Six of the best... Delivery services

Cool Chile Co (0870 902 1145; www.coolchile.co.uk) Impressive selection of dried chillies, powders, sauces and other Mexican products, easily p&p-ed and dropped off at the homestead. Order a bag of Habanero chillies for the full volcanic effect.

Kensington Place (020 7243 6626; www.kensingtonplace.co.uk)
Incredible fishmongers which is able to get almost any sea creature sold at Billingsgate. Smoked fish, live langoustine, freshly prepared fish cakes and related condiments all available. Deliveries in West London only.

Farm-A-Round Organic (020 7627 8066; www.farmaround.co.uk) Organic grocer with an extensive catalogue of more than 600 items, including vegetables. Deliveries once a week, according to postcode.

Swig (020 7208 7201; www.swig.co.uk) Established wine-delivery service, specialising in South African, Italian and Rhône Valley varieties. Flat delivery charge of £10.

Choc Express (01763 257 744; www.chocexpress.com) Chocolate-delivery company with a fantastic range of quality chocs, novelty packages (including choc-o-grams), gourmet Turkish delight and positively luxurious champagne and chocolate hampers.