London’s Best Street Food Markets (That Aren’t Borough Market)
Borough Market is a great place to grab a bite, but it’s not the only spot in London that serves incredible street food. If you’re ready to step off the beaten path and explore some of the city’s hidden food havens, you’re in for a treat.
Craving the perfect grilled cheese? Looking for a plate of bold global flavors? Hoping to soak in a lively atmosphere with friends? These markets deliver all that and more.
Spitalfields Market
East London’s Spitalfields Market is where history meets a modern food scene. Dating back to the 17th century, it has transformed into a trendy hub filled with international flavors. I’ve spent a couple of afternoons here, weaving through the stalls, always finding something new to try.
For a comforting bite, Mamma’s Goodies serves rich and flavorful Italian street food, with satisfying “salsiccia,” a rich Italian sausage dish packed with bold flavors. If you’re after a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast, Brother Marcus delivers with their vibrant, well-seasoned dishes like sweet potato fritters and smoky shakshuka.
Maltby Street Market
Tucked away in Bermondsey, Maltby Street Market may be small but it is full of flavorful dishes. Its intimate setting along the historic Ropewalk makes it a charming spot for high-quality street food and artisanal treats.
I always make a beeline for The Cheese Truck, where the gooey grilled cheese sandwiches, made with British farmhouse cheeses, redefine comfort food. If you crave bold, vibrant flavors, Gyoza Guys serves up handmade Japanese dumplings with perfectly crisped bottoms and juicy fillings.
Brick Lane Market
Brick Lane Market is a cultural hotspot known for its vintage fashion, street art and diverse food scene. The Bangladeshi food vendors here reflect South Asia’s rich heritage. On Sundays, the market comes alive with pop-up stalls selling everything from handcrafted goods to global street food.
If you’re visiting, don’t leave without grabbing a Beigel Bake salt beef bagel, slathered with mustard and served 24/7. It’s a classic for a reason. For something heartier, Aladin offers fragrant, spice-packed curries that always hit the spot. And if you’re looking for a fresh, plant-based option, What the Pitta serves a delicious twist on vegan doner kebabs, loaded with hummus and tzatziki.
Southbank Centre Food Market
Set along the vibrant Southbank, Southbank Centre Food Market offers a mix of delicious food and stunning river views. It is a cultural hub with theaters, galleries and live music. Sustainability is a focus here, with many vendors using organic and locally sourced ingredients.
If you love bold spices and crunchy textures, Horn OK Please dish out crispy dosas and tangy bhel puri packed with flavor. For a sweet treat, Choco Fruit offers fresh fruits drizzled with rich Belgian chocolate, making a delicious and indulgent dessert.
Broadway Market
Originally a Victorian market, Broadway Market has grown into a lively gathering place where food, independent shops and live music create a buzzing atmosphere. Every Saturday, the streets fill with locals and visitors, all eager to sample street food and browse the artisanal stalls.
Stop at Deeney’s for their famous haggis toasties, loaded with caramelized onions and mustard mayo. It’s a true example of comfort food at its finest. For a classic with a twist, Katsu Wraps serves up Japanese-inspired wraps filled with crispy katsu chicken, fresh slaw and flavorful sauces. It’s perfect for grabbing on the go as you explore the market.
Underbelly Festival
More than just a street food market, the Underbelly Festival is a seasonal event that features a vibrant celebration of live entertainment, world-class circus acts, comedy shows, cabaret and immersive performances. Alongside its eclectic lineup, the festival offers lively bars and a variety of street food vendors, making it a perfect spot for an evening out.
Since the Underbelly Festival is a seasonal event, the lineup of food vendors varies, but you can always check their site for the latest updates. The rotating selection ensures there’s always something new to try.
Greenwich Market
Dating back to the 1700s, Greenwich Market has a lively mix of street food, antiques and independent traders. Its covered layout makes it an excellent choice during unpredictable weather, perfect for grabbing lunch before exploring nearby attractions such as Greenwich Park or the Cutty Sark.
The flavors here are just as historic. Red Cow Carvery serves hearty, savory meals including mouth-watering roast meats and succulent sandwiches. If you crave seafood, Da Fish Ting delivers Caribbean-style fish dishes with a tropical twist.
Mercato Metropolitano
With over 40 vendors, Mercato Metropolino is where Italian delicacies sit alongside Latin American street food, creating a vibrant, globally inspired atmosphere. Sustainability is at the heart of Mercato Metropolitano, with a deep commitment to organic produce, ethical sourcing and minimizing food waste at every turn. Beyond the food, the market also boasts an on-site cinema, an urban farm and even a brewery, making it a spot where you could easily spend an entire afternoon.
If you are into craft beer, German Kraft Brewery serves fresh brews on-site, perfect for pairing with seafood dishes. Speaking of seafood, Molo boasts coastal flavors, offering delicacies such as oysters, seafood tacos and lobster rolls that go well with a refreshing drink.
From First Bite to Favorite Spot
Exploring London’s street food markets changed how I see the city’s food scene. Each market has its own energy, from lively riverside spots to tucked-away local favorites. Wandering through these spaces, discovering new flavors and stumbling upon dishes I never expected to love has become one of my favorite ways to experience the city. If you’re a food lover, it’s time to skip the usual stops and explore London’s street food scene.
Mandy is a luxury travel, fine dining and bucket list adventure journalist with expert insight from 46 countries. She uncovers unforgettable experiences around the world and brings them to life through immersive storytelling that blends indulgence, culture and discovery, and shares it all with a global audience as co-founder of Can Do Travel. Her articles appear on MSN and through the Associated Press Wire in major U.S. outlets, including NBC, the Daily News, Boston Herald, Chicago Sun-Times and many more.
