SIX OF THE BEST: DELIS

Esca 160 Clapham High Street, SW4 (020 7622 2288) Its bespoke hampers, rare, top-quality dried pastas and tapenades make great foodie gifts.

Raoul's 8-10 Clifton Road, W9 (020 7289 6649) Treat yourself to its panettone. Gift ideas include "bachelor hampers" and gingerbread houses.

Comptoir Gascon 63 Charterhouse Street, EC1 (020 7608 0851) Specialising in goodies from southwestern France including Perigord black truffle (Pounds 80 per 100g) and foie gras with candied chestnut (Pounds 9.50).

La Fromagerie 4 Moxon Street, W1 (020 7935 0341) Choose from a mouthwatering selection of French, Italian and British cheeses, fine wines and hand-baked breads.

Flaneur 41 Farringdon Road, EC1 (020 7404 4422) Try Carved Angel Pudding (500g, Pounds 16.20), chocolate-covered figs (Pounds 12.80 for 450g) or crystallised ginger (Pounds 6.50 for 350g).

Camisa Son 61 Old Compton Street, W1 (020 7437 7610) A superb Italian deli specialising in salami, Parma hams and vintage Italian wines.

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