![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088606.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/2.jpeg "<p>
<b>East Dulwich Deli </b>
</p>
<p>
"Our food editor, Angela Boggiano (note the Italian ring to her name), swears by the excellent Italian produce here," says Matthew Drennan. "From tasty cheeses, salami and prosciutto to great pastas, oils and vinegars that you just can't get elsewhere, it's always packed to the rafters with fantastic ingredients to try out, and Tony, the owner, is always on hand with some good advice on gourmet and fresh products. It can get extremely busy on weekends and is at the more expensive end of things, but there's no denying the quality."
</p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>15 Lordship Lane, Dulwich, London SE22 (020-8693 2525) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088609.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/5.jpeg "<p>
<b>Fresh Basil </b>
</p>
<p>
The antithesis of some of the more chi-chi delis in this list, Belper's Fresh Basil is a no-nonsense sanctuary for good, honest food. Set in a former fire station, the decor in both the deli area and the attached "eaterie" leans towards the homely. Welcoming and inclusive, the store stocks an excellent range of produce, from home-cooked meats, fresh pâtes and over 60 varieties of cheese to fresh salads and marinated olives. </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>23 Strutt Street, Belper, Derbyshire (01773 828882; www.freshbasil.co.uk) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088611.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/7.jpeg "<p>
<b>Red Earth </b>
</p>
<p>
"There are lots of good things at this family-run deli," promises Rosie Sykes, who adds that you can spend hours looking for "tasty bits" - largely local, handmade produce from Devon. Alongside cheese, charcuterie, dips, pâtes, olives and antipasti, Red Earth has carved out a niche supplying "free-range" ready meals put together by hand in its nearby kitchen. There's also a cafe tucked away at the back of the deli. </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>1 Duke Street, Kingsbridge, Devon (01548 856100; www.redearthkitchen.co.uk) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088612.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/8.jpeg "<p>
<b>MacFarlane’s </b>
</p>
<p>
"The owners of MacFarlane's, Angie and Angus, used to work with Hamish Johnson on nearby Northcote Road (which I also recommend highly) and they now run their own place," says Matthew. "It is mostly a fromagerie but it also has a really good deli counter with lots of meats and salamis, plus great pies, tarts, tortillas, sandwiches, fresh veg, organic milk, smoked fish, freezer section - the list goes on!"
</p>
<p>
<b><i>Where:</i></b><i> 48 Abbeville Road, Clapham, London SW4 (020-8673 5373) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088614.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/10.jpeg "<p>
<b>Halseys </b>
</p>
<p>
Stocking everything from cooked meats, pies and cheeses to teas, coffees and fresh local veg, this "age-old institution" (it's been operating as some sort of food shop for more than 150 years) is "full of good things", according to Rosie . "I grew up in this area and my childhood memory of Halseys is the smell of coffee and roasted ham." The owners also recently added a tearoom to the deli. </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where:</i></b><i> Market Place, Hitchin, Hertfordshire (01462 432023) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088615.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/11.jpeg "<p>
<b>Mortimer & Bennett </b>
</p>
<p>
"The Mortimer in the name is Dan Mortimer, and while that might not ring many bells generally, Mr Mortimer is neck-high in foodie connections and well known to us here at delicious.," says Matthew, who adds that this also gives him the edge when trying to source "seriously obscure, or wittily unusual" products. "With a thriving online business and a good nose for quality produce this place has it covered."
