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There’s something undeniably special about Shake Shack in Covent Garden. Located in the heart of one of London’s busiest and most beloved destinations, this particular location blends the charm of a historic market setting with the modern vibe of a trendy burger joint. For many Londoners and tourists alike, it’s often their first taste of the Shake Shack experience on UK soil. For us, this visit was a nostalgic return.
Years ago, our first meal here was in the open-air (but covered) atrium of the Covent Garden Market building. It was casual, buzzy, and had just enough space for a quick burger fix. Fast forward to today, and the space has evolved significantly—while still retaining its relaxed, welcoming vibe. Shake Shack Covent Garden has grown with its popularity, expanding both its physical space and the services it offers.
From Atrium to Full Service: A Growing Space
The transformation is immediately noticeable. What was once a small, kiosk-style outlet has now become a fully integrated dining spot with separate zones for ordering, pickup, and seating. The original atrium area now serves as the main covered seating section, with a new entrance archway leading into a sleek self-service ordering space. Oddly, you will need to go out of the building to come back in to the reception or ordering section given its one way system.
Outdoor seating has also been added, making it easier to find a spot even on busy afternoons. This layout not only improves the flow of foot traffic but also gives visitors a bit more breathing room. You could be grabbing a quick bite before heading to the West End or settling in with friends for a more leisurely meal, the updated setup accommodates all kinds of diners. The vibe remains casual and friendly—perfect for a laid-back burger fix in the middle of the city.
How to Order: Self-Service Kiosks, Staffed Counters & Mobile Options
Ordering at Shake Shack Covent Garden is straightforward and surprisingly flexible. During our visit, we used the self-service kiosks inside the main building, which have become a hallmark of modern fast-casual dining. These touchscreen terminals let you browse the full menu, customise your order, and pay directly—all without needing to queue at a counter.
Once we placed our order, we picked up a pager, registered it number on the screen and waited to be called. After finding a seat in the atrium area, our buzzer went off when the food was ready, prompting a quick trip to the designated pickup station. It’s a slick system that ensures orders are made fresh and collected promptly.
If kiosks aren’t your thing, there’s also the option to order from a staffed counter. Alternatively, each table has a QR code, letting you place your order via mobile and get notified when it’s ready. This blend of tech-savvy convenience and traditional service gives visitors more control over their experience—and helps keep queues moving, even during peak hours.
What We Ordered and How It Tasted
We went all in on this visit to Shake Shack Covent Garden, ordering a generous spread to fully enjoy what the menu had to offer. Here’s what we tried:
- ShackBurger – This signature cheeseburger came stacked with juicy beef, fresh lettuce, tomato, and that unmistakable ShackSauce. The patty was tender and flavourful with just the right amount of char, while the soft potato bun held it all together beautifully.
- Chicken Shack – Shake Shack’s answer to the crispy chicken sandwich didn’t disappoint. Crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with tangy pickles and creamy buttermilk herb mayo, this was a standout for fried chicken fans.
- Crinkle-Cut Fries (Plain and Cheese) – A must-have. The plain fries were crisp and golden, while the cheese version came smothered in a rich, velvety cheese sauce. Perfectly indulgent and highly shareable.
- Chicken Bites – These golden nuggets of tender chicken were a great add-on for variety. They were seasoned well and perfect for dipping—ideal if you want a quick protein hit without the bun.
- Shakes – We shared a Coffee, Vanilla, and Strawberry shake. All three were thick, creamy, and deliciously sweet (perhaps a touch too sweet for some). Made with real cane sugar and premium ice cream, they had that authentic “hand-spun” feel and were great as a dessert or even in place of one.
Every item tasted fresh and made-to-order, and despite the busy location, nothing felt rushed or thrown together. It’s easy to see why Shake Shack maintains a loyal following.
Service, Atmosphere and Cleanliness
Service at Shake Shack Covent Garden was smooth and attentive. Although ordering is mostly self-service, staff were friendly and quick to assist when needed. We were asked if we needed any extra sauces or condiments, and they happily pointed out where to find napkins, pumps for ketchup and mayo, and other essentials.
The atmosphere was lively but not chaotic. The seating area, especially the covered atrium space, had a relaxed feel with a mix of tourists, locals, and families. It is sealed in with glass panels and a dedicated entrance keep it reserved for diners only. It’s a casual spot where you can take your time without feeling rushed. Music plays gently in the background, but conversation is still easy.
Cleanliness was impressive, particularly for such a high-traffic location. Tables were cleared and wiped regularly, the self-serve kiosks were spotless, and the pickup area was orderly and well-managed. The whole setup felt polished and well-maintained.
Top Tips for Visiting Shake Shack Covent Garden
Planning a visit to Shake Shack Covent Garden? Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your experience:
- Use the kiosks or order via mobile – Skip the queue and take your time customising your order. If you’re in a group, mobile ordering can be even easier.
- Go during off-peak hours – Covent Garden is a major tourist hotspot, so mid-afternoon or early evening (before 6 PM) is often quieter.
- Sharing is caring – Portions are not particularly generous but enough for sharing. If you’re not super hungry, share fries or a shake to avoid overeating.
- Consider the Chicken Bites – They’re one of the cheapest ways to enjoy quality protein, especially if you’re skipping bread. The chicken bites are really crispy and you get a choice of dipping sauces; BBQ or Honey Mustard aside from the ketchup and mayonnaise from the pumps. Order the 1o piece meal to share, they are the best value.
- Combine with sightseeing – Shake Shack Covent Garden makes a perfect lunch stop when exploring West End theatres, street performances, or the nearby Apple Market.
For a central London location, this branch of Shake Shack delivers reliable quality with a smooth, modern ordering process and a lovely dining setup in a historic venue. If you’re a burger fan visiting Covent Garden, this spot should be high on your hit list.
Final Thoughts
Our visit to Shake Shack Covent Garden was a nostalgic yet elevated experience. What began as a small open-air burger joint in the market atrium near the Royal Opera House has grown into a fully-fledged, well-run branch with expanded seating, streamlined ordering, and consistently good food. The burgers were satisfying, the fries crispy and indulgent, and the shakes rich and creamy — everything you’d hope for from a premium fast-casual meal.
The self-service kiosks make ordering quick and convenient, while the staff help maintain a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite during a day out in central London or planning a casual meal with friends, this Shake Shack delivers quality, consistency, and a bit of comfort food indulgence in one of the city’s most iconic settings.
If you haven’t been yet — or it’s been a while — it’s definitely worth a return. Come hungry, bring a friend to share, and treat yourself to a shake. Covent Garden’s Shake Shack is proof that fast food can still be thoughtful, tasty, and fun. Plus, you can enjoy a spot of shopping at Covent Garden Market and Apple Market arts and crafts stalls.
RELATED: If you are on a budget and still wishes to make the most of your visit, check out our article – How to Eat Well at Shake Shack on a Budget – Tips, hacks and cheap picksHow to Eat Well at Shake Shack on a Budget – Tips, hacks and cheap picks.
