London's Best Delis
A great deli offers a true assault on the senses. It tantalises the taste buds with the promise of wonderful foods, it ambushes the nostrils with exotic smells and wows the eyes with shelves stacked to the rafters with the weird and wonderful. Coupled with knowledgeable staff (remember them?) and great customer service, a deli is a place that could comfortably give your bank manager sleepless nights. Londoners have been blessed with great delis for some time now, so we thought we’d pick out a few of our favourites.
Polsmak, Balls Pond Road
We know a few Polish delis out west that are a bit special, but we think Polsmak in the east takes the herbatnik. With everything labeled in its native language, it’s as authentic an experience as you’re going to get (an English/Polish dictionary may come in handy). On top of that, the place is stacked with eastern European goodies and has staff that are more than happy to help you find your way around.
Lina Stores, Brewer Street
Step in to Lina’s and you step in to an Italian-made piece of foodie heaven. Its wonderful old-fashioned exterior leads to the most amazing selection of traditional Italian basics and some of the greatest fresh pasta this side of the Mediterranean. Throw some amazing breads into the mix and you’ve got a real delight at the heart of London. Robin from Kennington has been a convert for quite some time:
“Their fresh ravioli is amazing, especially the pumpkin one. It's instant dinner party material - boil for 4 minutes and serve with butter and some of the fresh sage they sell.”
Rosslyn Delicatessen, Hampstead
It doesn’t get much better than Rosslyn, and those ‘in the know’ seem to have been falling over themselves to decorate this deli with all sorts of awards. From comfort food to specialist ingredients, Rosslyn grabs the best from all over the world. It’s a typically Hampstead establishment, but factor in the knowledgeable staff and you have a must-visit destination for all serious food lovers.
Rosie’s Deli Café, Brixton
It may be a fairly new arrival on the deli scene, but Rosie’s has quickly gained a committed following south of the river. It dwells at the heart of Brixton’s covered market among the area’s usual food fare. Rosie’s, however, brings a distinctly 50s British approach to proceedings with its impeccable food selection and wonderful attention to detail. Sarah from Brixton is a committed fan.
"Presentation is everything in this shop and if you order takeaway sandwiches they come wrapped in grease-proof paper, tied with string and fastened with pretty Rosie stickers."
Melrose and Morgan, Primrose Hill
M+M is another north London institution that couldn’t really be housed anywhere other than Primrose Hill. What sets this deli out as being particularly special is its commitment to British produce and traditional farming methods. Not only will their stock impress you, but they’ll also cook at your dinner party if you’re not too handy in the kitchen. Melrose and Morgan: a deli and emergency service. We like it a lot.