Jamie Younger is co-owner of The Victory, which he opened with his wife, Rema Waterhouse, in East Dulwich this summer. The pub marks a return to the neighbourhood for Younger, who previously established The Palmerston as one of London’s leading gastropubs. He is also the founder of The Begging Bowl in Peckham, a much-loved local restaurant that has been open for 15 years. Having begun his career as a chef, including a period as Head Chef at Bibendum, Younger’s approach is rooted in British produce and French-influenced cooking.
An East Dulwich local, he's agreed to share all his favourite places to eat and drink in his neighbourhood.
Kanella
106 Lordship Ln, London SE22 8HF
Kanella serves the best coffee on the Lane and perfectly captures the friendly, community feel of East Dulwich. It’s family-run and the coffee is consistently excellent. Alex, the owner, is a walking foodie encyclopaedia, so he’s well worth asking if you’re after the latest must-try spot. They also make an incredible bougatsa (a Greek custard pie) that should come with a warning, it’s seriously addictive.
Evi’s
18 N Cross Rd, London SE22 9EU
Tucked just off Lordship Lane on North Cross Road, Evi’s is a bit of a hidden gem. It serves traditional Greek taverna fare with a slightly elevated touch, and the chips, sprinkled with oregano, instantly transport you back to your favourite Greek holiday. The spicy margarita shouldn’t be missed either. It’s a small, intimate space, but what makes it truly special are the staff, who make you feel as though you’ve wandered into their home and are about to be very well fed.
Deli 22
38 Forest Hill Rd, London SE22 0RR
The jerk chicken sandwich at Deli 22 has developed something of a cult following locally. Whenever I’m craving something quick but genuinely satisfying, it’s one of my go-to lunches. The chicken is packed with flavour, with just the right amount of heat. It’s one of those simple things that East Dulwich locals love recommending to newcomers.
Cave de Bruno
143 Lordship Ln, London SE22 8HX
Inspired by owners Lou and Bruno’s passion for independently produced French wines, Cave de Bruno has become something of an East Dulwich institution. While it’s an excellent place to pick up a special bottle for a dinner party, I’m more often found there for a post service glass, helped by the fact that it sits just a stone’s throw from The Victory. It’s the sort of neighbourhood spot built on loyal regulars; sit outside on their terrace long enough and you’re bound to exchange a familiar nod with someone passing by. In the summer sun it all feels very European.
Norbert's
Melbourne Terrace, Melbourne Grove, London SE22 8RE
Norbert's is a fantastic addition to the food scene in East Dulwich. The room is small, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the focus is firmly on rotisserie chicken done properly, crisp-skinned, juicy and packed with flavour. The sides are spot on, the sort of dishes that sound simple but are hard to stop picking at. There's also a lovely short wine list, with just enough choice to keep everyone happy without needing to spend ten minutes studying it.
See also
For more of these local area guides, visit the My Manor page.
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