Foodie Shopping in London

When in London, visit a market. Although that goes for about any city in Europe, in London you really should visit one of these great food havens. And for the Ottolenghi fans amongst us: we’ve bought some spices and salt at one of his renowned restaurants.

Borough Market
Since it’s next to and under the London Bridge Station, you can hardly miss this market. It’s huge, and it’s crowded, but still there is enough space to walk around and do some serious foodie shopping. Go to the Pie Ministers for a great take away lunch. Or just buy some spices, a piece of cheese or a bag of ripe and tasty tomatoes: it’s all very good.
Open: full market Wednesday-Sunday from 10 am – 5 pm, on Monday and Tuesday only open for lunch.
8 Southwark Street, (U: London Bridge Station), http://www.boroughmarket.org.uk

Broadway Market
Between Regent’s Canal and London Fields, you’ll find another amazing market. At my own local market in Berlin, you will only find regular fruit and vegetable stands, but here you can get all sorts of food, like freshly smoked fish and very good bread. On top of that expect to find great shops, bars, and restaurants on both sides of the market street. Wouldn’t mind living here for a while!
Open: every Saturday from approx. 9 am – 5 pm
Broadway Market, (U: Bethnal Green) http://www.broadwaymarket.co.uk

Ottolenghi
We just had to visit this restaurant… Actually, we wanted to have lunch here but we couldn’t get a table. Instead, we pleased the pantry with some lovely pots of salt and spices. We might not open them for the next 10 years, but that’s fine, since they will still look pretty. In case you’re not travelling with three kids, as I did, try to have lunch here. It’s served on large plates and the atmosphere is great.
Ottolenghi Islington, 287 Upper Street, (U: Angel / Highbury & Islington); check http://www.ottolenghi.co.uk for opening hours and other locations in town.

Some more pics from Borough Market: