London, the vibrant capital of England, has something for everyone - including some of the world's most mouth-watering burgers. From its rich history and cultural landmarks to its trendy neighborhoods and world-class restaurants, I was excited to explore the city and discover some of its best burger spots during my recent visit.
The Burgers
London's burger scene is a force to be reckoned with, and I was determined to try as many of the city's best burgers as possible during my stay. Here are some of the highlights from the ones I tried:
Manna: A must-try in the Arcade Food Hall, Manna serves up incredible burgers with smashed patties, American cheese, and all the fixings on a super soft and buttery bun. I was impressed; one of the best burgers anywhere.
Bleecker Burger: A global burger sensation with several locations in London, Bleecker Burger is a must-visit for any burger enthusiast. Their Bacon Double Cheeseburger, House Fries, and Black & White Shake is the ultimate combo order. An obligatory stop when visiting London.
NAC: This chic restaurant in Mayfair offers a juicy burger with a squishy bun, cheese, shredded cabbage, and an excellent sauce. But don't miss their top-notch menu, including a refreshing kale and cabbage salad, addictive halloumi fries, and expertly crafted cocktails. The chocolate chip cookies dessert is an absolute must, served warm and gooey with soft serve ice cream and topped with frosties. NAC is a great place to enjoy a leisurely brunch, and its proximity to Selfridges department store makes it an ideal destination for a day out in the area.
MEATliquor: “Open way past your bedtime,” MEATiquor is a place to party. The menu offers a few solid burger options along with other pub grub. The burgers are beautifully shaped and proportioned between sesame seed buns. Pair it with a pint, and you've got the ultimate late-night combo.
Fallow: Not the best burger in town, but Fallow's trendy vibe and drinks menu make it a great spot to hang out.
Red Dog Saloon: If you're looking for a taste of Austin, Texas BBQ in London, Red Dog Saloon is the right place. While the vibe of this spot is undeniably cool, there are other burger options I’d suggest. But if you're looking for a fun spot to grab a drink and eat BBQ, this is it.
Unfortunately, I couldn't try all of London's other amazing burgers. But I'm already planning my next visit, and I'm excited to try Black Bear Burger, Peckish Burgers, Supernova Burgers, The Plimsoll, and Armitage Ale House (from the Hogsalt family). To name a few…
Everything Else
Of course, there's more to London than just burgers. Here are some other highlights from my trip:
Walking Tour: I'm a big fan of walking tours, and I think they're a great way to kick off your visit to a new city. Companies like Sandemans offer free, pay-what-you-like tours perfect for getting your bearings while learning about London's history and culture.
Covent Garden: A really cool covered outdoor space with plenty of unique vendors - a great place to explore and shop.
Traditional Pubs: It goes without saying that London is famous for its traditional pubs. Be sure to grab a pint at one during your stay.
Sightseeing: From Buckingham Palace to the Tower of London, there's no shortage of traditional sightseeing opportunities in London. Seeing Big Ben and Westminster Abbey is a must, in my opinion, but be sure to prioritize the ones that interest you most!
Manteca: This Italian restaurant in Soho serves up some amazing small plates, including delicious pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas. It's a great spot for a special night out.
Borough Market: The famous food market in central London, conveniently located near Tower Bridge is a must. Come hungry.
The Hotel
I stayed at The Londoner Hotel in Leicester Square, and it was an excellent choice. The hotel is centrally located, with easy access to public transportation and many of the city's top attractions. I was thoroughly impressed by my stay. Here are a few highlights:
Location: The hotel's position in Leicester Square is perfect. Many attractions are within easy reach, and reasonable walks to Soho, Covent Garden, and Piccadilly Circus are available. The area is also filled with restaurants, bars, and entertainment options.
Atmosphere: The hotel's modern decor and friendly staff created a warm and inviting ambiance.
Amenities: The hotel boasts an incredible full gym, a relaxing pool, and a charming Irish bar. On weekends, the main lobby and bar area come alive with live music, adding to the hotel's lively atmosphere.
Design: The hotel's sleek, modern design makes it a great choice for those who value style and comfort.
As I reflect on my time in London, I'm reminded that the city has so much more to offer beyond its incredible burgers. I hope this guide has inspired you to explore the city's burger scene and discover all that London has to offer. If you're a fellow burger enthusiast, I'd love to hear about your favorite London burger spots in the comments below.
