South East “World Flavours” Feast
South East London is fun, diverse, full of culture, and a little spicy at times… and its food is no different! To celebrate these wonderful qualities, for the last two weeks I have been showcasing as many world flavours offered by South East London independents as possible. Here is the low down:
1. Masala Wala Café, Brockley
World flavour: Pakistani
Visit for: Freshly made curries (vegan options always available!), to-die for homemade rotis and a selection of local beers.
Website: http://masalawalacafe.co.uk/

2. Mr Bao, Peckham
World flavour: Taiwanese
Visit for: The best bao buns around! Fluffy buns, delicious fillings made with skilful flavour combinations, well-matched cocktails, and a bottomless bao themed brunch at weekends.
Website: http://www.mrbao.co.uk/

3. Noak SE4, Brockley
World flavour: Scandinavian
Visit for: A Scandinavian-inspired menu of breakfast delights, open sandwiches, salads, hot food and pizzas (yes, Scadi-style pizza!). The crispy potatoes with aioli and cinnamon buns from the bakery are not to be missed.
Website: http://www.noak-se4.co.uk/

4. Begging Bowl, Peckham
World flavour: Thai
Visit for: An exciting and unusual Thai menu. Best enjoyed by sharing plates with your fellow diners, to allow you to dive into as many flavours as possible! Served in a bright and airy conservatory-style setting.
Website: http://www.thebeggingbowl.co.uk/

5. Donde Tapas, Honor Oak Park
World flavour: Spanish
Visit for: Small plates of bright colours and big flavours, friendly atmosphere and a top Sangria.
Website: http://www.dondetapas.com/hop/index.html

6. Peckham Bazaar, Peckham
World flavour: Balkan
Visit for: Beautifully presented Eastern Mediterranean mezzes and grills and regional wines. The flavours are outstanding and you might just get lucky and get a table on the terrace outside.
Website: http://peckhambazaar.com/

7. 400 Rabbits, Nunhead and Crystal Palace
World flavour: Italian
Visit for: The best pizza sauce around - made with San Marino DOP tomatoes (apparently just about the best tinned tomatoes money can buy), which gives a perfect sweetness and acidity balance. The sourdough base and seasonal British toppings are top notch, too.
Website: http://www.400rabbits.co.uk/

8. Boulangerie Jade, East Dulwich, Peckham Rye and Blackheath
World flavour: French
Visit for: Delicious pastries and breads, baked daily using top quality French ingredients. The cakes are amazing too, and you can pick up small delights on the day, or order bigger cakes for special occasions.
Website: http://www.boulangeriejade.com/

I have thoroughly enjoyed eating my way around the world in South East London, and what is better is that this is just a small selection of the flavours and cuisines available to try in the area!
I hope you are feeling inspired by my World Flavours Feast… and perhaps you are indulging in some feasts of your own.
