Eating London: Heart of ‘The City’ Food Tour

Heart Of 'The City' Food Tour

See and taste 2000 years of history in the capital's core
Thousands of 5 star reviews
Featured on National Geographic, Rick Steves, Lonely Planet, Fodors, Virgin

The only food tour in the ancient heart of London

Ages

4+

Duration

3 hours

Departs

Mon-Fri 12:15 pm or 1:15 pm

Highlights

Feel the magic as you walk in the footsteps of Charles Dickens, William Shakespeare, Celtic queens, Roman soldiers and… Harry Potter? 🪄

Taste a classic (not the one you might be thinking of!) at London’s oldest fish restaurant, loved by the late, great Anthony Bourdain

Dine in the favourite tavern of London’s most famous author and see his extensive bar bill 🍻

Unravel the controversial history of the City’s sugar and spice trade.

Discover the differences between the city of London and the City of London and what marks a real Londoner as you marvel at magnificent medieval buildings, historic markets and Roman ruins.

From pies to buns and scotch eggs to chophouse classics, washed down with a couple of thoroughly British beverages, your tour of the Square Mile will be a square meal and more 🇬🇧

Tour Description

Welcome to the only food tour in the City of London (really!).

Down river from the palaces of Westminster, you’ll find the much older City of London, which dates back to Roman times and has been the epicenter of British and European life ever since.

Taste your way through the classic London dining destinations that fed the commercial, political and literary ambitions of a growing city – the oyster house, the chophouse, the chocolate house, the tavern & beyond – taking it from the middleweight capital of a small island nation to a world-famous global metropolis.

The story of the City of London is an entire novel written in wood, fire, stone, steel, glass, merchants & magic. Read it cover to cover on this completely one-of-a-kind culinary adventure through 2000 years, serving up the good, bad and bizarre tidbits of history, all framed by fantastic food. It’s the perfect London tour for first timers and long timers alike.

Dietary Information

Vegetarian-Friendly Tour but, due to the historic nature of this experience, dietary adaptations are limited. Please reach out to us if you’re looking to book but have specific requirements. Guests with severe or life-threatening allergies cannot participate in this activity for their safety.

Why Eat with Us?

Expert Local Guides: Fun, knowledgeable London locals.

London’s Hidden Gems: Enjoy exclusive access to local favorites where you’re treated like family.

Culinary Diversity: Taste a variety of delicious dishes, and hear the stories behind the food.

Cultural Immersion: See London through the eyes of a local.

Established Expertise: Europe’s best food tours, top-rated since 2011.

tripadvisor-eatingeurope-2
"I love food tours, and the best part about this one was that the history was just as good as the meals. We did it on our first day in London and it set our entire trip up on the perfect foot. "
— Yasmin N | Tripadvisor
  • Adult only (From 18) From £89

  • Adolescent (13-17) From £80

  • Child (4-12) From £71

Book Now

❤️ This experience gives back.

With every booking, we donate a fresh meal via
World Central Kitchen.

Free cancellation

24 hours in advance for a full refund

Lowest Price Guarantee

Book now and save 15% off additional tours across Europe!

9 countries, 20 cities, 50+ food tours. Book now and receive a special loyalty code to save even more on future adventures.

The Flavors You'll Taste


  • Steak and ale pie
  • Prawn and crab sandwiches
  • Whitebait
  • Cardamom bun
  • Biscuits
  • Scotch egg
  • Stilton cheese
  • British ale
  • Black velvet cocktail
  • Water

Please note that the items above are a selection of the delicious foods we often feature. Offerings may vary by day or season, but you're sure to enjoy a delightful array of local flavors!

Meeting Point

Statue of Captain John Smith outside St-Mary-Le-Bow church – nearest tube station is St Paul’s

Your guide will be waiting for you and wearing our purple Eating Europe bag!

What Makes London's City Center Special

London’s center — stretching from Westminster through Covent Garden to the edges of the City — is where centuries of history collide with one of the world’s most dynamic food scenes. Grand landmarks, royal parks, and ancient churches share the streets with a restless, ever-evolving appetite that reflects the city’s extraordinary diversity.

The food here is as layered as London itself. Historic pubs serve proper pies, Sunday roasts, and cask ales in wood-panelled rooms that have poured pints since Dickens’s day. Around the corner, Covent Garden’s covered market buzzes with artisan food stalls, while Chinatown’s lantern-lit lanes deliver crispy duck and dim sum late into the night. Borough Market overflows with the finest British produce, and modern restaurants across Soho and Mayfair fuse influences from every continent into something uniquely London. From a full English in a greasy spoon to afternoon tea at a grand hotel, London’s center feeds you at every level — democratic, generous, and endlessly surprising in a city that has always welcomed the world to its table.

What people are saying

Why Eat with Us?

#1 food and drink experience in London - 14 years. 500,000 Clients. 25,000 Five-Star Reviews!

Every tour is meticulously curated to showcase the very best of London’s food scene.

