Charles Campion checks out five of the best places to eat lunch on the Portobello Road.

Banger Bros

Good sausages, and not just your traditional British banger (although there is fair Cumberland sausage on the list) - and how does a smoked Polish sausage with dill pickles and fried onions sound? You could also opt for lamb merguez or chorizo. The bangers are grilled and come with a bun, with salad or on their own. Simple stuff and keenly priced. 225a Portobello Rd, W11 (020 7229 9147, www.bangerbros.co.uk)

Café Garcia

This café is bolted on to the side of a very impressive Spanish supermarket so it's self-evident that they have no problems sourcing good jamon, fine chorizo and moody olives. As a lunch spot the café is great for a glass of cold Fino and a few tapas. The friendly service should not be hurried. 248-250 Portobello Road, W11 (020 7221 6119, www.cafegarcia.co.uk)

El Camino Restaurant

Mexican eateries seem to be spreading like wild fire. This one is under the Westway and offers a jolly enough selection of tacos, carnitas, nachos and burritos. If the weather were to get a tad more Mexican the outside tables would make a good perch for a cold cocktail or two. 272 Portobello Road, W10 (020 8960 8556)

Falafel King

Let's be honest, eaters of falafel tend to be born, not made. You either have the digestion to cope with the onslaught by chickpea, or you don't. Search your conscience and then try lunching at Falafel King. Freshly made, cheap, cheerful, filling, savoury, vegetarian. Busy, which puts pressure on the limited outdoor seating. 274 Portobello Road, W10 (020 8964 2279)

Galicia

Old, traditional, uncompromising, formal all of the above apply to both the restaurant and the waiters. If you like straightforward, un-messed-about Spanish food you could do a good deal worse than popping into Galicia for lunch (closed on Mondays). 323 Portobello Road, W10 (020 8969 3539)