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Camden's culinary gems: our favourite eateries

Camden's culinary gems: our favourite eateries

October 2024

At the centre of london, camden is a quirky, alternative neighbourhood that’s packed with brilliant places to see and eat.

Camden is renowned for offering the most diverse selection of food from around the world in London. Whether you're after street food, casual dining, or fine dining experiences, Camden's eclectic culinary scene has something for everyone.

Here are some of our favourites covering a range of experiences and budgets – all within walking distance of our Camden and Kentish town-based apartments…

STREET FOOD

Globally, street food is a delicious and affordable way to explore different cultures and flavours. Camden Market offers a wide variety of street food vendors, making it a great place to grab a quick, tasty bite while you experience the diversity of the city.

1 - Baozilnn

For those who love Chinese street food, BaoziInn at Camden Market Hawley Wharf is a must-visit. This restaurant specializes in traditional northern Chinese dumplings (baozi), served piping hot with a variety of fillings like pork, vegetables, and spicy beef. Their menu also features Sichuan and Hunan-inspired dishes, including spicy noodle soups, mapo tofu, and stir-fried dishes rich in bold flavours. The relaxed canal-side setting adds to the authentic street food experience, making it a great spot for casual dining with a Chinese twist.

www.camdenmarket.com/food-drink/baoziinn

2 - For Fish Sake

Camden Market is a food lover's paradise, offering street food from around the world. One of the standout stalls is For Fish Sake, known for putting a fresh spin on the classic British fish and chips, with crispy calamari and perfectly fried fish served alongside tangy sauces and tangy pickles.

www.camdenmarket.com/food-drink/for-fish-sake

3 - Yorkshire Burrito

Another crowd favourite is the Yorkshire Burrito, which wraps all the components of a traditional Sunday roast—braised beef, roast potatoes, stuffing—into a giant, fluffy Yorkshire pudding for a delicious handheld feast. Camden Market is the ultimate destination for street food enthusiasts, offering everything from international flavours to innovative takes on British classics. It's perfect for a quick bite or a full-on culinary exploration.

www.camdenmarket.com/food-drink/yorkshire-burrito

4 - Canopy Market at Coal Drops Yard

Just a short walk from Camden, Canopy Market at King’s Cross is a hidden gem for foodies and lovers of artisanal products. The market features an eclectic mix of independent food traders offering everything from woodfired pizzas to artisanal pastries and cheeses. You’ll also find handmade chocolates, fresh oysters, and organic produce. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed weekend outing, with live music adding to the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a leisurely meal, Canopy Market has something to satisfy all tastes.

www.kingscross.co.uk/the-canopy-market

5 - EL CENOTE

El Cenote is a cool and intimate Mexican eatery offering a fantastic selection of tacos, burritos, and other authentic Mexican street food dishes. The venue’s laid-back, trendy vibe makes it a great place to hang out with friends over tacos and cocktails. With a menu that highlights traditional Mexican flavours like smoky barbacoa and tangy carnitas, El Cenote delivers bold, spicy dishes with a modern twist. The cocktails, especially their margaritas, are the perfect complement to the flavourful food.

https://www.elcenotecamden.com/

6 - COAL DROPS YARD AT KINGS CROSS

Located in the heart of King’s Cross, Coal Drops Yard is a vibrant shopping and dining destination with a rich industrial heritage. Originally built to store and transport coal during the Victorian era, the space has been transformed into a hub for contemporary culture, featuring a mix of high-end boutiques, artisan shops, and a diverse array of restaurants and bars. Whether you're in the mood for modern British fare, Mediterranean delights, or casual street food, Coal Drops Yard has something for every palate. It’s the perfect place to relax, explore, and enjoy the unique blend of history and modernity that defines King’s Cross.

www.kingscross.co.uk/coal-drops-yard

BUDGET EATS

Looking for cheaper eats in Camden?

Here are some of the tastiest options.

7 - GERMAN DONER KEBAB

German Doner Kebab has become a sensation in London’s casual dining scene, offering a high-quality twist on the traditional doner kebab. Made with lean meats imported directly from Germany, their kebabs are freshly prepared and packed with flavour. The signature dish features a blend of beef and chicken served in freshly toasted bread, topped with salad and their famous sauces. Their innovative approach to the classic kebab has earned them a loyal following, making it a great stop for a quick, satisfying meal.

www.germandonerkebab.com

8 - MORTY & BOB’S

Famous for its grilled cheese sandwiches, Morty & Bob's offers an elevated take on this comfort food, serving it on artisan sourdough with a blend of cheeses and a signature sauce. Their menu also features fresh salads, soups, and sandwiches made with seasonal ingredients. Whether you're there for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the casual, welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a quick bite or a leisurely meal with friends.

mortyandbobs.com

9 - ROOSTERS PIRI PIRI

If you’re craving bold and flavourful chicken dishes, Roosters Piri Piri is the place to be. Known for its spicy, flame-grilled chicken, Roosters offers a variety of dishes ranging from wraps and salads to full-on chicken platters. Inspired by traditional sub-continental recipes, Roosters caters to both meat-eaters and vegetarians, with vibrant flavours, including their signature piri piri sauce, at the heart of the menu. Ideal for a quick bite or a casual dinner with friends, Roosters Piri Piri is a go-to for spice lovers.

www.roosterspiripiri.com/

10 - TOKO BALI

At Toko Bali, you'll find authentic Indonesian dishes like rendang, a traditional slow-cooked beef curry made with coconut milk, fragrant spices, and lemongrass. The menu also includes a variety of Indonesian street food favourites such as satay, gado-gado, and nasi goreng, with both meat and plant-based options available. Toko Bali brings the vibrant flavours of Southeast Asia to the heart of Camden, offering a delicious and exotic dining experience for fans of Indonesian cuisine.

www.camdenmarket.com/food-drink/toko-bali

CASUAL DINING

For a good casual dinner around the corner or just up the street, these are a few of our top choices.

