The Mayor of Lewisham Business Awards spotlights the best of Lewisham’s businesses across 10 categories from food and drink to entertainment and shopping.
Taking place at an awards ceremony at Catford’s Broadway Theatre yesterday (November 19), the event was attended by over 450 guests, with the winners across the ten categories named.
This year’s awards drew record-breaking engagement, with 2,000 public nominations — double last year’s number — and nearly 9,000 votes.
Hosted with energy and humour by Robbie Gee and Eddie Nestor MBE, the evening also featured performances from D&B Academy, magician Troy and violinist Rebekah Reid.
The event was supported by Better, Landsec, Lewisham College, Goldsmiths University of London and Blue Garage UK.
Mayor of Lewisham Brenda Dacres OBE praised the borough’s entrepreneurial spirit, calling local businesses “the heartbeat of Lewisham’.
Among this year’s winners was longstanding Indian restaurant Babur along with long-running Blackheath Farmers Market.
Here are all the winners of this year’s awards:
Best Sustainable Business – Good Food
This community-backed social enterprise grocery store focuses on local, organic and sustainably produced food.
Best Online Business – Lydia Florists
A family-run Brockley favourite since 2000, Lydia Florists specialises in elegant floral arrangements delivered across Lewisham and further afield.
Best New Business – Mind Yoga and Pilates
This boutique Forest Hill studio offers inclusive yoga and movement classes with a strong focus on mental wellbeing, as well as community events and a hireable second studio.
Best in the Creative Sector – The Albany Theatre
Deptford’s multipurpose arts centre, boasting a 500-capacity performance space, studios, rehearsal rooms and a growing creative business support programme.
Best High Street Business – Moon Lane Books
Celebrated for focusing on inequity in children’s literature by improving access, representation and diversity across the publishing landscape.
Best Café – Le Delice
This popular boulangerie and patisserie brings French home-style bakes to Lewisham, known for its sourdough and pasties.
Best Restaurant – Babur
Babur has been a part of Lewisham since serving up a menu of gourmet Indian dishes.
Best Bar or Pub – Fox and Firkin
A hub for underground live music with an expansive garden, local food vendors and a strong commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
Best Independent Business – Get Active Kids
An Ofsted-registered holiday club providing fun, active sessions that help children develop confidence, core skills and friendships in a safe environment.
Best Market – Blackheath Farmers Market
Recently named London’s best farmers’ market by HelloFresh, this weekly market hosts over 30 stalls selling fresh produce, artisan goods and seasonal treats.
Lewisham Legend Award – Sean Daly, Millwall Community Trust
Honoured for his exceptional leadership as CEO of Millwall Community Trust, delivering sports, education, health and social programmes across Southwark and Lewisham.
Councillor Ese Erheriene, Cabinet Member for Business, Jobs and Skills said: “Over the past year, we’ve worked hard to champion a resilient, inclusive and authentic local economy – one that reflects the creativity and diversity that make Lewisham so special.
“Tonight, we celebrate the businesses at the heart of our community.
“Whether you’re just starting out or have been serving Lewisham for generations, your energy, passion and commitment to your customers deserve the spotlight.
“The Council remains firmly committed to helping businesses start, grow and thrive.”