Exclusive access to the most legit local spots, from the famous hole in the wall to the trendy new restaurants.

Premium tours with expert guides, outstanding food, and drinks always included

Dining with Purpose

We proudly support World Central Kitchen. Every tour you book helps provide meals to communities in crisis.

Book now and save 15% off additional tours across Europe!

9 countries, 20 cities, 50+ food tours. Book now and receive a special loyalty code to save even more on future adventures.

Private tours

Looking for a private food tour? Whether you’re visiting with a group or a local craving a unique day out, we’ve got you covered!

For more details or specific requests, reach out to [email protected] or call +1 917-909-6432.

Meet Your Local London Tour Guides

Our London food tours are led by people who've spent years discovering the real food hiding behind this city's famous landmarks. Market traders, pub lovers, curry enthusiasts, and neighborhood regulars who know which backstreet pie shop is worth the queue and where to find the best Sunday roast. They share London the way locals experience it — diverse, surprising, and endlessly rewarding once you know where to look.

Lauren
Lauren
My grandparents grew up in the east end, so although I was born in Essex , my roots are here
Well worth heading to a local pub- my favourite is The Hemingford Arms, where you can eat delicious Thai food whilst listening a traditional Irish music session
Rather than paying to just go up The Shard, book a table at the bar there instead- cocktails and a view!
Josh
Josh
Born in Worcester, but moved to London in 2013
Max’s Sandwich Shop In Crouch Hill have the best sandwiches!
For a Sunday roast, head out of Zone 1 and go to pubs where the locals live
Cara
Cara
Born and raised in Bath but living in London since 2013
I absolutely love the Southbank, wandering along and ending up in borough market for a doughnut
Don't be affraid to get lost, you never know what you might find!
Kaffe
Kaffe
I grew up just North from London but have been an official Londoner since 2010
My favourite pub in London is called the Mayflower, it's a lovely walk along the south bank of the Thames from Tower Bridge. Enjoy a nice pint overlooking the river and pretend you're a pirate
Pick a neighbourhood a bit further out, head there and then just wander around. I guarantee you'll stumble on something great
Katie
Katie
Grew up on a farm in Somerset but now loving the big city life.
I love to go to Mildred's in Soho for fresh and super tasty vegetarian cuisine and then finishing off with a glass of bubbly.
Go to Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew to lose yourself in nature. If you want a fun night out then head to Soho Theatre to see some of the best comedians.
Niall
Niall
I was born in Hull, Yorkshire but moved to London in 2011
Favourite place to eat is The Oystermen in Covent Garden, you can't go wrong there. Always a good spread. Although St. John's bakery in London Bridge is a close second
Near Tower Hill Station, there's a hidden gem of a pub called The Dickens Inn. Great drinks, pub food and looks beautiful. Sunday Roast, always a good shout. You're right by the harbour too. Not too far from the Tower of London
Max
Max
I was born and raised in St Albans, Hertfordshire, but now living in the east end of London
My favourite place to eat in London is Yardsale Pizza, Hoxton
If you're on a night out late in Soho, go to Garlic and Shots - you will not regret it
Elle
Elle
I'm from the West Country, in Bristol, but I'm afraid I don't have the accent!
Sunday Brunch at Megan's is the tastiest & the staff are always so lovely.
Go to see as many theatre shows as you possibly can - The Moulin Rouge at the Vaults in London Bridge is not to be missed. Also, the Stairway to Heaven is the best bar in London.
Paddy
Paddy
I'm from Scarborough in North Yorkshire but have lived in Borough for over a year, making me a certified local!
The India Club just off the Strand is outrageously good for the price and their dosas will make your heart sing
Follow the river! Rent a bike or get on a TFL boat and you can explore the city without a single traffic jam.
Madeline
Madeline
I am from Essex - just East of East london
my favourite restaurant in London is six by Nico because I’m so indecisive I couldn’t possibly decide on one meal, I’d rather settle with the 6 individual courses that they serve to you at the 6 by Nico experience
you cannot beat the atmosphere at Camden market, grab some food and take a browse at the interesting stalls, then escape the wildness and go for a stroll the the beautiful neighbouring village of primrose hill
Thomas
Thomas
Born and raised in Leeds up North, but have lived in London for well over a decade - pretty much all over the city!
Oooh, I’m a sucker for Street Food - get yourself to a Street Feast or Mercato Metropolitano for an abundance of vendors, refined menus, and tasty dishes.
Central London is beautiful, but if you need to temper your city break with some nature; head to Richmond Park in South West London and hang out with some wild deer - you’ll forget you’re even in the city.
David
David
Born and raised in South-East London, I've been tummy-rumbling my way around the city my whole life, and I fall in love with it more every year
London is strung through with hidden gems - just stroll off from the main drag and follow that beautiful nose of yours. But if you're lost? Try wine and cheese in the quintessential Le Beaujolais, or dine in the magic, bohemian world of Circolo Popolare
Laine
Laine
From South East London and have eaten my way through most neighbours here in my time!
Head to any of the Eat Tokyo branches around London for a delicious bento box and tofu!
You can walk within Tower Bridge and look beneath your feet at the traffic passing below - it’s affordable, thrilling and you get a great view of the winding Thames.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Tour Information

Is a food tour in London worth it?

