Maria Farrar’s artwork will whet your appetite for cafe fare, says Alison Oldham.

Joseph’s Bookstore and Café Also in Temple Fortune is showcasing Maria Farrar’s still life paintings of fish and vegetarian fare - foods which mirror its menu.

Born in the Philippines, Farrar was raised in Japan and came to England at the age of 15. Early influences were visits to local shrines, memories of the colours and textures of fish seen on seaside holidays, and painting outdoors with her Japanese art class.

The works exhibited are also inspired by her admiration of C17th Dutch Masters notably Jan Steen and Clara Peeters. They hang alongside The Chef, painted by Eva Frankfurther at 26, Farrar’s age now. She is currently studying at the Slade School of Art where she won the first ever Gwen John Scholarship.

Until December 31 at 1-2 Ashbourne Parade, 1255-57 Finchley Road, NW11. Tuesday to Friday 8.30am - 11pm, Saturday 9.30am – 11pm, Sunday 9.30am – 5pm. 0208 455 6890. Prices for Farrar’s paintings range from £300 to £600.