Sophisticated, authentically French and not overly expensive? It sounds too good to be true, but Deli Boutique delivers on all of these. Perfect for breakfast or lunch, this cafe is a real find.

The Venue
Mottled wooden floorboard, pattiserie-style displays and chefs hard at work in the kitchen all contribute to the authentic gallic feel of Deli Boutique. While the tables might leave you feeling a tad hemmed in, this cafe is undeniably cosy. The glass-fronted deli counter gives you a good chance to ogle your lunch before you eat it, while the elaborate cake arrangements at the front are very pretty. In summer, it’s also possible sit out in the garden at the back.

The Atmosphere
This a great place to enjoy a relaxed coffee and pastry with the papers. The charismatic French staff are welcoming and chatty and the chefs, visible in the open kitchen, work hard to create the gorgeous food and cakes on display. The customers are usually affluent and understated locals, making this a good place to people watch.

The Food
The Deli Boutique menu picks out the best of French-style cafe, deli and pattiserie culture for your gourmandising pleasure. There’s traditional French breakfast – baguettes with jam, mini pastries, coffee and orange juice – for a reasonable £5.90. Unfortunately they don’t do eggs, but the brunch/lunch menu more than makes up for this – try one of the rich and creamy salmon and spinach mini-quiches, or the meaty lasagne with salad.

Other lunch dishes include rustic beef Bourguignon with mushroom and red wine, which is full of deep favour and moreish; while the fish pie with cod, salmon, prawns and dill is subtle and delicious. The varied deli selection of charcuteries and cheeses is also great for takeaway.

There’s a huge range of cakes and desserts too. All the usual pastries are served in typical light and fluffy French style, and there are a range of rich gateaux. Tiramisu is a great choice, offering a thick creamy topping on a cognac soaked base. Banoffee pie, though not a French standard, is delivered in fine style – creamy and light, but not too sweet.

The Drink
There is no alcohol at Deli Boutique, but plenty of quality coffee (a cappuccino costs £2.30) and organic fruit juices.

The Last Word
Deli Boutique offers a friendly and sophisticated ambience in which to while away a few hours a book or paper. The management are friendly and the delightful food is French in more than just name. Nicely situated in Battersea’s ever gentrifying St John’s Hill, this is quiet cafe is well worth the visit.

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