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The King of FalafelBWorth Trying

17 Hunter St, London WC1N 1BN · Falafel restaurant, Mediterranean restaurant, Restaurant · 4.4/5 Google (1048 reviews)

Takeout · Outdoor seating

A beloved London falafel spot with generous portions, friendly service, and unbeatable value, but with some hygiene and consistency concerns.

Why it gets a B for overall quality

The King of Falafel delivers solid neighborhood dining through strong food quality and exceptional service warmth, earning its loyal following among students and locals. However, food safety concerns and cramped seating prevent a higher grade, while occasional consistency dips suggest reliability isn't absolute. This is honest, affordable Mediterranean comfort food executed well—worth visiting for quick, satisfying meals, just not a destination restaurant.

Restaurant Summary

The King of Falafel is a London staple for those seeking fresh, affordable, and satisfying Mediterranean street food. With its unassuming storefront and tiny interior, this spot punches above its weight thanks to generous portions, lightning-fast service, and a staff that makes even first-timers feel like regulars. The menu is a parade of wraps—falafel, lamb kofta, chicken shawarma—each praised for their flavor, freshness, and value. Students and locals alike rave about the 10% student discount and the option to mix-and-match wrap fillings for extra variety. Culinarily, The King of Falafel sticks to the classics, offering a traditional Mediterranean approach with a few British breakfast staples thrown in for good measure. This is not the place for avant-garde foodies or those seeking fusion experiments; instead, expect comfort food done right, with a focus on hearty wraps, crisp salads, and familiar flavors. The vibe is casual and welcoming, perfect for a quick lunch, solo meal, or a low-key dinner. The space is small and seating is limited, so don't plan your next group outing here. For families and kids, the menu is surprisingly accommodating: English breakfasts, simple wraps, and croissants offer plenty of options for picky eaters. While the space is tight and not ideal for strollers or large families, the food itself is approachable and kid-friendly. If you're after a spot where the little ones can find something they'll actually eat, this place delivers—just don't expect a play area or high chairs.

At a Glance

What Sets It Apart

What People Love

Points of Concern

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleCounter With Seating Average Cost£7-9 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Perfect For

Location Insights

Area: Urban London setting, likely a casual, diverse, and lively area catering to students, workers, and locals.

Safety: Generally safe with moderate foot traffic; some reviews mention cleanliness concerns inside the shop.

Nearby: Proximity to King's Cross station (13 min walk), surrounded by other small eateries and shops.

BloomsburyIntellectually vibrant area known for prestigious institutions like University of London, British Museum, and a rich literary heritage. Dining scene features scholarly cafes, traditional pubs, and sophisticated international restaurants.
Museum QuarterConcentrated academic and cultural zone with refined dining options catering to intellectual and international crowds.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday08:00–22:00 Tuesday08:00–22:00 Wednesday08:00–22:00 Thursday08:00–22:00 Friday08:00–22:00 Saturday08:00–22:00 Sunday08:00–21:00

Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating

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