Are you craving authentic Korean food without the long flight to Seoul? Look no further than New Malden, London’s very own “K-Town.” This suburban gem is home to the largest Korean community in Europe. It offers a food scene that is absolutely unmatched.
Recently, popular food creator Catherine Whild, better known as traveltothefridge, took her followers on a mouth-watering tour of the area. Catherine is a 32-year-old UGC creator living in London. She is famous for romanticising her flat and finding the best eats across the city.
If you want to plan the perfect foodie day trip, here is the itinerary inspired by her latest reel.
This content reflects the personal opinion of an independent creator and is embedded from a public social media platform.
1. Start with Crispy Pajeon at Imone
Your first stop must be Imone. The name literally translates to “Auntie’s house,” and the food feels just as comforting. This family-run spot is famous for its home-style cooking.
Why You Should Visit Imone
Catherine started her journey here to try their famous Korean seafood pancakes, known as Pajeon. These are not your average pancakes. They are:
- Super crispy on the outside.
- Packed with fresh seafood and spring onions.
- Bursting with savory flavor.
It is the perfect appetizer to share with friends before diving into the heavier courses.
2. The Main Event: Chick & Beer
If you ask anyone in New Malden where to find the best Korean Fried Chicken (KFC), they will point you toward Chick & Beer. Catherine described this place as “unreal,” and it is easy to see why.
The Best Korean Fried Chicken in London?
The star of the show here is the glaze. Whether you like it spicy or soy-garlic, the coating stays crunchy even under the thick, sticky sauce.
- The Glaze: Next-level flavors that balance sweet and heat.
- The Sides: Don’t skip the Cajun fries or the mozzarella sticks.
- The Vibe: It’s a classic “Chimeak” (Chicken and Beer) spot that is perfect for a late-night hangout.
For more London food guides and hidden gems, check out 24london.uk to stay updated on the city’s best dining spots.
3. Cool Down at Cake & Bingsoo
No Korean food tour is complete without dessert. Cake & Bingsoo is the go-to destination for Bingsu—a popular Korean shaved ice dessert that looks like a work of art.
The Famous Oreo Bingsu
Catherine recommends the Oreo Bingsu. Imagine a mountain of milky, snow-like ice topped with crushed cookies and cream. It is incredibly refreshing but comes with a warning: watch out for the brain freeze!
If Oreos aren’t your thing, they also offer:
- Mango Bingsu: Topped with fresh, juicy fruit.
- Matcha Bingsu: For those who love a more earthy flavor.
- Strawberry Bingsu: A classic sweet treat.
Explore the Korean Supermarkets
Before you hop back on the train, take a stroll through the local Korean supermarkets like H-Mart or Seoul Plaza. You can find everything from authentic kimchi to imported Korean snacks and skincare. It is the best way to bring a piece of New Malden home with you.
About the Influencer: Catherine Whild
Catherine Whild is a London-based food content creator with over 67K followers. She specializes in finding “hidden gems” and sharing honest reviews of the city’s vibrant food scene. Whether she is cooking in her cozy flat or exploring the streets of London, her content is a must-watch for any “always hungry” foodie.
Ready to eat? Grab your Oyster card and head to New Malden for a day of incredible flavors. Just make sure to arrive with an empty stomach!
