Probably London’s coolest gallerist, Peckham-based Hannah Barry is part of a young crew keeping the art world on their toes. She’s best known as the founder of Bold Tendencies, the annual art programme synonymous with Frank’s rooftop café, and her eponymous gallery is tucked around the corner from Peckham Rye station. It’s free to enter, with a roster of shows that has been the launchpad for emerging artists such as George Rouy and Shaun McDowell. An art destination for those wanting to keep a finger on the pulse.


This, the little sibling to neighbourhood bistro Levan, might just be even more fun. It's mini, with moody lighting and high stools lined up against the bar and windows where locals sip organic and biodynamic wines recommended by charming and familiar staff and graze on French-influenced dishes from the chalkboard menu. Our pick is slices of baguette with saucisson and pickles, the devilled egg with Kewpie mayo and trout roe followed by a bavette, frites and a salad to share (delivered from the restaurant next door). Always buzzy, it feels like the place to be.

Named after 1970s New York DJ Larry Levan (the owners are music-mad), this bistro is always buzzing. The space has an open kitchen, deep blue walls and a dining room in two parts, while the refined menu is big on cheesy comfort (Comté fries with saffron aïoli, gnudi with wild garlic and Lincolnshire Poacher). There’s an extensive natural wine selection and a strong playlist. Next door at Bar Levan there is more biodynamic wine and late opening on weekends. A grown-up neighbourhood duo that Londoners travel for.

