This is a stock-drop type of place, meaning that if you're hankering for the full assortment of baked goods and sweet treats you have to commute to Maya's Bakehouse early. Serving everything from miso and sesame cookies, a nutmeg and custard swirl to the most moorish brioches filled with paprika spice, wild garlic butter, mozzarella and plenty of cheddar. Though there's no seating inside, grab your goods and tootle over the road to Brockwell Park to munch and, if you're feeling adventurous, have a dip in the Brockwell Lido. 

While you can head to Linnaean for many things – it’s a café, restaurant, apothecary and spa, after all – nine times out of ten, we’re popping in for a little beautification. The talented team will whip your nails into shape, give you the perfect blowout, tend to those errant hairs and work out stubborn knots in your back – all in one stunning spot. 

Fancy a cheeky glass? Lulu's is a deli by day, selling delicious sandwiches and produce, and a lovely wine bar with bottles from around the world by night.

Cosied up next to one another by Herne Hill station (just west of Peckham) is another adored south London couple. First there was Llewelyn’s, which remained a secret for years, dishing up seasonal plates of bright asparagus and chopped egg followed by braised rabbit with butter beans. But word spread, and with it came Lulu’s in 2022, serving coffee, pastries and stellar sandwiches. In the evening diners pile in for supper next to the deli shelves.