When designing a restaurant menu, there’s always a temptation to overcomplicate things and end up aliening diners. This is exactly what Henry Freestone wanted to avoid when putting together the food offering at Peckham Cellars. Wine may be the focus at this bar and restaurant on the buzzy Queen’s Road, but the ingredient-led menu has received just as much attention thanks to its simple, no-frills approach.

Opened in 2019, Peckham Cellars’ aim has always been to be as accessible possible while remaining focused on championing small-scale growers and producers when it comes to both the food and wine. This completely aligned with the ethos of Freestone, who joined as head chef in 2020. As well as wanting to champion seasonal British produce, he was also determined to create a menu of easy-to-like small dishes where everything on the plate is there for a reason.

Peckham Cellars’ slick but intimate dining room has space for twenty covers sat at tables, while wooden bar stools allow for counter dining as well. Floor-to-ceiling windows assure a bright and airy feel during the days, while evenings attract a trendy crowd whether simply for drinks or to sample the short, crowd-pleasing food menu.

With dishes designed to be shared by the table, groups are able to try to majority of the menu in one visit, although the kitchen’s seasonal approach means that the plates on offer change regularly. Sourdough with a generous dollop of whipped Marmite butter might kick things off, followed by dishes inspired by different global cuisines such as lemon and rosemary arancini or a salt beef sando served with pickles and Swiss cheese.

An extensive and varied wine list ensures guests have an eclectic choice at competitive prices; bottles begin at just £22, with plenty of options available by the glass too. Meanwhile, classic cocktails are given the odd twist — the house margarita, for example, is made with a chilli-infused vodka.

More and more people are looking for casual, affordable spots just as much as they are luxurious, fine dining restaurants these days. It’s no surprise that this hip neighbourhood spot has proved incredibly popular amongst food and wine loving locals looking for uncomplicated food, a glass of something nice and a good time.