A Delicious Day Out: Planning the Perfect Foodie Trip in London (circa Bermondsey)

Looking for a quieter food scene in London? Bermondsey is your answer. This neighborhood, southeast of London Bridge, is packed with incredible dining experiences, from handmade pasta to Spanish tapas, French classics, and Japanese ramen. Skip the crowds at Borough Market and explore hidden gems like Maltby Street Market and Spa Terminus for street food, artisanal goods, and specialty shops.

Here’s a quick guide to the top spots:

• 40 Maltby Street: Seasonal British small plates and natural wines under a railway arch.
• José: Authentic Spanish tapas with a Michelin Bib Gourmand.
• Casse-Croûte: Cozy French bistro vibes with rotating classic dishes.
• Flour & Grape: Affordable handmade pasta paired with Italian wines.
• Bone Daddies Bermondsey: Bold ramen with 20-hour broth in a rock-inspired setting.
• Bleecker Burger: Award-winning burgers with eco-conscious practices.
• Coco Grill & Lounge: Anatolian cuisine with Tower Bridge views.
• Texas Joe's: Authentic Texas barbecue with locally sourced meat.
• Ice Cream Union: Artisanal ice cream with over 50 flavors.

Pro Tip: Visit on Saturdays for the markets, and start your journey at London Bridge for a food-filled day. Bermondsey’s mix of flavors, affordability, and charm makes it a must-visit for food lovers.

Keep reading for detailed recommendations and insider tips!

Food and drink in Bermondsey

1. 40 Maltby Street

Tucked beneath a railway arch in Bermondsey, 40 Maltby Street highlights the area's shift from industrial roots to a lively food destination. This wine bar and restaurant operates out of Gergovie Wines, offering seasonal British small plates alongside a thoughtfully curated selection of natural wines. It’s a spot where tradition meets creativity, perfectly capturing Bermondsey's evolving food culture.

The cozy space consistently delivers dishes that incorporate wine into the menu. Chef-owner Raef Hodgson, who has deep ties to London’s artisanal food scene, crafts a menu that’s elegant yet approachable. Standout dishes include egg mayonnaise with anchovies and Parma ham paired with British cheeses like Stichelton blue .

Guests can enjoy natural wines by the glass or purchase bottles to take home. In 2023, The Infatuation rated the spot 8.6 out of 10 , applauding its charm and reliability.

Dining Details	Info
Best Times to Visit	Arrive early (no reservations available)
Price Range (2023)	£25-30 per person (drinks not included)
Atmosphere	Dimly lit, relaxed, and welcoming
Wine Focus	Natural wines: red, white, orange, sparkling

"GO HERE: for wine - whether red, white, orange or sparkling - made without fertilizers or pesticides, plus small sharing plates (often cooked with wine)" - Bon Appétit

Due to its popularity with London’s food lovers, tables fill up quickly. If you have to wait, the bar is a great spot to sip on their outstanding wine selection while soaking in the cheerful vibe.

2. José

Step into a little piece of Spain at José, a tapas bar on Bermondsey Street that's been serving up Spanish flavors since 2011. Created by chef José Pizarro, this spot takes inspiration from Barcelona's La Boquería and Andalusian bars. It's even earned a Bib Gourmand from the Michelin Guide for its exceptional offerings.

The setup is cozy and lively, with an open kitchen, counter seating, and high tables that create a bustling, social vibe. The menu changes daily, showcasing the chef's dedication to using fresh, market-sourced ingredients.

Essential Details	What to Know
Signature Dish	Acorn-fed Jamón Ibérico
Wine Selection	50 Spanish wines & sherries by the glass
Best Time to Visit	Arrive early (no reservations)
Style	Rustic tapas bar
Atmosphere	Lively, welcoming, and distinctly Spanish

Expert sommelier José Martínez shares this tip:

"Combining tapas with wines from the same place is sure to be a hit. Nature is very wise."

For a perfect pairing, try a dry Fino or Manzanilla Sherry with Manchego cheese and jamón ibérico. If you're ordering fried tapas like croquetas, a crisp Albariño is an excellent choice.

Chef José Pizarro invites you to:

"Experience a true taste of Spain in our little corner of Bermondsey street."

