Brixton Village and Market Row, two indoor markets housed in separate arcades, are integral to Brixton’s rich history. Over the last decade they have transformed into an epicentre for London’s culinary diversity, housing nearly 130 independent traders.
Foodwise, you’ll find successes such as Franco Manca and Honest Burgers, both of which started in Brixton Village and have since multiplied across London, plus plenty of other cafés and restaurants to explore. Try Jamaican/European fusion seafood at Etta’s Seafood Kitchen, street-style Mexican food at Jalisco, smokey Portuguese grill at Brixton Village Grill, French spot Champagne + Fromage, where you can sip on champagne while trying out cheeses, and of course, a multitude of Caribbean restaurants and takeaways. If you don’t fancy eating out, or just want to pick up something for dinner, there are fruit and veg shops and stalls, fishmongers and butchers like Dombey & Son, which has been in business for more than 30 years.
A visit to Brixton Village and Market Row is about more than food, though. A stroll through the arcades will reveal a treasure trove of shops selling clothing, jewellery, homeware, art, music and more. Leftovers is an antique and vintage fashion emporium favoured by costume-lovers and designers, while Cornercopia Homestore is the perfect place to pick up enamel pots, wooden spoons and unique cookware.
Top tip: On Saturdays, Brixton Station Road hosts a space that cycles between a flea market, a makers’ market, a vintage and retro market and, at the end of the month, a hybrid of them all. Alim Kheraj
RECOMMENDED: London’s best markets