</p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>33 Turnham Green Terrace, Chiswick, London W4 (020-8995 4145; www.mortimerandbennett.co.uk) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088617.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/13.jpeg "<p>
<b>Delizique </b>
</p>
<p>
The battle to be Glasgow's best gourmet grocery just got a little tougher with the opening of Cafezique. Sister business to Delizique (and occupying the premises the deli left when it shifted next door), this works like an elaborate tasting room for the deli's wide range of produce. Adam, the deli's baker, makes "the most beautiful breads", says Rosie, "including an enormous stuffed loaf, made every day, which is then sliced off by the piece as sandwiches". </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where</i></b><i>: 66 Hyndland Street, Glasgow (0141-339 2000; www.delizique.co.uk) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088618.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/14.jpeg "<p>
<b>Shelford Deli </b>
</p>
<p>
Nearly 10 years old now, this "lovely little shop has a great range of meats and cheeses and some splendid pasties and pies", says Rosie, though she warns that "at lunchtimes there's a queue right out the door". A quality grocer's with an emphasis on home-cooked produce and good service, it makes the most of a network of local suppliers. If you're feeling too lazy to cook it does a popular range of homemade ready meals. </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where:</i></b><i> 88 Woollards Lane, Great Shelford, Cambridge (01223 846129; www.shelforddeli.co.uk) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088622.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/18.jpeg "<p>
<b>Riverford Goes to Town </b>
</p>
<p>
Known for its organic veg and meat boxes, this is "the friendly high-street face of a tidy little empire in the West Country", according to Matthew. Strong relationships with producers, a focus on organic produce and a farm-to-plate ethos, with excellent control over the provenance of their produce, helps draw customers in at the company's first town-based outlet (it also runs several farm shops). </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>38 High St, Totnes, Devon (01803 863959; www.riverfordfarmshop.co.uk) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088623.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/19.jpeg "<p>
<b>Carluccio’s Spinningfields </b>
</p>
<p>
If there were awards for snootiness, Carluccio's would win hands down. If you like to be treated like a lesser mortal while you shop, this Manchester branch of the now-nationwide chain is the place for you. Aside from the surly service, though, it does have some decent, if pricey, stock. "From Tunbridge Wells to Manchester, Carluccio's is a fabulous nationwide Italian deli serving Mediterranean specialities and beautiful pralines," says Sophie Conran. </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>3 Hardman Square, Manchester (0161-839 0623; www.carluccios.com) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088624.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/20.jpeg "<p>
<b>Mimosa </b>
</p>
<p>
"This is just one example of a growing phenomenon - the deli-as-cafe-as-cookery-school-as-bistro-as-focal point..." advises Matthew. "With a well-stocked deli on the one hand and a fully functioning catering company operating out of the same kitchen on the other, the result is a fantastic range of prepared pastries and foods to take away, alongside the buzz of a lively kitchen. It's well respected locally and a real find for this part of south London."
</p>
<p>
<b><i>Where:</i></b><i> 16 Half Moon Lane, London SE24 (020-7733 8838; www.mimosafoods.com) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088625.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/21.jpeg "<p>
<b>Clive Ramsay </b>
</p>
<p>
This long-established Scottish deli stocks a massive range of what it calls "sexy food". And, no, that doesn't mean mountains of asparagus and tanker-loads of oysters, just good, wholesome produce. All the usual suspects are here, from pasta to artisan olive oils, as well as a good range of local produce (don't miss the raspberries in season) and, if they don't have what you want, they'll order it in. If browsing leaves you feeling peckish, there's also a cafe next door. </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>28 Henderson Street, Bridge of Allan, Perthshire (01786 833903; www.cliveramsay.com) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088626.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/22.jpeg "<p>
<b>Bill’s Produce Store </b>
</p>
<p>
"Bill's is a show and no mistake," promises Matthew. "The displays demonstrate a masterful grasp of texture and colour: black potatoes against white mushrooms; oranges sit with beetroots; and dried peppers, chillies and tomatoes hang from the ceiling. Part- greengrocery, part-restaurant, Bill's Lewes branch (there's another in Brighton) has expanded into the next-door space and now sells bacon, sausages, eggs and cheese." </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>56 Cliffe High Street, Lewes, East Sussex (01273 476918; www.billsproducestore.co.uk) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088672.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/24.jpeg "<p>
<b>The Gazzano's</b>
</p>
<p>
"This is literally Italy in a shop," says Rosie of this long-established but up-to-the-minute Italian deli. "You'll find loads of really good freshly made pasta, with truffles and all sorts. It's been there forever and, after services in the nearby Italian church, it's full of expat Italians from Barnet or wherever coming in to get their fix."
</p>
<p>
<b><i>Where:</i></b><i> 167-169 Farringdon Road, London EC1 (020-7837 1586) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088673.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/25.jpeg "<p>
<b>The Black Olive</b>
</p>
<p>
With its beautiful seaside location, The Black Olive is both well known locally and attracts tourists from far afield, according to Matthew. "If you're embarking on a seaside jolly then this is a great place to stock up on provisions. Leaning unsurprisingly towards local seafood (one half of the dynamic duo behind this place is a fish merchant), there's an excellent range of everything else too. A relative newcomer, it's rapidly making a name for itself."
