In search of a proper cup of tea and a tasty bite to eat? Then teapod is a great independent cafe to pop into when you're out and about near London Bridge.

The Venue
You'll find this cosy cubby hole down the cobbled streets between Tower Bridge and the Design Museum. It's a fresh and contemporary space with white-painted brick walls, wooden tables and chairs and splashes of bright green and pink all around.

The Atmosphere
Service here is casual and friendly with tea recommendations at the ready and a warm smile to greet you at the counter. As well as enjoying a pleasant respite here, you can even leave with your favourite tea leaves or a brightly coloured teapot for a tea-loving friend. This is a great place if you need to grab a quick bite without spending a fortune or want to while away the hours, just you, the paper and a pot of tea.

The Food
You can enjoy brekkie, brunch and lunch at teapod, as well as an indulgent afternoon tea if you feel you really deserve it. Breakfast includes pancakes, granola and yoghurt. A bargain lunch can be found daily with their homemade soup and a sourdough bread deal, priced at only £2.95. Whether it's three bean and tomato with a touch of chilli or chunky and well-seasoned beef and potato, you'll feel pleasantly full after this wholesome duo. As well as this there's a full range of healthy sandwiches, ciabattas, bagels and salads.

To complement your order of tea or juice, you can choose a selection of the day's homemade cakes to share with a friend for under £10. These cakes are handmade by a local baker and may include moist and sticky lemon cake, seriously chocolate-y brownies or a sweet slice of syrup sponge. The only criticism: the cake slices are a little too dainty in size, especially when you're sharing. You can also treat yourself to an afternoon tea (£10.95) or a Devon cream tea (£4.95). It may not be afternoon tea at the Ritz, but it's a great little treat at a quarter of the price.

The Drink
As you can expect with a name like teapod, this cafe is all about tea and they offer about 20 choices. You'll find classic black teas, such as lapsang souchong and Earl Grey; lighter green teas, such as Jasmine Pearls and matcha chai green tea; a delicate white tea; and oolong tea. Some teas may pass you by with their subtle, sometimes floral flavours and some will make you feel warmed and revitalized. To help you brew the perfect cup or pot of tea, there's a large second timer on the back wall with recommended times for each type of tea. A single pot costs about £1.95 and double pots are priced at about £3.70.

Specialty drinks include a spicy chai latte and there are also espresso-based coffees and a choice of chilled juices if you're not a big tea drinker, but you may change your mind after a visit here.

The Last Word
Tea lovers will especially enjoy a trip to teapod and will be spoilt for choice with the range of quality loose leaf teas on offer. It's a quirky place to enjoy a refreshing drink and a sit down with friends or to enjoy a well deserved slice of cake.

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