In a neighbourhood that knows its way around a good pub, The Ferndale in Brixton holds its own as an all-day spot that can keep you entertained from coffee to cocktails, without missing a beat. The vibe is lively and often crowded, in a large, open warehouse-style setting with an industrial edge - think exposed piping overhead and big windows letting in plenty of light. It's got the kind of laid-back atmosphere that suits everything from casual catch-ups to bigger group get-togethers.
Open for both lunch and dinner, food centres around a mix of pizzas, small plates and pub-style mains, offering enough variety to suit different moods and appetites. To start, dishes like padrón peppers with smoked Maldon sea salt, salt and pepper squid with chilli and aioli, or lamb kofte with yoghurt and mint are easy to share across the table, so everyone can get their hands dirty.
Pizzas form a strong backbone to the menu, ranging from a classic Margherita to the richer Zi Franco with ’nduja, friarielli and gorgonzola, or a punchy puttanesca with anchovies, olives and capers. For something more substantial, mains cover all the bases: a double smash burger with house sauce and fries, cider-battered haddock with mushy peas, or a 28-day aged bavette steak with frites and ’nduja butter. There are plenty of plant-based options too, including a fully loaded vegan pizza and a plant-based burger with smoked cheese and jalapeño mayo.
Desserts keep things cosy and comforting, from sticky toffee pudding to apple and berry crumble with custard. As for drinks, there's a selection of wines, craft beers and cocktails that carry through from day to night. The Ferndale also has a lively programme of events and happenings, which is even better if this happens to be your local. From live sports screenings and DJ sets, to bottomless brunches and a weekly pub quiz, there's always something going on.