Definitely! London is a big and often overwhleming city, so joining a food tour is a fantastic way to have some of the city’s most unique spots shown to you in one simple, fun-filled morning, afternoon or evening.

What food is London famous for?

London has made its mark on the culinary world with all sorts of fantastic food, but perhaps the most famous meals are our two national dishes – fish & chips… and curry.

What’s included in the price of the food tour?

All food and drinks, as well as your professional local guide are included in the price you pay for the tour. No hidden charges or upsells here.

How long are the tours?

Our London tours range in length from 2 to 3.5 hours.

What neighborhoods or areas do the tours cover?

Each tour’s area can be found listed as its “location”. You might explore the city’s East End, Southbank, or even Notting Hill!

What is the group size?

Our tours have maximum capacities of between 10-12 guests. This ensures that our small groups are able to move unobtrusively through the neighborhoods we explore, respecting our surroundings and the locals that live in London.

I’m traveling alone. Do you offer single tickets?

We love welcoming solo travelers! All of our tours are open to individual guests.

Food and Drink

What kind of food will we taste?

You will discover a range of British and international flavors, experiencing London’s diverse culinary scene from traditional dishes to modern gastronomic innovations. Offerings may vary by day or season, but you’re sure to enjoy a delightful array of local flavors!

Are drinks included?

Yes. All tours include drinks, and they’re always included in the price you pay.

Do the tours accommodate vegetarian or gluten-free diets?

Vegetarian-Friendly Tours but vegan, gluten-free, or kosher options may be limited. Please share dietary restrictions upon booking for best accommodation. Note that tastings outside those catered for your needs are at your own risk. The company assumes no responsibility for any food allergies or intolerances. Guests with severe or life-threatening allergies cannot participate in this activity for their safety.

For full details, guests should always refer to the specific tour page, as limitations may vary.

Are portions enough for a meal?

Yes. On each of our London tours, you are guaranteed to eat at least the equivalent of a full meal.

Can I buy food or souvenirs at the stops?

Of course! If you would like to purchase something at one of the stops we make, you are welcome to do so yourself, or if you need assistance, you can ask your helpful guide.

Booking and Payment

How do I book?

Visit eatingeurope.com and click on the orange “Book Now” button: it’s simple as that! You will be able to choose your tour, date, time and number of guests before booking.

What forms of payment are accepted?

We accept major debit & credit card payments, iDEAL and Bancontact.

Are there discounts for children, students, or groups?

We offer discounts on tickets for adolescents and children, but unfortunately do not offer discounts on group bookings.

What is Eating Europe’s cancellation policy?

Small group tours can be cancelled and refunded up to 24 hours before tour departure. Private tours can be cancelled and fully refunded up to 7 days before tour departure. For full details, please see our cancelation policy page.

Accessibility & Safety

Are private tours suitable for all ages, including children or seniors?

We are committed to providing a great experience for all of our guests, so if you require a private tour to be suitable for children or seniors, please get in touch and we can create a bespoke experience for you.

Are the tours wheelchair/stroller accessible?

Please note that some of our tours involve areas with limited accessibility and are not wheelchair/stroller accessible. For assistance and alternative option, please contact us. We’re dedicated to providing a great experience for all our guests!

What should I wear?

There is no dress code on our tours, however it’s recommended to wear a good pair of shoes (these are walking tours, after all!) and be prepared for the elements, even though most of our stops are indoors.

Are tourists welcome in London?

Yes, absolutely! Londoners are proud of their city and are happy to share it with visitors who embrace its unique character. The warmest welcomes are found when visitors appreciate the rhythm of local life—whether that’s by supporting independent market stalls, being mindful of noise in residential mews, or simply following Tube etiquette by standing on the right!

That spirit of mindful travel is at the heart of what we do. Our small group food tours are designed to connect you with the real London, introducing you to the local families behind our favourite vendors and sharing the stories that make the city so special.

Tour Experience & Expectations

Will the guide speak my language?

While not all of our guides speak languages other than English, please contact us if you’d like to request a tour in another language and we’ll do our best to accomodate.

Can I take photos during the tour?

Yes! You are welcome to take photos and videos of the food and scenery throughout your tour. If you would explicitly like to get photos of fellow guests or your guide, we kindly ask that you get their permission first.

Do I need to tip the guide?

Tips for our lovely guides are not required, but they are appreciated!

Will we visit the same places as other tours?

No. While some tours may have one or two stops which other groups visit (can’t help it if they’re popular!), Eating Europe are proud that the majority of stops on every London tour are restaurants and vendors who work exclusively with us.

Do you offer private or custom tours?

We do! Please see the “Book a Private Tour” option or contact us, and we can arrange a private or custom London tour to suit your specific needs.

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