</p>
<p>
<b><i>Where:</i></b><i> 80A-80B High Street, Southwold, Suffolk (01502 722312) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088674.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/26.jpeg "<p>
<b>Sawers</b>
</p>
<p>
This is "a feast for the eyes when you walk in", according to Rosie, and "one of those places you won't ever leave empty-handed". Known for its excellent seafood and cheese sections (there are 150-200 cheeses on offer at any one time), Sawers champions small local producers. Stock up here on infused vinegars, sun-dried tomatoes and local favourites such as Ditty's oatcakes, Sprott's dry-cured bacon and Tiernan Family Farm cheese. </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>7 Fountain Centre, College Street, Belfast (02890 322021) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088675.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/27.jpeg "<p>
<b>Lucy's of Ambleside</b>
</p>
<p>
"In essence, Lucy's is one person's interests in a diffusion range – Lucy's Specialist Grocers houses the deli, while there's a café and restaurant next door, an affiliated cookery school, a wine-bar franchise and a catering company," says Matthew. "The deli is still the main draw. Triple its original size, much of the produce is baked in the kitchen, with the emphasis on quality Cumbrian fare. You may come here to shop, but you'll likely stay to eat," he warns. </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>Church Street, Ambleside, Cumbria (01539 432288; www.lucysofambleside.co.uk) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088676.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/28.jpeg "<p>
<b>Trinity Stores</b>
</p>
<p>
"Trinity Stores is the type of café-cum-deli that brings the village feel back to a suburban neighbourhood, or, in this case, Balham," statesMatthew. "It has open floor-to-ceiling shelves with all the foodie brands you'd expect and plenty more. There's an excellent selection of salads, tarts and quiches, plus the best scotch eggs and sausage rolls south of the river. Boxes of Amalfi lemons, wild rocket and freshly baked breads greet you as you enter."
</p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>5-6 Balham Station Road, London SW12 (020-8673 3773; www.trinitystores.co.uk) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088677.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/29.jpeg "<p>
<b>The Merchant of Venice</b>
</p>
<p>
This family-run business prides itself on its friendly, and very knowledgeable, service. Co-owner Lorenzo Maraspin used to run Gino's, a popular Italian restaurant in Bournemouth, and "99 per cent" of the stock here is Italian. In addition to stocking the usual deli staples, the Merchant of Venice also runs a fantastic, made-to-order sandwich bar, packed with exquisite ingredients. Afull catering service is also available. </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where:</i></b><i> 489 Ringwood Road, Ferndown, Dorset (01202 855166; www.merchant-of-venice.co.uk) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088680.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/32.jpeg "<p>
<b>Valentina</b>
</p>
<p>
According to Matthew this "fantastic" Italian deli just got better, recently extending to create a restaurant and expanded wine range. "There's no shortage of delis in this part of south-west London but Valentina stands out for it's great service as well as the pride the owners clearly take in what they do. Expect the usual Italian fare, but better, and you'll soon be well on your way to living la dolce vita," he adds. </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where:</i></b><i> 210Upper Richmond Road, East Sheen, London SW14 (020-8392 9127; www.valentinafinefoods.com) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088681.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/33.jpeg "<p>
<b>Chandos</b>
</p>
<p>
"They're better known for their presence in Bristol, but there's something about the atmosphere in this Bath branch that draws me in," admits Matthew. "With such a variety ofWest Country produce available and some of the most discerning restaurants nearby (including Bath Priory and Lucknam Park), there's a real clamour for good food locally and you can get in on the action at Chandos. Whiling away some time browsing is time well spent here." </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where</i></b><i>: 12 George Street, Bath (01225 314418; www.chandosdeli.com) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088682.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/34.jpeg "<p>
<b>Barbakan</b>
</p>
<p>
Head to this "fantastic" deli to stock up on "Eastern European meats, breads and pastries", advises Rosie. "I love all those crazy meats and cabbage in a jar," she adds. From buckwheat honey and dried mushrooms to authentic pierogi – ravioli-like parcels stuffed with cheese, cabbage or meat – this is a great place for Polish supplies. It's especially good on breads, with over 50 different types baked on the premises. </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>67-71 Manchester Road, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester (0161-881 7053; www.barbakan-deli.co.uk) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088683.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/35.jpeg "<p>
