My name is Athena Barrer and I graduated last year and studied Economics. But I also had the opportunity to study abroad at King’s College London my winter semester junior year!
Studying abroad at King's College London for the winter semester is not just an academic adventure—it's a chance to immerse yourself in one of the most vibrant and diverse food scenes in the world. London is a city where every corner offers a new flavor, from street food stalls to Michelin-starred fine dining. Whether you’re a fan of traditional British comfort food, crave exotic international flavors, or want to explore local markets brimming with fresh produce and artisanal goods, London has it all! This blog will take you on a culinary tour of must-try restaurants around the city that will make your study abroad experience in London unforgettable.
But the adventure doesn’t stop in there. The entirety of Europe is a treasure trove of regional delicacies and unique dining experiences, and if you’re traveling to nearby cities, there are plenty of spots to add to your food bucket list. Get ready to savor the best of London’s food scene, and beyond, as we explore the top restaurants and must-try bites for my study abroad semester!
1. Kin + Duem - London, UK - $$–$$$: A mid-range to slightly upscale venue offering fusion flavors, with prices that are accessible but reflect quality ingredients and shareable plates. This was my top restaurant that I took every single visitor to and it was my last meal abroad (totally 8 visits).
2. SASA - London, UK - $$–$$$: A moderately priced spot with inventive Asian-inspired dishes, offering a stylish experience without reaching top-tier prices. This was the best sushi I had during study abroad!
3. Mildreds Covent Garden - London, UK - $$: An affordable, casual vegetarian and vegan restaurant, offering great value for money with delicious plant-based dishes. Even if you aren’t plant-based, the flavors are fantastic.
4. Shuk - Borough Market, London, UK - $$: A moderately priced Middle Eastern street food restaurant, great for a casual, flavorful meal without breaking the bank. One of my frequent spots with large portions
5. The Black Pig - Borough Market, London, UK - $$–$$$: Famous for their large pork sandwiches. I personally could not eat it, but all of my friends said this was their favorite meal in London.
6. Drury 188-189 - London, UK - $$: The cutest brunch spot right near Strand campus! Many options for various dietary restrictions. I loved their avocado toast and yogurt bowls.
7. Bancone - London, UK - $$: An affordable to mid-range Italian restaurant specializing in handmade pasta, providing a great quality-to-price ratio. Their Covent Garden location even has a Michelin-star!
8. Dishoom - London, UK - $$–$$$: A popular Indian restaurant offering flavorful dishes at a reasonable price point for its quality and atmosphere. Every dish here is spot on and there are many locations throughout the city.
9. Estiatoria Milos London - London, UK - $$$$: A high-end seafood restaurant with premium offerings, making it one of the more expensive dining experiences in London. I came with family and we loved the Milos Special and Octopus.
10. Tattershall Castle - London, UK - $$: A British pub on the Thames (yes, it is a boat restaurant) with classic British pub fare, offering decent prices for the location and experience. Nice for a classic meal or drinks with friends.
11. WatchHouse - multiple locations across UK - $$: A moderately priced café chain with artisanal coffee, brunch, and fresh dishes, perfect for a casual bite without high prices. Great for a quick lunch between classes. I also loved their banana bread!
12. Luiginos Bio Feinkost - Munich, Germany - $$:An organic deli offering gourmet items at an affordable price, ideal for quality food at reasonable rates. I have never had a sandwich surprise me, but the flavors are just fantastic.
13. Mortimer - Amsterdam, Netherlands - $$–$$$: A contemporary dining spot offering European classics at moderate to slightly higher prices depending on the dish. You know a restaurant is good when you have three days in a city and you go back. Their Dutch Eggs Carbonara and Scrambled Eggs were standouts.
14. NENI - multiple locations - $$–$$$: Mediterranean-inspired dining with a wide price range, but generally on the more affordable side for its lively communal atmosphere and diverse menu. I went in both Vienna and Cologne. Their baba ganoush is incredible!
15. Pantry - Edinburgh, Scotland - $$: A cozy café offering reasonably priced comfort food made with fresh, local ingredients, perfect for an affordable, satisfying meal.
You may be asking yourself how I managed to organize all my bites abroad… My number one recommendation for travel is downloading the holy grail of food social media apps, Beli! Founded by a Michigan alumni, Beli is the one-stop-shop to share food with friends and family through photos, rankings, and notes on your dining experience. They also give curated recommendations based on where you have previously eaten! Hopefully you try out some of these amazing spots on your journey abroad.
Cheers!
Athena Barrer
*Special shoutout to Cutter and Squidge in London for affordable afternoon tea!
