P Franco, wine shop, bar and restaurant. Amazing wine, delicious small plates (guest chefs) in a very lively atmosphere. The wait for a spot to sit down is worth it. 

Quinto sells second-hand books. I spend a lot of time here and have found some inspiring books over the years, both at Quinto and the other shops on this road. Koenig Books on the corner is good for art books, too.

Outside of the major players (Tate, V&A, RA) this is probably the best programmed gallery in London

Untitled Bar is modelled on Andy Warhol’s Factory. It is sterile and minimal setting but as more bodies join, things soon warm up.

Just above the Dorfman Theatre lobby at the National Theatre, is the entrance to the high-level walkway, a public walkway that overlooks the National Theatre props and scenic workshop. It's free and is a unique chance to get a glimpse of what happens backstage. I love popping in when I'm on the south bank, as you get a completely different sight each time, depending on which production the workshops are working on at the time.