I grew up around this area - it really is a gem of a place. The interior is so cool, with sort of organised clutter everywhere. They have a little garden and they serve food. Its not the best in the world, but the whole experience there is great.

Quick, easy, cheap thai food. It's fairly new to me, but easily makes this list.

Stationery, homewares and a few clothes. All simple classics.

SOAS university has a small gallery space dedicated to exhibitions about Asia, Africa and the Middle East. There's a small but beautiful Japanese zen garden on the rooftop (currently closed for refurbishment)

I spend many hours in the bookshops along this stretch, namely Henry Pordes for second hand books and new discounted titles (pile on left of photo), as well as Koenig Books for new art books with lots of great discounts in the basement. (photo right). In 2001 the rents for much of this strip were increased to align them closer to market value but thanks to public support they were reduced again. Unfortunately some bookshops still closed down; Koenig replaced the beloved Zwemmers - a real institution - but thankfully still provide great books, although others are no longer bookshops at all.