UK’s Favourite Restaurant Cuisines Revealed for 2025

When it comes to the United Kingdom, the country is known for having multicultural influences and a wide variety of cuisines. Nowhere is this more evident than in the restaurant scene.

Many people think that the only takeaway or restaurant option available in the UK is fish and chips. For some reason, this is a big myth in the USA! Thanks to the diversity of the United Kingdom, there is a wide range of bold flavours and international cuisines, which can be surprising for visitors, but is not a surprise for anybody who has been asked which food they want to order on a Saturday night in London!

To get an idea of the cuisine popular in the UK, here is a list of the UK’s favourite restaurant foods and why the British public loves them.

Indian 

Almost every person who lives in the UK has ordered an Indian takeaway at least once or has been to an Indian restaurant in Bristol, London, or Manchester during a night out. Indian food has long been a cornerstone of British dining culture, and with dishes like tikka masala and lamb vindaloo, it has been deemed Britain’s favourite cuisine. The reason is simple. Many people love the aromatic spices that create layers of flavour in the curries and also love the variety. Even if you like kormas and milder tastes, you will find something in this food category. If you like spicy foods like vindaloos, then you’re also covered. Just take care the day after- you may need to eat some yogurt!

Italian 

Almost every town and city in the UK has an Italian restaurant.

As such, this is another of the UK’s favourite cuisines. Italian restaurants are linked with warmth and simplicity, serving dishes made from tasty, tomato-slathered pastas, all the way to stone-baked pizzas. And, of course, who could forget the carbonara or lasagna? Best of all, Italian cuisine appeals to diners of all ages. It offers indulgent desserts such as Gelato or tiramisu, which is often a sweet finish missing in many other cuisines.

Chinese Cuisine

For many people in the UK, Chinese food holds a special place, especially when it comes to takeaway meals, as it has been labelled the most popular takeaway food. British people tend to love sour chicken, chow Mein, and aromatic duck, and, due to larger portion sizes, these meals are ideal for sharing with friends or family. Of course, if you are heading out, you can usually find a sleuth of Chinese restaurants and if you are in London, you simply have to go to Chinatown to get the best food in this group!

Thai

Interestingly, over the years Britain has seen a surge in Thai food. This is thanks to the vibrant, fresh, and aromatic dishes, which balance sweet and spicy flavours with salty and sour. Many people in the UK are now craving dishes like pad Thai, green Curry, or tom yum soup once a week, and Thai restaurants are celebrated for their presentation and hospitality. So, well worth trying out if you are visiting the UK.

British Cuisine

Of course, there is always going to be the calling for traditional British cuisine, which can be found in gastropubs and modern British restaurants. Many of these eateries offer traditional dishes such as shepherd’s pie, fish and chips (of course!), and roast dinners, usually incorporating locally sourced ingredients. These will blend nostalgia with contemporary culinary techniques and appeal to people who look for a simple meal in a warm environment.

 

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