Summer Date Ideas #4
Grab a bite at your local market!
While there are plenty of Joeys in the world, one of the best things about having a partner is the ability to share food... There's nothing quite like being able to walk up and down the aisles of a food market, getting flooded by the different alluring aromas each step of the way, yet also having enough stomach space to try and taste a bit of everything. So as romantic as dining in can be... here’s a guide to some of the best food and farmers markets in the capital to enjoy with your partner.
Central London
Borough Market
📍 Southwark, near London Bridge Station
Borough Market is one of London's most famous food markets, known for its vibrant atmosphere and high-quality produce. Offering everything from artisanal cheeses and freshly baked bread to exotic spices and gourmet street food. The market has a rich history dating back over 1,000 years, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
Southbank Centre Food Market
📍Southbank, near Waterloo Station
The Southbank Centre Food Market offers an impressive array of street food and fresh produce in a vibrant riverside location. It’s a perfect spot for a weekend visit, providing stunning views of the city’s landmarks. Savour dishes like Japanese donburi, Polish pierogi, and Indian street food while enjoying views of the Thames. With Southbank being one of the most vibrant areas of London you can easily put a romantic end to your date by observing the various street performers and live music acts as you walk down the moonlit riverside.
East London Markets
Broadway Market
📍Hackney, near London Fields Station
Broadway Market offers a fantastic selection of street food, fresh produce, and artisanal goods. It’s a bustling market with a strong community feel, surrounded by charming cafes, boutiques, and pubs. Indulge in gourmet hot dogs, Ethiopian stews, freshly baked pastries, and specialty coffee. In the evening: visit one of the nearby pubs for a relaxing drink after the market... Or in the afternoon: take a stroll around Hackney and discover hidden gems like independent shops and cozy cafes.
Maltby Street Market
📍Bermondsey, near London Bridge Station
Maltby Street Market is a hidden gem known for its high-quality street food and artisanal products. It offers a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere compared to some of the larger markets in London. Enjoy dishes like freshly shucked oysters, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, and artisanal pastries. Sip on craft beers, specialty coffee, or unique cocktails and find a quiet corner to enjoy your treats and have a heart-to-heart conversation
Old Spitalfields Market
📍Spitalfields
Old Spitalfields Market combines boutiques, restaurants, antique markets, and street food in a historic setting. It's a vibrant market with a mix of traditional and contemporary stalls from. Browse through the works local independent artists and gift-makers as you nibble on the viral street foods you've heard so much about! Keep a lookout for some awesome experiences
South London Markets
Mercato Metropolitano
📍 Elephant & Castle
Mercato Metropolitano is a sprawling market with over 40 international traders, an artisanal Italian supermarket, a brewery, and even a mushroom farm. It’s a lively spot with a variety of food and drink options. Enjoy live music performances while you dine over the international array of foods sampling craft beers from the on-site brewery. Find the speakeasy inside for some extra entertainment!
Greenwich Market
📍 Greenwich Peninsula
Colourful and arty Greenwich Market boasts a mix of antiques, artisanal collectibles, and street food. A brilliant option for something a little smaller and less busy. The market offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of food vendors and stunning views of the Cutty Sark. The area is a gem to explore for the day with plenty of history and long running family business giving it a small-town charm.
West London Markets
Acklam Village Market / Portobello Road Market
📍 Notting Hill
The famous Portobello Road Market known for its antiques, fresh produce, and street food. Provides a lively market with a mix of traders, including Michelin-starred chefs. Enjoy live music while browsing the stalls as you walk down this incredibly long stretch of stalls browsing for unique treasures. Save some space along the way, for right at the end, on top of the great coffee spots you'll find Acklam Village Market which within it's small space houses tonnes of street cuisines from all over the world - a true foodie gem!
North London Markets
Parliament Hill Farmers Market
📍 Hampstead, near Parliament Hill
Parliament Hill Farmers Market is a vibrant Sunday market offering a range of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade goods. The best choice for some al-fresco dining in the city... take your date for a walk up Parliament Hill for panoramic views of the city while you enjoy your street food!
Fix That Appetite!
Exploring London’s food and farmers markets is not just about the food; it’s about the experience. Whether you’re a foodie needing to sate your culinary curiosity, looking to try the next viral treat or just love to support and be a part of the local community, these markets offer a taste of London. So grab your partner, bring your appetite, and indulge in the delicious world of London’s markets!
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