Nibbles and Pubs...

Wagamama near the Tower, Chicken Katsu Curry #71, Drink and "crisps" in The Six Bells,  The Churchill Arms, Gordon's Wine Bar

England isn't England without its pubs and international cuisine. Incredible Thai and Indian food can be found on every street. I was never a fan until I went to England, but I am definitely one now. Their McDonald's even offers a curry dipping sauce! (Note: delicious with chicken McNuggets. But then again, everything is good with chicken McNuggets). London is filled with tasty places to eat and cozy (packed at 5:00 pm) pubs to enjoy a pint. Go in, buy a drink, find a seat and tuck into a bag of Walker's Salt & Vinegar "crisps". It is my opinion that pub fish and chips are the best. "Chish and Fips" are a must and something that you have to eat least once. Here are some of my favorite pubs and restaurants! 

Gordon's Wine Bar:  Embankment Station (literally right outside of it) 

This is the oldest wine bar in London and therefore a must! A narrow flight of stairs lead you down to a cave where the wine is excellent and choices of cheese plates are abundant. Though sitting down below is fantastic I would also venture outside! It is packed after work, but still worth going. Gordon's is also right next to Victoria Embankment Gardens. I'd grab a pizza from Pizza Express up the street, go back to the park and enjoy a picnic (Alcohol is not permitted in public, but it is common to see a glass of wine. Worse comes to worse someone tells you to put it away). 

The Churchill Arms:  Notting Hill Station; http://www.pubs.com/main_site/pub_details.php?pub_id=43    

Here is one of the best traditional pubs I have discovered in London. All kinds of antiques hang from the ceiling and there is a fantastic Thai restaurant in the back. Go, go, go!! Be ready for it to be a little busy. 

Westminster Arms:   Westminster Station            

This pub is a little small, like most traditional pubs are, but its location is what makes it so great. It is right near Westminster Abbey, Parliament, St. James's Park, and Parliament Square. so it would be easy to pop in and grab a quick drink (avoid after work hours). Due to it's location the pub is a little overpriced, but hey, that's London. A Francese family favorite for a reason...  

Wahaca: Covent Garden Station; http://www.wahaca.co.uk/ 

I love the Wahaca in Covent Garden near TGI Fridays. It has the BEST margaritas I have ever had... anywhere. Yes, even in Texas. Their selection is pretty darn good. They have "Street Orders". They are mini sides. Get three or so each (maybe 4 for guys).. I love the bean and cheese quesadillas, huilacoche quesadillas, taquitos, and cup of frijoles. No queso though! You'll get a plate of food worthy of any appetite. They also give you jalapeño seeds when you leave. You can't get reservations though, so get their semi-early. A line builds quickly! The little extra effort is worth it! Beware, the margs are strong! 

Basaba Eathai:  Oxford Circus Station on Wardour Street; http://www.bertorelli.co.uk/ 

Basaba is one of my favorite Thai food restaurants (Doesn't beat Wagamama, but nothing does). If you aren't big into Thai, no worries, there are a number of other scrumptious choices. I prefer the one on Wardour Street (off Oxford Street), though there are ones on Store Street and Bird Street. (Get something with noodles)

Bertorelli:  Piccadilly Station; http://www.bertorelli.co.uk/

I only ate here once, but I'm mentioning it because it was that good. I went here with my roommates and we all left extremely satisfied. A little upscale, but unforgettable. Coming from an Italian family I am pretty hard to crack on what I consider "good" Italian food, but this passed the test with flying colors! 

Hong Kong: Leicester Square Station

This is a Francese Family favorite resturant right behind Leicester Square in 'China Town'. We typically eat here before we go to a show. A lot of theaters are near by. It isn't cheap, but taaasty and fun on a night out. Go for the lettuce wraps with duck! Ymmm!