Food In Covent Garden

Food History of Covent Garden, London

Covent Garden, situated in the heart of London, is known for its rich and varied culinary history. Originally established as a fruit and vegetable market in the 16th century, it has long been a center of food trade in London. The area was known to supply fresh produce to the nobility and later, to the growing population of London. Over the centuries, it transformed into a bustling district with taverns, coffeehouses, and later, fine dining establishments.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Covent Garden was at the forefront of London’s cafe culture, which played a significant role in the city's social and political life. The area has evolved to embrace international cuisines reflecting London's diverse population. Today, Covent Garden is home to a spectrum of food establishments, from historic pubs and market stalls to upscale restaurants and street food.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Covent Garden

• Afternoon Tea – Enjoy a quintessentially British experience with an afternoon tea, featuring a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of pastries and cakes. (Veg)
• Fish and Chips – A classic British dish consisting of battered and fried fish served with chips, often accompanied by mushy peas. (Non Veg)
• Vegetarian Pie – Try a traditional British pie with a vegetarian twist, filled with a mixture of seasonal vegetables and rich gravy, encased in flaky pastry. (Veg)
• Cheese Platter – Sample an assortment of British cheeses, such as Stilton, Cheddar, and Red Leicester, typically served with crackers and chutneys. (Veg)
• Mushroom Risotto – A creamy Italian rice dish cooked with a delightful mixture of mushrooms and Parmesan cheese. (Veg)
• Vegan Curry – Covent Garden offers a variety of vegan-friendly curry dishes, featuring rich spices, a variety of vegetables, and meat alternatives. (Veg)
• Vegetable Stir Fry – A dish inspired by Asian cuisine, featuring a medley of vegetables stir-fried with a flavorful sauce. (Veg)
• Falafel Wrap – Middle Eastern falafel balls served in a flatbread wrap with salad and a variety of sauces. (Veg)
• Margherita Pizza – Taste a simple yet delicious pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil, baked in a wood-fired oven. (Veg)
• Lemon Tart – Savor this refreshing dessert made of a crisp pastry shell filled with tangy lemon custard. (Veg)

Top Famous Restaurants in Covent Garden with Signature Dishes

Dishoom Covent Garden

12 Upper St. Martin’s Lane, London WC2H 9FB

Famous Food: Vegetable Samosas (Veg)

The Ivy Market Grill

1a Henrietta St, London WC2E 8PS

Famous Food: Shepherd's Pie (Non Veg)

Sarastro Restaurant

126 Drury Lane, London WC2B 5SU

Famous Food: Mezze Platter (Veg)

Rules Restaurant

35 Maiden Lane, London WC2E 7LB

Famous Food: Game Pie (Non Veg) (when in season; out of respect for dietary choices, a similar Vegetarian Pie could be an alternative)

Frenchie Covent Garden

16 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8QH

Famous Food: Mushroom Miso Soup (Veg)

Flat Iron

17-18 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8QH

Famous Food: Spinach Salad (Veg)

Cinnamon Bazaar

28 Maiden Lane, London WC2E 7JS

Famous Food: Lamb Rogan Josh Shepherd's Pie (Non Veg)

Leicester Square Kitchen

31-36 Leicester Square, London WC2H 7LH

Famous Food: Peruvian Chicken Skewers (Non Veg)

The Petersham

Petersham Nurseries, Floral Court, London WC2E 9FB

Famous Food: Wild Mushroom Tagliatelle (Veg)

Portrait Restaurant

St. Martin's Pl, London WC2H 0HE

Famous Food: Roasted Beetroot Salad (Veg)