Gourmet Tour of Central London

The Food Hall at Harrods is a wonder of a place where one can pick up a $5,000 bottle of wine or a £5 packet of crisps (potato chips), depending on your appetite and your wallet.

As befitting such a landmark British establishment, there's a proper butcher and fishmonger, as well as a huge selection of confectionery items, jams, teas and biscuits. The massive luxury department store also boasts no fewer than 26 cafes, restaurants and bars. Whether you want to kick-start your gourmet tour with oysters on the half shell, delectable Ladurée macaroons or a festive glass of Veuve Clicquot, you'll find it here.
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87-135 Brompton Rd.
Knightsbridge
020 7730 1234
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Hours
Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm
Sunday Noon-6pm

This beautiful jewel box of a bakery and chocolate shop was started by two veterans of the London fashion scene. Their refined taste goes far beyond the aesthetic. Scrumptious breads, pastries and cakes are made on-site, as are the delicious chocolates whose flavors range from ganache to caramel to sour cherry.
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12 Connaught St.

Brits take their butcher shops very seriously and this is one of the best. The Ginger Pig raises its own cattle, sheep and pigs on the moors of Yorkshire and this shop features a mouthwatering array of sausages, lamb shanks and steaks. The shop also offers butchery and cooking classes, so be sure to check ahead of time if you'd like to reserve a spot.
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8-10 Moxon St.

One can tell from the enormous wheels of cheese in the window--and the number of happy patrons within--that this is no ordinary shop. The artisan cheeses here are hand picked, selected directly from producers all throughout Europe. The staff is both friendly and devastatingly expert. Whether you prefer something goat, buffalo, cow or sheep, hard, soft or blue, this is the place for you. There's also a lovely, small café.
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2-6 Moxon St.

Established by a true aficionado who spent 18 years traveling the world in pursuit of the perfect cup of tea, this tiny place is a real find. Each tin sold here is stamped with the maker's name and location; the depth and breadth on offer is astounding. Scented or spiced, black, green or white, there's something for everyone as well as a charming assortment of tea cups, kettles and bowls. Tasting classes are offered each Saturday between 10-11am; be sure to book in advance.
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9 Dering St.

The luxury food hampers from this upscale department store have delighted Brits for almost three centuries. Be sure to take some time perusing the famous tea and biscuits section. If you're in need of a quick treat, stop by the Parlour Restaurant on the first floor for an amazing ice cream sundae. Traditional afternoon tea is also served in St. James Restaurant, but make sure you're hungry. The fantastic finger sandwiches, scones, pastries and canapés add up to a significant, satisfying meal.
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181 Piccadilly
020 7734 8040
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Hours
Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm
Sunday Noon-6pm

If Harry Potter's beloved headmaster Albus Dumbledore had quit academia and opened a wine shop it undoubtedly would look like this one. First opened in 1698, its wide, wooden floorboards are noticeably concave from the countless oenophiles who have made their pilgrimages here over the years. It's a rarefied place--both the Queen and Prince Charles are customers--but the staff is welcoming and there's a wide variety for palate and price.
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3 St. James St.

Of the several great food markets in London, Borough Market is the most famous. Established in the 13th century, it is renowned for its produce, meat and gourmet products. It's located near London Bridge tube stop, which is a healthy distance from the cluster of stops on this tour. As such, it is mentioned here as an optional destination should you have time or be in the neighborhood during your visit to London.

It's wall-to-wall people on a Saturday, so best to visit at the end of the work week.
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8 Southwark St.
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Hours
Thursday 11am-5pm
Friday Noon-6pm
Saturday 8am-5pm