Food History of Buckingham Palace, London, United Kingdom
The culinary history of Buckingham Palace is a rich tapestry that reflects the traditions and tastes of the British monarchy. Banquets and state dinners at the palace have historically been grand affairs, often reflecting the country's colonial influences and showcasing British cuisine. Ingredients were sourced from the royal estates and the utmost attention was paid to presentation and service.
While the public does not typically dine inside Buckingham Palace, the kitchens have been responsible for creating dishes served at numerous state functions, royal weddings, and events attended by heads of state and dignitaries from around the world. The Queen's former chefs have shared insights into royal dining, mentioning that the royal family prefers simple, fresh meals, using produce from their own estates.
Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Buckingham Palace, London, United Kingdom for Tourists
- Afternoon Tea - Although not a dish per se, no visit to Buckingham Palace is complete without experiencing a traditional Afternoon Tea. This typically includes a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries and cakes. (Vegetarian)
- Vegetarian Wellington - A veggie twist on the classic Beef Wellington, often served at banquets. (Vegetarian)
- Shepherd's Pie - A comforting British dish made with a minced lamb filling and a mashed potato topping. (Non-Veg)
- Fish and Chips - An iconic British meal consisting of battered and fried fish accompanied by chips. (Non-Veg)
- Eton Mess - A dessert featuring a mix of strawberries, broken meringue, and whipped heavy cream. (Vegetarian)
- Bubble and Squeak - A dish made from cooked potatoes and cabbage mixed together and then fried. (Vegetarian)
- Trifle - A layered dessert with fruit, a thin layer of sponge fingers soaked in sherry or another fortified wine, custard, and whipped cream. (Vegetarian)
- Bangers and Mash - A classic dish of sausages served with mashed potatoes, often accompanied by onion gravy. (Non-Veg)
- Sticky Toffee Pudding - A rich British dessert consisting of a moist sponge cake made with finely chopped dates and covered in a toffee sauce. (Vegetarian)
- Royal Pavlova - A meringue-based dessert named after the Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream. (Vegetarian)
Top Famous Restaurants in Buckingham Palace Area, London, United Kingdom
- The Goring Dining Room
Address: 15 Beeston Place, London SW1W 0JW, United Kingdom
Famous Food: The Goring's Lobster Omelette Victoria (Non-Veg)
- Berners Tavern
Address: 10 Berners St, Fitzrovia, London W1T 3NP, United Kingdom
Famous Food: Their signature Macaroni and Cheese (Vegetarian), with an option to add braised short ribs for a non-veg version.
- Roast
Address: The Floral Hall, Stoney St, London SE1 1TL, United Kingdom
Famous Food: Roast Pork Belly with apple sauce and mashed potato (Non-Veg)
- Rules
Address: 35 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, London WC2E 7LB, United Kingdom
Famous Food: Game dishes such as pie or pheasant (Non-Veg), offering vegetarian options upon request.
- Sketch
Address: 9 Conduit St, Mayfair, London W1S 2XG, United Kingdom
Famous Food: Afternoon Tea with vegetarian sandwich options and cakes. (Vegetarian)
Please note that while Buckingham Palace is not a restaurant and does not offer regular dining services to the public, the above dishes and restaurants are reflective of the traditional and contemporary British cuisine that one can explore in the vicinity of the Palace.