London’s best seasonal menus

The family-run Naifs in Peckham ticks even more buzzy boxes than just seasona; offering up vegan small plates in a bright, serene setting. There’s a Mediterranean-inspired set menu for £30 that, of course, changes often, but on it you might find divine creations such as smokey celeriac with chestnuts and limequat or aubergine fritters with honey and Spenwood cheese.

Not only are they obsessed with keeping it seasonal, but they also rely on local independent businesses such as TOAD bakery in Camberwell, from which they source their sourdough. The virtue continues into their drinks menu too, with a selection of biodynamic wines, botanical cocktails and kombuchas. Naifs really is one of Peckham’s must-try spots — which is something to be said in itself!

With its own entire estate full of flourishing produce, from chickens and pigs to cheese and vegetables, you can dine at one of Daylesford’s delightful farm shops and cafes safe in the knowledge that you’re consuming some of the most high quality seasonal food in the country. The all-day menus change daily, but it’s not all superfoods and salads… You’ll find sourdough pizzas, cheese-smothered grass-fed beef burgers, and scrambled free-range eggs with smokey bacon and sausages. There’s an enticing botanical cocktail list too, which features gin and tonics made with Daylesford’s artisan gin and an espresso martini shaken with the farm’s very own vodka. 

The Pilgrm Paddington is a cool and understated sanctuary where you can stay for the night or simply sit and watch the world go by with a cocktail or coffee and a bite. It won’t be any old bite here though… The Pilgrm Lounge and terrace is almost too comfortable, with its abundance of art, tumbling greenery, and soft, sinking seats. There’s an enticing and evolving brunch menu on offer, within which you’ll find a classic cooked breakfast as well as more globally-inspired dishes such as miso glazed mushrooms and ‘nduja hash. The hotel prides itself on its seasonal ingredients and its staff will happily talk to you about all the local creators, makers and growers who contribute to its gastronomic offerings.

This blue-fronted restaurant, bar and terrace boasts one of the finest spots in the vicinity of Clapham Common. Plus, its daily changing menu features a spectrum of seasonal ingredients, from zingy citus fruits in its breakfast bowl to its homemade soups and supergrain salad. If you feel like indulging in something a little more naughty, then there are cheese and charcuterie boards on the menu, as well as a decadent weekend brunch menu that features a pancake sharing platter for two. 

The home of Bacon Jam, Eat17, can be found in Walthamstow: a neighbourhood grocery that forged the way for two more artisan stores. Next door to the Walthamstow Village outpost, you’ll find its sister bistro, which showcases its seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients in a regularly changing and considered menu. One of the permanent fixtures on the menu is the chicken burger, with aioli, tomato chutney, jalapenos, coleslaw and fries, but those who like to sample only the seasonal will find a freshly-made soup and a selection of vibrant smoothies.