University of Wisconsin–Madison

England: Bella Kim (Food in London)

A collage of six photos of food, each labeled with a caption of which country it came from, including Korean, Taiwanese, Vietnamese, and Thai. Food includes egg rolls, steamed dumplings, ramen, and more.
A variety of Asian food that I’ve had so far. Still craving for more!

London is quite literally one of the most diverse cities in the world. With flavors from Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond, there are endless options to choose from. Recently, I’ve been craving Southeast Asian food, as it’s the closest I can get to Hmong cuisine while in London. Thai, Laotian, and Vietnamese are my go-to choices when I’m in the mood for a spicy papaya salad or some flavorful laab. Having access to the world through food is one of the things I’ve always appreciated about living in London.

London offers more than just sit-in restaurants; it’s filled with food stalls and markets. Spitalfields Market is an underrated gem, with stalls serving everything from Vietnamese and Chinese dishes to Jamaican food, and there’s even a Philly cheesesteak stall! When people ask for recommendations, I always point them to Chinatown, Brick Lane, and Spitalfields Market.

A plate with baked beans, fried bacon, triangular hashbrowns, an egg, and grilled mushrooms.
A Full English Breakfast with an omelette alongside it. This is quite a hefty meal but so delicious. I usually will get one every week or so after a nice morning walk.

Of course, London has its own traditional foods as well. Many people might think British food is flavorless, strange, or bland, but I’ve grown to love it. A Full English Breakfast, fish and chips on Fridays, and Sunday roasts are quintessential British meals that everyone should try. Beans on toast? Surprisingly delicious. Fish and chips? Best with plenty of vinegar and salt. Sunday roast? The Yorkshire pudding is top tier. These foods may seem odd or bland at first, but I always say: don’t knock it till you try it.

In the end, London is an amazing place to explore new cuisines, whether British or international.

Bella leans against a metal railing in front of a lily pad filled pond outlined in blue, surrounded by palm trees.

Bella Kim

Hometown: Brookfield, Wisconsin

Major: International Studies, Spanish

Program: University of Westminster

I chose this program because I wanted to return to what I call my second home. After participating in the Global Launch in London program my freshman year, I truly found London to be my new home. It has enhanced my cultural perspective, allowing me to experience other cultures and my own where I would not have the same opportunities at home. This program specifically has an internship and is an exchange. The internship would only build my resume and skills even more while also providing that international aspect I desire to have. Having classes with British students and other international students is also something I look forward to as I hope to forge international connections and friendships.

A professional goal I have for this program is to facilitate my intellectual growth through the internship aspect of the program. As an International Studies major, I hope to gain more insight into the British lens and use that in my future academic career. I hope to come back more knowledgeable after being exposed to different and new concepts and experiences that will help frame all aspects of my life.