University of Wisconsin–Madison

United Kingdom: Maria Fichtinger (Food in London)

London is a global city, with culinary inspirations and inputs from around the world. While being here, I have tried food from China, Thailand, America, Italy, and India, just to name a few. Some of these have been in the form of fast-food restaurants that are British, like Itsu or Walk to Wok, both of which offer Asian food, primarily of East-Asian influence. I have also been to the British version of American fast-food restaurants, like McDonald’s. Because of different standards regarding ingredients, particularly artificial flavors and preservatives, the food tastes different than it does in the US, generally of a higher quality but missing some of what makes the food identifiable as a specific fast-food place in the US. It is also more expensive, and the menus contain different items (good luck finding ranch dipping sauce anywhere in the UK). There are also authentic restaurants all over the place. One of my favorites so far has been an Italian restaurant I went to with my friends that was pretty highbrow. People from Italy or India or Thailand run these restaurants and make the food using traditional techniques and ingredients.

A plate of fried fish with a bowl of thick-cut french fries on the side. A lemon and a pile of ketchup are to the side of the fish.

Of course, the British have their own cuisine as well, often the butt of jokes regarding its flavor and ingredients. I will tell you, I am not particularly keen on prawn cocktail-flavored potato chips, or cheese and mayo sandwiches. However, the British hold certain high standards for baked goods, as can be seen in the spread available at many coffee shops around town. Little cakes and tarts for teatime, or even just some premade custard to keep in the fridge at home, desserts here are a serious business. Of course, no exploration of London’s culinary offerings would be complete without a mention of fish and chips. Being an island country, seafood is big here, and fish and chips, with some ketchup, lemon, and malt vinegar, are a delicious classic, that leave you feeling full, warm, and just a tad bit greasy.

Maria smiles in front of a white wall wearing a pink shirt and denim overalls.

Maria Fichtinger 

Hometown: Rochester, Minnesota

Major: History; Cert. in European Studies and Education & Educational Services

Program: University of Westminster

I have always wanted to go to London, and this program fit well with the degree I am pursuing.