Insights

9.4.25

3 min read

Places We Love in London for Lunch

Jack Johnson

Project Manager

jack-johnson

At DS.Emotion, we’re all about celebrating places, not just the ones we create, but the ones we return to again and again. That might be where we grab our morning coffee, escape for a lunchtime breather, or unwind after work. Each month, we’re spotlighting one of our studio locations and sharing real recommendations from the people who know it best – our team.

This time, it’s over to our London studio. Now that the weather’s improving, the team has been enjoying lunch in the park just off Bermondsey Street. These are the places they keep going back to:

Comptoir
Comptoir Bakery, Bermondsey Street

A regular stop for our team. Hannah gets her coffee here every day, and there’s often debate in the office about whether Comptoir, Fuckoffee or WatchHouse serves the best. WatchHouse tends to come out on top, but it’s a close call.

Comptoir is known for its great coffee, pastries, fresh sandwiches and seasonal salads. Even the loyalty card is worth mentioning, with croissant shaped stamps that are a bit of a hit. There are a few branches just in Bermondsey, which gives you an idea of how popular it is.

Al’s Cafe
Al’s Cafe, Bermondsey Street

This one’s a classic. Not café. Caff.

It’s a proper London spot where you’ll find everyone from builders to locals and tourists all squeezed in. It’s no frills, good value and generous. Our team rates the breakfast roll in particular, especially after a night out at the Woolpack. Great for when you need something filling and familiar.

The Horniman at Hays
Hays Galleria, by the river

A solid choice for a drink or a change of scene at lunchtime. It’s right on the river, with views of Tower Bridge, and it’s always busy.

Officially it is known for its pies, but between us we are mostly there for a pint. Good range of drinks, plenty of space and a great atmosphere. Ideal for a sunny Friday afternoon or a midweek reset.

B Street Deli
B Street Deli, Bermondsey Street

Definitely a treat lunch. It might be one of the pricier options, but the quality is hard to beat.

B Street Deli is all about fresh produce, artisan cheeses, charcuterie and good wine. They also stock those posh Torres crisps which seem to have a bit of a cult following in the studio. You’ll usually find a busy queue full of people from the local agencies, and the chat is often just as good as the food.

That’s Our Bermondsey Round-Up

Just a few of the places we rely on during the week. If you’re nearby, give them a try. Next month, our Leeds team will be sharing their favourite weekend spots. Keep an eye out.

Creating Places People Love

We don’t just enjoy great places.

We help create them.For over 30 years, we’ve worked with developers, landlords, and councils to shape destinations that thrive both socially and commercially.If you have a place that needs branding, marketing, or placemaking expertise, we’d love to help. Get in Touch

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