A trip to London wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the famous London bridge! Made famous by the classic children’s nursery rhyme, you can rest assured that the bridge is far from falling down. Many visitors enjoy strolling the well-known bridge and exploring the nearby neighborhoods and attractions. And of course, you’ll need to find a great local spot to refuel, and we’ve got you covered. Check out a few of our absolute favorite places to eat near the London Bridge!
North of The Thames
The north side of the London Bridge brings travelers into the heart of London proper. The immediate bridge area on the north end is rather residential and perfect for a casual day of exploring. Curious visitors can explore the Monument to the Great Fire of London, take a stroll through the St. Dunstan in the East Church Garden, and enjoy some of the area’s amazing dining.
The Oyster Shed
1 Angel Lane, London EC4R 3AB, UK | +44 20 7256 3240
Photo Credit: bluesky60 via Flickr CC2.0
Scenically situated right along the bank of the River Thames, The Oyster Shed is a trendy new spot just a hop and a skip from the London Bridge. Featuring fresh, seasonal seafood as the star of the menu, selections include a variety of grilled items, handmade pies, fish ‘n chips, and an impressive array of oysters prepared several ways. The Oyster Shed also offers an eclectic brunch menu (with a bottomless Bloody Mary bar!) and an equally impressive Sunday Roast menu. The Oyster Shed is the perfect spot to enjoy flavorful, local seafood and take in the beautiful river views.
The Folly
41 Gracechurch Street, London EC3V 0BT, UK | +44 845 468 0102
Photo Credit: everydaylife.style via Flickr CC2.0
A serene retreat, you’d never know that The Folly is located in the heart of London, just a short walk from the London Bridge and other area attractions. This unique hidden gem offers quirky cocktails and eclectic cuisine that can’t be found anywhere else in the city. The perfect getaway for a relaxing afternoon drink or evening dinner, The Folly menu features an interesting variety of salads, flatbreads, burgers and sandwiches, homemade pies and pudding, and traditional grill items. The modern, nature-inspired design embraces the tropics with fresh florals and bright colors for a warm and memorable experience.
The Walrus and The Carpenter
45 Monument Street, London EC3R 8BU, UK | +44 20 7631 1647
Photo Credit: Julie McGalliard via Flickr CC2.0
Located in the heart of London and a short walk from the London Bridge, The Walrus and The Carpenter is full of charm and eccentricities. Named after a notable Lewis Carroll poem that is widely recognized in ‘Through The Looking Glass’, the endearing diner is opened for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. Notable noshes include the deep fried brie with caramelized onion chutney, braised ham hock and mash, Nicholson’s chicken stew, and various fish ‘n chip renditions. The Walrus and The Carpenter also boasts several tempting desserts, like sticky toffee pudding and Kentish Bramley apple pie.
Salotto 31 Wine Bar & Restaurant
31 Lovat Lane, London EC3R 8EB, UK | +44 20 7283 7307
Sometimes a little sophistication is in order, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Salotto 31 Wine Bar & Restaurant. From the minute you enter the entryway, you’ll feel the Italian love permeating throughout Salotto, and that same love is experienced with the succulent food and top-notch service. Indulge in Italian classics like tagliatelle bolognese, veal Milanese crispy calamari, lemon sole ‘a la mugnaia’, and homemade lasagna. And, as a wine bar, you can rest assured that Salotto has the perfect varietal for any taste or budget. Sip, savor, and stay for dessert at Salotto 31!
The Banker
Cousin Lane, London EC4R 3TE, UK | +44 20 7283 5206
Take a break from your London Bridge exploration and enjoy the social side of London. The Banker is situated riverfront and offers a lively spot for waterfront dinner and drinks. The no-frills menu is simple yet flavorful, with a variety of appetizers and small plates, sandwiches, burgers, and items from the grill. The Banker even roasts their own seasonal meats in-house, which elevates the flavors of each dish. The pub also offers an impressive drink list, several pool tables and dart boards, and plentiful TVs, which combine to make The Banker a great spot for happy hour or a local sporting event.
Sky Garden
20 Fenchurch Street, London EC3M 8AF, UK | +44 20 7337 2344
Photo Credit: Clive G’ via Flickr CC2.0
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention Sky Garden, London’s highest public garden. Just a short walk from the London Bridge, a trip to Sky Garden is well worth the effort. The spectacular space features impressive architectural elements, including stunning floor to ceiling windows and interesting glasswork that makes the space feel open and airy. A true garden, Sky Garden is surrounded by lush greenery that sets the tone for the entire building. The modern space includes several dining options for every mood. Dining selections include Fenchurch Restaurant, Darwin Brasserie, Sky Pod Bar, Fenchurch Terrace, and City Garden Bar.
