Guide to the best restaurants in Clapham

Trinity is a Michelin-starred neighbourhood restaurant that showcases acclaimed chef Adam Byatt’s philosophy of seasonal, sustainable dining. Combining British and European favourites, for example Cumbrian lamb and courgette flowers, the menu displays modern creativity and international influences. The refined monochrome restaurant also boasts an outdoor terrace, as well as an extensive wine cellar. For a more laidback setting and a menu of small plates, head Upstairs.

Bistro Union is a relaxed neighbourhood spot with a retro-styled interior. The bistro serves classic British fare with modern influences for lunch and dinner. Using the finest produce, menu changes daily and might include items such as Cornish cod with clams, broccoli and vermouth, or venison tartare. You can complement your meal with one of the vintages off the curated wine list, or go for a cocktail.

A cosy neighbourhood eatery next to Clapham Common, Minnow features a romantic Parisian atmosphere that’s well-suited to amorous pursuits. The large outdoor terrace is heated and looks out over the park, and there are more intimate spaces as well, for example the semi-private Cave alcove with a stained-glass window. The all-day dining menu features fresh, light fare with European leanings, while the happy hour includes cocktails, house wine and beer.

Modest, unpretentious and intensely flavourful, this family-run pizza joint is big on authenticity, Neapolitan tradition and fresh, seasonal ingredients. The pizzas here are baked in a wood-fired oven, but it’s the fried calzone that has the locals winking knowingly. You can choose from a lengthy list of toppings, with small plates, desserts and classic cocktails all available to provide backup if needed as well.

This neighbourhood bistro and wine bar next to Clapham common is a major player on London’s natural-wine scene. Featuring a classic interior with stools lining the bar, the kitchen serves a changing daily assortment of small and large plates with European influences for lunch and dinner, as well as charcuterie and cheese boards throughout the day. Sundays are reserved for roasts and Mondays for wine and chicken pairings. Speaking of wine, the bottles here are all sourced from artisanal European winemakers.

Serving up refined Italian cuisine in similarly refined surroundings, Sorella uses seasonal produce to craft menus in the traditional Italian format, from cicchetti and antipasti, through primi, secondi and contorni, all the way to dolci. The pasta at this Bib Gourmand-wearing restaurant is made in-house and combined with classic flavours such as ‘nduja and pecorino. A selection of Italian wines is also available.

This popular steakhouse bordering on Brixton is open for dinner and Sunday roasts only, and it takes meat very seriously. Its rough, primal charm is further enhanced by the exposed brick walls and raw wood furnishings. The main stars on the menu are the ethically sourced beef steaks, of course, with plenty of sides and sauces to choose from, including various kinds of potatoes. Wash it all down with fine wines, cocktails and craft beers.

The brunch at the Megan’s eateries has been voted best in London on numerous occasions, and for good reason. The Mediterranean-inspired menu features delicious classics such as eggs benedict and shakshuka-baked eggs with halloumi, and you can add bottomless bubbles if you like. The vibe and design of the Clapham Old Town branch are just as impressive as the food, with wicker furniture, hanging fairy lights and a real olive tree centrepiece.

Refurbished in 2015, this Clapham veteran of 20+ years is one of the top choices for sushi and cocktails in the neighbourhood. The combination of intricate wooden screens, leather seating and street art murals gives off a luxe contemporary feel, further enhanced by the curated drinks list with wines, sake, house cocktails and Japanese whiskies. The menu spans the full range of Japanese classics, from sushi rolls to tempura, teriyaki mains and more.

A cosy tapas bar near Clapham Common, Barsito believes in doing simple things well. This creed translates into a menu of authentic Spanish small plates such as croquettes, prawns, Spanish tortilla, Padron peppers and patatas bravas. Combine with an Andalusian sherry or fine Spanish wine for the full experience and enjoy. The snug interior is seemingly made all out of wood, and there are a few outdoor tables in the alley as well.

Brickwood is a group of Antipodean eateries that bring Australian-style brunching to the Big Smoke. They serve breakfast and brunch dishes throughout the day, with their broad understanding of such fare including burritos, banana bread, pancakes, sandwiches and burgers. Combine your bacon and egg bap or four-cheese toastie with wine, smoothies, or coffee for a proper start to the day – whatever the time.

A snug joint with counter seating next to Clapham Junction, Sinabro is helmed by chef Yoann Chevet, with his wife working the Front of House. The chef’s cuisine is rooted in French bistro fare, but creatively embellished with exotic influences – think rice pudding with matcha. From your seat, you can observe the preparation of the set dinner menu, which utilises seasonal ingredients and changes from month to month.

Joe Public is a simple spot next to Clapham Commons. With white tiled walls inside and classic picnic tables outside, this easy-going joint specialises in pizza as it’s done in New York. Expect pies with intriguing combinations of ingredients such as chicken & chorizo or halloumi with oregano. Grab a slice or go for the full 20”.

Located next to Clapham Common, this canteen-style eatery is known for its authentic flavours and speedy turnaround.  There isn’t much seating at the compact venue, but thankfully The Pepper Tree is well-versed in the art of the takeaway. In sunny weather, that can even work in your favour, as the park is just across the road. The menu features Thai noodles, rice dishes, curries and other classics, as well as changing house specials.

Originating from an Italian deli, Lina Stores specialises in freshly made pasta, including delectable options such as stracciatella ravioli, pappardelle, and tagliolini, served with a generous array of sauces, parmesan cheese, truffles, and other delicious toppings. To complete your culinary la dolce vita, be sure to indulge in classic Italian desserts like panna cotta and cannoli. Spanning two floors, the Clapham branch is the group's first venture south of the river.