Summertime Eating and Drinking in Tooting

I’ll admit it — I’ve been a little neglectful of my local dining reports lately. After a wonderful couple of weeks in sun-soaked Sicily, Melanie and I decided to spend the rest of the summer right here in Tooting, before heading off to Greece later in the year.

The summer has been a bit of a mixed bag weather-wise — either scorching hot or pouring with rain — but we’ve found plenty of ways to keep things bright. Between cooking for visiting friends and venturing into downtown Tooting, we’ve discovered (and rediscovered) some real culinary treasures.

Smoke and Salt – A Standout Tooting Dining Experience

First up, I must shine a light on a local favourite we’ve enjoyed before but deserves another mention: Smoke and Salt. For Melanie’s birthday, we booked a table and indulged in the Culture tasting menu. I lost count of how many beautifully presented small plates we had, but each one was bursting with flavour and flair.

Melanie opted for the expertly curated wine pairing, which came with a fascinating explanation of each wine’s provenance and how it complemented the dish. I stuck with my water, but I still enjoyed hearing about the craftsmanship behind each pairing. The service at Smoke and Salt is faultless, with an exceptional attention to detail that makes the whole evening feel special.

If you’re looking for a memorable dining experience in Tooting, I can wholeheartedly recommend booking a table. Check their current menus at www.smokeandsalt.com.

Tooting’s Markets – From Fresh Produce to Cosmopolitan Cuisine

We’ve always been big fans of Broadway Market and Tooting Market, and having lived here for decades, I’ve watched them transform to reflect the ever-evolving local community.

When I first moved to the area, the markets focused mainly on fresh fruit, vegetables, clothing stalls, and a few other essentials. These days, while some of the original shops remain, the spaces are now thriving hubs for pop-up eateries, bars, and street food from around the world.

Recently, we’ve been taking our house guests down to the markets to soak up Tooting’s modern cosmopolitan vibe — a vibrant, energetic atmosphere that blends the area’s rich history with a fresh, global twist.

Cocktails and Street Food – A Perfect Tooting Evening

One spot we’ve become rather fond of is Dirty Habits, a friendly cocktail bar in Tooting Market. We’re not entirely sure what’s drawn us in so often — perhaps it’s the Porn Star Martini on draught, with two for £15 (Melanie’s favourite), or maybe it’s just the friendly, laid-back atmosphere. I’m quite content with a Peroni Zero while she enjoys her cocktails. We’re always swiftly served by the bar’s friendly and efficient staff.

After a drink or two, we like to wander through the market, discovering new hidden gems. I honestly can’t think of a world cuisine that isn’t represented here in some form.

A couple of our recent finds include:

Tsukiji Sushi Fusion – For £28.50 each, you can enjoy a generous set menu featuring an impressive board of sushi delights, beautifully arranged and perfect for sharing.
Broadway BBQ – Just around the corner from Dirty Habits, this cosy spot serves excellent Turkish food cooked over an open charcoal grill. Melanie went for a succulent lamb kebab, while I enjoyed a flavour-packed Adana Köfte, both served with crisp, fresh salads.

Still More to Discover

Tooting Market is one of those places where you can visit a dozen times and still stumble across something new. Melanie and I will be back soon to hunt for more hidden delights — and I’ll make sure to report back.