Bon Papillon

Wholesome delicious meals and outstanding baking in artistic surrounds.

The 2019 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

Despite its relatively central location, Bon Papillon has the definite feel of a neighbourhood favourite. Its solid reputation and delicious scones mean that locals and community groups make up a large proportion of returning customers, alongside tourists and art-lovers. Regularly changing paintings on the walls and pleasing culinary details add interest to this otherwise low-key but bright and friendly little café gallery. Co-owner Ingrid Nilsson paints from a studio at the back while also offering wall space to other artists. Meanwhile, Stuart Allan pours his creativity into the menu, serving slices of cake beautifully plated with fresh fruit and yoghurt. A choice between chocolate and blackcurrant sponge, or banana, apricot and honey cake, is a hard one. Wholesome lunch options include salads such as falafel and avocado with chilli dressing, alongside dependable soups or variations on open sandwiches with a selection of breads.