Dining *Gluten Free* in London - Xmas 2023
Traveling for me is as much about the food as it is the sights, museums and shopping. To really experience a place, to get to know it on a intimate level, you must eat the food. And I am not talking about finding things your accustom to. No American fast food chains and your go-to Starbucks order. You need to put yourself out there. Find the local cafés and stumble upon the best hot chocolate of your life while wandering drizzly streets. Ask your concierge for some off-the-beaten-path recommendations. Try a bit of everything. From fine dinning to local pubs, I love to dive into a new experiences, discovering local gems and trying a bit of something new. This is the best way to not only get to know a new place, but to also get to know yourself. As I have done a lot of solo traveling, I have developed a habit of seeking out unique places where I can enjoy myself and indulge a bit of the local culture. And while dining alone, enjoying a meal all to myself, sipping on a glass of wine while people watching, chatting with my fellow bar-perchers… I cannot tell you how much soul searching has happened. And I am not only a better traveling for it, but a better person as a whole.
When I was first diagnosed with celiac disease, I was fearful of what my travel life would look like, how would gluten free take shape in new and unfamiliar places? Luckily things have become wildly attainable over the past decade plus and now popping onto your phone to look at gluten free options is a breeze. Plus in my experience, Europe and England are so very accommodating with gluten free requests. They take allergies and restrictions much more seriously across the pond and I am shocked at how kind and accommodating everyone is.
I hope that this little list can inspire some dining adventures for you. Xx
The Mayfair Chippy
Let me set the scene… It was cold and drizzly December day, the restaurant was packed, coats and scarfs hung on every available hook and chair and the buzz of conversation filled the space. The scent from the kitchen wafted out to the ever-growing queue on the sidewalk with an intoxicating promise of what was yet to come. It was perfection. I will forever dream about this beautifully flaky, crispy, *gluten free* creation. A golden fried fish dream! Honestly the best fish and chips I have ever had.
All in all, this lunch was one of the best things I ate on my trip (which is insane to say considering how well I ate in Lodon), simple and perfectly executed. They take reservations and walk-ins, though I highly suggest a reservation as you will likely wait about 45 minutes as a walk-up.
Neighborhood: Mayfair
The Ned
I am a huge advocate for boutique style hotels. They simply seems to provide the best experience and I love the kind hospitality that they provide. I will scavenge countless websites and endless blogs to find a place with cozy charm and thoughtful touches. And I cannot say enough good things about The Ned! From aesthetics to the basics, it surpassed expectations and I believe that I have found a home-away-from-home in London with this hotel.
Room service was exceptional, the concierge team was so knowledgeable and thoughtful and the hotel itself had a wonderful night life, boasting live jazz, several restaurants and Club Ned’s. Through my booking I was able to access all of the members only spaces, including the spa… all of which were beyond lovely. I cannot recommend The Ned enough. Whether you are looking for a little weekend staycation or in search of a killer hotel for your travels to London, I suggest you add The Ned to the top of your hotel list.
The Cadogan Arms
I met a friend here for an early dinner before seeing Ulster American at the Riverside Studios (amazing show, truly one of the best performances I have ever seen). And it was exactly what I needed it to be. An incredibly restored pub with exceptional atmosphere and design including a well thought out menu full of traditional British fair. A great spot overall and as with most dinning experiences I had, it was very easy to order gluten free.
Made a reservation online.
Neighborhood: Chelsea
Gavin La Chapelle
I love taking myself out to an outrageously facny dinner when I travel. It has become somewhat of a tradition for myself. There is something so wonderful about ordering a 5 course dinner to enjoy all on your own. There is simply no pressure, no constraints and no one to think about except yourself. I am able to be extra present in my experience and to savory every morsel. Plus the people watching is always great fun, from nervous dates to the instagram influencer… you’re never short of entertainment. It is the absolute highest level of ‘dating yourself’ and so utterly perfect in my mind.
My experience at Gavin La Chapelle was wonderful. A five course Michelin Star dinner that accommodated my dietary restriction thoughtfully and without judgement. The Anchovy butter served with warmed gluten free raisin bread was to die for… anchovy butter might just be my new favorite thing.
The concierge at The Ned made the recommendation and was kind enough to secure me a reservation *and even sent over champagne to start my evening off on the right foot*. From Start to finish, I had the most delicious time and will be dreaming of several dishes for years to come. If you’re in need of a fancy evening out in London, I highly recommend Gavin La Chapelle.
Neighborhood: Spitalfields
Scott’s
An iconic fine dining restaurant in London, it was recommended by several people and I knew I had to cross it off my foodie list this trip. The staff was super knowledgeable and helped me navigate my gluten free choices. Stellar seafood selection and a beautiful ambiance, I could, without a doubt, see myself perched at the bar at Scott’s as a regular if I lived in London.
My friends at The Ned’s concierge set up a reservation for me at the bar and I throughly enjoyed myself.
Neighborhood: Mayfair
Dark Sugars
Some of the best hot chocolate I have ever had. Pure velvety love in a cup! I stumbled upon this little shop in Shoreditch while wondering around doing some vintage shopping. Hit up Hunk Dory for some retro treasures and then wander up the street to get your chocolate fix at Dark Sugars. It’s the perfect afternoon adventure.
Along with their exceptional hot chocolate menu, they have a beautiful selection of chocolates and truffles, all of which have allergies noted on a little plaque next to each variety.
Neighborhood: Shorditch
Locanda Locatelli
A wonderful spot with extensive gluten free options including pasta and bread! The staff was so lovely and no one batted an eye about the whole gluten free need in an Italian restaurant. Delicious meal with wonderful bread and olive oil, plus gluten free treats with my espresso. It’s honestly the littlest things that spark the most joy! Especially when you’re not used to thoughtful gluten free extras.
I booked a lunch reservation online.
Neighborhood: Marylebone
Arepa & Co.
Amazing lunch! This spot kept popping up on gluten free London guides and upon finding myself starving and in the neighborhood, I knew the universe was pushing me to try it. And I am so grateful that I did. My little arepa lunch was beyond delicious plus the view of the canal filled with little duck families and colorful houseboats was so very charming. I will for sure be retuning to this little hole-in-the-wall.
Walked-in for lunch.
Neighborhood: Bethnal Green (they have a couple locations I believe)
Gordon’s Wine Bar
The oldest wine bar in London absolutely swept me off my feet! Several people recommended I visit this spot knowing my obsession with all things ancient and full of historic charm… plus, cheese. I was smitten the moment I walked in. Impossibly dark and perfectly moody it is a wine lovers treasure trove.
Walking down the steep, narrow stairs into the cave-like atmosphere evokes the feeling that are hip to some underground secret kept safe below the hustle and bustle of the West End. The dark nooks and crannies are brought to life with yellowing newspaper clippings, dusty bottles of champagnes past, iconic portraits and antique lithographs. Without a doubt, I could have spent all night getting lost in the decor laden walls, sipping on wine and nibbling on hunks of cheese. And the classic Christmas decor of swags, mistletoe and twinkle lights all added the perfect amount of holiday cheer and nostalgia. You feel as though you could come here for the rest of your wine loving life and never tire of the scene.
My wine and mini cheese plate were divine *gluten free crackers were available upon request* and without a doubt, I will be retuning to Gordon’s Wine Bar on my next visit to London. No reservations, so be prepared to wait in the queue outside, it is well worth it, however.
Neighborhood: Covent Garden
