London bagel shop tops Deliveroo global orders list

Published: 04 November 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

In a surprising twist that has delighted food lovers across the globe, a small independent London bagel shop has claimed the crown as Deliveroo’s most popular food item worldwide this year. Papo’s Bagels, a family-run establishment in Dalston, saw its signature “Classic Bagel” rise above orders from major restaurant chains and international brands, highlighting the enduring appeal of local, authentic cuisine.

Founded by husband-and-wife team Georgia Fenwick-Gomez and Gabe “Papo” Gomez, the shop has quickly become a culinary landmark. What began as a modest home delivery operation during the COVID-19 lockdown has evolved into a thriving commercial kitchen and brick-and-mortar store, drawing long queues from eager customers. The winning item, the “Classic Bagel,” is a simple yet expertly crafted creation, combining smoked salmon, cream cheese, sliced red onion, fresh tomatoes, and capers. Its global popularity underscores the universal appeal of well-executed, comforting food.

Expressing their excitement, the founders stated, “Winning Deliveroo’s top-trending dish of the year is honestly a crazy honour. We had a simple desire to bring a taste of home – New York City – to London, and The Classic is a classic for a reason. Thank you!” Their story resonates with a growing trend of small, locally run businesses competing successfully against established chains, proving that authenticity and quality can capture both local and global attention.

Deliveroo’s annual report, known as the Deliveroo 100, is more than a ranking—it provides a snapshot of consumer tastes and trends across nine global markets, including the UK. The list tracks both the most popular dishes and the fastest-rising orders, offering insights into shifting preferences and the power of delivery platforms in shaping culinary habits. Papo’s Bagels, with its humble beginnings, now serves as a testament to the way independent eateries can harness digital platforms to reach customers worldwide.

The London bagel shop was followed closely by other notable winners. The Dirty Meal Deal from Reading-based burger restaurant 7Bone secured the second spot in the UK, while the Ultimate Combo from London sandwich shop Crunch took third place. Interestingly, the top 10 list included not only ready-to-eat meals but also groceries, highlighting a broader trend in consumer habits. Jason’s Sourdough bread from Morrisons in Manchester and blueberries from Co-op in London reached fourth and ninth positions respectively, demonstrating the continued demand for fresh, high-quality ingredients delivered to doorsteps.

These results reveal a diverse palate among UK consumers. While fast food and takeaway remain prominent, there is an evident appetite for artisanal, locally sourced products. Last year’s list similarly showcased unexpected favourites, such as a whole cucumber from Waitrose and Warburtons crumpets from Asda Express in Leeds. Even sliced gherkins made the longer list, taking 22nd place, underscoring the quirky and eclectic nature of modern delivery trends.

Deliveroo vice president of regional growth, Jeff Wemyss, commented on the significance of the report: “Marking our ninth year, the Deliveroo 100 is more than a list – it’s a definitive snapshot of global cravings and consumer habits. This year’s list clearly shows the strong connection between communities and their beloved independent restaurants, which sit proudly alongside our favourite chains.” Wemyss highlighted that the platform’s ability to connect consumers with small businesses has transformed the way people interact with food, providing opportunities for culinary innovation and entrepreneurship.

The report also reflects seasonal trends and consumer behaviour in response to external factors. For instance, Valentine’s Day week saw a surge in jewellery orders through the platform, while extreme weather conditions influenced sales of practical items such as fans during the heatwave of early July. Such insights illustrate that consumer behaviour on delivery platforms extends far beyond the culinary sphere, encompassing lifestyle choices and adaptive purchasing habits in response to real-world events.

Papo’s Bagels’ achievement is emblematic of a broader shift in the food delivery landscape. Independent restaurants and artisanal food providers are increasingly leveraging technology to reach audiences that were previously inaccessible. This democratization of delivery not only expands consumer choice but also promotes the preservation of cultural and regional culinary traditions. For the Gomez family, it validates years of dedication to crafting high-quality products and fostering strong community ties.

The rise of Papo’s Bagels also underscores the importance of storytelling in today’s food industry. Consumers are drawn not only to taste but also to authenticity, heritage, and personal narratives behind dishes. By sharing the journey of their bagel shop—from home-based kitchen to international recognition—the Gomez family has connected with customers on a deeper level, fostering loyalty and enthusiasm that transcends borders.

This phenomenon has implications for the wider food industry. Traditional chain restaurants may face increased competition as consumers gravitate toward unique, local, and personalized offerings. Platforms like Deliveroo act as crucial intermediaries, amplifying the reach of small businesses while providing data-driven insights that help both independent eateries and large chains refine their menus and delivery strategies.

The Classic Bagel’s global acclaim also highlights the universal appeal of comfort food with a refined twist. While gourmet trends and experimental cuisine continue to attract niche markets, dishes that balance familiarity, quality, and craftsmanship are proving capable of capturing widespread attention. For Papo’s Bagels, it is not merely a victory for one menu item but a validation of their philosophy: simple ingredients, expert preparation, and a commitment to customer experience can create a world-class product.

As the food delivery market continues to expand, this story is likely to inspire other small business owners to explore digital platforms as a means to scale operations and build brand recognition. The experience of Papo’s Bagels demonstrates that success in the modern culinary world requires more than just taste—it demands creativity, authenticity, and a willingness to embrace technological opportunities.

Looking ahead, Papo’s Bagels plans to maintain its strong community focus while exploring additional growth opportunities. The family-run operation remains committed to quality, using sustainable ingredients and engaging with local suppliers whenever possible. The combination of ethical sourcing, consistent product quality, and effective digital marketing positions the business to maintain its top spot in a competitive market.

Deliveroo’s top-ranked dishes also serve as a cultural barometer, reflecting not only what people are eating but also how they are eating. From home deliveries to office lunches, consumers’ preferences are increasingly shaped by convenience, quality, and the desire to support local businesses. The platform’s data-driven approach provides valuable insights that benefit restaurants, consumers, and investors alike, shaping the future of food delivery and dining habits worldwide.

The 2025 Deliveroo 100 report confirms that small, independent businesses can achieve global recognition, even in a market dominated by multinational chains. Papo’s Bagels’ success story celebrates the triumph of dedication, authenticity, and innovation, offering inspiration to food entrepreneurs everywhere. By leveraging digital delivery platforms, local establishments can connect with customers on a scale previously unimaginable, transforming simple dishes into internationally celebrated culinary experiences.