
03 Dec 2024
Behind every scruffy and rustic atmosphere is usually a cuisine made to be eaten messily. What makes street food-style cafés and restaurants stand out is the attention that goes into creating tasty food, quirky interiors and an inviting atmosphere for everyone to experience. To describe the street food restaurants in one word, it would be ‘underdog’ – and everyone loves the underdog. Read on to get the lowdown on some of London’s edgiest street food-style restaurants and see what grub you could grab next time you’re looking for a wholesome lunch whilst in the city.

Born and raised in a burger truck in Essex, this widely raved about burger joint moved to several locations across London after being in such high demand. And it’s clear to see why. The Burger and Beyond team transparently show each stage of their patty process, from where the beef is sourced to how it is prepared for plates – these guys deserve all the credit they’ve been served over the years. Burger and Beyond also takes inspiration from some of the world’s most renowned hot spots for burgers, so the team knows a good burger when they see one. Although the interior is small and rustic, it reflects the personality of these burgers – a little rough around the edges but oh, so good!
To experience a restaurant that epitomises an American biker gang, visit MEATliquor, based in several locations across London including Shoreditch, Bloomsbury and Angel. Overrun with graffiti, brick walls, neon signage and the best booze, MEATliquor is synonymous with street style. Serving fast fried food that satisfies every hunger pang in your body and cocktails that go to the head just a little quicker than usual, the MEATliquor bunch love a rowdy, crowded night out in the streets. Just looking at the menus will have your mouth watering; with an experimental selection of burgers, chicken served in every way imaginable and fries for days, MEATliquor is a street experience you won’t want to miss.

For all things IPA, ale and lager, The Gipsy Hill Brewing Co has perfected its impressive selection of beers. With a taproom located a short walk from Gipsy Hill station, this rugged and edgy bar emulates a memorable night drinking the first beer with friends out on the streets (except far less cold and far better beer). With an extensive array of collections, crafted to serve a range of palettes, from the fruity Hepcat session IPA, to a wet hop ale Hopfalls brewed using whole-leaf Cascade hops, this will invite even the most experienced beer aficionados to try something new. And The Gipsy Hill Brewing Co is thoughtful about the art on the cans and in the walls of its taproom. Immerse yourself in a cocktail of Botticelli and Banksy to get creativity you won’t find easily.
Bringing games, drinks and your competitive nature to one place, Boom Battle Bar is an experience to remember. Combining a series of addictive games with nibbles, neon lights and bars into one battleground, this hot spot is calling you and your friends to become gladiators (okay, maybe we over-exaggerate slightly) of the games. Serving street-style food to keep energy high and stomachs lined, the menu is packed with bitesize plates to reenergise your game. Choose from a range of games and make them boozy (if you dare), including shuffleboard, axe throwing and augmented reality dart throwing. Scattered across several locations in London, Boom Battle Bar invites you to grab your mates, grab your grub and get your game on.
Although it has become a raving rooftop bar with regular performances from up-and-coming artists and DJs, Night Tale Loft truly captures the essence of street style. Outdoorsy interior that spills out onto the rooftop terrace certainly makes this spot eye-catching and atmospheric. Although the emphasis is on its inviting cocktail and drinks menu, along with the jazz and DJ events that takes the place by storm at night, the nibbles and atmosphere during the day is just as welcoming. A play on street style, the interior is like stepping into a jungle that is invaded by your animal instincts after a few of the signature drinks and music to really get you grooving.