Across the road from Borough Market, Monmouth offers a great breather from the busy stalls. The queue is constant but fast-moving and on a sunny day there’s always a crowd sitting on the pavement sipping out of ceramic espresso mugs. There are no single-use paper cups here, so those who want to stroll to the river can pay a deposit on a reusable container. A British artisan coffee pioneer.

We can't get enough of St. JOHN - no matter the iteration. This wonderful bakery is naturally no different. They've got traditional loaves and insanely good doughnuts to take away or enjoy at one of their outdoor tables.

Before the food stalls arrived on Maltby Street, wine-importing business Gergovie Wines was quietly doing its thing, with a secret, stripped back kitchen and bar. There are still no reservations, and only high stool seating inside the railway arch, but the restaurant is now adored in foodie circles. The natural wine is sourced from small-scale producers and the chalkboard menu is made up of terrines and tarts, smoked trout and chicken schnitzels. This is where restaurant critics eat on their night off.

Christophe Lechevalier, the French owner of this sweet independent bottle shop, honed his craft while working in nearby Borough Market for more than 15 years. He’s a great host, with an attentive team who are also obsessed with the primarily organic, biodynamic and natural wine list. The cheese, salami and pâté en croûte – available to take home or enjoy with a glass – are also meticulously sourced. A little-known address with a small but fiercely loyal fan base.