With its delicious food and expertly curated wine list, José has become a go-to destination for tapas lovers in London.

3. Casse-Croûte

Next on our Bermondsey culinary journey is Casse-Croûte, a cozy 20-seat spot offering a slice of France in the heart of London. The name, meaning "the breaking of the crust", nods to the classic French worker's lunch, and the restaurant stays true to its roots with a traditional menu and charming decor.

Stepping inside, you'll feel transported to Paris. Red gingham tablecloths, café curtains, a black-and-white checked floor, and walls adorned with French memorabilia create a warm, nostalgic vibe.

Feature	Details
Seating	Intimate 20-seat layout
Decor	Red gingham tablecloths, café curtains
Flooring	Black-and-white checked tiles
Atmosphere	Lively and conversational
Staff	Friendly with heavy French accents

The menu rotates frequently, but you can always count on carefully prepared French classics. One standout dish is their baked Camembert served in a walnut loaf, a delightful twist on the traditional casse-croûte .

"Complete with red gingham tablecloths, café curtains, a black and white checked floor, heavily accented staff and French paraphernalia adorning the walls, it is the perfect place to entertain an intimate evening of animated conversation, saucisson and some very good vin rouge."

Casse-Croûte has received glowing reviews, including an 8.3/10 rating from The Infatuation . With its limited seating, booking ahead for dinner is a smart move.

4. Flour & Grape

Flour & Grape is all about fresh handmade pasta and carefully selected Italian wines. Found at 214 Bermondsey Street, this spot has built a name for itself with its daily-made pasta paired with unique Italian wines. Prices start at just £7 for pasta dishes, and their wine list features interesting Italian options with minimal mark-ups, making it an affordable way to enjoy genuine Italian cuisine .

Signature Pasta Dishes	Description
Tortelloni	Roasted pork shoulder with sage butter
Taglierini	Preserved truffle, butter emulsion, parmesan
Pappardelle	Beef short-rib ragu
Bucatini	Tomato, black olive, caper, chili (Vegan-friendly)

Founder Nick Crispini has shared that the "Flour & Grape Pasta At Home" initiative is a planned, long-term project, emphasizing their dedication to maintaining high standards .

Visitor Tips:

• Use the "Dojo: Dining Experiences" app to join the virtual queue.
• Enjoy drinks at the downstairs bar while you wait.
• The restaurant is dog-friendly.
• Gluten-free pasta options are available.
• Half bottles of wine are offered for flexibility.
• Smart casual attire is recommended.
• Conveniently located near London Bridge and Bermondsey tube stations.
• Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot in the queue.

5. Bone Daddies Bermondsey

Tucked away in the arches of Old Jamaica Business Estate, Bone Daddies Bermondsey is the heart of the brand, celebrated for its rich, 20-hour ramen broth and a rock 'n' roll spin on Japanese cuisine .

Menu Highlights

Signature Dishes	Description
Bone Daddies Tonkotsu	Classic ramen made with their signature 20-hour broth.
Korean Wings	A crowd-favorite side dish.
Jerk Duck Tantanmen	Limited edition (available until March 31, 2025) featuring jerk sesame tare and confit duck.
Plant-Based Options	Includes Spicy Miso Ramen, Mushroom Ramen, and Tantanmen 3.

The space combines industrial vibes with the energy of a rock bar. Think high stools, loud music, and steaming bowls of ramen. Food critic Tom Parker Bowles summed it up perfectly in Olive Magazine:

"If you worship ramen, then Bone Daddies will feed your yen. And if you're a first-timer, prepare for conversion. Everything works, from the pared back decoration to AC/DC blaring out of the speakers. The broth is beautiful and the service slick. In short, I'm in love" .

Conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from London Bridge station, Bone Daddies sits along the Bermondsey Beer Mile and near Maltby Street Market. It's the perfect pit stop during a brewery tour.

In early 2025, Bone Daddies teamed up with En Root to launch its first vegan bao bun, the Tandoori Tender Bao. The restaurant also continues to roll out creative monthly ramen specials .

"We make everything from scratch without compromise. We make our 20hr homemade ramen broths over in Bermondsey, so we know every bowl is going to smack you in the mouth with flavour and hit that best ramen spot" .

