A companion to the Hideaway Jazz Club, this establishment – welcoming, tastefully furnished and leaning heavily on its jazz ‘roots’ – puts the emphasis on quality, aiming to provide “food with soul”. Jazz music dominates – the listings for the jazz club abound – and there’s a screen showing videos from some of the genre’s greats.
The grub: Nibbles and starters throughout the day, with a deli-styled counter, a brunch menu (with an especially hearty breakfast) and light bites such as burgers and sandwiches, too (the croque madame, toasted cheese-and-ham sarnie topped with a fried egg, is ace). The full dinner menu is just as impressive, including everything from traditional fish and chips to lamb steaks and tiger prawn liguine.
Behind the bar: The range of ales and beers impresses, but the emphasis here is on the wine, with in-house wine waitress Chix making personal recommendations based on your tastes and food choices (tutored wine-tasting classes are offered, too).
Bill please: Ales from £3.50; wine by the glass from £4, premium wines from £6; light bites from £3.25; brunch from £6; starters from £3.90; mains from £10.25.
Verdict: Top wines, comfort, and great grub – a quality evening.
227 Streatham High Road, SW16 2ED
hideawaylive.co.uk / hideaway-jazz-cafe
Tube | Streatham
