Bloomberg Arcade, London

A Culinary Hub in the City

Bloomberg Arcade is a bustling pedestrian thoroughfare nestled in the heart of London’s financial district, the Square Mile. It hosts nine independent restaurants and bars, each offering distinct culinary experiences. From the award-winning Bleecker Burger known for its dry-aged beef, to the Japanese Udon specialists at Koya, and the vibrant Indian barbecue tavern Brigadiers, the arcade caters to a variety of tastes. The all-day dining options include Caravan’s globally inspired menu with house-roasted coffee and cocktails, the Italian delicatessen Lina Stores, and the healthy Hawaiian Poké House, creating a rich tapestry of flavors under one architectural canopy.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

The arcade is built on a historically significant site along the ancient Roman road, Watling Street. During the construction of Bloomberg’s European headquarters, over 14,000 Roman artefacts were uncovered, highlighting the deep historical roots beneath the modern cityscape. Bloomberg Arcade not only revives this lost Roman route but also integrates public art installations, such as the water sculpture "Forgotten Streams" by Cristina Iglesias, enhancing the visitor experience with a blend of history and contemporary culture.

Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

Designed as an all-weather, architecturally impressive space, Bloomberg Arcade provides a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere for city workers, locals, and visitors alike. Its pedestrianised design encourages lingering over meals, coffee, or cocktails, with a calendar of events including music and art commissions. The mix of casual dining spots and more intimate private dining options, like Lina Stores’ mezzanine, makes it suitable for everything from quick lunches to celebratory gatherings.

Dining Variety and Specialties

Each restaurant brings a unique specialty: Homeslice offers award-winning 20-inch pizzas by the slice, Brigadiers serves sizzling Indian BBQ inspired by army mess halls, and Vinoteca provides a continental wine bar experience with a carefully curated wine list. The diversity ensures that visitors can enjoy anything from a quick snack to a full multi-course meal, all within a single vibrant location.

Integration with London's Cultural Fabric

Bloomberg Arcade’s commitment to culture extends beyond dining. It supports a program of public art and cultural partnerships, enriching the urban environment. Nearby, the London Mithraeum Bloomberg SPACE showcases a restored Roman temple and artefacts discovered during the arcade’s development, linking the past and present in a unique urban cultural corridor.

Accessibility and Practical Details

Open primarily during daytime and evening hours, most venues operate Monday through Saturday, with some closing on Sundays. The arcade’s central location makes it accessible to office workers and tourists exploring the City of London. Its design accommodates groups of various sizes, from solo diners to large parties, with several venues offering private dining spaces.