We've all heard the old stereotype....London isn't a food town......but, truth be told...it is. And it's not the kind of food town that you need years to research. You don't have to be a fantastic planner or have friends in the industry in order to enjoy London like a foodie. London is the kind of place where jet-lagged gourmands can take a rest.
During a recent layover on my trip to Cairo...I had just 12 hours in London. I started my trip with a transfer from Heathrow to Paddington Station and then took a cab to Knightsbridge to go to Harrod's. What I love the most about the phenomenal shopping experience is how perfectly their eating establishments are placed within it. Many department stores have restaurants or cafes. But Harrods has numerous eateries which reinforce the theme of their merchandise. While shopping for a Venetian crystal candelabra, for example, you can dine at Cafe Florian - the same one that's been in St.Mark's Square in Venice for three centuries. While taking a pause from trying on jeans you can grab a shake at the American diner. For the couture clients, there's the elegant Georgian State Room on the top floor.
The lower levels are fulled with food halls offering exquisitely laid out treats from around the globe - there's eat in, take away, and food gifts. I stocked up on teas (just deciding which ones took over an hour), coffees, and more. If I didn't have a plane to catch, I definitely would have done the take - away. Here are some photos:
On my way back from Cairo, I only had a 2 hour layover - definitely -not enough time to go out. It was then that I discovered Gordon Ramsay's Plane Food....a great culinary concept where travellers can enjoy delicious, fresh food in a stylishly-casual restaurant environment. The service was speedy and great, my penne with mozzarella, eggplant, and tomato pasta delicious, and arugula and parmesan salad perfect. It was like a touch of my home kitchen on the go.
Definitely one of the best meals I've had....not only while in an airport...but while travelling in general (Italy, of course, excluded). Plane Food even offers 3 course "Picnics" to take on the plane....a great option.
During my day in London, I discovered many culinary delights in my short time. And even though I returned with a suitcase full of edible momentos, I'm still hungry (and thirsty) for more.
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