Study Abroad Files: London Eats (From a Native!)

Dec 5

Dec 5 Study Abroad Files: London Eats (From a Native!)

I have a confession: I didn't study abroad in London, but I have lived there for my entire life. Therefore I think I'm pretty qualified to recommend some great eats to you, lovely MODA readers. These are my personal favourite places to nosh (super British phrase right there) around ol' London town.....

El Olivo

This is my favorite haunt in my home neighbourhood. Spanish tapas with a Turkish twist, El Olivo is amazing for grabbing a quick lunch or having a celebratory sit-down meal (I dined here for my 18th birthday in fact!). The servers are incredibly kind and attentive, and the chefs are spot-on with their blend of flavours and wide range of reasonably-priced tapas. They recently expanded next door to add on a bar that serves excellent cocktails. As if you needed more reasons to go!

Try: Chorizo hummus tapas, Chilli chicken wrap, any of the juices

££ // 24 Stoke Newington Church St, London N16 0LU

The Diner

The Diner is an up-and-coming chain of American-style eateries in the hipster towns of North London, offering interesting takes on traditional US dishes like hotdogs, burgers and pancakes, all in huge US-style portions. They also serve hard shakes and teas for a more grown-up version of your childhood faves. The whole place is decked-out in traditional diner-style gear, with an abundance of neon signs and comfy booths to really relax in. If you're yearning for some good old American food, this is the place to go!

Try: Sweet potato pancakes, Diner fries, Oreo shake

££ // Various locations around London

Chilango

Chilango is sort of like the British Chipotle, but infinitely better and more interestingly decorated. Boasting a range of fillings (including steak, chicken, shrimp, vegetarian and pulled pork) and dishes (such as nachos, salads, burrito bowls, and classic burritos), this personalise-your-own-Mexican-dish place is famed for its soundtrack of Mariarchi versions of pop hits and its flamboyant decor, prominently featuring fluorescent colours and Mexican wrestlers. It's perfect for grabbing a quick bite at lunch, or catching up with friends over a burrito.

Try: Chicken tacos, Shrimp burrito

£ // Various locations around London

The Wolseley

This is one for those very special occasions. The Wolseley is one of London's top eateries, winning Zagat's favourite restaurant in 2012 and 2013. This isn't a standard destination of mine, but a family friend works there and occasionally (very occasionally) hooks me up with a lunch deal. If you feel like treating yourself, hit this place up. They offer a great lunch menu, afternoon tea featuring amazing pastries, as well as a more substantial dinner menu. Its luxurious decor and European-style cuisine will have you feeling like a member of the British Royal Family in no time. Just watch the prices, since opulence this big can come at a price, and does.

Try: Tomato soup, Afternoon tea, Schnitzel

£££ // 60 Piccadilly, London W1J 9EB

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