Live like a local: The best pubs and cafes in Dulwich according to chef Dayashankar Sharma of Heritage

Dayashankar Sharma – executive chef of Heritage Dulwich – shows us around the leafy south London suburb of Dulwich.

With its white picket fences and public schools, Dulwich is as English as you can get, yet Sharma’s fine-dining menus are inspired by India’s history and his childhood growing up in Rajasthan.

“I worked as a consultant chef in Dulwich many years ago, which is how I came to know the area and its people,” he says.

“Although it’s only a few miles from central London, it has a distinctive village-like feel.”

Heritage specialises in hearty Indian flavours done a little differently – think juicy king prawns grilled in a clay oven, stuffed tilapia fish and killer cocktails, such as an Old Fashioned made with bourbon-soaked cherries and bay leaves.

“The area has always welcomed independent businesses and local people really know the value of unique experiences,” Sharma adds.

Dayashankar Sharma’s top spots in Dulwich

Rosendale Pub 65 Rosendale Road, West Dulwich, London SE21 8EZ

I love the atmosphere of this homely pub, as well as their Sunday roast.

Dulwich Park College Rd, London SE21

One of the most beautiful parks in South London with so much to do, whether you fancy cycling or boating on the lake.

There are some lovely cafes within the park too.

Dulwich Picture Gallery Gallery Rd, London SE21 7AD

An excellent art gallery which is free to the general public, and exhibits some of the country’s finest collections.

Cafe Salva 103A Rosendale Rd, West Dulwich, London SE21 8EZ

This café’s speciality coffee and gourmet panini are my go-tos on the weekend.

In our new Live Like a Local series, we ask Londoners to show us around an area they know particularly well, lifting the lid on hidden gems and neighbourhood stalwarts. So your home city actually feels like home, no matter which postcode you’re exploring. Tell us your favourite places in your neighbourhood at [email protected]