BOB's BLOG - Friday 1 August 2025

Walking around our neighbourhood, you'll notice something that sets Putney apart from countless other London suburbs: the genuine warmth that radiates from our local cafés, restaurants, and pubs.

These aren't faceless chains or corporate ventures – they're family-run businesses where the owner knows your name, remembers your usual order, and genuinely cares about making your day a little brighter.

But here's the reality: our beloved local hospitality businesses are facing unprecedented challenges. Rising costs, changing customer habits, and fierce competition from delivery apps and chain restaurants mean that every customer interaction, every pound spent locally, truly matters. When we choose to support a local café over a national chain, we're not just buying a coffee – we're investing in our community's future.

The magic of Putney's hospitality scene lies in its diversity and personal touch. Where else can you find a Korean family businesses serving the best kimchi pancake, alongside a British family running a traditional pub, restaurants serving the best shawarma on the planet or a young entrepreneur crafting artisanal decorative cakes just streets away from a decades-old Italian trattoria?

This rich tapestry of flavours and experiences is what makes our neighbourhood special, but it's also what makes it fragile. These businesses do more than serve food and drink – they create community spaces where friendships are forged, where local artists display their work, where book clubs meet, and where new residents feel welcomed. They sponsor local sports teams, donate to school fundraisers, and provide employment opportunities for our neighbours.

When a local restaurant closes, we don't just lose a dining option; we lose a piece of our community's soul. The good news is that we, as residents, have the power to strengthen this ecosystem.

Every visit to a local café instead of a chain store, every recommendation to a friend, every positive review online helps these businesses thrive. Small gestures like trying a new dish, bringing colleagues for lunch, or booking your next celebration at a local venue can make a real difference to a business owner's week.

Many of our local establishments are finding creative ways to show their appreciation for community support. Special offers, loyalty programs, and community events are becoming more common as businesses recognise that building lasting relationships with local customers is the key to long-term success.

As we navigate these challenging times, let's remember that our choices as consumers are also choices about the kind of community we want to live in. A community where local businesses flourish is one where character, quality, and personal service triumph over convenience and corporate uniformity.

The next time you're deciding where to grab lunch, meet friends, or celebrate a special occasion, consider the local option. Your support doesn't just fill a seat or pay a bill – it helps preserve the unique character that makes Putney feel like home.

Thank you for your support.

Looking forward to seeing you soon!

Rob & the T&T Team

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