If you’re passing through London Victoria Station, you’re going to encounter a classic London transport hub—old, busy, and often a bit pricey. Eating at London Victoria can be an experience in itself, with plenty of options, though don’t expect it to come cheap.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a more substantial meal, the station offers a wide variety of choices. Here’s a look at what you can expect when you’re looking to eat at Victoria Station, including some nearby options.
History of Victoria Station
London Victoria Station is old—well pretty old—and it feels like it. Opened in 1860, it was originally two separate stations, built by competing railway companies, which is why it still has an awkward layout today. One side served trains heading to Brighton and the south coast, while the other handled long-distance routes towards Kent. Eventually, they merged, but the station has retained that slightly chaotic, mismatched feel ever since.
Over the years, Victoria has seen it all. It was a key departure point for troops in both World Wars, the gateway to the continent when boat trains to France were a thing, and even the spot where Queen Victoria herself used to set off on her travels (to the Isle of Wight!). The station has been expanded and modernized over time, but it still carries that old-school, grimy London charm.
Today, Victoria is one of the busiest stations in the UK, serving over 70 million passengers a year. It’s not the most polished or glamorous place, but it’s a historic, essential piece of London’s transport system—and, if nothing else, a decent place to grab a (slightly overpriced) Burger King before your train.
Expensive, But Diverse
First, let’s talk about the station itself. London Victoria Station is not exactly the newest or the flashiest place, and it definitely feels like it’s been around for a while. Prices tend to be on the high side because it’s a major transit point, catering to tourists and commuters alike. That said, the sheer variety of food available makes it a bit easier to justify the cost, especially if you’re after something quick or just want to sit down and take your time.
Here’s a rundown of what you’ll find within Victoria Station itself:
Quick and Easy Snacks
If you’re after something fast and portable, there are a number of options to grab a quick snack on the go. Pret a Manger is scattered throughout the station, offering a selection of sandwiches, wraps, and salads that are perfect if you’re in a rush. Though they’re pricier than your average high street shop, the quality is generally decent, and you can pick up a reasonably healthy option.
For something a bit more filling, Gourmet Burger Kitchen serves up tasty burgers and fries, perfect for a satisfying, if slightly expensive, meal. It’s great if you’re craving a burger but don’t have the time to leave the station to find one.
If you’re after a coffee and a pastry, Starbucks and Costa Coffee both have locations at Victoria, offering all your usual caffeine fixes, though the prices aren’t going to win any awards for value. Also Costa Coffee pay no tax and are even more EvilCorp than Starbucks.
For a quick breakfast, Greggs is a reliable choice with sausage rolls, sandwiches, and pastries on offer. It’s not exactly fine dining, but it gets the job done, and it’s a cheaper option compared to some of the other station eateries.
Sit-Down Options for Eating at London Victoria
If you’ve got time and you’re in the mood for a more substantial meal, there are plenty of sit-down options as well. Carluccio’s offers classic Italian food, including pasta, pizzas, and antipasti. The prices are steep, but the food is reliably good if you’re looking to sit down and relax before your train.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more classic, Café Rouge is a decent choice. Serving up a range of French bistro staples like steak frites, croque monsieur, and French onion soup, it’s a solid option if you’re after something comforting, though it’s not the most budget-friendly option.
For pub food, The Victoria Pub offers a selection of hearty British classics like fish and chips, pies, and burgers. It’s a great spot to grab a pint and enjoy some traditional pub grub, though, like everything in Victoria Station, it can feel a bit overpriced for what you get.
If you’re craving sushi, Yo! Sushi is located in the station, offering a quick and easy conveyor-belt sushi experience. It’s a fast food option, and while it’s not the most authentic, it can hit the spot if you’re in the mood for some sushi, but don’t have time to head out of the station.
For a lighter, healthier option, Its serves up Asian-inspired dishes like rice bowls, sushi, and salads. It’s quick, easy, and convenient, though the prices aren’t exactly bargain-basement.
Burger King: A Fast Food Classic Inside the Station
You can’t mention food at Victoria Station without talking about Burger King. Yes, there’s a Burger King inside the station, offering all the fast food classics you’d expect—flame-grilled burgers, fries, nuggets, and shakes. It’s the go-to place for a quick, familiar meal if you’re craving something fast and filling, though, as with everything at Victoria Station, the prices are a little higher than what you’d pay at your average Burger King.
And the BK at VC is pretty damned iconic and one that I have visited many times over the years both before and after a night out up-town!
Nearby Kebab Shops: A Hidden Gem Around Victoria Station
One area that’s often overlooked when it comes to eating at London Victoria is the nearby kebab shops. Though the station itself offers its fair share of fast food, there are a couple of gems just around the corner that make for a satisfying—and often more affordable—meal.
Mangal 2 is a well-known local gem just a short walk from the station. Known for its delicious Turkish kebabs and grilled meats, it offers a more authentic taste compared to the usual station offerings. It’s a great spot for a late-night bite, and their lamb kebabs are particularly popular.
Another option nearby is Café Istanbul, located just a few minutes from the station. This spot is a favourite for its juicy, well-seasoned kebabs, as well as its warm and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a little more traditional, offering a wide range of Middle Eastern dishes including falafel, shawarma, and a variety of grilled meats.
Both of these spots are great for those looking for a more substantial meal than what you’d find inside Victoria Station—and at a fraction of the cost. And yes the best kebabs are still made in the UK!
Sweet Treats and Desserts
Of course, if you’re in the mood for something sweet, there are plenty of dessert options as well. Chocolatier offers a range of high-quality chocolates, perfect for a quick gift or a personal indulgence. Ben & Jerry’s is also conveniently located in the station if you’re after an ice cream fix, though don’t expect it to be the cheapest scoop in town.
In fact I even saw some artisan type pop-up candy stores here on my most recent jaunt from here to the Isle of Wight, although I did not partake.
Final Thoughts on Eating at London Victoria
While eating at London Victoria might be more expensive than you’d expect, there’s no denying the variety of options available. Whether you’re grabbing something quick and easy from Pret a Manger, sitting down for a more substantial meal at Carluccio’s, or finding a hidden gem nearby at Mangal 2, there’s no shortage of choices.
So, while London Victoria Station might not be the most budget-friendly spot to grab a bite, the wide range of food available ensures that you’ll always find something to suit your tastes and your appetite.