So, farewell then, Surbiton Brasserie, which has closed down.

The Victoria Road diner opposite the station (sandwiched between the carpet shop and Headmasters) has been a favourite haunt of Surbitonians since it opened in 2011, especially on mild Saturday mornings when the outside tables would be full of the town’s literati, glitterati and intelligentsia, putting the world to rights between puffs as they stroked their dogs and watched the parade of train-catchers and shoppers dismount from the 71 and K3 at the bus stop right outside.

Best loved for its breakfasts (especially the omelettes and eggs benedict), the blue-décor eatery with its blue tables and pile of free newspapers to browse was also a good lunch venue (salads, pasta dishes, jacket potatoes).

The restaurant, accessed by a big step – which made life difficult for those with mobility issues – is now set to turn into another sushi bar… begging the questions: ‘How much raw fish can Surbiton consume?’ and ‘Haven’t we reached peak shrimp nigiri?’

Those seeking nearby alternatives can head to Allegro Café, two doors along, or The Surbiton Flyer, opposite.