Lunching in London

So I’m currently based in London ’til July for work and so far I’ve observed that, like Singapore, lunchtime is somewhat of a luxury here. Few people have the time to eat out, least to say enjoy a long leisurely lunch.

Which is why establishments like Eat and Pret are a dime a dozen and do amazingly well – they offer quick but staple healthy options like sandwiches, soups and salads. In fact, I’ve started playing a little game in my head called “The Daily Pret” where I count the number of Prets I pass by everyday. Yesterday’s count was six.

But every now and then the Eats and Prets of the world just don’t cut it – here are two of my favourite lunch-only eateries in London for days when you just feel like indulging.

Picante Mexican Grill

Gotta thank Sandra for this one.

Just a 5-minute walk away from the office in Victoria, this is my favourite option for a sinful, savoury, spicy lunch – whether you’re in the mood to dine in or take out. Design your own delicious taco or burrito by choosing the wrap and filling (rice, peppers and/or beans), your choice of meat (my favourite is carne asada or grilled steak), and then toppings (free options + extras at a cost).

Go early to avoid disappointment – the beef, peppers and guacamole tend to run out pretty quickly – but this means ingredients are really fresh. Also, lines start forming really early from noon!

Lastly, do grab lots of serviettes ‘cos it’s quite a handful and a bit of a mess to eat. It’s a meal best eaten sitting down vs on-the-move.

taco with a view

Picante Mexican Grill
18 Greencoat Row SQ1P1PQ
11.30am-3.30pm Mon-Fri

Fazenda

This was a bit of a lucky find. I had been walking around Spitalfields on a Saturday and wandered slightly away from the market towards Middlesex Road. I happened to pass by this charming little cafe with pastries and tarts laid out at the shop window.

When you walk in, it’s like walking in to someone’s home – a tiny living area with a few rustic tables and chairs, wooden shelves and a coffee counter. And while the menu is limited, the food as well has a very homely feel.

A lot of what’s available is laid out on the table – great items for brunch like pies, tarts and omelettes. I had a very simple but really tasty variety of items – a refreshing salad of squid, celery, carrot and apple, an omelette with watercress and potato as well as a fantastic cup of cappuccino. In fact, many customers were popping in to take away Fazenda’s coffee.

Fazenda
13 Leyden St E1 7LE
8am-6pm Mon-Fri; 9.30am-6pm Sat, Sun

- juicy

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