With cool bars, a wealth of pubs, exciting eateries and plenty of green space, Clapham has long been one of London’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Here’s where to go and what to do to make the most of the area
Words Georgie Rutherford
Whether it’s a bottomless brunch, a coffee pit stop or a fancy supper, Clapham has something for everyone. With a plethora of bars and the odd club or three (hello Infernos), the area has garnered a reputation for its nightlife too. If day activities are more up your street, there’s lots to do nearby including studios and a Saturday market. Should it all get a bit much, you can always retreat to Clapham Common to catch your breath.
Take a look at our favourite spots in Clapham:
Brickwood
This café, just a stone’s throw away from Clapham Common tube, is one of the new wave of Antipodean-style cafes serving brunch until 3pm. You can count on the eggs being perfectly poached, dishes decorated with pretty leaf garnishes and great background music.
Tart
Head to Tart if you’re looking for a lunchtime pastry pick me up. Probably London’s only tart-based bakery and coffee shop, they dish up a frequently changing menu of tarts along with fresh salads and tart-themed brunches. The little chorizo and roasted pepper number is a must.
Mommi
A trendy restaurant that is deliciously different and perfect for socialising. Mommi is an international hybrid where Japanese and Latin collide. Diners are invited to sample a vast array of raw, fresh and healthy plates, most presented on colourful tableware imported from Japan. This hybrid dominates the liquor cabinet too, with drinks such as the Machu Pistachu (rye whisky, pistachios, lemon, sugar and egg white). Make sure to admire the bespoke mural from the acclaimed Melbourne street artist RONE.
The Dairy
This intimate, cosy and unpretentious restaurant has bare wood tables and a buzzing bar. With a carefully curated menu of small plates broken up into snacks, garden, sea and land, it’s very easy to over order. However it’s definitely worth trying something from every section as Head Chef Robin Gill has an impressive background having previously been Head Chef at Noma, Almeida and Restaurant Sauterelle. Expect fireworks in the kitchen.
The Hope and Anchor
Nestled on the Brixton border, this lovely Clapham pub is the perfect spot for an after-work drink or a long boozy lunch. Boasting one of the most spectacular beer gardens in south London, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the summer sun with a cold Pimm’s in hand. The unique and vibrant garden is famous for its 13 Tiki Huts, flaming fire pits and an Olmeca tequila bar.
WC – Wine + Charcuterie
While its location in a former public toilet may not sound too appealing, stay with us on this one because the ‘WC’ on the original sign now refers to Wine + Charcuterie. This concept won out of 450 bidding applications to redevelop the unusual subterranean and above-ground space, and it’s easy to see why. The wall tiles and floor mosaics are still there and the cubicle doors have been laid flat and turned into tables within low-lit booths making it a cosy and quirky place for your evening tipple. Enjoy a score of wines and accompany your glass of choice with a delicious cheese or charcuterie platter that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to the Spanish coast.
Things to do:
Venn Street Market
Venn Street Market is a lively food market open every Saturday. With the numbers of traders growing week by week, this is the perfect place to find a wealth of fresh and local produce. Traders include Hook & Son (Raw Dairy Farm), M. Moen & Sons (Hog Roast) and Argentine Empanada (Chango Empanada trader).
Studio Voltaire
If you’re in need of some culture, Studio Voltaire has an outstanding track record of supporting artists at a pivotal stage in their careers. They champion emerging and underrepresented artists, allowing the studio to offer an alternative and agenda-setting view of contemporary art. It has now become one of the most energising spaces in London and it’s knack for spotting young talent makes it an impressive presence on the city’s art scene.
Clapham Picturehouse
If you’re looking for some entertainment on a rainy day, Clapham Picturehouse is the place to go. It’s a super popular local cinema situated beside Clapham Common with a devoted following that can’t get enough of the snug atmosphere and reclining seats. Treat yourself to an array of posh snacks and grab yourself a drink at the bar pre and post-film.
