Where To Eat In Leicester Square

Where To Eat In Leicester Square

When it comes to exploring the vibrant city of London, Leicester Square is a must-visit destination. This iconic square is not only a hub for entertainment, but it’s also a foodie’s paradise. With its rich history, cultural attractions, and lively atmosphere, Leicester Square attracts millions of visitors every year. And, with so many dining options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to eat.

Get ultimate traveler planner

Overview of Leicester Square’s Culinary Scene

From traditional British pubs to modern restaurants serving international cuisine, Leicester Square has something for every taste and budget. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite, a romantic dinner, or a family-friendly meal, this bustling square has it all. In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the best places to eat in Leicester Square, highlighting the top restaurants, cafes, and bars that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

What to Expect

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the diverse range of dining options in Leicester Square, covering everything from fine dining experiences to casual eateries and hidden gems. We’ll also provide insider tips and recommendations to help you navigate the area and make the most of your dining experience. So, whether you’re a food enthusiast, a tourist, or a local, this guide is designed to help you discover the best places to eat in Leicester Square.

Where to Eat in Leicester Square: A Comprehensive Guide

Leicester Square is a vibrant and bustling area in the heart of London, known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and lively atmosphere. When it comes to dining, Leicester Square offers a diverse range of options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional British pubs to modern restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls, there’s something for everyone in this culinary hub. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Leicester Square, covering a variety of cuisines and dining experiences.

Traditional British Pubs

Leicester Square is home to some of London’s most iconic and historic pubs, serving up classic British fare and a warm atmosphere. Here are a few must-visit pubs in the area:

  • The Shakespeare’s Head: This 17th-century pub is one of the oldest in London and boasts a cozy atmosphere, real ales, and traditional pub grub.
  • The Lamb & Flag: This historic pub dates back to 1772 and offers a range of cask ales, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere.
  • The Salisbury: This beautiful Victorian pub is a popular spot for a pint of real ale and a plate of traditional British comfort food.

These pubs are perfect for a casual meal or a quick pint after a long day of exploring Leicester Square.

Modern Restaurants

Leicester Square is also home to a range of modern restaurants, offering everything from fine dining to casual eats. Here are some top recommendations:

  • Hawksmoor Air Street: This upscale steakhouse serves some of the best steaks in London, along with an extensive wine list and elegant atmosphere.
  • Balthazar: This stylish French bistro offers a range of classic dishes, including steak tartare, escargots, and confit duck leg.
  • Ruby Blue: This modern British restaurant serves creative dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients, along with an impressive cocktail menu.

These restaurants offer a more sophisticated dining experience, perfect for special occasions or romantic evenings. (See Also: Where To Eat In St Julians Malta)

Casual Eats and Street Food

Leicester Square is also home to a variety of casual eateries and street food stalls, perfect for a quick bite or snack on-the-go. Here are some top picks:

  • Byron: This popular burger chain serves high-quality burgers, sides, and milkshakes in a fun, lively atmosphere.
  • Wahaca: This colorful Mexican street food chain offers a range of tasty tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites.
  • Eatalio: This Italian-inspired street food stall serves delicious pasta dishes, paninis, and salads at affordable prices.

These casual eateries are perfect for a quick meal or snack before or after a show, or while exploring the area.

Cafes and Coffee Shops

Leicester Square is also home to a range of cafes and coffee shops, perfect for a morning pick-me-up or afternoon break. Here are some top recommendations:

  • Costa Coffee: This popular coffee chain has several locations in Leicester Square, offering a range of coffee drinks and snacks.
  • Pret a Manger: This popular cafe chain serves a range of sandwiches, salads, and snacks, along with excellent coffee and pastries.
  • The Gentlemen Baristas: This independent coffee shop serves expertly brewed coffee, delicious pastries, and a range of sandwiches and salads.

These cafes and coffee shops are perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon break, or as a meeting spot with friends or colleagues.

