Tour of London Inspired by Namjoon – Places featured in RM’s vlog “RM in Europe” – London Edition
For an ARMY, travel isn’t just about seeing the sights—it’s about feeling the connection. We walk the same streets, see the same skies, and if we’re lucky, we can taste the same incredible food that inspired our idols. When Kim Namjoon, our beloved leader and a well-known gourmet, shared his London adventures, he didn’t just give us a vlog; he gave us a blueprint for a perfect gastro-cultural journey.
If you’re planning a pilgrimage to London and want to infuse your trip with a taste of Namjoon’s culinary curiosity, this is your essential food itinerary. Get ready to walk in the footsteps of a man who appreciates deep cuts of meat, deep thoughts, and deep flavours.
🥩 The Classic London Chop House: Blacklock (Covent Garden)
The Vibe: Stepping into Blacklock is like discovering a secret that all of London is in on. Tucked away in the vaults of Covent Garden, this spot is all about moody lighting, exposed brick, and an undeniable buzz. It’s sophisticated yet unpretentious—a place where business deals and long-time friends mingle over perfectly charred meat. You can easily picture Namjoon here, appreciating the history in the walls and the craftsmanship on the plate.
The Food: This is a celebration of the classic British chop house. They are famous for their “All In” menu—a towering stack of juicy chops (lamb, beef, and pork) served atop deliciously grilled flatbreads to soak up all the glorious juices. It’s communal, it’s carnivorous, and it’s an experience. Don’t skip their pre-chopped cocktails, a modern twist on classics that would surely please a connoisseur like Joon.
ARMY Pro-Tip: This place is wildly popular. Book a table well in advance. Channel your inner Tannie and order a side of their 10-hour smoked beef ribs or the decadent cheesecake for a truly indulgent feast.
🥂 An Elegant Taste of Persia: Lazeez (Duke Street)
The Vibe: A world away from the bustling energy of Covent Garden, Lazeez offers a more intimate and refined dining experience. Located on a quiet street in Mayfair, it feels like a hidden gem. With its crisp white tablecloths and warm, attentive service, it’s the perfect spot for a thoughtful meal—the kind of place where you could imagine Namjoon having deep conversations or simply enjoying a moment of quiet reflection after a day of gallery-hopping.
The Food: Lazeez specializes in exquisite Persian cuisine. Think beautifully grilled kebabs, fragrant rice dishes studded with barberries and saffron, and rich, complex stews. The flavours are nuanced and aromatic, a testament to a culinary tradition that values balance and spice. It’s a cuisine that rewards a curious palate, making it a perfect choice for our ever-curious leader.
ARMY Pro-Tip: Try the Chelo Kebab Koobideh (minced lamb kebabs) or ask the staff for their recommendation—they are incredibly knowledgeable. Pair your meal with a glass of wine, and toast to the man who has the taste to find such a sophisticated spot.
🇰🇷 A Taste of BTS’s Home: Seoul Tokyo (Borough High Street)
The Vibe: Sometimes, even an international superstar might crave the comforting flavours of home. For Namjoon, that stop was Seoul Tokyo, a humble and unassuming spot near the iconic Borough Market. This is no-frills, authentic dining at its best. It’s the kind of place that focuses entirely on what’s important: hearty, delicious, and familiar food.
The Food: As the name suggests, the menu offers a mix of Korean and Japanese staples. From sizzling bibimbap and hearty kimchi jjigae to fresh sushi and donburi bowls, it’s a haven for anyone missing East Asian flavours. It’s easy to imagine Namjoon popping in for a quick, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug from home.
ARMY Pro-Tip: Combine your visit here with a trip to the incredible Borough Market just a short walk away. Grab a Korean feast at Seoul Tokyo, then wander through the market for some of London’s best artisanal desserts and coffee. It’s the perfect blend of cultural comfort and local exploration.
Pack Your Bags (and Your Appetite)
Travelling through a city with a guide like Kim Namjoon is a special kind of magic. It transforms a simple meal into a memory and a restaurant into a landmark. These three spots offer a beautiful snapshot of his London: the classic, the elegant, and the comforting.
So, ARMY, book your tickets, pack your most comfortable shoes, and get ready to create your own Bangtan inspired memories in London.
Bon appétit, or as Namjoon might say, jal meokkessseubnida! (잘 먹겠습니다!)