Rocket’s Guide to the Best Foodie Gems in London

One thing that unites us all at Rocket is a love of great food and drinks. And in a city as vast and diverse as London, we are perpetually spoilt for choice when it comes to dining, drinking, and food shopping places. We’ve gathered the latest foodie recommendations from around Rocket, sharing some of our favourite culinary finds, whether it’s a local wine bar that we frequent post-work or a unique specialty grocer perfect for your next dinner party. The next time you find yourself looking for some foodie inspiration, refer to this curated list.

What makes this place special?

It has an intimate yet casual atmosphere with great service! Delicious sharing plates to enjoy whilst sat outside on Coldharbour Lane enjoying the sun.

What should we order there?

Anchovies on toast (widely known to be the best in London!) with a £5 glass of European natural wine.

What makes this place special?

Every time I’m in Chinatown I make sure to swing by Loon Fung Supermarket to stock up on a variety of Asian staples. I am addicted to their deep fried tofu, which is puffy and golden and perfect for absorbing the flavours of curries and soups. Their frozen dumpling selection is second to none, though my tried and true favourites are prawn and chive gyozas and Korean mandu.

What should we get there?

Don’t miss the plethora of dried noodles, their quirky butcher hidden in the back (great for ribs) and the collection of beautiful Asian ceramic bowls which are the perfect size for ramen and rice bowls.

What makes this place special?

Bar Termini is a great foodie gem with just 20 seats inside. The outside catches everyone’s eyes as their signage mimics that of an old Italian Tabaccheria (tobacco shop) sign. I go there once if not twice a week. Amazing hospitality from the staff as well – by now are all friends. There is no better place to feel like you’re part of a family. Plus the drinks are amazing… just like back home in Italy!

What should we get there?

The Negroni, of course. They’re really famous for their Negronis because they produce their own and it’s the only place in London where you can find 4 different types of the cocktail: Classic, Superiore (spicy), Rosato (rose-scented), and Robusto (intense taste).

What makes this place special?

It’s a quaint natural wine and seasonal small plates spot in Clapham that has a very local vibe. The staff’s wine recommendations are also so helpful! Whether you’re there for date night or just want a well-deserved glass of fizz before heading home, Ploussard is definitely up there on my list.

What should we get there?

The smoked cod’s roe with squid ink cracker is my current favourite.

What makes this place special?

Located just off Trafalgar Square on St Martins Lane – also a few others dotted around London. Perfect little spot to hide from the bustle of Central London whilst enjoying the buzz of a little coffee bar. Caters to all needs throughout the day but the selection of drinks and sharing boards in the evening is sublime.

What should we get there?

A cold glass of wine with one of their sharing boards. The baba ghanoush is unreal!

What makes this place special?

I’m always on the lookout for excellent Southeast Asian food in London and casual eatery Plaza Khao Gaeng should be on everyone’s radar especially if you’re into punchy and spicy Thai flavours that do not hold back. Don’t be discouraged by its unappealing location, though. Situated inside a popular food hall on possibly the busiest street in London, Oxford Street, the restaurant is a pleasant respite that will transport you to the streets of Southern Thailand. Mom-and-pop style interiors and  décor, buzzy street food vibe, and most importantly, unapologetic Thai food like aromatic curries and stir-fries with that elusive wok hei.

What should we get there?

My perfect meal combination here will always include some sort of curry with plain steamed rice (go for the whole sea bass curry with makrut lime), a vegetable stir-fry like the pak bung fai daeng (morning glory), topped with a glorious crispy fried egg. Also, their fruity and herby highballs shouldn’t be missed!

What makes this place special?

The Pig’s Ear is Chelsea’s newest hot spot with pub fare taken several notches up. Founded by the Gladwin Brothers, the same owners behind Notting Hill’s much-loved The Shed, the atmosphere is absolutely energetic with seasonal menus that have a zero-waste focus and beer and ciders from local and independent breweries around the country.

What should we get there?

The Sunday Roast is superb! But their small plates are also worth trying if you plan to visit in the middle of the week for a quick pint after work.