Where to go on a food safari in London

This quaint little cocktail lounge serving up perfectly shareable plates is in a prime location to start your (probably day-long) food safari across the river and into east London. With its vibrant and tropical décor, this place really lives up to this guide’s theme and makes for a great way to start the day. Kick off with a vivacious cocktail and grab a few delicious small plates like the steak tataki and the can’t-miss aubergine bao buns to fire up the palate.

Make your way to Victoria and stroll through Green Park (mostly to make room for more food) as you make your way to HIDE to ramp up the atmosphere. Choose your dining experience at any of HIDE’s three floors, each offering its own unique experience. Dine ‘Above’ at HIDE and enjoy a flight of wine and some peaceful park views with your meal, on the main floor amidst the architectural masterpiece of a spiral staircase that creates an open and laid back vibe, or at the bar ‘Below’ where you can enjoy a flavour burst of cocktail creations in an oak-and leather-lined subterranean vault. However you want to take on this modern European culinary adventure, HIDE has something for everyone.

For this next stop, we’re heading southwest to the buzzing Balham for a taste of Mexican food. 1910 combines owners Jose and Mauricio’s love and expertise of mezcal, tequila and authentic Mexican cooking. On the menu you’ll find bites along the likes of a variety of tacos, quesadillas, tostadas, tortilla chips and fresh dips – all the favourites! Be prepared to take on a strong margarita or two and enjoy the lively Mexican vibes.

Alright – buckle up for this one. For those of us who are feeling extra adventurous, this is definitely the place that will match the energy. Serving international cuisine with crocodile, kangaroo, camel and, yes, insects, this place is only for those truly craving some exotic flavours. If you’re feeling some ostrich tenderloin or pan-fried crickets – maybe a love-bug salad – then this place definitely needs to be featured on your list of destinations. The dimly lit interior and wild décor gives the place a perfect combo of sexy, suave and bold. And it’s sure to give you a truly unforgettable culinary adventure.

Our last stop, located in Covent Garden, offers light and flavourful French cuisine. Frenchie adds the energy and liveliness of London to its classic Parisian dishes, creating a culinary mash-up of two iconic cities. No wonder why this is the perfect last stop on our flavour-packed food safari. Frenchie also serves two unbeatable desserts and a simplistic yet versatile selection of tasteful French wines. The cosy and minimalist aesthetic offers a great opportunity to unwind from the day’s wild culinary adventures.