If you’re a foodie looking for the best dining experiences in London, Westminster restaurants are officially top of the list! A recent study has named Westminster as the number one area in the capital for food enthusiasts, with a staggering 3,838.44 restaurants per 100,000 people. London’s rich and diverse food scene has long been one of the city’s main attractions, but this new data highlights the best spots to satisfy every craving.
Conducted by London Tickets and Tours, the research ranked the top 10 boroughs in London based on the number of dining options available. By analysing Bing Maps data, the team calculated the number of restaurants per 100,000 people in each area, giving foodies a clear guide to where the most delicious hotspots are concentrated. The results are in, and Westminster has clinched the top position, with a perfect score of 10.
Why Westminster Reigns Supreme for Restaurants
Known for its iconic landmarks such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Westminster is not just a cultural and political hub—it’s also a dining haven. The borough’s diverse restaurant scene is underpinned by its vibrant Chinatown district and countless other food outlets, contributing to an impressive 3,838.44 eateries per 100,000 people. Whether you’re after authentic dim sum, fine dining, or a quick bite in one of the area’s trendy cafes, Westminster has it all.
Magdalena Petrusic, a travel expert from London Tickets and Tours, remarked on the findings:
“Westminster’s appeal as a major tourist destination has naturally expanded its food offerings. Millions of visitors flock to its attractions every year, creating an ever-growing demand for varied dining experiences. With the area offering everything from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, it’s no surprise it leads the way for foodies.”
Top Boroughs for Dining in London
While Westminster sits comfortably at the top, other areas of London are not far behind when it comes to offering excellent food choices. Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 London boroughs for dining, ranked by the number of restaurants per 100,000 people:
| Rank | Area | Average Restaurants per 100,000 People | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Westminster | 3,838.44 | 10 |
| 2 | Camden | 1,850.37 | 9.25 |
| 3 | Kensington and Chelsea | 1,461.72 | 8.78 |
| 4 | Islington | 1,187.45 | 8.26 |
| 5 (tie) | Hammersmith and Fulham | 1,050.22 | 7.89 |
| 5 (tie) | Tower Hamlets | 1,050.04 | 7.89 |
| 6 | Hackney | 992.09 | 7.70 |
| 7 | Southwark | 919.14 | 7.42 |
| 8 | Lambeth | 786.78 | 6.78 |
| 9 | Wandsworth | 735.15 | 6.47 |
| 10 | Haringey | 693.22 | 6.18 |
Camden and Kensington: Close Contenders
Coming in second place is Camden, with an impressive score of 9.25. Known for its alternative vibe, Camden Market alone offers a wide variety of street food from all corners of the world, attracting locals and tourists alike. The area boasts 1,850.37 restaurants per 100,000 people, making it a must-visit for anyone in search of diverse and affordable dining options.
Kensington and Chelsea rounds out the top three, scoring 8.78. This affluent West London borough is home to high-end dining experiences, including the world-renowned Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, among other Michelin-starred establishments. With an average of 1,461.72 eateries per 100,000 residents, the area is perfect for those looking to indulge in luxury dining.
North London’s Culinary Delights: Islington and Haringey
In fourth place is Islington, which has become a hub for independent hospitality businesses, cafes, and bistros. With a score of 8.26 and 1,187.45 restaurants per 100,000 people, Islington is beloved for its eclectic range of dining options, from cosy brunch spots to contemporary fine dining.
At the other end of the top 10 is Haringey, with a score of 6.18. While traditionally an industrial area, Haringey has seen a rise in its restaurant scene, now offering 693.22 eateries per 100,000 people. As more independent restaurants and cafes pop up, Haringey continues to grow as a destination for food lovers in North London.
South London Hotspots: Southwark, Lambeth, and Wandsworth
Heading to South London, Southwark secures the seventh spot with 919.14 restaurants per 100,000 residents. Known for its historic Borough Market, Southwark offers a mix of traditional and modern culinary experiences, ranging from artisanal street food to upscale dining.
Not far behind, Lambeth ranks eighth with 786.78 eateries per 100,000 people. Southbank Food Market is a major highlight of this borough, attracting foodies with its variety of international cuisine.
Ninth place goes to Wandsworth, a South London borough famous for its brewing history. Now, Wandsworth has expanded its offerings to include 735.15 restaurants per 100,000 citizens, with everything from classic British pubs to trendy fusion cuisine.
The Impact of London’s Cultural Diversity on Its Food Scene
London’s rich cultural diversity plays a significant role in shaping its vibrant restaurant industry. With over 300 languages spoken across the city, it’s no surprise that food from virtually every corner of the globe can be found here. From the bustling streets of Chinatown in Westminster to the fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours in Camden, London’s dining scene is a true reflection of its multicultural population.
Travel expert Magdalena Petrusic comments, “London’s unique mix of cultures and traditions has made it a mecca for food lovers. Whether you’re craving traditional British fish and chips or something more exotic like Ethiopian or Peruvian cuisine, London has it all.”
What Does This Mean for Foodies?
For food lovers, the study’s results are a roadmap to some of the best culinary destinations in the city. Westminster restaurants offer an unparalleled number of dining options, and the borough’s food scene is only set to grow as London continues to welcome millions of visitors each year. With other areas like Camden, Kensington, and Southwark also offering top-tier dining experiences, there’s never been a better time to explore London’s diverse and delicious food offerings.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, London’s best foodie boroughs promise something for every palate, from the casual diner to the gourmet connoisseur.