Visitor Tips

• A great addition to a Bermondsey Beer Mile tour for a filling food break.
• Vegetarian and vegan dishes are clearly labeled on the menu.
• Casual high-stool seating makes it ideal for solo diners or groups.

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6. Bleecker Burger London Bridge

Bleecker Burger London Bridge has been turning heads since its August 2024 launch, even snagging the National Burger of the Year 2024 award . Known for its grass-fed beef, daily-baked buns, and eco-conscious efforts, this spot has quickly become a favorite.

Signature Menu

Category	Item	Price (£)	Description
Classic Burgers	Double Cheeseburger	13.15	The star of the menu, featuring juicy grass-fed beef
	Bacon Double	14.40	A bacon-loaded upgrade to the classic
Specialty	Blue Burger	10.30	A bold option with blue cheese
Plant-Based	Symplicity Burger	10.50	A deep-fried vegetable patty fermented for ten days
Sides	Angry Fries	5.25	Spicy fries with a kick
Drinks	Black & White Shake	5.95	A crowd-favorite milkshake

What Makes It Special

The restaurant’s focus on quality is clear in every bite, from its grass-fed beef to its freshly baked buns. Plus, Bleecker has been committed to reducing waste since 2017 by eliminating single-use plastics .

"This site is the culmination of everything we have learned since our last opening. I'm thrilled to bring Bleecker to the people of London Bridge."
– Zan Kaufman, Bleecker Founder & MD

Staff Picks

General Manager N'Jhell Wilson suggests pairing the Double Cheeseburger with Angry Fries and a Black & White Shake for the ultimate experience . It’s a modern take on the classic burger meal that fits perfectly into any Bermondsey food tour.

Need-to-Know Details

You’ll find Bleecker Burger at 104 Tooley Street, offering dine-in, take-out, click-and-collect, and delivery options. Vegetarians will appreciate the Symplicity Burger, a deep-fried vegetable patty fermented over ten days and topped with American cheese, onion, lettuce, and house sauce. The menu is clearly labeled for dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy a meal here.

7. Coco Grill & Lounge

Located along Shad Thames with stunning views of Tower Bridge, Coco Grill & Lounge offers a sophisticated take on Anatolian cuisine. Whether you're planning a casual meal or a special celebration, this stylish spot adds a fresh flavor to Bermondsey's growing food scene.

Signature Dishes and Drinks

Category	Must-Try Items	Description
Starters	Crispy Spiced Shrimps	Tossed in Korean glaze, served with grapefruit mayo & burnt lemon
	Duck Tacos	Slow-cooked duck wrapped in soft tacos
Mains	Grilled Tiger Prawns	Juicy and perfectly charred
Desserts	Lotus Biscuit Cheesecake	Creamy indulgence with a caramel crunch
	Coco Chocolate Souffle	Rich, molten chocolate dessert
Alcohol-Free Cocktails	Mango and Passion Mojito	A refreshing burst of tropical flavors
	Royal Spirit Dakari	A drink with a dramatic presentation

What Makes It Special

Coco Grill & Lounge stands out with its focus on halal-certified meats and fresh, seasonal ingredients . Their "Redemption Menu" offers creative, alcohol-free drinks, making the dining experience enjoyable for everyone. The restaurant's chic and welcoming vibe further enhances its appeal.

"Experience an iconic Anatolian dining & lounging ambience in the heart of Tower Bridge" – Coco Grill & Lounge

Atmosphere and Setting

With its stylish interior and riverside location, the venue creates a warm and inviting setting. As The Foodaholic describes, "The food is fantastic, the venue is very pretty and the outside setting is rather dreamy, especially during sunset I can imagine" .

Practical Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Sunset enhances the ambiance with breathtaking views.
• Dietary Options: The menu caters thoughtfully to halal preferences.
• Reservations: Highly recommended, especially on weekends or for special occasions.
• Other Locations: You can also find Coco Grill & Lounge at Lakeside Shopping Centre and West India Quay .

With its delicious Anatolian dishes, picturesque riverside setting, and attention to diverse dietary needs, Coco Grill & Lounge is a must-visit for anyone exploring Bermondsey's culinary offerings.

