There is an absence of very very big chain groceries stores in the capital. You can find some stores like Sainsbury's, Tesco's, Waitrose and M&S in most neighbourhoods and also smaller companies like Budgens or Costcutters.

You will find things are usually overpriced in comparison with buying fresh veggies, fruits, meat or fish at the street markets. But convenience in the opening hours, club cards for customer rewards and delivery services make the supermarkets a winning option.

The major 4 brands above, together with Asda are the big players with cheaper prices. But there are plenty of small family run businesses in most corners of most neighbourhoods in London. They open long hours and offer you that item you forgot on your way home! Check for expiry dates though!! And be prepared to pay over the odds.

There are some new-wave type shops where you can find organic and fair trade products and even order your veggies & fruits online to land at your doorstep. These are worth the price as the quality is unbeatable! Some shops are: Fresh & Wild– a chain with its own small restaurant, Planet Organic another chain with ready meals too and online shops like www.welshfarmorganics.co.uk