For this photoset, I wanted to focus on one of my favorite parts of studying abroad in London: all of the different kinds of food. I wanted to highlight that although there tends to be a negative connotation surrounding what British food is like, London has a taste of every country and more! 

Try out one of London’s top-rated cookie spots, Crème! Their cookies might cost you an arm and a leg, but they’re absolutely worth it! 

Table for two! One of the best ways to get to know people in your program is by sharing a bite to eat, so head to your local pub for some affordable—and delicious—conversation starters. 

Traveling through what I eat is one of my biggest passions and part of the reason why I chose to come to London. Much like the United States, London is a city full of people from different cultural backgrounds, all with unique stories to share through their cuisine. When I’m out and about in London, I make it my mission to try every type of food I can, whether it’s a traditional Sunday roast or a bowl of handmade ramen. 

Dessert is the most important part of every meal, so be sure to ask the waiter’s recommendation when ordering! Life is too short to only try one! 

Get a taste of Japan in central London! Ramen places are continuing to pop up around the area, so pop in for one of Japan’s most flavorful dishes! 

The perfect morning in Marylebone looks a little something like this! Head to Boxcar to grab an artfully crafted pastry and coffee, but don’t forget your favorite book to go with them! 

Students preparing to study abroad in London will be glad to know that the rumors about traditional British food, for the most part, are untrue. While being here, I’ve tried so many of the “classic” British dishes, such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, and even chicken tikka masala, which, if you’re unaware, is actually England’s national dish! 

Six courses for twenty pounds?! Dalston Jazz Bar is a hole-in-the-wall joint serving up saucy live tunes with flavorful seafood, and the best part is, you decide the price! 

Fancy a pint? London is best known for its pub culture and specifically its pub food, so grab a friend and get ready for a great time! 

Trying these foods has made me realize that while the food is simple, if you go to the right place, it can be absolutely delicious! My recommendation is always to simply wander around the streets of London until you hear boisterous laughter and chatting from a pub—then that’s usually the place to be! 

Great bakeries are everywhere in London—take a stroll around any of the neighborhoods and you’re sure to find a delicious treat to enjoy on your walk! 

The Sunday roast is a staple meal in England, featuring your choice of slow-roasted meat, potatoes, and vegetables all covered in delicious gravy. Don’t forget to soak it all up with a Yorkshire pudding! 

Craving comfort food? Even though being in London is amazing, one of the best ways to fight homesickness is to get one of your favorite meals from back home! 

Besides traditional English food, London has dishes from every different country. You can trek up to Soho to eat in Chinatown or head to Shoreditch to grab some flavorful curry. The entire world of food is just a hop, skip, or tube ride away. London has so much to offer in terms of food, so don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zone! Try that black pudding—trust me, you won’t regret it! 

This post was written by Lee Olson, a CEA CAPA Spring '25 Content Creator from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, who studied abroad in London, England.