
Eating in London — Easy, Affordable, and Delicious Stops Along the Journey
A food-lover’s guide for London travelers
London is full of stories—of faith, of reformers, of resilience—and yes, of flavor. At London Christian Tours, we walk in the footsteps of martyrs, missionaries, monarchs, and reformers… but along the way, we also make time for eating in London. Because food isn’t just fuel—it’s fellowship.
That’s why we’ve crafted this guide not just with affordable, easy, and fun meals, but with specific spots we personally visit and love while exploring the city together. Many of these eateries have locations across London, but we’ll share our favorite branches, perfectly placed near key tour stops.
1. Historic Museums and Heavenly Meals
The British Museum Café
After exploring the Rosetta Stone, the Assyrian winged bulls, and ancient biblical manuscripts, step into the Great Court for a refreshing break. Sandwiches, soups, and warm pastries await—alongside great people-watching and a glass-roofed view.
Tour Tip: Grab a corner table for some quiet reflection after seeing ancient Scripture come to life.
Natural History Museum – T. Rex Café
Whether you’re in it for the dinosaurs or the architecture, this museum also delivers solid food options. The T. rex Café offers hot meals, sandwiches, and family-friendly fare.
Tour Tip: Convenient for lunch before heading into Kensington Gardens or nearby church history sites.
2. Our Favorite Sit-Down Restaurants Around the City
Nando’s — Gloucester Road
This peri-peri chicken hotspot is just a short walk from our South Kensington stops. Flame-grilled chicken, spicy rice, corn on the cob, and endless sauce options make this a flavorful, casual, and satisfying lunch or dinner eating in London.
Pizza Express — Across from St. Paul’s Cathedral
Located directly across from one of London’s most iconic churches, this spot is perfect for a post-cathedral meal. Their thin sourdough pizzas, fresh salads, and airy upstairs seating make it a group favorite.
Tour Tip: Grab a window seat for views of the dome and passersby.
Copper Chimney — Shepherd’s Bush
Craving something bold? This modern Indian restaurant near Westfield offers tandoori grills, biryanis, and curries full of spice and color. Great for dinner after a full day of touring.
Tour Tip: Try the butter chicken and garlic naan combo—you’ll thank us later.
Wagamama — Marble Arch
Fast, fresh Asian-inspired meals with long communal tables and great energy. We love this location for its proximity to Hyde Park and its chicken katsu curry and spicy ramen bowls.
3. Classic British Bites (With a Twist)
The Laughing Halibut — Westminster
A true hidden gem near Westminster Abbey and Parliament. Family-owned and no-frills, this is our top pick for authentic fish and chips. Crispy batter, fluffy chips, mushy peas—it checks every box.
Tour Tip: Grab a seat if you can, or take your food to nearby St. James’s Park for a scenic picnic.
The Blackbird — Earl’s Court
A favorite for a full English breakfast before tour days begin. Think eggs, sausage, beans, grilled tomato, mushrooms, and toast—served in a cozy, traditional pub atmosphere.
Tour Tip: We often meet here when staying in West London. It’s a great way to start your day with a hearty, protein-packed meal.
4. Charming Cafés in Iconic Locations
The Cellarium Café and Terrace — Westminster Abbey
Tucked within the abbey precincts, this peaceful spot offers lunch and tea in a space once used by monks for food storage. The terrace is especially beautiful when the weather’s right.
Tour Tip: We make time for a stop here after our in-depth visit to the Abbey. Try the scones with jam and clotted cream.
St. James’s Park Café
This lakeside café sits in the heart of one of London’s most beautiful royal parks, just steps from Buckingham Palace. A great stop for coffee, sandwiches, or ice cream after watching the Changing of the Guard.
Tour Tip: We often pass through here midday. It’s a perfect place to grab lunch and watch the swans.
5. Grab-and-Go That Doesn’t Feel Rushed
Pret a Manger — Trafalgar Square
Our go-to Pret. With fresh baguettes, soups, and smoothies, this location is perfectly placed between the National Gallery, St. Martin-in-the-Fields, and Charing Cross. Quick, clean, and consistently good.
Costa Coffee — Westminster Station Area
This is a trusted stop for a mid-morning cappuccino, hot chocolate, or muffin. With plenty of seating and clean restrooms, Costa is a traveler’s ally.
Tour Tip: We often pause at Costa near Westminster Bridge after our walk through Parliament Square.
6. Bonus: A Little Something for Everyone
Giraffe — Southbank
A colorful, family-friendly restaurant with global comfort food and views of the Thames. Burgers, stir-fries, breakfast plates—it’s all here, right near the London Eye and Royal Festival Hall.
Tour Tip: This is a great dinner choice after an optional walk along the river or as a group meal on free evenings.
7. Pro Tips for Eating Well in London
- Tap water is free—just ask.
- Lunch menus save money—many restaurants offer two- or three-course lunch specials.
- Share and sample—split plates to try more, especially in markets.
- Shop smart—grab fresh fruit or snacks from M&S Food or Tesco Express.
- Apps like Too Good To Go offer steep discounts on end-of-day food from cafés and restaurants.
Eat, Walk, Reflect, Repeat
At London Christian Tours, we guide you through centuries of truth and testimony—but we also want you to enjoy the full London experience. Eating in London means good food, shared stories, and meals in meaningful places are part of the journey. Jesus broke bread with His disciples. The early church gathered around shared meals. And you’ll be surprised how many powerful conversations start over a simple plate of fish and chips or a coffee in the park.
So come hungry—for truth, for history, and yes—for flavor.