Lunch in London

Something strange is happening in London on the gastronomic front. For a long time, England’s capital city was better known for its dull unimaginative fare (soggy fish and chips, anyone?), though, of course, the high end dining scene was ablaze with the talent of Peter Gordon, Marco-Pierre White and Gordon Ramsay. But with the pound stirling set so high, how many could or would want to eat haute cuisine on a regular basis?

How times have changed. These days, the dining scene is transformed beyond recognition. From grungy East London to swanky Mayfair, the city bristles with top-notch eateries that dish out gourmet organic pizzas, reinvented English classics and mod-European tapas, all alongside sparkling Michelin star dining. Access to better produce and a more demanding, well travelled diner have led to a culinary renaissance that is as joyful to behold as it is to tuck into.
The surprising thing is just how affordable it all is. The weaker currency against the Singaporean dollar certainly helps, but it’s also important to realise that in a bid to lure more business during the traditionally slower lunch hour, most restaurants in town— especially those showcasing a Michelin star—will put out an astonishingly cheap set lunch menu. For around £30 (or S$60), you could have a sensational three-course lunch at bold-faced restaurants like Joel Robuchon and Marcus Wareing.

Excerpt from the June issue of epicure.