London has a huge choice of fast food and quick-service restaurants, from familiar international chains to British bakeries, sushi counters and market stalls.
One of the biggest fast food chains, is the famous McDonalds, known across the globe for its budget prices and delicious burgers. You’ll also find staples like Burger King and KFC. But, if you’re looking for something that’s fast, cheap or even healthy, you’ll find it in London. There are so many takeaway options, for people who are on the go. It’s a great way of eating on a budget during your stay here too. You’ll notice that the people of London love to eat fast food, and you’ll find so many places that offer a healthy alternative to hamburgers.
In the Soho area, you’ll find plenty of options within a short walk. You can head to the markets to check out the food stalls like Camden and Portobello (Notting Hill) where you’ll be spoilt for choice with many different international cuisines. At the Camden food stalls, they will even let you sample the dishes before you buy.
Local and fast food restaurants in London
Here is a list of the fast food restaurant in London that we have tried and recommend. These are all located in central London and are great if you want to grab something quick to make time for more sightseeing.
Five Guys
This trendy London fast food hamburger restaurant is well-known in America but is relatively new in the UK. It has proven very popular amongst Londoners, and we have to say their fries are incredible. See their menu here.
Leon
This healthy fast food spot serves up tasty natural ingredients of wraps, burgers and salad. You can opt to eat in or to takeaway. Check out their menu here.
YO! Sushi
YO! serves sushi and Japanese-inspired hot dishes. London options now include a dine-in restaurant at Selfridges on Oxford Street as well as supermarket kiosks, so use the official location finder to check whether a branch offers dine-in, collection or only a kiosk.
Itsu
Itsu serves Asian-inspired sushi, noodle and rice bowls, dumplings, soups and snacks. There are numerous central London branches, but menus and opening times vary, so check the official central London location list.
Pret A Manger
You won’t go far in London without seeing a Pret A Manger – stocked with sandwiches, wraps, salads and soups. They also offer coffees and teas. It can be a little pricier than other fast food places, but they taste so good. Check out their website here.
Subway
Subway is known all over the world and are renowned for their fresh bread foot longs. Using fresh ingredients, it’s fast and cheap. You’ll see plenty of them dotted around central London. See their website here.
Greggs
This is a truly iconic British staple that specialises in sausage rolls, pastries, fresh sandwiches and baguettes and so many sweet treats like yum yums and doughnuts. See their official website here.
Poppie’s
Poppies is one of our favourite places for traditional fish and chips, with dine-in and takeaway available. It currently has four London restaurants: Camden, Soho, Spitalfields and Notting Hill. Check addresses and opening times on the official locations page.
West Cornwall Pasty
West Cornwall Pasty Co sells Cornish-style pasties with different fillings. Its products are mainly found at railway stations, motorway services and petrol forecourts rather than throughout central London, so check the official location information before relying on a particular branch.
Wasabi
Wasabi is another quick option for sushi, rice dishes, noodles and hot Japanese-inspired food. Check its current menu and branches on the official website.
Fast food in London: Street food and food markets in London
As well as the many local and chain restaurants, you’ll notice that London loves a street market and street food. This means you can eat on the go and save money as you do. You’ll find dishes from all over the world to sample.
In practically all of the markets in London, you’ll find an area that is dedicated to food stalls, and in some places, they will have a small area with tables and chairs so that you can enjoy a sit down. Some of the best markets to visit are Camden, Brick Lane and Spitalfields, where you can find food from all corners of the globe.
Also, at many of London’s free events you’ll find lots of street food stalls.
Supermarket takeaway
Supermarket chains such as Tesco and Sainsbury’s have smaller stores across central London, where you can buy sandwiches, wraps, salads, pasta and sushi. Meal deals usually combine a main item, snack and drink, but prices and eligible products change, and loyalty-card prices may differ from the standard price. Check the shelf labels before choosing.
Hi, we are Alberto and Amy, the London locals behind PlanTrip London. We’ve lived in London since 2010 and have spent every year since exploring the city, from its famous landmarks to the markets, pubs, parks and hidden corners most visitors never find. Over the years we became the go-to trip planners for friends and family visiting London, so we created this site to share the same first-hand, tried-and-tested advice with you. Every itinerary, tip and recommendation here comes from our own experience with our two children, so you can plan a London trip that’s easier, better value and far more memorable.