Daniela's Lounge

Sweet, family-run cafés such as Daniela’s are a dying breed in London these days. Enter the charming premises & you might feel like you’re in your best mate’s living room. It would have to be a pretty stylish friend, mind, given all the funky furnishings – & one who’s handy in the kitchen. There’s no menu; instead, you’ll find a line-up of hearty Italian dishes (& portions) like mama used to make. Expect piled-high plates of lasagne, pumpkin & ricotta ravioli, or penne with smoked sausage, plus vegetables & salads to lighten the load. To finish, indulgent chocolate desserts or profiteroles are dangerously irresistible even when you’re full. Excellent Italian coffee & burly breakfasts tempt the Saturday morning crowds, while a BYO policy makes Daniela’s a cheap prospect for later visitors.