Independent Shopper: Tom Aikens

I live in South West London with my wife and two daughters, and we’re absolutely spoilt for choice when looking for high-quality produce in London. If I’m cooking for a special occasion and really want to impress friends and family, I like to head to Pimlico market for fresh fish and meat. If I’m short of time and can’t get to the larger London markets, there are also a wonderful selection of local farmers’ markets I like to visit which include Alexandra Palace, Herne Hill and Chelsea.

One of my favourite London butchers is HG Walters on Palliser Road – a good option for meat. At The Chelsea Fishmonger, you’ll find the freshest and highest quality fish and shellfish; it’s also on my way back from work so it’s easy for me to pop in. For cured fish such as smoked salmon. I would shop at Fortnum & Mason’s food hall, although I must admit I’m not a smoked salmon lover so this tends to be when I’m making canapés for guests.

For fruit and vegetables, Andreas of Chelsea Green is a lovely little gourmet grocery shop offering seasonal produce. I like to pop here for my Sunday roast vegetables. Daylesford Organic is also a good option for fresh produce as well as condiments and preserves, and you can also grab a coffee while you’re there!

When looking to buy cheese, I recommend heading to Broadway Market which showcase some really fantastic British cheeses, and while you’re there you can purchase some cheap and beautiful flowers to dress your dinner table. If markets aren’t your thing, a great local shop for cheese is Paxton & Whitfield – I tend to visit the Cale Street shop as it’s closer to my house. They have a huge selection of artisan cheeses suited to all budgets and tastes and I always pay them a visit before entertaining at home.

I usually make my own sourdough, but if I don’t have time I buy it from Bread Ahead near Sloane Square. Orée on the Fulham Road is also fantastic; it’s a premium French artisan patisserie and boulangerie which serves some delicious pastries!