Sunday 8 March 2009

Mimosa, Half Moon Lane, Herne Hill, south London

Alluring and cheerful delicatessen renown for its good selection of heart-stopping French cheeses, big fat olives, marinated artichokes and other fresh morsels, Mimosa has a handful of cramped inside tables, a small garden and free, fast Wi-Fi. The young staff will make very tasty baguette sandwiches (about £3.50 to eat-in) to order from the fresh ingredients, such as chorizo, brie and ham, under the glass counter, while you can buy a bottle of decent fruit juice for just a £1. Other goodies on offer include small crispy samosas, French wines and jams, as well as a handful of cakes and muffins. Actor James Nesbitt, who lives round the corner, is a regular. 7/10