A GF Foodie’s Guide to London
I just returned from a two-week trip across the pond and if there is one thing I can confirm, the UK, specifically England, takes care of their gluten-free people!! We started our trip in the countryside and I was so impressed by even the smallest local haunts supplying delicious house-made gluten free options. But that’s not what this post is about- this post is dedicated to the grandest “Ton” of England- London!
Spending four days here, just didn’t feel like enough! There are only so many hours in a day for eating (or sight-seeing)! Here are some highlights-
We stayed near Notting Hill, this is a quieter neighborhood, close to the famous Portobello Road Market- a street already full of shops (think cafes, bookstores, tea shops), that is shut down to car traffic- and lined with vendors, mostly selling vintage and antique wares.
In this neighborhood, we went to Walmer Castle, an adorable Pub restaurant straight out of a Dicken’s novel. Viny greens drape from the second floor windows and topiaries line the doorway of this red brick 1846 building. Real fires roar in the hearths of this cozy yet elegant spot, honoring its neighborhood history since the Victorian age. The menu boasts homey British cooking with a modern touch, clearly marked with dietary accommodation possibilities with gluten free entrees including herb-crusted cod, seafood tagliatelle, and grilled chicken breast with oyster mushrooms and blackberry jus, not to mention the countless starters and sides (truffle and parmesan fries)! I ordered from the specials menu- eggplant hummus with gf bread and the pan-fried Brill (a lovely delicate white fish) prepared with a tantalizing garlic, butter, mushroom sauce and celeriac made like mock-chunky-potatoes sprinkled with thyme. I enjoyed black currant house-made sorbet for dessert (or pudding as the Brits say)!
https://www.walmercastle-nottinghill.co.uk/private-events/
Notting Hill is also home to countless bakeries and cafes and while the destination for my morning walk was Libby’s (Always gluten free) patisserie, you can expect to find at least one gluten free treat in all the bakeries around England! Such a pleasant discovery to learn that each spot would make a really beautiful tasty treat (victoria sponge cake, blondies, vegan gf cheesecake) vs sealed-plastic passable options you can *sometimes* find if you’re lucky walking blindly into a cafe in the states. Thankfully, if you live in central PA, Tucker & Co is the exception to the rule, baking up 100% gluten free, refined sugar free, and often dairy-free tasty treats, waffles, and sandwiches to rival even the best of London! At Libby’s we got bagels, croissants, and a spinach and cheese roll. Between their two locations (second in Primrose), this is a morning must if you want to feel spoiled with delicious options!
more in Notting Hill:
Doughnut Time- scratch made donuts, with a dedicated space for serving up a few gf flavors (I had pink sprinkles!)
Acai Verao- smoothies, juices, acai bowls, and GF Pao de Queijo (Brazillian cheesebread) in bites or as a handheld to fill with cheese, ham, tomatoes, or nutella.
When we got to London, I told my sister- “I hope we get to explore some food markets” and quite by accident, we wound up at three! London food markets are another must for any foodie- the sights alone will satisfy but a handful of dedicated gluten-free spots (with plenty that will accommodate) take it over the top!
Greenwich Market-
Planet Pancakes- mini pancakes, made with gluten free flour- choose your toppings ranging from salted caramel, white chocolate, maple syrup, fresh fruit, sprinkles- it’s giving “kid in a candy shop” vibes.
Borough Market-This one is HUGE! So many options.
The Freefrom Bakehouse- 100% gluten free, vegan, and refined sugar free! They have everything- gingerbread cookies, cakes, blondies, crackers, bread. I have never taken in so many incredible options at once. My biggest problem was having just eaten lunch!
http://www.thefreefrombakehouse.com/
Fish!- this guide wouldn’t be complete without at least one gf fish and chip option! With a brick and mortar sit-down space and a food truck takeaway set-up, you can pick your pleasure… literally! Here, if you ask for “fish and chips” they’ll ask, “which kind?!” Cod, Hake, Haddock, Sea Bass & more!! With the option for gf coating. And the “chips”? Also delicious!
https://www.fishboroughmarket.com/menus/takeaway-menu/
The last spot in London I have to mention is Sheba Brick Lane. On the iconic East London street, Brick Lane is known for its rich culture, international presence, vintage fashion scene, and renowned Indian food. Sheba is an Indian restaurant of this foodie's dreams. We shared the Sag Paneer, Tikka Masala Paneer, Butter Chicken, Chicken Korma, kebabs, onion pakora fritters, and Papadums- an indian crisp made from lentils used for dipping and served as an appetizer. My favorite- was the Tikka Masala Paneer- wow, the flavors explode in your mouth!
https://www.shebabricklane.com/
If nothing else, may this guide will serve as inspiration to taste the flavors of the world, give you confidence to travel being a gluten free person, and let you know that if England is where you choose to go- you will be well fed!!