Are you planning a trip to
London
and staying in an Airbnb or self-catering accommodation? Whether you’re craving a home-cooked meal or simply need to stock up on essentials, London offers a diverse range of grocery options. From large supermarket chains to independent stores and bustling food markets, you’ll find everything you need to satisfy your culinary desires.
Supermarkets: From Budget-Friendly to High-End
For a wide selection of groceries, clothing, homewares, and more, Sainsbury’s is a reliable mid-range option with locations scattered across
London
and the UK. They have everything you need to fill your kitchen, and their in-store magazine, Sainsbury’s Magazine, is packed with recipes and entertaining ideas. If you’re looking for premium quality and organic produce, Waitrose is the supermarket for you. With a royal seal of approval, they offer a higher price point but boast a dedicated selection of fresh bread and pastries from their in-store bakeries, along with delicious coffee and cakes. Their essentials range includes basic items and more unusual finds, all at a lower cost.
For a more luxurious shopping experience, head to Marks & Spencer, or M&S for short. They offer a wide selection of high-quality food, clothing, and homeware, with many stores featuring their own food halls to satisfy any hunger pangs. At the opposite end of the spectrum, Tesco is a budget-friendly option with various formats, from small Tesco Express stores in petrol stations to larger Tesco Extra superstores. Regardless of size, Tesco offers competitive prices and a vast product range. If you’re in London for a while, consider signing up for a Tesco Clubcard to unlock impressive savings.
Looking for a store with a focus on quality and sustainability? Whole Foods Market offers seven locations in London, specializing in high-quality, natural, and organic products. While prices are a bit higher, the quality and selection make it worth the extra cost. For budget-conscious shoppers, Lidl and Aldi are German discount chains with thousands of locations worldwide, including a strong presence in London. They offer a wide variety of groceries and household products at competitive prices, along with regular deals and discounts. Aldi is particularly proud of its support for British products and farmers.
Local Options and Specialty Markets
London’s Co-op is a community-driven grocery store owned by its members, including suppliers, employees, and customers. These smaller, local stores offer a range of basic groceries and added extras. They also provide rewards and discounts for members and non-members. Asda, with over 600 locations across the UK, offers quality British groceries at very affordable prices. From petrol stations to large superstores, you’ll find everything you need at an excellent value.
For those late-night cravings or when you don’t want to travel far, newsagents are your go-to corner shops. They provide basic necessities, snacks, and often feature interesting trinkets and unique products.
London
is a city with a rich culinary scene, reflected in its many specialty markets. If you’re craving Italian fare, Eataly is a must-visit. This Italian food haven offers a wide variety of delicious meats, cheeses, baked goods, and more, all within a bustling marketplace. For a taste of Mexico, Mestizo Mexican Market in Hampstead provides a flavorful experience. They offer delivery across the UK, allowing you to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine without venturing far from home.
To explore Southeast Asian cuisine, head to Tian Tian Asian Market. This diverse market offers niche grocery products and delicious Asian street food. If Spanish and Latino flavors are your preference, Garcia & Sons on Portobello Road is a must-visit. This family-run market has been a Portobello Road staple since 1957, offering a wide range of Spanish and Latino food, home, and bath products, as well as fresh meat and produce for creating your own tapas.
A Global Culinary Adventure
Of course, no list of food and groceries in
London
would be complete without mentioning the iconic
Borough Market
. This world-renowned market is a haven for foodies, offering fresh meats, bread, cheeses, exotic produce, incredible street food, and restaurants to satisfy any culinary craving. It’s a must-visit for any food lover visiting London.
So, whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, a high-end experience, or a taste of the world, London’s grocery scene has something for everyone. From supermarket chains to independent stores and specialty markets, you’ll find an abundance of delicious options to fuel your culinary adventures in the city.
