London's Largest Food Market! Essential Eats at Borough Market, UK

Touring Osaka, visitors flock to Kuromon Market, so why miss out on Borough Market when in London, UK? Borough Market is one of the oldest and largest wholesale and retail food markets in the UK, and over the years, it has evolved to sell not only local farm produce and fresh fruits but also features various unique stalls, drawing both tourists and locals alike. What are the top must-eat recommendations at Borough Market? If you wish to experience the 'street food' culture of the UK, do not miss the following Borough Market essentials.

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"Borough" in Old English signifies "fortified places," indicative of the market's origins as a town with autonomy, reflecting its historical significance. Historically, due to higher consumption levels on the north bank of the Thames, people on the south bank, where Borough Market is located, would frequent this marketplace, granting it a status of autonomy in the 16th century under King Edward VI.

Located along the River Thames in Southwark, South London, Borough Market boasts centuries of history, officially recorded as established in 1276, though there are tales of its inception as early as 1014. The market has witnessed various transformations, transitioning from a local vegetable market to a renowned tourist spot.

After being razed by a significant fire in 1676, the market was re-established on High Street in 1756, its present location. The proximity to London Bridge Station, especially during the railway boom in 1862, bolstered the market's significance, attracting numerous produce vendors and bustling activity.

By 1990, Borough Market faced decline, struggling to sustain on agriculture sales alone. However, a food exhibition in November 1998 marked the beginning of its transformation into a culinary hub. Today, Borough Market has evolved from a humble local market to a gourmet destination, hosting over 100 vendors offering a wide array of unique goods, making it a must-visit for students.

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Accessing Borough Market is convenient via the London Underground, alighting at London Bridge Station on the Jubilee and Northern Lines, and walking towards Southwark Cathedral. To avoid missing out, it's best to check the market's operating hours in advance:

Since some stalls and shops open only on weekends and public holidays, check in advance if specific vendors are operational to ensure your visit is fruitful.

Bomba Paella, a popular stall in Borough Market, serves traditional Spanish seafood rice that is a feast for the eyes and the palate. Their paella stays true to the Spanish culinary tradition, with perfectly cooked rice grains absorbing the essence of the seafood, generously topped with mussels, prawns, and squid.

Since its opening in 2013, Bread Ahead Bakery has been a hit for nearly a decade, offering a variety of breads and pastries. Among these, their doughnuts are especially beloved, dusted with sugar and filled with rich flavors like chocolate, vanilla custard, salted caramel, nut, and berry, delivering a delightful experience with every bite.

The Black Pig is renowned for its roast pork sandwich, a hearty offering packed with tender pork strips and coleslaw, offering a rich and satisfying taste. Before serving, the pork is topped with a snow-like layer of cheese, making it an irresistible choice for food lovers.

While Borough Market offers a plethora of dining options, many more await discovery during your UK studies. If visiting Southwark, consider exploring other iconic sites such as St. Paul's Cathedral, Millennium Bridge, and Tate Modern. For more insights into UK student life and university