London — food talk

The grilled cheese toastie is what most people queue for. Sourdough, aged cheddar, onion, garlic. Around £7. Saturday queue is long — weekdays are much more manageable.

Wood-fired sourdough pizza. Around £8 for the margherita. The Brixton branch (original) has more atmosphere than the newer chain locations. Brixton Market on a Saturday is a whole afternoon.

Bacon naan, kejriwal, black daal, chai. Around £40 per person. The daal in particular is consistently very good. Popular for a reason.

Classic bao is the standard order. Also the fried chicken and the sides. Small space, expect a wait for a seat. Sitting at the counter downstairs is the best experience.

Half duck with pancakes, spring onion, cucumber, hoisin. Around £16 for the half. Skin is crisp. Line moves. It's touristy in Chinatown but the food is still solid.