10 Places to Explore in London Like a Local

London is home to a multitude of cool shops, cafes, sport venues, restaurants, and so much more. To help you decide where to spend your time in a city that has so much to offer, I’ve listed my top 10 spots to visit when you’re in London.

 

1. Jolene Bakery |📍67 Redchurch St
Hands down, this will be your new favourite bakery!

Jolene is a simple cafe that feels like paradise. Their coffee is straightforward but hits the right notes, while their pastries are simple but delicious.

2. Aimé Leon Dore |📍 32 Broadwick St
My favourite store in the world.

Forget fast fashion. Aimé Leon Dore blends modern style with classic influences, the kind that could have worked 50 years ago. The store itself has a dark New York vibe that will make you feel some FOMO if you leave without buying anything. Not in the mood to shop? Grab a coffee in their cafe and soak in the atmosphere!

3. BAO  |📍 53 Lexington St
Fancy some Asian cuisine?

BAO has several locations across London, but Soho is my favourite. One of the best spots for Asian food I’ve ever tried. It is very popular, so expect a queue and book ahead if you can. My go-to was their solo-date menu.

4. Knees Up |📍 455 Hackney Rd
Where are my sporty people?

Knees Up is part shop, part cafe and part creative hub for sport subculture. My favourite part was their run club as I really felt like I became part of a strong London community and I was able to push myself hard in the runs. It’s also a great spot for coffee after a good solo run.

5. Goodhood |📍 15 Hanbury St
Looking for your next streetwear fit?

Goodhood is far from your average clothing shop. They stock designer streetwear from both well-known and lesser-known brands. Walking out empty-handed is a challenge, so be warned!

6. Artwords Bookshop |📍 20-22 Broadway Market
Book lover?

Artwords isn’t just a bookstore. This tiny store houses thousands of books for every taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick read or books that are almost too beautiful to be touched, Artwords is the place to explore.

7. Dumbo |📍 119 Bethnal Grn Rd
Fancy a smash burger?

You may know Dumbo for their clever Paris marketing, but the burgers themselves are something else. Their menu is small with less than 5 burgers to choose from, but maybe that’s exactly why it works. One of the best burgers I’ve ever had!

8. Fiskens |📍 14 Queen's Gate Place Mews
Car enthusiast?

Even if you’re not a car buff, Fiskens is still worth a visit. Tucked away on Kensington Street, this tiny garage houses some fantastic vintage cars. If it’s closed, don’t worry – just peek through the windows and admire from outside!

9. IDEA |📍 101 Wardour St
"Sorry I don’t work here."

Know that citation? Maybe you’ve seen it from IDEA’s world-famous cap. IDEA is a worldwide known publisher that has a huge community of readers. Their shop carries not just books but quirky, unique merch. The shop is technically not open to the public, so you’ll need to ring the doorbell and they’ll let you in (it’s on the first floor).

10. The Lebanese Grill |📍 173 New Kent Rd
Trust me on this one.

Not what you’d expect to find on a London “hidden gems” list, but this spot feels like a true underground find. Their boneless chicken with chips is simply perfect. I couldn’t say anything less about Lebanese Grill. A heads-up: they only accept cash (£10 should be enough).

 

That’s my list of ten hidden London gems, but honestly, it’s just the tip of the iceberg. My best advice? Get out and explore as much as you can. You never know what you might stumble upon.