Booming Brixton

Before coming to London, I already had my mind set on different adventures, discovering some of London’s amazing boroughs. On top of my list: BRIXTON! So, as it wasn’t raining for the first time since the start of my internship on my days off, I decided to go out and enjoy!

Brixton, with its many markets, shops, cafés and events, is one of London’s upcoming neighborhoods. Years ago, it was seen as a more risky and dodgy area of London, however, nowadays more and more people are attracted to this multicultural Hub! This South London community has become a hot spot for all foodies, artist, musicians, and let’s not forget those party people out there. – No wonder I was intrigued, the mentioning of good food, art and shops totally screamed my name :P

Anyhow, let’s catch you up on my itinerary for the day and let me tell you a bit about my discoveries!

I met my dear friend Laura around noon in front of the Underground station of Brixton. It surprised me already to see all this diversity around me! London is in general a melting pot, but Brixton takes it away as you hear and see so many different cultures everywhere you go. As I already told you, Brixton is a place of art, spotting masterpieces at every corner. Walking through the streets, you can find several beautiful murals. One of the most famous pieces is the portrait of David Bowie. Laura and I only saw a few, however there are still so many to admire! – a second visit is thus inevitable.

After strolling around the neighborhood for a bit and wandering through Brixton Station Road Market, we started to get a bit hungry (especially after seeing and smelling all that incredibly looking food!) Following Brixton Station Road, we found ourselves in Brixton village market. An indoor, arcade market filled with shops and cafés. By the first steps walking in, Laura and I were amazed by the variety of offers! From Asian cuisine, Italian, French, Caribbean, African, American to even Brazilian. It was just overwhelming! – I am already quite the indecisive person when it comes to food, so you can imagine my thoughts when seeing this! – One big tip for when you want to grab a bite in the Village Market: Walk around before making a choice as there is so much to see. So, that is exactly what we did before deciding to eat at Senzala.

In Senzala’s true words: French crêpes with Brazilian flair. I was not quite sure what to think about this combination, but damn, those crêpes were delicious!! I had the Dujhan galette, which is a savory crêpe made with buckwheat flour and filled with caramelized onions, mushrooms, asparagus, sun dried tomatoes and spinach, topped with their tasty homemade maple mustard dressing! – literally so good! – Laura went for the Goat crêpe filled with goat cheese, spinach, black olives and cherry tomatoes and oh so equally good tasting!

“Senzala Crêperie”

41-42 Coldharbour Ln, Brixton, London SW9 8PS

http://www.senzalacreperie.co.uk/

Satisfied and fueled up, we were ready to browse through the shops. As Brixton is the Afro-Caribbean neighborhood after many immigrants from the Caribbean settled here during the 40’s and 50’s, you will find most stores and shops offering products form these origins. I just love searching through these shops, trying to find that hidden gem. Also, many of these products are handmade and one of a kind, which makes it even more special! I eventually ended up buying a very cute pouch to use as a wallet in the store “Rose&Thorn”. Definitely a must visit as they have much more beautiful pieces!

Of course, we could not stay there forever and went on exploring more of Brixton and walked a bit around, talking in all impressions before ending the afternoon at Pop Brixton.

Pop Brixton started off as a community project for local businesses where start-ups could grow. Food, design and retail is all present within the project. A bursting and creative place which is the perfect place to get together for a drink or a bit with friends as it has this true “Food truck Festival” vibe. Seeing all the incredible menus, I will certainly return to taste some dishes!

The murals