll in Camden Market owes its success to the simple yet effective pairing of smoked meats and bread rolls, piled high with condiments, pickles and coleslaw to boot. You’ll also find them currently in residence at the local Black Heart Pub.
Vinn Goute
One of London’s more recent street food pop-ups is Vinn Goute, which alternates between KERB at King’s Cross and the Gherkin. Moreish offerings at this Seychelles-inspired pop-up include Halal goat curry and exotic grilled red snapper teamed with tuna fish samosa on the side.
Bleecker Street Burger
This food truck on a mission brings New York burgers to London’s Southbank, showing Londoners how it’s done. Bleecker Street’s combination of aged meat, thick toasted buns, American cheese and hand-cut fries is indisputably good. For any London-based Yankees feeling homesick, this should do the trick.
Horn OK Please
Found at Borough Market most days, at KERB on Wednesdays, and pop-up events across the capital, Horn OK Please is always in demand. Serving up delicious Indian street food that is both vegetarian and affordable – it’s probably worth remembering these kids also cater events.
Big Apple Hot Dogs
Another New York-inspired vendor in London, Big Apple dishes out delectable hot dogs smothered in toppings from their inconspicuous cart at 239 Old St. No vegetarian options, here (what did you expect?!).
Wahaca
With one street food truck based outside their Southbank restaurant, and another outside their restaurant at Canary Wharf, Wahaca’s Mexican Street Kitchen offers a quick-fix solution for anyone too hungry to get in line.
Pizza Pilgrims
Two pilgrims with a passion for pizza run this town. Keep an eye out for their mobile pizza van, which is now based at Leather Lane Market five days a week, or settle down for a slice at their newer, less mobile Dean Street location.
Anna Mae’s Smokehouse
Acclaimed geniuses behind London’s indulgent mac ‘n’ cheese trend, Anna Mae’s Smokehouse does big pan comfort food, BBQ and the full southern spread. Find them at festivals and street food markets, or even in your own backyard.
Tongue ’n Cheek
Founded on a simple concept menu of tongues and cheeks, Tongue ’n Cheek has since branched out to meaty offerings of heartbreak burgers, Philly cheesesteaks, and no-lobster rolls. You can often find them at KERB King’s Cross, Berwick Street Market or Brockley Market, but check their website for details.
Báhnmì11
With two shop front locations already, and a thriving market stall at Broadway in Hackney, it’s no wonder that Báhnmì11 has developed a cult following craving some báhn mì action. Delicious hot-toasted baguettes are made to order, alongside mounds of rice vermicelli salads and Pho noodle soups.
Header image: © Pizza Pilgrims
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose guides cover all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas.
