The chefs' perfect picnics

"Picnics aren't all about stodgy sandwiches. For an Atkins-friendly al fresco meal, buy a whole smoked English eel from Kensington Place Fish Shop (201 Kensington Church Street, W8) and don't forget the fresh horseradish, grater, whole lemon, and a pepper mill to serve.

I'd also say that no picnic is complete without a cool box full of well-chilled Riesling."

Rose Gray, Chef/patron, River Café

"Nip down to your local Italian deli and grab some freshly sliced prosciutto and a whole Fellino salami, fresh rocket, a bottle of extra virgin olive oil and a delicious piece of aged Pecorino. Drizzle the rocket with olive oil and serve the Pecorino with oatcakes. Minimal preparation required.

"If you're taking the children along, peeled, sliced pieces of cucumber make a fresh, healthy snack, but store the cucumber in a box of ice. A chilled bottle of Valpolicella will always keep the adults happy."

Shane Osborn, Head chef, Pied à Terre

"Keep it rustic with a crusty baguette from Paul Bakery (29 Bedford Street, Covent Garden), Iberico ham and chorizo from Garcia and Sons (248 Portobello Road) and English strawberries from Berwick Street market in Soho. I'll always add a touch of class with a drop of chilled Ruinart Champagne from Oddbins."

Henri Brosi, Executive chef, The Dorchester Hotel

"I'm a big fan of British produce, especially from some of the smaller producers, and it's not that hard for Londoners to get hold of it.

Roast up an organic chicken from Ellel Poultry in Lancashire (01524 751200; four birds minimum order) to keep it simple. Alternatively, you can buy excellent smoked wild salmon from Forman and Field (020 8221 3939), who will deliver next day for telephone orders. Strawberries from Mockbeggar Farm in Kent are available from Tesco and are best served with a cool bottle of Krug Vintage 1990 from Moet Hennessy