8. Texas Joe's Slow Smoked Meats

Texas Joe's brings the flavors of authentic Texas barbecue to Bermondsey, adding to the area's rich food scene. Using a custom-built rotisserie that can handle up to 500 pounds of meat and fueled by English oak, the restaurant partners with local butcher Nathan Mills for top-quality cuts . If you're a fan of smoked meats, this spot is worth a visit.

Signature Smoked Meats

The menu features some standout dishes, each with its own unique appeal:

Cut	Characteristics	Expert Opinion
Brisket	Moist, tender, with a smoky, woody bark	"Brisket has always been the signature dish at Texas Joe's and for good reason... This alone sets the standard for smoked brisket in London."
Beef Short Rib	Richly rendered, beefy, and tender	"The beef short rib came close to toppling the brisket from the top of my affections... Technically accomplished and sensually excellent, it's one of the best versions of a smoked beef short rib that I've seen on this side of the Atlantic."
Pork Ribs	Falls off the bone with ease	"The meat on the spare ribs was tender and loose enough that there was no need for a knife. It slid off the bone with such seductive ease, that it should've been cited for public indecency."
Mutton Ribs	Earthy flavor with a touch of sweetness	Offers a rare and distinct profile in London's barbecue scene

What Sets It Apart

Texas Joe's stands out by blending the rich barbecue traditions of Texas with locally sourced ingredients. Smoking with English oak adds depth to the flavors, and the collaboration with Bermondsey butcher Nathan Mills ensures top-notch quality. The restaurant has received glowing praise, including a perfect 5-star review from The Picky Glutton , though Time Out gives a more tempered 3 out of 5 stars .

Practical Information

• Lunch: Thursday & Friday (12–3 PM)
• Dinner: Tuesday–Friday (5 PM, last orders at 9:30 PM) and Saturday (12–10:30 PM)
• Bar: Open until 11 PM

More Than Just Barbecue

For those looking to explore beyond the main menu, The Flying W Saloon serves craft beer and Texan whiskies, while the restaurant's Original Jerky - made with British beef and spices - is a great takeaway option.

Due to its popularity, booking ahead is highly recommended.

9. Ice Cream Union - SPA Terminus Market

Tucked inside the SPA Terminus Market, Ice Cream Union is a go-to spot for artisanal ice cream. Known for their dedication to top-notch ingredients and craftsmanship, they’ve become a standout in Bermondsey's dessert scene.

How They Make It

Ice Cream Union takes a hands-on approach to production. Everything is made in-house, including:

• Nut pastes from carefully sourced nuts
• Juices and sauces from fresh fruits
• Fresh milk sourced directly from The Estate Dairy
• All components crafted from scratch

Flavors and Ingredients

With over 50 flavors to choose from , their commitment to quality is clear. Here's a look at some of their standout ingredients:

Category	Featured Ingredients	Sourcing Details
Fruits	Sicilian blood oranges	Sourced directly
Dairy	Fresh milk	From The Estate Dairy
Confectionery	Honeycomb	Made in-house
Nuts	Premium varieties	Hand-selected suppliers

Trusted by Experts

Ice Cream Union is a favorite among London's top restaurants and chefs . Their mission is clear:

"We want to radically change people's expectations of ice cream."

For those wanting to try these celebrated flavors, the factory shop is open to visitors.

Plan Your Visit

The factory shop welcomes guests on Saturdays from March to December . As they proudly say:

"You shouldn't settle for second best, and neither do we."

Indoor Food Markets

When the weather turns gloomy, Mercato Metropolitano is the perfect spot for food lovers. While Bermondsey shines on sunny days, this market ensures London's love for food thrives year-round. Housed in a repurposed 45,000-square-foot former paper factory in Southwark , this bustling indoor market has been a key part of London's food scene since 2016 . It offers a cozy escape for those seeking great food without compromising on quality.