<b>Wally's</b>
</p>
<p>
If you like your delis to come with an old-school flavour, Wally's is for you. One of Cardiff's oldest delis, in business for over 60 years, its shelves, counters and ceilings are packed with over 1,400 products, from German charcuterie to Italian panettone and South African biltong. "You name it, we've almost certainly got it" is their motto, which helps explain the shop's semi-religious following. </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where:</i></b><i> 42-44 Royal Arcade, Cardiff (029 20229265; www.wallysdeli.co.uk) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088684.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/36.jpeg "<p>
<b>Villandry</b>
</p>
<p>
"Well known for its upmarket, bistro-style restaurant and relaxed wine bar, this serious operation also extends to an expansive deli and foodstore," says Matthew. A recent refurb has given the place a welcome lift and, though the shop also operates an effective online store and a take-away counter, "browsing among the dry goods, charcuterie and fantastic breads and pastries is an absolute pleasure". </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where:</i></b><i> 170 Great Portland Street, London W1 (020-7631 3131;www.villandry.com) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088685.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/37.jpeg "<p>
<b>The Chef's Table</b>
</p>
<p>
"Tetbury is something of a foodie mecca in the Cotswolds," says Matthew. "The Chef's Table is home to the former Michelinstarred chef Michael Bedford. Famed for its top-notch bistro, there's also a small café, cookery school, open kitchen and a notincidental deli. Prepared foods to take away dominate, local producers like Shipton Mill are given due prominence, and continental produce is well represented."
</p>
<p>
<b><i>Where:</i></b><i> 49 Long Street, Tetbury, Gloucestershire (01666 504466; www.thechefstable.co.uk) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088689.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/41.jpeg "<p>
<b>Chisnalls Delicatessen</b>
</p>
<p>
"In chi-chi Saffron Walden, this is the foodie destination," states Matthew. "A family business established for over 50 years, what Chris Chisnall doesn't know about cheese, quite frankly, isn't worth knowing. It stocks both continental and UK cheeses, plus all the accoutrements you can shake a fondue stick at. You can still get all your cold cuts and produce to round things off, but it's the cheeses I go there for."
</p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>3 Market Walk, Saffron Walden, Essex (01799 528239) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088691.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/43.jpeg "<p>
<b>Melrose and Morgan</b>
</p>
<p>
"This is a really beautiful shop full of home-made pies, salads, cakes andmany other things," says Rosie. With both a deli counter and an in-store kitchen rustling upwholesome ready-meals to take away, you'll find everything here from fruit and veg to chicken pies and whiffy cheeses – largely sourced from small, independent UKproducers. "It's friendly and approachable and they're happy to advise and help," she adds. </p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>42 Gloucester Avenue, London NW1 (020-7722 0011; www.melroseandmorgan.com) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088694.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/47.jpeg "<p>
<b>Humble Pie</b>
</p>
<p>
This place, in Burnham Market, personifies the "small is beautiful" mantra, according to Matthew. "It's extremely small but absolutely stuffed to the gills and has a good deal of charm and character. It stocks well-sourced and carefully balanced produce, with much thought going into good provenance and food miles. The focus is on homemade jams and chutneys."
</p>
<p>
<b><i>Where: </i></b><i>The Green, Burnham Market, Norfolk (01328 738581; www.humble-pie.com) </i>
</p>")
![](http://www.independent.co.uk/migration_catalog/article5088693.ece/ALTERNATES/w80/48.jpeg "<p>
<b>Ottolenghi</b>
</p>
<p>
"My assistant, Hattie, has to walk past the windows of this deli every day going into work and says it is torture not to stop and look at the fabulous, jewel-like windowdisplay," sympathises Sophie. "Hattie recommends their brownies and I love their fabulous meringues. They're the size of pillows, make great pavlovas and are fabulously colourful."
</p>
<p>
<b><i>Where:</i></b><i> 1Holland Street, Kensington, London W8 (020-7937 0003; www.ottolenghi.co.uk) </i>
</p>")
Delizique
The battle to be Glasgow's best gourmet grocery just got a little tougher with the opening of Cafezique. Sister business to Delizique (and occupying the premises the deli left when it shifted next door), this works like an elaborate tasting room for the deli's wide range of produce. Adam, the deli's baker, makes "the most beautiful breads", says Rosie, "including an enormous stuffed loaf, made every day, which is then sliced off by the piece as sandwiches".
Where: 66 Hyndland Street, Glasgow (0141-339 2000; www.delizique.co.uk)
