601 Queen’s Road

There’s a lot to love at this casual all-day eatery and bar, located right next to the station, above Centre Court shopping mall. Previously The Terrace, it’s now part of Darwin & Walllace’s popular mini-chain of neighbourhood joints in South London, including Clapham’s No 32 The Old Town. The team has worked its magic here: a bright, contemporary design channels Scandi-cool and New England charm, with a pretty jasmine-decked terrace and circular bar. Drop in for brunch – maybe eggs Benedict or a breakfast rice bowl – or lunch with small plates such as moist Thai-style spicy crab cakes or grilled halloumi skewers. Crowd-pleasing mains include the generous house burger, butternut squash curry and chicken schnitzel. We’re not sure our mackerel needed to be pan-fried as well as smoked, but aside from that dishes are well-executed and make the most of on-trend sustainable ingredients. Drinks here are definitely a cut above your average boozer, with interesting selections of wine, craft beer and seasonal cocktails, as well as healthy juices, smoothies and kombucha.