Dining Dilemmas: Common Frustrations London Foodies Face

Dining out in London offers a plethora of culinary experiences, but it’s not without its share of frustrations. On a relaxed midweek afternoon, it’s the perfect time to delve into what irks us about eating out or ordering in from the capital’s diverse eateries. Let’s open up the conversation and share those dining pet peeves that make our dining experiences less than enjoyable.

I’ll kick things off with a few gripes of my own:

Brioche Burger Buns: A Mismatch

While brioche may reign supreme in the realm of sweet baked goods, its role as a burger bun leaves much to be desired. The soft and often too delicate texture of brioche fails to hold up against a hearty burger. It’s time to reconsider its place as the default choice for housing our favorite patties.

Communal Seating: Nostalgia Best Left Behind

Restaurants like Flat Iron and Wagamama harken back to the days of school canteens with their communal dining setups. Sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers on long benches isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. For many, a separate table offers a more comfortable and private dining experience, allowing diners to fully enjoy their meals without impersonal proximity.

Pricey Food Stalls: A Costly Bite

The rising costs of dining in London are no secret. However, the trend of pricey food stalls, where items such as burgers, fries, and drinks are priced separately, often results in unexpectedly high totals. Spending £15 or more for a modest meal at a food stall can feel disproportionately expensive, leaving diners questioning the value for their money.

These are just a few of the dining frustrations encountered in London. What are yours? Feel free to share and join the conversation as we navigate the sometimes tricky landscape of the city’s vibrant food scene.