Taste of London Unveiled: London Living's Insider Tips for the Ultimate Culinary Adventure
This week London Living attended the city's favourite food festival, Taste of London, so that we could share our highlights and offer some valuable tips to those of you planning to attend over the weekend.
Our culinary journey was full of tantalising flavours and immersive experiences, the festival left us with lasting memories and a renewed appreciation for London's vibrant food scene.
Read on to discover the highlights of our Taste of London experience….
Plant Based Bacon
One standout experience was La Vie, from plants made with love, where we discovered an innovative plant-based bacon that truly amazed us with its flavour and texture. The vegan bacon is mind-blowing, because they’ve replicated the deliciousness of fat, but without the piggy in the middle. It even caramelises, crackles and infuses! Their dedication to crafting delicious dishes using sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients also earned them top marks.
Sensational Vegan Cheese
Julienne Bruno stole the show with their sensational vegan cheese. As passionate cheese lovers, we were sceptical about the possibility of creating a plant-based alternative that could rival the real thing. However, Julienne Bruno proved us wrong with their exquisite range of vegan cheeses. From creamy camembert to tangy blue cheese, their creations were a revelation, showcasing the incredible progress in vegan cheese-making. The Burrata alternative was genuinely better than the real thing! Light, airy, fluffy and incredibly more-ish. You simply have to try it to believe it.
Gin Cocktails
The Gin cocktails from Bloom were a refreshing and delightful treat during the festival. Each sip transported us to a botanical wonderland, as the perfectly balanced flavours of the gin combined with carefully selected mixers and garnishes. The skilful mixologists behind the Bloom Gin bar provided a carefully curated menu of cocktails which showcased the versatility and complexity of this beloved spirit. We admittedly went back for a second round, which speaks for itself.
Do It For The Gram
The cocktails from The Cocktail Co are also well worth experiencing. From classic favourites to innovative creations, we found their tipples to be a perfect blend of creativity and craftsmanship. Sip on these delightful concoctions, savour the harmonious flavours, and elevate your culinary journey at Taste of London (psssstttt make sure you don’t miss out on their social media giveaway!)
Fiery Pimentae Cocktails
Pimentae offered us a unique and memorable drinking experience. Their expert mixologists skilfully infused tequila cocktails with a range of exotic spices and chilli peppers, created flavour profiles that tantalised our taste buds.
The combination of heat, sweetness, and aromatic notes in each cocktail was a delightful surprise, showcasing the art of mixology at its finest.
We sampled the Spicy Margarita which showcased the best of Mexico’s natural flavours and the Eclipse which balances the freshest flavours for a more delicate cocktail. We also loved their exotic branding. A big London Living thumbs up all round!
The Fire Pit
Every year The Fire Pit demos always steal the show, providing a dynamic display of culinary artistry and lots of insightful chef tips and tricks. We pulled up a pew to catch the sizzling show, mesmerised by the skilled chefs as they grilled, smoked, and charred ingredients to perfection. The aromatic scents wafting through the air heightened our anticipation for the flavours that awaited us. Witnessing the chefs' expertise and creativity is always a highlight, and the resulting dishes never fail to impress. You can check the Taste Of London line up for their schedule.
An Ocean Without Plastic
At Taste of London, we were not only treated to an incredible culinary experience but also had the opportunity to support a meaningful cause.
The festival's charity partner, Seven Clean Seas, deserves special recognition for their tireless efforts in raising awareness and fighting against plastic pollution in our oceans.
By collaborating with Seven Clean Seas, Taste of London emphasises the importance of environmental conservation and encourages attendees to be conscious of their ecological footprint. Please do take a breather from all the eating and drinking to show some support for the team at their stand.
Tips for Festival-goers
Here’s some practical advice to help you make the most of your time at the festival.
Plan Ahead
To ensure you make the most of your time at Taste of London, it's essential to plan ahead. Take a look at the festival map and schedule to identify the vendors, chefs, and events that pique your interest. Make a list of must-try dishes or drinks you don't want to miss. With so much to see and taste, having a plan will help you navigate the festival grounds efficiently and avoid missing out on your favourite experiences.
Come Hungry
Taste of London offers a plethora of delectable dishes, so it's best to arrive with an empty stomach and a hearty appetite. From small bites to signature dishes by renowned chefs, the festival provides ample opportunities to indulge in a wide range of flavours. Pace yourself and try dishes from various vendors to truly experience the diversity of London's culinary scene. Don't forget to leave room for dessert!
Try Something New
One of the most exciting aspects of Taste of London is the chance to discover new flavours and culinary innovations. Step out of your comfort zone and try dishes or ingredients you haven't experienced before. It's an opportunity to broaden your palate and expand your culinary horizons. Keep an open mind and be adventurous in your food choices. You may just find a new favourite dish or ingredient.
Engage with the Chefs and Vendors
Taste of London offers a unique chance to interact with talented chefs and passionate food vendors. Don't be shy to strike up conversations, ask questions, and learn more about their culinary creations. Many vendors are eager to share their stories, techniques, and insights. Engaging with them will enhance your overall experience and deepen your appreciation for the food and drink offerings.
Stay Hydrated
With all the indulgent food and drink options available, it's important to stay hydrated throughout the festival. Carry a refillable water bottle to quench your thirst and keep yourself refreshed. Additionally, there are numerous beverage stalls offering non-alcoholic options, including infused waters and refreshing mocktails. Remember to pace yourself and enjoy the festival responsibly.
Capture the Memories
Taste of London provides a visually stunning backdrop for capturing memorable moments. Don't forget to bring your camera or smartphone to document your experience. Take photos of beautifully presented dishes, vibrant food stalls, and the lively atmosphere. Share your favourite moments on social media using the festival's designated hashtags, and join in the online conversation with other food enthusiasts. It’s well worth keeping an eye out for the social media giveaways too!
Taste of London is a celebration of London's vibrant food scene, and with our advice, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of this incredible culinary festival.
Weekend tickets are still available so grab them while their hot!
www.tasteoflondon.seetickets.com/content/ticket-options-summer