A World of Flavors Under One Roof

Mercato Metropolitano brings together over 40 cuisines from around the globe:

Cuisine Type	Notable Vendors	Specialties
Mediterranean	Pizzeria Napoletana, Lebanese	Neapolitan pizza, Falafel
Asian	Korean Green Choi, Karapincha	Bibimbap, Sri Lankan dishes
Latin American	Hermanos Tacos, Sticks and Ceviche	Mexican tacos, Fresh ceviche
European	Badiani, The French Corner	Italian gelato, Cocktails
Middle Eastern	Utopia, Farm House	Syrian cuisine, Turkish BBQ

Craft Drinks and Social Spaces

The market doesn't just cater to foodies - it also offers plenty for drink enthusiasts:

• German Kraft: Fresh, authentic German craft beer
• Ethika: Known for inventive cocktails
• BeBeMe: A combined bar and wine shop experience
• The Beer Garden: Showcases German Kraft beer alongside Friday night DJs

More Than Just Food

Mercato Metropolitano stands out with its focus on sustainability and community. As they explain:

"MM's values of community, quality and social responsibility are maintained throughout every touchpoint of the site; from the recycled materials to the no-frills layout. It's entirely based on a sustainable economic model that is socially responsible and an asset to the local community."

Beyond its food stalls, visitors can explore an Italian supermarket, watch a movie, take cooking classes, or even check out the boxing gym, co-working space, and pop-up hotel .

Planning Your Visit

Located in Elephant & Castle, this is London's first market dedicated to sustainable community practices . Its straightforward yet vibrant setup is perfect for groups eager to sample different cuisines in a relaxed atmosphere. Mercato Metropolitano offers a great indoor counterpart to Bermondsey's outdoor food scene.

New Openings for Winter 2025

Bermondsey is stepping up its culinary game this winter with fresh additions to its vibrant food scene. After highlighting some of the area's long-standing favorites, these new spots show how the neighborhood continues to grow and evolve.

José Pizarro's Latest Spot

José Pizarro is making waves with his new all-day dining spot, Lolo, located at 102 Bermondsey Street. Pizarro himself describes it as:

"Simply called 'Lolo' - a tongue in cheek reference to José's middle name, Manuel, it marks his first all-day dining gem. From morning breakfasts to late-night dining, Lolo promises a unique blend of conviviality and culinary delights."

The menu offers a mix of British and Southern European flavors. A standout? Their Bikini sandwich, packed with cheese, Jamón 5J, and truffle .

Shad Thames Gets a New Addition

Come spring 2025, Luna will open its doors on Shad Thames. Expect high-quality dishes like fresh oysters, crudos, carpaccios, and crispy fries, all paired with biodynamic wines .

Vietnamese Street Food Arrives

Early 2025 will also see the launch of Kêu London Bridge, bringing authentic Vietnamese street food to the area. The spot promises extended hours and a sleek, modern vibe .

Seasonal Specials at Baccalà

Baccalà is refreshing its menu with some enticing seasonal deals:

Day	Offer	Price
Tuesdays	Wine Special	Up to 50% off bottles
Fridays & Saturdays	Bottomless Prosecco Lunch	£20 for unlimited Prosecco
Saturdays	Oyster Day	£18 (½ dozen), £35 (dozen)

Conclusion

Bermondsey offers a relaxed dining experience, far removed from the usual tourist-heavy spots. With 95% fewer visitors compared to the London Bridge area , it’s a haven for food lovers seeking quality without the crowds.

If you’re planning a visit, timing is key - especially on Saturdays when both Maltby Street Market and Spa Terminus are open . Start your journey at London Bridge and stroll along Bermondsey Street, the heart of the neighborhood’s culinary scene .

Time of Day	Best For	Notable Spots
Lunch	Fine wine and plates.	40 Maltby Street
Late lunch	Tapas & Pasta	José, Flour & Grape (pasta dishes from £10–£13)
Afternoon	Markets & Tastings	Spa Terminus, Maltby Street Market
Evening	Fine Dining	Casse-Croûte (mains starting at £25)

This schedule ensures you make the most of Bermondsey’s vibrant food scene.

"In my estimation, few London neighborhoods compare to Bermondsey for food and drink lovers. In fact, there's some of south-east London's best restaurants, bars and coffee shops on Bermondsey Street alone."
– Lela London, Senior Contributor, Forbes

Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes and make reservations at popular spots. Bermondsey’s mix of culinary heritage and independent spirit makes it a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Newcomers like Lolo and Luna continue to add to its reputation, making it one of London’s standout dining destinations.