I’m a North London Girl - These 6 South London Spots Won Me Over
From one North Londoner who finally crossed over the river.
After a bit of news on life changes coming up, we’re back with our regularly scheduled program!
Can you believe this post title? I know - I'm as surprised as you are.
I've always leaned North and East when it comes to London exploring, and a few of you kindly (and gently) called me out on it after recent posts. Fair enough! I hear you. Bring on all the ‘I told you so’s.
Honestly, this is what I love about writing here - it feels like a conversation. Whether it’s great recommendations, thoughtful nudges, or little gems like Chris’ comment below (thank you, I adored it), this space really does feel like a cozy group chat with good taste.
So! In the spirit of opening my mind, crossing the Thames, and following a few helpful recommendations (Benjamina Ebuehi and Hannah - you’re heroes) here are 6 Good Places I visited over some weekends in South London. Not an exhaustive list, but a very happy - and slightly converted - one.
Google Maps link to everything here.
1. TOAD Bakery & Café Mondo (edit: Camberwell)
📍 TOAD Bakery - 144 Peckham Rd, SE5 8PX
📍 Café Mondo - 142 Peckham Rd, SE5 8PX
Okay, I’m cheating a little with this two-in-one - but they’re literally side-by-side, and the combo makes for a perfect mini food tour.
I went to Café Mondo for a sandwich and, while waiting, popped into TOAD next door for a coffee and a little sweet treat.
What to order:
At TOAD, the morning bun was excellent. I was eyeing something else, then someone walked in and said, “Thanks for the morning bun - I’ve never tasted one that good.” Say less. Also worth grabbing: the everything bagel croissant - sweet, salty, and flaky. I’d travel back for it.
At Café Mondo, the chicken caesar sandwich was divine. Fluffy bread, properly seasoned chicken, crispy kale, red onions. Mmm salivating just writing this. I skipped the fish finger sandwich and haven’t stopped thinking about it.
Why it’s worth a visit: A low-key pocket away from busy Peckham Rye with excellent coffee, sandwiches, and pastries. A very strong start to going South.
What’s nearby: Wander over to Lucas Gardens for a pastry picnic. Head to the South London Gallery for a well-curated, nice break from the bigger central museums.
2. Chatsworth Bakehouse (Crystal Palace)
📍 Walk-in bakery - 116 Anerley Rd
📍 The little red shop - 120A Anerley Rd
A 5-minute walk from Crystal Palace Station, this tiny bakery has serious local love - and a great origin story (Kickstarter-funded and still going strong).
What to order: The weekly sandwich is the star - always creative, packed with flavor. A coffee and a loaf to take home never hurts either. Check their Instagram for the latest line-up before heading over.
Why it’s worth a visit: A neighborhood gem with heart, seasonality, and proper care in the details.
What’s nearby: Wander through Crystal Palace Park - yes, with the famous dinosaurs. Grab a second coffee at Blackbird Bakery.
3. LAMP LDN (Peckham)
Tucked just off Bellenden Road, this tiny homewares shop packs in big Italian-flair style. Set up by two local mums during lockdown, it’s bold, colorful, and thoughtful. Think: if Glassette had a Peckham cousin who throws really good dinner parties.
Why it’s worth a visit: Independent designers, mostly UK/Europe-based, and always with a lean toward local. It’s one of those shops you pop into “just for a look” and emerge from 30 minutes later with a sculptural candlestick, a linen tablecloth, and a fresh take on your living room. Not ideal for your budget, but a delight for the eyes and soul.
What’s nearby: You’re right by Bellenden Road, where you can stop by General Store or Gather for foodie provisions, The Sourcing Table if you’re in a vino mood, and D.A.Y Boutique for a great edit of independent fashion and jewellery labels. Plus, a handful of cute cafés along the street.
4. Horniman Museum & Gardens (Dulwich / Forest Hill)
📍 100 London Rd, SE23 3PQ
Natural history, anthropology, music, gardens - all in one space, and without the central London crowds.
Why it’s worth a visit: Exhibits range from taxidermy to musical instruments, plus there’s a butterfly house, aquarium, and events like the plant fair. It’s easy to spend a couple of hours here - and the gardens come with great views.
What’s nearby: I quite appreciated Forest Hill’s strong local feel, with independent cafés and shops clustered near the station. Try The Teapot for lunch, St David Coffee House for coffee (duh), or browse vintage at Archie & Tallulah’s Emporium. Aga’s Little Deli for snacks to go.
5. El Vermut (Nunhead)
📍 28 Nunhead Grn, SE15 3QF
A little slice of Barcelona in South London, El Vermut is a relaxed neighbourhood spot specializing in Spanish vermouth. I can totally picture myself here on a weekday evening if I lived nearby (a girl can dream).
What to order: Vermouth (obviously). If red’s not your thing, try a white or their rose negroni. Tapas are small but solid.
Why it’s worth a visit: It sits right on Nunhead Green, and in spring/summer the place spills out onto the pavement - golden-hour drinks, chatter, great vibes. They also host a rotating mix of events - book clubs, creative writing nights, supper clubs, and the classic quizzes.
What’s nearby: Drop by The Old Nuns Head for a pint, Mosey for a cosy café moment, and ALKEMI Store for beautiful, thoughtful Japanese and Korean homewares.
6. Forza Wine (Peckham)
📍 The Rooftop, 133A Rye Lane, SE15 4BQ
It’s not a South London guide without a rooftop. Forza Wine serves “Italian-ish” small plates and natural wines, with full skyline views.
What to order: The snacks & wine menu changes regularly, but the cauliflower fritti, flatbreads, and the signature Custardo are perennial favourites.
Why it’s worth a visit: Food, wine, skyline - what more? Especially dreamy at sunset. Definitely book ahead on sunny days.
What’s nearby: If you're heading into the evening, Peckham Levels for DJs, cocktails, and a more casual party vibe. For a sleek dinner, Levan is a top notch modern European spot, and JandaDiner serves up comforting Malaysian dishes. Or, take a walk through Peckham Rye Park & Common - a green break from the bustle.
A Few More for Next Time
Still on the list...
Cafés & Bakeries: South London Louie / Kanella & Co. / Boulangerie Jade / Etude Coffee / Four Boroughs / Crespidia
Food Spots: MONDO SANDO / Evi's
Pubs: The Camberwell Arms / Westow House
Pizza: BAR D4100 / Made of Dough / Four Hundred Rabbits / Palazzo
Drinks: The Peckham Pelican
I’m still very much expanding my South London map - and open to suggestions.
I haven’t made it to Tooting yet (Juliet’s Quality Foods and Milk Run on the list), so send your favourites my way in the comments. I’d love to keep the list growing.
Thanks for reading Once In! See you on the next wander.
xx Anna
Thank you for these. When you go to Tooting, leave time for a swim in the wonderful Tooting Bec Lido!
Also get on over to Brixton…..SOOOOOO many great places 🥰#swisthebest