Southampton has lots of independent, family-run businesses which make the city stand out.

On Sunday, we asked our readers to name their favourite independents - and this is what you told us.

Here’s a round-up of the top five independent stores in Southampton, according to the Daily Echo readers – in no particular order.

Frederick’s Chocolates

Daily Echo: Frederick's chocolate Frederick's chocolate (Image: Frederick's chocolate)

For those of you with a sweet tooth, our question was an easy one. The answer had to be Frederick’s Chocolates! 

From the typical box of chocolates to jelly gums, Frederick’s Chocolates has got you covered.

You can even try some American sweets if you’re interested in seeing what our friends across the pond snack on instead of Haribo.

Address: Unit 8, The Marlands, Civic Centre Road, Southampton, SO14 7SJ

Miss Ellies’s Cafe

Daily Echo: Miss Ellie's CafeMiss Ellie's Cafe (Image: Google Maps)

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a nice breakfast or brunch then one place to recommend is Miss Ellie’s Cafe.

It's been praised for its "amazing" food, which includes vegatarian, vegan and gluten-free options, and its "friendly" service.

Address: 31A Manor Farm Road, Southampton, SO18 1NN

READ MORE: The Southampton shoe shop that's been running for eight generations

Bitterne Park Stores

Daily Echo: Bitterne Park StoresBitterne Park Stores (Image: Facebook)

If you’re looking to buy fresh produce and drinks sourced within Hampshire then Bitterne Park Stores might be the right place for you.

It sells fresh fruit and veg, local cheeses as well as craft ales, ciders and spirits.

Address: 25 Manor Farm Road, Bitterne Park Triangle, Southampton, SO18 1NN

The Angelic Kitchen

Daily Echo: The Angelic KitchenThe Angelic Kitchen (Image: Facebook)

This is a somewhat new shop, but it seems to have caught some of our readers' attention.

You can go into the store for sweet treats, as well as custom cakes for special occasions.

The beauty of this bakery is that it caters for pets too. 

Address: Unit 16A, The Marlands Shopping Centre, Civic Centre Road, Southampton, SO14 7SJ

READ MORE: We tried the city's new pet bakery - here's how it went

W.J. French and Son

Daily Echo: WJ French and Sons storeWJ French and Sons store (Image: Jose Ramos)

This one is a classic choice for those whose grandparents used to shop here.

This family-run shoe shop been running since 1803. Eight generations of the same family have worked here.

If you want to get yourself some new shoes or repair the ones you already have, then W.J. French & Sons is highly recommended.

Address: 40 Bedford Place, Southampton, SO15 2DG

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