Not content with dominating Streatham's nightlife entertainment schedules, jazz venue the Hideaway has expanded and opened its own cafe on the High Road.

The décor is bright and stylish, adopting the Hideaway's signature orange and black, complete with memorable keyhole motif. Modern jazz tunes provide the perfect atmosphere.

Next to a large counter displaying tasty treats is the cafe's bar owned by wine connoisseurs Chix and Bucks.

The owners are passionate about their trade and offer wine tasting sessions during the week.

We sampled the Santa Cecilia Trebbiano d'Abruzzo (£24) and the Mainart 538 Chardonnay Sauvingnon (£21.50) which were selected by our host to match our food choices - both were simply delicious.

Feeling suitably spoilt, we started with a mixed assiette (£13) which boasted a superb mix of cheeses, cold meats, crackers, olives and grapes.

The platter went down extremely well with our specially picked wine, and for a moment, I felt like I was on holiday in the Med. The olives, served with a dash of lime, were particularly inventive and the cheeses were rich with flavour. Meanwhile the portion size was generous- you could've shared this dish between three and still had plenty to nibble on.

For my main I went for chicken pieces in a rich tomato sauce with white beans and chunks of chorizo (£12.95). The dish was like nothing I'd tasted before- it had the texture of a stew but with an added kick. The chicken and sausage complimented each other perfectly and the lack of carbohydrates was welcome after a large starter, although bread was served on the side for mopping up the delicious sauce.

My dining partner instead chose the lamb with sautéed potatoes, winter vegetables and a small jug of gravy (£11.95). The traditional British dish ticked all the boxes apparently, and had it not been for the huge portion he said he would have polished it off!

By this stage we were pretty stuffed and so desert was off the cards. But we enjoyed a nice alternative- fresh fruit smoothies (£2.70 each) and two more glasses of splendid wine. Service was impeccable throughout the evening and there was enthusiasm from all involved about what was being served.

The Hideaway is a hidden treasure in south London's crown and there's no doubt this recent venture will get people talking.

Hideaway Jazz Cafe, 225 Streatham High Road, SW16.

Visit www.hideawaylive.co.uk/.