Clapham Junction sees over 2,000 trains pass through each day, making it the busiest station in Europe. Annually, around 29 million passengers pass through its ticket barriers, with an additional 28 million changing trains there, establishing it as the busiest interchange station in the UK. Notable residents of Clapham include Piers Morgan, Heather Mills (ex-wife of Sir Paul McCartney), Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling, and Sarah Ferguson.
So with all of this in mind, you would feel that they must have some damn good eateries in the local vicinity. If that was your thought process then, yes you would be correct about that. This location has some of the finest dining spots in London and we are going to give you our definitive list of the best restaurants, cafes and bars to get your grub on.
Amiga Mexican Restaurant & Bar – 56 Battersea Rise, London SW11 1EG, United Kingdom
The first port of call for us foodies is Mexico … well not really Mexico but a fantastic Mexican restaurant nonetheless. Amiga brings the vibrant tastes of Mexico to the heart of Clapham. Inspired by the laid-back yet lively spirit of Tulum (all things considered Tulum has become a bit more saturated now with the arrival of a swathe of Gucci hippies from the U.SA, but it still has a vibe), the menu showcases the bold and diverse cuisine of Mexico.
The talented crew here add a modern twist to traditional recipes, serving mouthwatering Tacos, Tostadas, and Quesadillas that are perfect for sharing or savouring solo. If you like a drink the delicious cocktails here will be right up your alley. This palace is designed to capture the essence of Tulum’s famous party scene, so it’s not just the food that’s killer here, you can enjoy a fantastic night out full of dancing and fun. So you can have your dinner and then have a boogie, I won’t say no to that.
Taverna Trastevere – 112 St John’s Hill Grove, London SW11 2RD, United Kingdom
This next spot is a must, this is Italian food done correctly and to a high standard. Taverna Trastevere has two locations one in London and the other in MILAN. You really can’t be more Italian than that! Of course, it’s wonderful news for all of us Brits that we can experience a place like this on home soil and don’t have to journey all the way to Italy, although that also wouldn’t be something I’d hate.
Like all good Italian restaurants, They believe that the beauty of Roman cuisine lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients, this is something I have stated many times when it comes to quality Italian food and this spot keeps these traditions alive.
The service at their establishment is crafted to reflect this philosophy, emphasising the dining experience and the joy of sharing close moments with family and friends around the dinner table. They are dedicated to presenting authentic Roman cuisine, honouring Italian traditions with dishes ranging from fresh homemade pasta to traditional Roman recipes, faithfully preserved without alteration. The pizza here is the showstopper here, it’s raved about by punts. The Roman pizza is baked in a wood-fired oven (of course it is) and the freshness of the dough and quality of the ingredients really make it stand out from the crowd. The pasta aint half bad either.
Soif – 27 Battersea Rise, London SW11 1HG, United Kingdom
Next up is a unique French bistro with some fantastic dishes and wines. This is one you will have to book though as reservations are required for this spot and for good reason.
The neighbourhood bistro also acts as a wine shop and is open every day of the week. At J’ai Soif!, they emphasise the use of a seasonal menu ensuring the freshest produce is used when curating their wonderful dishes. They use carefully selected produce sourced from fully organic producers and local farmers, so you won’t find any unwanted chemicals in your food here.
The bistro offers a variety of wines available for both enjoying on-site and taking away. They proudly source their wines from small-scale winemakers so you may get a bottle of something special that you can find elsewhere where. They also have a special offer on Mondays where you can get half a chicken cooked beautifully for £20. That’s not a bad price for such a high standard of food, especially in London.
MEATliquor Bar & Restaurant – 74 Northcote Rd, London SW11 6QL, United Kingdom#
MEATliquor is pretty well known now in the capital, but I have been a fan since the first time I ever stepped foot in their Queensbury location, and the Clapham restaurant is just as good. Located just a short walk from Clapham Junction, this South London spot caters to locals, visitors, and even four-legged friends. Although one of the smallest sites they have, it promises an experience diners will love. They have indoor seating year-round, and during summer, plenty of space outside for punters to sit down and have a drink and a munch.
The burgers here are what brings in the crowds. The Dead Hippie burger is Britain’s answer to the famous Animal Style Double-Double from West Coast American burger chain In-and-Out. They also have a wide range of craft beer available which is a nice touch and some damn fine cocktails if you’re, not a beer drinker, or you just fancy something a little harder.
I’d always advise coming here if you want something casual but of high quality, I have never been let down here when I have had the pleasure of visiting and I always leave feeling like I have had fun.
Hopefully, now next time you visit Clapham you will use or nice little guide to aid you and your culinary adventure. I could honestly write 5 articles about the food on offer in this part of the city, and if I have missed one of your favourites let us know as we will be sure to revise things at some point.