Valentine’s Day is almost here, and whether you’re going big on romance or keeping it low-key with mates, food is always a good idea. This year, Shepherd’s Bush Market is serving up three brilliant ways to share a plate and skip the awkward prix fixe dinners.
Here’s our go-to guide for what to eat: whether you’re head over heels, barely texting back, or just fancy a really good lunch.
Located at Shop 49, Falafel Hut has become a cult favourite for good reason. The wraps are top-tier, but the fish and salad plate (£9.00) is the true hidden gem. Crispy fried fish, bold sauces, and fluffy flatbread make this perfect for tearing, dipping, and bonding over spice levels. There’s no candlelight, just killer flavour and plenty of napkins.
Ethiopian café Delina (Arch 176) does sharing properly. The Beyaynetu platter for two (£18.00) gives you six vegetarian tasters on a giant piece of soft injera flatbread. Want something heartier? Go for the Mixed Plates Plus (£40.00) with two meat dishes, three veggie sides and enough injera to carpet a living room. It’s messy, delicious, and absolutely built for hand-to-hand dining.
3. Hawk’s Nest – Pizza and Pizzette for the Win
Sometimes, all you need is a pizza and a pint. Hawk’s Nest is perfect for a relaxed night with fairy lights, shareable garlic pizzette (£8) and crispy, stone-baked pizzas. The Four Cheese or Verace pizzas both scream “romantic carbs”, while the Nduja & Burrata is basically edible flirting. Sharing is optional, but strongly encouraged.
Whether you’re raising a glass of red or just grabbing lunch between catch-ups, food brings people together. So this Valentine’s Day, skip the stress and head to the Market instead.
Mate or date, just don’t forget the extra napkins.
27th January 2026
