London is fortunate to boast a plethora of breakfast establishments, offering a diverse array of culinary choices. The sumptuous 'fry up' represents a longstanding breakfast tradition, with origins dating back to the early 1300s. It can be savored in the early hours, during brunch, or indeed, at any point throughout the day – are there any words more delightful in the English language than 'all-day breakfast'?
13th century
The English breakfast, commonly referred to as the 'fry-up,' traces its origins back to the 13th century among the gentry. The gentry, a social class comprising aristocrats, landowners, and senior members of the clergy, saw themselves as the true heirs to the Anglo-Saxons and were dedicated to upholding the values and customs of the traditional Anglo-Saxon way of life.
In the grand country houses and sprawling country estates that served as central hubs for local society, breakfast held a special significance. It was deemed the most important meal of the day. The gentry viewed breakfast as an integral part of social hospitality, aligning with the traditional practices of the Anglo-Saxons. Consequently, they became renowned for their lavish breakfast feasts.
1950s
By the 1950s, more than half of the British population began their day with the traditional English breakfast, which had once been the exclusive domain of the wealthy upper classes. It had now evolved into a quintessentially national dish, widely enjoyed across the country. This hearty meal became a common offering in 'greasy spoon' cafes, which were typically found in commercial, manufacturing, and industrial centers, catering to the working-class populace.