Six of the best... greasy spoons

There are certain mornings when a bowl of cereal just won't do... If you're intending to have a big night, here's where to enjoy a big breakfast the next day.

New Piccadilly Caf?, 8 Denman Street, W1 (020 7437 8530). Garrulous owner Lorenzo Marrione calls his caf? 'a temple to Formica' - which is the perfect d?cor for carb loading and upping your fat content.

River Caf?, 1 Station Approach, SW6 (020 7736 6296). No, not that one. A pre-war Express Dairy turned old-skool caff, it retains its original mirrors, tiled walls and dairy ceiling. Homemade shepherd's pie is always a winner.

The Boiled Egg & Soldiers, 63 Northcote Road, SW11 (020 7223 4894). A self-proclaimed 'greaseless' greasy spoon, aiming to serve up standard, good-quality caf? dishes without an accompanying pool of fat. Great poor man's Eggs Benedict: muffins, poached eggs, ham and cheese.

Dante, 83 Duke Street, W1 (020 7629 9831). English/Italian diner which, considering it's in the heart of Mayfair, offers great value with all-day breakfasts for less than £4.

The Ritz, 340A King Street, W6 (020 8748 7517). Greasy spoons are thin on the ground in Chiswick, but a loyal clientele keeps this firmly on the map.

Silva's, 220 Shaftesbury Avenue, WC2 (020 7240 0028). Small but good, Italian-owned eatery with well-portioned breakfast dishes and ever-changing meal of the day. The moussaka is always popular.