Cheese + Fizz

Nestled in the heart of Brixton Village is a cute little café that evokes a Parisian bistro, called Cheese + Fizz, which does exactly what it says on the tin. After ten successful years under the name Champagne + Fromage, the bar and restaurant recently relaunched under the new name, with other locations around London and in Bath.

The cosy-cool all-day bistro is for those who love the finer things in life, namely delicious wine and good cheese — vegan options are available, although it’s probably not one for the lactose-intolerant among us. A few tables sit outside the front of the bar, which doubles up as a shop, and the wait staff are charming and highly informed about the menu, and able to make good pairing recommendations.

The menu, which is primarily focused on cheese, is rich and delicious, best enjoyed with a glass of dry champagne or red wine. High notes include the croques monsieur, which was cooked to perfection, with molten cheese oozing out of delicious fresh bread. Also the duck rillette, which was smooth and rich, as well as delightfully salty — the perfect complement to offset the impressive range of cheeses, which span from strong and pungent to smooth and creamy. If you like a bit of everything, the charcuterie boards are the best choice, which are ideal for sharing and packed full of cured meats and cheeses.

The selection of wines and Champagnes is impressive. The Le Gallais Cuvee des Cedres Brut Nature is worth the money; dry, crisp and fruity, and incredibly moreish.

Given its location, the atmosphere is very frenetic, meaning it may not be suitable for anyone either hard of hearing or looking for a quiet bite. A selection of desserts is available, unless, of course, you prefer just to double down on the cheese (and who could blame you?).

The team behind the French bistro and wine shop mini-chain Champagne + Fromage have given the brand a slick new update for this Brixton Village location, now christened with the slightly more casual name of Cheese + Fizz (the other locations across London have kept their original names).

The change in name reflects a more inclusive approach for the restaurant, which means the signature combination of wine and cheese has now been joined by a new menu of French-style small plates to share which riffs on tapas, plus an expanded drinks selection which includes sparkling wines, cocktails and craft beers.

The intimate space is part of the lively Brixton Village establishment, making it a good shout for a first date or a casual catch up with a friend. Cosy tables are packed next to one another, while bottles of champers and wine line the walls, all of which have met Cheese + Fizz’s strict criteria of being artisanally produced, organic and/or ethically sourced. As the name suggests, the menu at Cheese + Fizz champions all things cheesy; diners are able to choose from a selection of baked cheeses and cheese boards to share, as well as decadent raclettes which can be served plain, with a side of duck or liberally topped with truffle shavings. To mix things up, an additional menu of ‘French tapas’ also features, complete with tartines, pasta and a variety of both meat and vegetarian options.

To pair with your cheesy treats, you can choose your pick from a list of over 50 Growers champagne available by the glass or bottle, including a few varieties exclusive to the restaurant. Don’t worry if you are not a fan of fizz though, because there are also red, white and rose wines available, alongside classic cocktails such as a Negroni or Aperol Spritz.