London Life: Where to go to remind you of the Philippines
Updated: Jun 16, 2021
At around 200,000, the UK has one of the largest numbers of Filipinos in Europe. It’s no surprise therefore to find Filipino organisations spread right across the country. In fact, the embassy in London keeps a listing of them on its website. Check it out to see if there’s something local to you.
The UK’s biggest city, London, has a vibrant Filipino community and also happens to be TAYO’s current home. So we’ve pulled together our own guide to businesses and events in the city. We’d love to hear from you if you have your own recommendations. You can send us an email to hello@teamtayo.com. Salamat po!
Groceries
Craving bagoong or banana ketchup? Head to Earl’s Court in West London for all your Filipino products. Manila Supermarket and Pinoy Supermarket are both located on Hogarth Road, very close to the tube station. Afterwards, why not head to Lutong Pinoy restaurant nearby to get an authentic taste of home.
If getting to Earl’s Court is difficult, check online to see if your local area has a Filipino or Asian store. If all else fails, there are a number of online retailers delivering specialist Filipino products across the UK. We found one supplier that delivers pandesal wherever you are in the UK!
Restaurants
We’re pleased to see more and more first and second generation Filipino chefs opening up restaurants all over London. They’re all on a mission to raise the profile of Filipino food in the UK. As well as Lutong Pinoy, here are some other options. Kain TAYO!
West London:Romulo Cafe & Restaurant, Kensington High Street North London: Mama’s Kubo, Finchley Road
South London: Sarap BAon, Brixton
Central London: Josephines, Charlotte Street, Bong Bong’s Manila Kanteen, Seven Dials Market, Covent Garden
Jollibee
Of course Jollibee had to have its very own section. Asia’s favourite fried chicken has finally arrived in the UK! With two locations in London - Earl’s Court and Leicester Square - you’re never too far away from some ChickenJoy. If you’re not in London, don’t worry! Jollibee has locations in other UK cities too. Mag-enjoy na!
Cafes
So at TAYO, we really LOVE food, which is why we have yet another category dedicated to it. Mamasons (with locations in Chinatown and Camden) exploded onto the scene a few years ago and for this we are eternally grateful. They do a range of deserts, including Halo Halo. The TAYO team were spotted there recently gorging on a tub of Milo ice cream. It didn’t last long! Ang sarap sarap!
For those of you missing Goldilocks back home, we now have some of our own options if you’re craving ube flavoured pastries and other baked goods. Mamasons have opened Panadera next door to their store in Camden. And the beautiful cafe and bakery store Kapihan in Battersea is one of the few places you can buy a genuine Filipino coffee.
London Barrio Fiesta
Running since 1985, this event has grown to be the largest Filipino festival in Europe! Held at Apps Court Farm very close to London, it attracts thousands of kababayans each year. Expect lots of Filipino stalls and even celebrities on the main stage. We’re praying the event will go ahead in July 2021 depending on lockdown restrictions. Follow this link to see the latest updates.
A number of Filipino associations run their own events and parties right across the UK so make sure you get in touch with your local organisation.