11 - ANDY’S TAVERNA

This family-owned Greek restaurant has been a favourite in Camden since 1967. It offers authentic Greek dishes like meze, moussaka, and slow-roasted kleftiko, served in generous portions. With a cozy, traditional Greek décor and outdoor seating, Andy’s Taverna is known for its welcoming atmosphere, excellent service, and great value for money. Whether you’re after a hearty meal or a leisurely Mediterranean lunch, this spot delivers Greek hospitality at its finest.

www.andystaverna.co.uk

12 - THE BRONDES AGE

Formerly known as The Cobden, The Brondes Age is Camden’s newest and trendiest gastro pub. It’s a fun, lively spot perfect for those who enjoy a mix of hearty British pub classics alongside craft beers, wines, and spirits. The pub is also known for its exciting games nights, including bingo, quizzes, and themed events, making it an ideal destination for a laid-back night out with friends. The relaxed, cozy atmosphere ensures that you can unwind, whether you’re there for a casual meal or to catch up with mates over a pint.

www.brondesage.co.uk/homecamden

13 - DAPHNE’S TAVERNA

Established in 1984 and run by the Lymbouri family, Daphne’s Taverna is a cozy Mediterranean restaurant specializing in Greek and Cypriot cuisine. From succulent charcoal-grilled meats to fresh seafood and Greek meze platters, the menu offers something for everyone. The interior is filled with charming photographs of 19th-century Cyprus, adding to the restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great place for a leisurely meal, offering both an intimate and family-friendly environment.

www.daphne-restaurant.com

14 - KOKO CAFÉ

Known for its live music and funky vibe, KOKO Café offers a selection of pizzas, cocktails, and small plates. It’s a great place to meet up with friends for drinks, catch up over a meal, and enjoy live performances on weekends. The menu features a variety of casual bites, but it's the electric atmosphere and laid-back charm that makes KOKO Café a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

http://www.cafe-koko.co.uk/

15 - LA PATAGONIA

A traditional Argentine restaurant, La Patagonia serves a variety of grilled dishes, including premium Argentine cuts of beef like sirloin and rib eye. Known for its rustic, barrio-style ambiance, this family-run restaurant offers hearty dishes such as milanesas, empanadas, and Argentine chorizo sausages. Meat lovers will enjoy their grilled steaks, cooked to perfection and paired with a selection of Argentinian wines, making it a top spot for an authentic Argentine experience in Camden.

www.lapatagonia.co.uk

16 - MILDRED’S CAMDEN

Mildreds Camden is a long-standing favourite in London’s plant-based food scene, offering a wide range of inventive vegan dishes. The menu is ever-changing with a strong focus on seasonal and local produce, delivering a unique dining experience that appeals to vegans and non-vegans alike. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Mildreds has been serving up creative dishes like the Sri Lankan curry and polenta fries for years. Whether you’re a vegan veteran or just looking to explore more plant-based options, this spot is a culinary adventure in sustainable eating.

mildreds.co.uk

17 - THE BLUES KITCHEN CAMDEN

The Blues Kitchen Camden is another cool vibey spot on Camden High Street, offering a good range of beers, wines, and cocktails serving American-style barbeque, buttermilk fried chicken, burgers, mac n’ cheese, ribs and more. With live music, some nights it can get a bit crowded, so it’s a good idea to book a table or pop in for a drink at the bar to check out the scene.

theblueskitchen.com/camden/restaurant

FINE DINING

From the classics to the latest culinary innovations, London has a wealth of fine-dining restaurants and some of the best are found in Camden.

17 - AZURA

Azura brings the charm of the Aegean to London, offering a fresh, seafood-focused menu inspired by the flavours of the Mediterranean. Their sharing meze dishes are perfect for groups, featuring dishes like grilled octopus, halloumi, and calamari. The focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients brings the light, refreshing flavours of Greece and Turkey to life. With its chic and contemporary setting, Azura offers a laid-back dining experience that’s ideal for enjoying with friends or family.

azura.london

18 - COAL OFFICE

A true collaboration between design and cuisine, Coal Office is a high-end dining experience combining the culinary artistry of Chef Assaf Granit and the creative design of Tom Dixon. The restaurant offers a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern-inspired menu featuring dishes like lamb shawarma, grilled octopus, and homemade hummus with freshly baked pita. The beautifully designed space, with its chic interiors and artistic tableware, enhances the dining experience. The food is bold, flavourful, and showcases the best of Mediterranean culinary traditions, making it a top spot for both design lovers and food enthusiasts.

coaloffice.com

19 - HICCE

Located in King's Cross, Hicce is a British restaurant with Japanese and Nordic influences. Co-founded by Great British Menu winner Pip Lacey, Hicce offers a range of woodfired, grilled, and fermented dishes, with a strong focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu is designed for sharing, with small plates like smoked trout, grilled prawns, and fermented vegetables. The restaurant's industrial-chic setting and modern design add to the dining experience, with views overlooking Granary Square.

www.kingscross.co.uk/hicce