South London

Unit 20 Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London SW11 8EZ

This cosy neighbourhood bar is from the team behind Quo Vadis and Barrafina so they know a thing or two about good food and wine. On the wine front, there’s plenty by both the glass and bottle and there's plenty of beer on tap too, with a focus on Guinness and Estrella. The food offering focuses on the cheese toastie with classic options and guest sandwiches on rotation. The sheltered riverside terrace is a boon on warmer days.

278 Queenstown Rd, Nine Elms, London SW8 4LT

Popular tapas spot Boqueria is an independent restaurant focusing on giving Battersea residents a flavour of Spain. As the name suggests, it’s inspired by Barcelona’s iconic food market - expect a range of croquetas, classic tapas, and proper paella. If you want to push the boat out the restaurant’s roast suckling pig is a must and the wine list is a treasure trove of well-known favourites and lesser-known gems.

Arch 65 Queen's Circus, Nine Elms, London SW8 4NE

The first bricks-and-mortar site from top-tier catering company Spook London, Archway is one of those neighbourhood spots everyone wished they had nearby. A tight menu focuses on what’s in season, with the chef’s River Cafe roots showing in the Italian-influenced dishes. The name, in case you’re confused, references its location in an old railway arch.

63 Battersea Bridge Rd, London SW11 3AU

Classic French restaurant Augustine is run by chef Franck Raymond (formerly at Mon Plaisir). Here in Battersea, his menu is informed by his upbringing in the Evian region of France so, in addition to classic dishes like French onion soup you’ll also find regional specialities on offer. The all-French wine list is well worth perusing.

Every branch of Bao has a distinct identity and for their Battersea branch, the team took inspiration from the noodle shops of Taiwan. Key to that is the beef noodle broths which you'll find here in a rich as well as a lighter version. There are, of course their signature bao buns too, and expect to find dishes on the menu that are exclusive to Battersea. For party planners, the private karaoke room is worth knowing about.