London is a veritable treasure trove of street food. Somewhat paradoxically, very little of it is actually to be found on the streets. Rather, countless covered markets and food halls have popped up in recent years, bringing together numerous vendors in one convenient location. They're excellent places to meet up with friends as there's usually something for every taste, from epic meat-centric platters, to some of the city's finest vegan dining. I've rounded up a list of 5 of my favourite London street food halls, from unique venues to incredible cocktails and, of course, lots of great grub.
ad includes some press reviews, however all views and words, as always, my own
Mercato Mayfair
One of the most exciting social dining space to open in recent years is Mercato Mayfair, the Central London outpost of the established Elephant and Castle street food destination Mercato Metropolitano. What makes it so special is it's location, taking over majestic Grade 1 listed St Marks Church. Street food traders are housed across two floors of the Main Hall, plus there's a wine cellar (previously a crypt), and a roof terrace. Food-wise, there's a bit of everything, including pasta, ramen, and burgers. There's also a gin bar and german beer, which is worthwhile at the very least for the novelty of drinking booze in what was once a church. Grab a table on the first floor and enjoy people watching whilst you enjoy a gin spritz and some of the many delicious street food options on offer.
Seven Dials Market
Whilst street food venues are fairly ubiquitous these days, the folks behind Seven Dials Market, Kerb, are some of the OGs. I remember falling in love with halloumi fries for the first time at their sadly now defunct Camden Market venue many moons ago, when the street food scene was burgeoning. There biggest venture yet is Seven Dials Market, a shiny, colourful two-story food hall in, yes, you guessed it, Seven Dials. Despite being in such a central location, it still somehow manages to feel like a hidden gem, tucked away in a secret backalley.
The market is host to 19 independent food traders, as well as multiple bars, and a cosy "market bookshop", which turns into a private dining room by night. The food is spread throughout the main space, as well as along "Cucumber Alley", the thoroughfare that leads through to the venue. We tucked into a mix of standard street food fare and more unusual offerings, such as Uzbek dumplings. I'd never had Uzbek food before, and now it's shot to the top of my bucket list to visit! There's also vegan Mexican food from Club Mexicana - so good, I didn't even miss the meat. Shout outs also to the Latino fried chicken from El Pollote, and the delightfully spicy Chicken 65 from Curry On Naanstap. Oh, and there's a decent cocktail menu too!
Market Halls Victoria
What was once a former train station and famed Pacha nightclub (talk about a varied past) in Victoria is now Market Halls, an airy, multi-level street food venue. It's home to 7 street food vendors, including major names in the London food scene such as Baoziinn and Pasta Evangelists. I tried the brisket burger at Hot Box, dumplings from Baoziinn, and Buffalo wings from Butchies, all of which was delicious. I'm also plotting to return for Gopal's Corner, a Sri Lankan stall which amassed huge queues and looked mouth-wateringly good - try it for me and report back! Market Halls also has venues in Oxford Street, and Canary Wharf.
Market Place Vauxhall
Hidden away in an old railway arch by Vauxhall Station is Market Place Vauxhall, home to street food traders and bars and boasting a diverse lineup, from Italian pizza purveyors Made in Puglia, to Caribbean jerk shack Rudies, and hefty meat platters from Argentian Grill. It's a bustling spot, equally equipped for a quick grab and go lunch spot, or dinner and drinks with friends.
I tried a bit of everything, including kothu roti from Sri Lankan Karapincha, an aforementioned platter from Argentinian Grill, and oozy cream filled doughnuts from Bread Ahead Bakery. I honestly could not choose a favourite, everything was delicious! A special mention also to the cocktails, which were far more interesting than the usual Mojitos and Martinis - including a slushie in an edible cup, sustainable AND delicious!
Arcade Food Hall
Traditionally the Tottenham Court Road end of Oxford Street doesn't have the best rep. Those looking for restaurants, bars, and general amusement are far more likely to head to the many gems in nearby Soho, or Fitzrovia. Really, the only thing it had going for it was the big Primark, which isn't saying much. However London's newest name on the street food scene is Arcade Food Hall slap bang by Tottenham Court Road station, is changing all that.
Unlike many of it's compatriots listed here, Arcade Food Hall doesn't host established street food names. The various kitchens are all new ventures by London chefs hailing from institutions such as Berenjak and Sonora Taqueria. There's also a much hyped first floor Thai Restaurant Plaza Khao Gaeng, which I have yet to try, but it's on the bucket list. On my visit I tucked into the King Prawn Gobernador from Manna, Chicken Momos from Tipan Tipan, and BBQ Chicken Wings from Hero. All 10/10, no notes!
