London Brixton

SW9, 11 Dorrell Pl. (☎7738 3116; www.sw9bar.com). Brixton. This stylish hangout, named after the once-dreaded Brixton postal code, offers plush couches and outdoor seating on a quiet, pedestrian street. Sip a mixed drink during Happy hour (M-F 4:30-7pm) or enjoy an amply portioned meal. Try a gourmet omelette for breakfast or lunch (£8.50); the venison and root-vegetable pie is a dinner favorite (£10). F-Sa live jazz music. Open M-Th 10am-11pm, F-Sa 10am-1am. MC/V.
Gyoza, 426 Coldharbour Ln. (☎7274 1492). Brixton. Chinese food for the budget- conscious that doesn’t skimp on taste. The large noodle soups (from £4) will satisfy any appetite, as will the Gyoza boxes (from £7). Takeaway available. Open M-Th noon-11pm, F-Sa noon-midnight, Su 3-11pm. MC/V.
Satay Bar, 447 Coldharbour Ln. (☎7326 5001; www.sataybar.co.uk). Brixton. An Indonesian restaurant with an upscale look, specializing in—you guessed it—satay. Savory dishes include the ayam panggang (chicken in spicy coconut sauce; £6) and the vegetarian gado gado (bean curd; £5). Balinese masks and modern art watch
over dining locals. Happy hour daily 5-8pm (mixed drinks from £4.25, carafes from £12). Open M-Th noon-3pm and 5pm-midnight, F noon-3pm and 5pm-1:30am, Sa 2pm-1:30am, Su 2-11:30pm. MC/V.
Honest, 424 Coldharbour Ln. (☎7738 6161). Brixton. Flip through an environmental magazine as you sip an espresso or munch on vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free dishes. Start with an English breakfast (£7) and wash it down with fresh juice (from £2). Open M-Th 9am-5pm, F 9am-6pm, Sa 10am-6pm, Su 11am-5pm. MC/V.