A Picnic Lover’s Guide to London’s Best Delicatessens Near Parks

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Ah, London! A city of contrasts, where history meets modernity, and where parks provide a serene escape from the bustling streets. And what’s a park visit without a delightful picnic? This summer, as the mercury rises and Londoners seek refuge in the cool embrace of their favorite London parks, the quest for the perfect alfresco dining experience is on!

1. Green Park, Piccadilly: Fortnum and Masons

Step away from the mundane and dive into the luxurious offerings of Fortnum and Masons. Forget the M&S next to Green Park station; Fortnums is where the magic happens. From their famed luxury hampers, like the Summer Adventure hamper with mushroom and bean pate, to their food hall that’s an adventure in itself, every item screams quality. Cheese lovers, head straight to the cheese counter, and don’t forget to grab some all-butter crackers and fig cheese. The deli section is a treasure trove of charcuterie, anchovy relish, olives, and even scotch eggs that come in their own chiller bag!

2. Regent’s Park: Panzer’s

A community hub with a rich history, Panzer’s has been serving Londoners for decades. With its Jewish roots, you can find some of the best challah, bagels, smoked salmon, and hummus in town. But that’s not all; their deli offers charcuterie from Italy and Spain, handmade samosas, and a plethora of dips, crisps, and pickles. And let’s not forget the fresh produce that changes with the seasons.

3. Hyde Park: Harrods’ Food Hall

A visit to Harrods is incomplete without exploring its food hall. Whether it’s the aroma from their on-site sourdough bakery, the vast cheese selection, or the jewel-like sushi, Harrods promises a feast for the senses. And if you’re looking for a sandwich that defies gravity with its fillings, their coronation chicken sandwich is a must-try.

4. Hyde Park (North): Green Valley

Inspired by the Middle East, especially Lebanon, Green Valley offers some of the best kibbeh, tabbouleh, and baba ghanoush in London. Their range of freshly prepared Lebanese dishes is a treat for the palate. And once you’ve tasted their hummus and falafel, supermarket versions will never measure up.

5. Clapham Common: Trude’s

A celebration of London’s best small-scale producers, Trude’s offers delights from Two Tribes beer to Neal’s Yard Dairy cheeses. And with its proximity to the Common, there’s no excuse to settle for anything less than the best. Don’t miss their lamb kibbeh and baba ghanoush sourced from the acclaimed Arabica restaurant.

6. Ruskin Park, Camberwell: Grove Lane Deli

A hidden gem near Ruskin Park, Grove Lane Deli is the place to grab a sandwich made with home-baked bread and filled with innovative creations. Pair it with a can of Perello olives, a seasonal pastry, and a bottle of Macon de Villages, and you’re set for a delightful picnic.

… and the list goes on! From Burgess Park’s Gladwell’s with its curated mix of fish, meat, cheese, and veg to Brockwell Park’s Lulu’s with its array of high-quality produce, London promises a picnic experience like no other.

So, the next time you’re planning a picnic in London, remember that the city offers a plethora of options to elevate your alfresco dining experience. Grab your picnic blanket, put on your sun hat, and let London’s best delicatessens treat you to a feast under the sun!