“I like to think we’re a cross between Whole Foods and Soho House”, Farmstand owner Steven Novick tells me over a delicious lunch of salmon fillet with broccoli and tahini (a fantastic combination albeit unexpected in how well they compliment one another) and a colourful mix of split fava beans, roasted peppers and pumpkin. Upon hearing this, I immediately see his point: the busy Covent Garden-based restaurant is thriving with friends catching up over lunch, individuals reading their reports or books, and groups holding business meetings away from the office.

Farmstand is Steven’s brainchild and came after his battle with cancer in 2006, which saw him lose part of his thumb. During that time he set himself three goals: to become closer to his family and friends, to climb the highest peak on each of the seven continents, and to open a fast-casual healthy food business.

Hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Steven’s philosophy for Farmstand is ‘Delicious Food. Sustainably Sourced’, and staying true to his roots it’s inspired by food stalls found by roadsides in the American midwest. Farmstand, with its exposed brickwork complemented by the green of the in-house grown herbs, prides itself on cooking the dishes from fresh every day, right there in their kitchen. The food and drink is free from refined sugar, as well as being gluten free, dairy free, GM free and sourcing all meat, poultry and fish ethically and ensuring they’re free from hormones and antibiotics. Even the beers have been either locally sourced (Crate from Hackney) or they’re organic (Celia from Czech Republic).

During lunch, diners get the option of personalising their lunchbox by choosing one main and two sides (or three sides). And with such a healthy, fresh and colourful array of choice (with one of the friendliest restaurant owners I’ve met; even Steven’s doctors have invested in the restaurant he’s that nice!), it’s no wonder Farmstand is setting a trend and is proving to be a popular breakfast, lunch and dinner spot in central London.

For more information, visit Farmstand.co.uk