South of the Thames
The south side of the bridge carries travelers over to the Southwark neighborhood of London. This lively district offers easy access to attractions like Borough Market, Winchester Palace, Southwark Cathedral, and plenty of decadent dining. Here are a few of our favorites within the walking distance of the south end of the London Bridge.
Mug House
1-3 Tooley Street, London SE1 2PF, UK | +44 20 7403 8343
Photo Credit: Gary J. Wood via Flickr CC2.0
You can’t get much closer to the London Bridge than Mug House! Nestled under the bridge, the Mug House embodies a charming, historic feel where visitors are sure to feel right at home. The no-frills interior feels like a cozy pub and the hearty menu is chock full of London classics that are sure to warm the soul. Favorites include Davy’s bangers and mash, panko crusted fish ‘n chips, and the gourmet cheese and bacon burger. Or, if you’re just in the mood for an afternoon or evening snack, opt for a British charcuterie selection or a decadent dessert. Mug House is the perfect spot to enjoy a comforting meal and a local brew.
London Grind
2 London Bridge, London SE1 9RA, UK | +44 20 3019 7178
Grind is the perfect spot to take a break from the grind and enjoy a relaxing meal or cup of coffee. You can’t get any closer to the London Bridge – the address is literally the London Bridge! The convenient location is just one of the draws of this cozy spot. Marketed as a ‘espresso bar, cocktail bar, and restaurant’, the London Grind offers a little something for everyone. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the Grind offers surprising selections like prawn tagliatelle, tomato and pine nut gnocchi, burrata bruschetta, and smoked cheese and chorizo croquettes. An impressive cocktail and coffee list and a decadent dessert menu round out the Grind offerings, making it a funky little spot to enjoy during your London escapades.
Boro Bistro
6-10 Borough High Street, London SE1 9QQ, UK | +44 20 7378 0788
Discover a tiny slice of French paradise hidden in the heart of London at Boro Bistro. A charming spot for lunch, dinner, or drinks, Boro Bistro is aptly named for its convenient location near the Borough Market and the London Bridge. Offering a light and eclectic menu, selections range from various charcuterie boards and shareables, handmade burgers, and garden fresh sandwiches to fresh seafood selections and mouthwatering desserts. Boro Bistro also features a dedicated children’s menu, making it a great spot for families on the go. The casual atmosphere and tasty pub fare at Boro Bistro is sure to be a crowd pleaser!
The Barrowboy & Banker
8 Borough High Street, London SE1 9QQ, UK | +44 20 7403 5415
Photo Credit: brownpau via Flickr CC2.0
The bustling Borough Market is just a stone’s throw from The Barrowboy & Banker, making it a natural choice for visitors looking to explore the market. The restaurant occupies what used to be the first branch of the National Westminster Bank, and many of the original features are still visible in the modern design. Come hungry, as The Barrowboy & Banker is known for their succulent handmade pies and homemade brews. All pies are served with seasonal veggies and potatoes and include selections like ‘lamb, wild mushroom and leek’, ‘chicken tikka masala’, and ‘Steak & Fuller’s London Pride pie’ – to name a few. There are plenty of other hearty options, in addition to a full breakfast menu and a chef’s menu.
Lobos Meat and Tapas
14 Borough High Street, London SE1 9QG, UK | +44 20 7407 5361
For fresh, flavorful, fun London cuisine, look no farther than Lobos Meat and Tapas. The brainchild of not one but five talented London chefs, Lobos combines various passions and a commitment to exceptional customer service into a truly unforgettable dining experience. The eclectic menu includes selections like pork cheeks, pan-fried monkfish, cured chorizo, baked tetilla cheese, and grilled octopus. If you’re seeking a one-of-a-kind experience while exploring the London Bridge, Lobos is the place to go!
Silka Fine Indian
6-8 Southwark Street, Borough Market, London SE1 1TL, UK | +44 20 7378 6161
London’s historical ties with India have made the city a true cultural melting pot, which has led to the growth of some of the world’s most impressive Indian cuisine. A surprising find for many travelers, the Indian cuisine found in London is true to its roots with authentic flavors and fresh, local ingredients. Silka is no exception and is a great find in the Borough Market. The vibrant menu includes classic dishes like tikka masala, paneer makhani, molee, and samosas in addition to several traditional tandoor selections. Silka is a great option for visitors seeking a unique and ethnic dining experience.
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