Grill it, smoke it, eat it

Ruben’s Reubens picks his favourite South London food joints
By Alex James Taylor | Food | 27 October 2022

Ruben’s Reubens has swiftly become one of London’s most talented – and tasty – pop-ups in town. A maestro on the grill, each pop-up comes with a new and delectable menu – we’re talking eight-hour smoked beef cheek tacos with zingy burnt pineapple sauce, smoked Tamworth pork shoulder with chipotle black beans and salsa verde across a soft flatbread, and a full-to-the-brim pastrami patty dosed in Russian dressing and pickles.

Needless to say, when Ruben announces a pop-up, crowds flood in and nobody leaves hungry. As one of our favourite young chefs on the circuit, we asked him to list his favourite London eateries, and he immediately responded with top-tier recommendations – all South London, all oozing with flavour.

Ruben’s Reubens

Yemanes, Peckham
“My go-to lunch spot – North African flatbreads, get the chicken and halloumi combo… absolutely banging.”

JB’s Soulfood, Peckham
“The best jerk chicken in London. Cooked on proper jerk pits out the back, ask for extra sauce!”

JB’s Soulfood

Kaosarn, Brixton
“My local, family-run Thai spot. I always get the Thai green curry – it’s simple, cheap and delicious. The banana pudding is also a must.”

Italo, Vauxhall
“An oasis located south of the river – banging sandwiches and excellent coffee.”

Italo

True Flavours, Brixton
“Unreal pepper steak. I like to have mine with salad cream (try it before you judge me!)”

Falafel & Shawarma, Camberwell
“Cheap, filling and delicious. Get the classic falafel, and ask nicely for the aubergine as a bonus in your wrap.”

Mondo Sando, Camberwell / Peckham
“These guys know a thing or two about sandwich making. My favourite is the roast beef with gravy for dipping.”

Mondo Sando

Dough Hands, pop-ups
“Hannah makes the tastiest dough in London with some serious topping combos. Keep an eye on her IG for when she is popping up.”

Dough Hands

Follow Ruben’s Reubens on Instagram.


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