I had arrived in London a month ago, just in time for the opening up of outdoor restaurants and pubs. After being away for a year, I found myself searching for new places to meet my friends which complied with the new rules, and that were unique to London. Through my exploration, I have discovered a newfound love for the different markets and pop-ups that the city has to offer. The best part about these places is that you always find new restaurants or shops within the same market, which means that you could make numerous visits without running out of options. They are also perfect if you are going with a group of people with dietary requirements, as they offer a range of cuisines and are amazing for vegetarians/vegans. Here I am going to share with you my top three places which I have fallen in love with.

Flat Iron Square

Location: 3-minute walk from Southwark Station  

You might have heard of this place as it houses one of the most famous pancake spots of London: “Where the Pancakes are”, which has won numerous accolades and I have never seen a waiting line for less than an hour outside this place. While I highly recommend their buttermilk pancakes, especially their banana marshmallow one (they had a basil marshmallow, which was so weird but so good), do not miss out on the other food stalls. The nasi goreng (a Malaysian fried rice dish) from Ekachai was quite spicy but bursting with flavour. I would recommend making a reservation before you go, as you might not find a seat otherwise. 

Boxpark Shoreditch

Location: 10-minute walk from Old Street Station or Liverpool Street Station  

This is a place which I swear by and if I knew someone who was visiting London for the first time, I would always recommend going to. The Shoreditch Boxpark is one of three and is the only one in central London; the other two being in Croydon and Wembley. This permanent pop-up was made by stacking numerous shipping containers on top of each other, all of which either contain a restaurant or an exclusive store (they have really unique jewellery and clothes to offer). With its wooden outdoor seating area, vine leaves above you and bustle of people, it feels like you have arrived at a garden party. I especially love this place for its vegan options; from burgers to tacos, you don’t have to resort to just one choice on the menu. I would recommend going on a weekday to avoid the crowd as it is a popular location. My favourite spot from this place was Edu - their vegan chicken tacos were some of the best mock meats I have ever had. 

Mercato Metropolitano

Location: 5-minute walk from Borough Station or a 10-minute walk from Elephant and Castle Station 

This place is so discrete, that I lived near Elephant and Castle for three years and only discovered it in my final year. It still makes me sad that I did not explore it more often when I lived next to it, because it feels like a whole other world when you enter. Especially during the winter, with its heating and grass matted floors, it does feel like summer 24/7. I would like to give a special shoutout to the Greek stall “Kalimera”, which had an amazing salad platter with some of the freshest dips and bread I have had. They also have live music, where an upcoming artist can apply on their website so that they can play and contribute to the lively atmosphere.