Eating the World in London

The British culinary tradition hasn’t exactly been coveted or much admired through history, and even the culturally rich city of London has struggled to impress foodies over time, but the English capital has made considerable strides in recent years, at least as a hub of international cuisine. Camden Market, actually a collection of six outdoor markets hawking everything from food to fashion and totaling more than 1,000 vendors, is now one of London’s top attractions, drawing upwards of 100,000 visitors per year. For a foodie overload of overwhelming proportion, go straight to Camden Lock.

The primary hub of Camden Market’s nearly 60 food vendors, Camden Lock contains stall after stall of street food vendors in four rows nestled between buildings and boats below Camden Town Brewery, all accessed by an arched canal bridge that presents a picturesque photo op. Among the many offerings here, you’ll find Venezuelan hot pockets, kati rolls, nitro ice cream, Roman pizza, halloumi fries, steak, fudge, vegan everything, Peruvian street food, and, of course Camden-style fish and chips among endless other culinary delights. Don’t waste your time arguing the merits of London’s contribution to the international cuisine; delight in the entire world’s contributions in this one spectacular market.

When the weather is agreeable, walk off your caloric overload along the canals, and hunt for the small Banksy piece near Camden Lock (Hint: It’s just up the stairs not far from the castle).