For foodie fanatics London is the perfect city. With frequent restaurant openings, new cafes and constant pop-up events there is always something exciting to satisfy your appetite. In my opinion the best way to try tasty trends is on the streets at one of London’s outdoor markets. Whilst enjoying the summer spells I have scooted round town trying the best delicacies and recipes from London’s street-food sellers, here’s my pick of the bunch…
Street Feast – this seasonal event took place in Dalston Yard and Model Market every Friday and Saturday and in Battersea Thursday – Sunday, until September 21st. Enthusiastic eaters hopped from stall to stall trying fragrant foods. Head to the Gin Store first for a wonderfully mixed aperitif tipple. For food there are endless options, my favourites were: juicy burgers from Bleecker Street Burger, Indian inspired snacks at Rola Wala, Pork buns from Yum Bun, thick pork ribs from Smokestak and finally salted caramel ice-cream from Sorbitium. Take plenty of cash so you can eat as much as you want, and trust me you will want a lot!
Broadway Market – This market covers the street from Regent’s Canal to London Fields and takes place every Saturday. This lovely neighbourhood will delight all your senses. I encourage you to walk the whole length of the street before deciding on a dish. The Butchies buttermilk chicken burgers are absolutely unmissable… a crunchy crispy coated chicken slammed between a lightly fried brioche bun with mustardy mayo, lettuce and thinly sliced gerkins. For something sweet head to the pretty Meringue Girls stall and for coffee Climpson & Sons is the best bet.
Netil Market – Just round the corner from hectic Broadway is this smaller and more relaxed marketplace. Here you will find vintage stalls, a mini coffee shop, and a bike servicing shed for cyclists. Enjoy retro burgers from renowned patty producers, Lucky Chip or go for something more exotic like pork buns from Bao London. For the thickest milkshake you’ll ever taste order an Oreo Shake from Street Shake. Once your stomach is filled look round the clothes and gifts, I loved the delicate handmade jewellery from We Are Arrow.
Brockley Market – This friendly South London market recently celebrated its third birthday. Located in Lewisham College car park this market offers locally sourced seasonal fresh fruit & veg, meat, fish & poultry, plants & flowers, ice-cream, award-winning coffee, artisan bread & charcuterie and much more. Moments away from St John station (just 8 minutes from London Bridge) this market is not as far away as it seems. I sampled an exquisite VanDough pizza, juicy MotherFlipper burger, and Ruby Violet salted caramel ice-cream for pudding. Takes place on Saturdays 10am-2pm.
Wapping Market – the sister market to Brockley, Wapping takes place by the picturesque canal of Brussels Wharf. Visit on a Sunday morning (10am-2pm) to pick up your weekly shop from the artisan stalls, or just indulge in a decadent lunch. Here a group of us tried Spit and Roast chicken burger, authentic Italian pasta from Pasta e Basta and exotic baps from Bill and Beak. My favourite was the sweet Crosstown donut which I paired with a Dark Fluid coffee.
Market followers should also check out other markets Maltby Street Market and Columbia Road.
