The Best Lunch Spots in the City of London
09
Apr 2025
The Best Lunch Spots in the City of London
The City of London is a hub of history, hustle, and some seriously good eating. Whether you're after a quick bite between meetings, a sun-soaked terrace lunch, or something a little indulgent, the Square Mile has you covered. We've rounded up four of the best spots for a midday feast, with menu highlights and deals that'll tempt you away from your desk.
Fleets London, Ludgate Hill
Tucked away just off Ludgate Hill, Fleets London is perfectly placed for a pit stop if you’re exploring St Paul’s Cathedral or working nearby. Their £10 for 10 lunch menu is a total steal, offering a selection of hearty dishes at lightning speed.
Try the Korean Fried Chicken Wrap — crispy, sticky, and full of punchy flavour, it’s a real crowd-pleaser. If you're after something lighter but just as satisfying, the Superfood Salad is a vibrant mix of grains, avocado, and seasonal veg. With generous portions and a buzzy pub atmosphere, it’s an easy win for a workday lunch.
Nest, Bishopsgate
Right next to Liverpool Street Station, Nest is a bit of a hidden gem, especially if you're chasing the sun. Their terrace is a glorious sun trap — ideal for lazy lunches or quick bites with a side of vitamin D. Nest is currently running two lunch offers worth shouting about:
Lunch Deal: For a wallet-friendly feast, grab a main and a drink. The Buttermilk Fried Chicken Burger is a must-try, stacked high with crunchy slaw and a tangy mayo that hits all the right notes.
Sip & Snack: Perfect if you're after something lighter or just fancy a cheeky afternoon treat. Pair a pint or glass of wine with a snack — the Salt & Pepper Squid is sensational, served crisp with a zesty dip.
Explore Nest's Lunch Deal ➔
Check out the Sip & Snack offer ➔
Wren Tavern, Watling Street
A classic pub beneath the iconic dome of St Paul’s, the Wren Tavern is a cosy spot serving up one of the City’s best express lunches. Their aptly named 'Express Lunch' menu focuses on speed without skimping on quality.
If you're a sandwich fan, the Hot Salt Beef Sandwich is legendary — thick-cut beef, mustard mayo, and pickles, all hugged by freshly baked bread. Alternatively, the Grilled Chicken & Bacon Club is a beast of a sandwich that'll power you through the rest of the day. And yes, both pair beautifully with a cold pint.
View Wren Tavern’s Express Lunch menu ➔
The Gun, Spitalfields
Spitalfields is a food lover’s paradise, and The Gun fits right in with its smart take on pub dining. Their Set Lunch Menu is great value, with two or three-course options that feel far more indulgent than the price tag suggests.
Kick off with the Smoked Mackerel Pâté, smooth and rich with just the right amount of smokiness. For mains, the Slow-Cooked Pork Belly is a knockout — melt-in-the-mouth and served with creamy mash and seasonal greens. If you’ve got room for dessert, the Sticky Toffee Pudding is pure joy.
Final Bite
The City of London isn’t just a place for business deals and brisk commutes — it's also a fantastic destination for lunch lovers. Whether you’re after a fast and filling express menu, a sun-soaked terrace experience, or a leisurely multi-course affair, these spots deliver. Just don’t blame us if you end up booking an afternoon off to fully enjoy them.
