The Alex & Matteo Team
At Alex and Matteo Estate Agents, working within the SE16 community means more to us than helping people buy, sell or let their homes. We spend our days in the neighbourhood, meeting clients, visiting properties and supporting local events. Naturally, that means we also spend plenty of time exploring the amazing places to eat across Bermondsey, Rotherhithe, Canada Water and Surrey Quays.
Food is a big part of daily life in any community. It is often how you discover hidden corners of a neighbourhood, how you meet local business owners and how you get a real feel for day to day life. Our team decided to share their favourite lunch spots across SE16, giving you a genuine insight into where we choose to eat when we want something delicious, reliable and local.
Below, you will find a mixture of cafes, independent eateries, classic fish and chip shops and friendly community food stores. Every recommendation comes directly from a member of our team, along with a little more detail about why these places are worth a visit.
Alongside our recent video on our social channels, this is our guide to the places we think truly represent the character and flavour of SE16.
Alex is known in the office for his love of good pastries and sweets, so it is no surprise that he picked The Bakehouse as his top spot. This friendly bakery is all about quality and good classic flavours. They offer freshly baked pastries, breads and cakes, as well as simple breakfast and lunch options that are perfect for grabbing on the go.
The Bakehouse
Reviewers consistently mention the freshness of the pastries and the welcoming atmosphere. If you are the sort of person who appreciates a lovely jam donut, a warm loaf or a slice of cake made properly, The Bakehouse is a must visit. It is an ideal choice for a light lunch, a morning treat or a quick bite between appointments.
Grillyard is one of those places you hear about through locals. It does not appear in the usual lists and it does not rely on a polished online profile. Instead, it offers something simple and very important. Good food and a welcoming atmosphere.
Imad describes it as very friendly with amazing food, which says a lot about the experience. Grillyard has the relaxed, no fuss feel that makes it the sort of spot people return to again and again. It is perfect when you want a satisfying lunch without complications. From French tacos to burgers, this is the perfect spot for any meat lover looking for a quick lunch in the area.
The Grill House is a favourite for its combination of great food and excellent customer service. It is a reliable local option if you want something filling and flavourful, especially during a busy work day. The Grill House does wonderful grilled meat, but Ayisha’s favourite is the vegetarian biryani with dhal on the side.
The Grill House
Places like The Grill House provide exactly what local workers and residents need. Good food served properly, with the type of personal touch that makes you feel welcome.
Sometimes the best lunch is a simple classic. Blue Anchor Lane Fish and Chips, a family-run spot, is known for its excellent fish and chips and high-quality wraps. It’s well loved by locals and frequently praised as one of the best of its kind in the area.
Blue Anchor Lane Fish and Chips
For Moin, it is the perfect comfort meal. Whether you want a lunchtime treat, a takeaway to enjoy in Southwark Park or an easy dinner after work, this spot is a great example of why SE16 still has strong community food traditions.
Canada Water Cafe is one of the most popular eateries in the area, and it is easy to see why. It offers a broad menu with handmade pizzas, fresh pasta dishes, organic coffees, smoothies and a selection of cakes.
Canada Water Cafe
Cara loves it for the incredible food and the quality of their drinks, especially their smoothies. The cafe has a relaxed and warm atmosphere, making it a fantastic place for a casual lunch, a coffee meeting or a catch up with a friend. It is right by Canada Water station, so it is also convenient for commuters and locals alike.
For something a little different, Foivos recommends Cantinho da Maya PitDog e Lanchonete. This welcoming Brazilian style eatery is known for generous portions, flavourful burgers and snacks, and a menu that offers something refreshingly unique for the SE16 area.
Cantinho da Maya
It is a friendly, casual place that brings a real sense of personality to the neighbourhood. If you enjoy trying new flavours or want something outside the usual choices, this restaurant is a great addition to any lunch rotation.
Blue Istanbul Supermarket is more than just a place to pick up groceries. Matteo loves it for its fresh pastries and high quality fruit and vegetables. It is a brilliant example of a local shop that goes beyond expectations.
Blue Istanbul
Many customers visit for everyday ingredients and leave with something tasty for lunch or a treat for the afternoon. The bakery style items available make it a convenient place to grab a light bite, and the fresh produce makes it a valuable part of the local community.
Mouse Tail Coffee is a cosy and characterful cafe that offers great coffee, friendly service and a selection of sandwiches, cakes and small plates. Sila describes it as her favourite place in Canada Water for a relaxed lunch or a break during the day.
Mouse Tail Coffee
As a small independent business, Mouse Tail Coffee offers a more personal experience than many larger chains. It is the type of spot where you can sit comfortably with a book, get some work done or simply enjoy a properly made coffee.
At Alex and Matteo Estate Agents, we always encourage people thinking of moving to SE16 to explore the local area. There is so much character and community spirit here, from long established favourites to modern independent cafes.
Food is essential to a thriving neighbourhood, and these recommendations from our own team give you a real sense of what life in SE16 is like. Whether you are new to the area or have lived here for years, there is always another local business to discover and support.
If you would like help finding your next home in SE16 or want to learn more about the community, the Alex and Matteo team is always happy to assist.
