Crusons Greengrocers

«Cruson» was basically the name of on the banner above the premises when the current owners took it over, about 40 years ago, and they decided to leave it be. This is very much in keeping with the general time-​stood-​still vibe of this Cypriot-​run greengrocer’s.
Being objective, I’d probably have to admit that their prices and produce aren’t necessarily better than you’d find in the local supermarket, but really, it’s just MUCH more enjoyable to shop in your neighbourhood store. And I have nothing but admiration for the proprietor, who’s clearly about 80 and yet still has the energy to man the shop, his hands gloved in the freezing winter months, for all sorts of hours. He’s open till 9pm, even on Sundays! I don’t know how he does it, it exhausts me just thinking about the sheer HOURS the old fella must have put in over the decades.
He’s still on top of things, too — he’ll know, unlike his less savvy minions, that they do in fact have fresh oregano in the back, it just hasn’t been unpacked yet. (The fact that he always addresses me as «young man» doesn’t hurt either). Cruson stock the famous sachets of «Cock soup» people find so entertaining, as well as sundry Mediterranean and Caribbean essentials. If this isn’t enough to persuade you, at least go to check out the prehistoric till, which brings to mind that «Open All Hours» one that kept whacking Ronnie Barker in the gut. Love it.

A lovely traditional greengrocer with a much better selection of veg than you’d find in the supermarket: Chicory! Fresh Marjoram! Jerusalem Artichokes!
It’s also part of what I like to call Camberwell’s ‘Little Athens’ — a small cluster of shops/​restaurants run by Greek people, so at Cruson’s that manifests itself by a wonderful selection of olives, and plenty of lovely Greek goods for sale in the fridge — cheese, mezze, all sorts.
Also there is a beautiful cat named Lulu who lives here, she loves visitors!

Mmmmm, I love greengrocers — the smell, the colours, the charm — and Cruson is a fine example. Run by a wonderful cheerful Greek man, Cruson is a Camberwell stalwart and a brilliant alternative to Somerfields for your fruit and veg shop. There’s also a good selection of deli items at the back including a variety of houmous and tzatziki-​type dips. Not always the cheapest option on the street, but look out for special offers on the counter.