International Cuisine

Leicester Square is a melting pot of international cuisines, offering a range of options to suit every taste. Here are some top recommendations:

  • Busaba Eathai: This popular Thai chain serves authentic, flavorful dishes in a stylish atmosphere.
  • Wagamama: This Japanese-inspired chain serves a range of noodle dishes, soups, and salads in a lively, modern atmosphere.
  • Tortilla: This Mexican-inspired chain serves delicious burritos, tacos, and salads, along with a range of vegetarian and vegan options.

These international restaurants offer a flavorful and exciting dining experience, perfect for adventurous eaters and those looking to try something new.

Food Markets and Street Food

Leicester Square is also home to a range of food markets and street food stalls, offering a variety of cuisines and flavors. Here are some top recommendations:

  • Leicester Square Market: This bustling market offers a range of street food stalls, selling everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine.
  • Camden Market: While not directly in Leicester Square, Camden Market is just a short walk away and offers a vast array of street food stalls, selling everything from vegan eats to artisanal chocolates.

These food markets and street food stalls offer a fun and lively atmosphere, perfect for trying new flavors and cuisines. (See Also: Where To Eat In Muswell Hill)

Special Dietary Options

Leicester Square also caters to a range of special dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and more. Here are some top recommendations:

  • Byron’s Vegan Menu: This popular burger chain offers a separate vegan menu, featuring plant-based burgers and sides.
  • Tortilla’s Vegan Options: This Mexican-inspired chain offers a range of vegan options, including burritos, tacos, and salads.
  • Planet Hollywood’s Gluten-Free Menu: This popular restaurant chain offers a separate gluten-free menu, featuring a range of dishes and desserts.

These special dietary options ensure that everyone can enjoy a delicious meal in Leicester Square, regardless of their dietary needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Leicester Square offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. From traditional British pubs to modern restaurants, casual eats, and international cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant area. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a romantic evening, or a fun night out with friends, Leicester Square has it all.

Remember to explore the area, try new flavors, and enjoy the lively atmosphere that Leicester Square has to offer. Happy eating!

Restaurant/Pub Cuisine Price Range
The Shakespeare’s Head Traditional British £10-£20
Hawksmoor Air Street Steakhouse £20-£50
Byron Burgers £10-£15
Wahaca Mexican £10-£15
Ruby Blue Modern British £20-£30
Busaba Eathai Thai £10-£15

This table provides a summary of some of the top restaurants and pubs in Leicester Square, including their cuisine, price range, and a brief description.

We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your dining experience in Leicester Square. Whether you’re a foodie, a tourist, or a local, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant area. Happy eating!

Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Leicester Square

What are the best restaurants in Leicester Square for a pre-theatre dinner?

If you’re looking for a pre-theatre dinner in Leicester Square, some top recommendations include The Ivy, Balthazar, and Simpson’s-in-the-Strand. These restaurants offer a range of cuisines and are all within walking distance of many of the area’s theatres. (See Also: Where To Eat In Kennebunkport)

Are there any affordable dining options in Leicester Square?

Yes, despite being a popular tourist area, Leicester Square has plenty of affordable dining options. You can find budget-friendly eats at places like Ed’s Easy Diner, Byron, and Wagamama. Additionally, many restaurants offer set menus or early bird specials that can help you save money.

What are some good options for a quick bite or snack in Leicester Square?

If you’re looking for a quick bite or snack in Leicester Square, consider visiting one of the many cafes or food stalls in the area. You can find everything from traditional British fare like fish and chips to international cuisine like Korean BBQ or Mexican street food.

Can I find any celebrity-chef restaurants in Leicester Square?

Yes, Leicester Square is home to several celebrity-chef restaurants, including Gordon Ramsay’s The Savoy Grill and Jamie Oliver’s Jamie’s Italian. These restaurants offer a unique dining experience and are definitely worth a visit if you’re a fan of the chefs.

Are there any restaurants in Leicester Square that cater to specific dietary needs?

Yes, many restaurants in Leicester Square cater to specific dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegan, and halal options. Some top recommendations include The Gate, a vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant, and Dishoom, which offers a range of gluten-free and halal options.

Comments

No comments yet. Why don’t you start the discussion?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *