The lotus-root crisps and sushi-heavy set menu at this spot inspired by a Japanese izakaya draw the crowds. But regulars end up coming back for the jazz nights and DJ sets – it’s open until 1.30am at weekends. Note: this is only a good idea if you’re up for a dimly lit and noisy night. 

With its wooden interior, red leather bar stools and friendly faces behind the bar, The Duke of Wellington has everything you expect from a great neighbourhood pub. If you're searching for a new go-to for an after-work pint, look no further. In the summer, you can take your beer out to the park in front and soak up the sun all day—now how about that! 

This compact Dalston bar run by brothers Noel and Max Venning is an industry favourite. All cocktails are presented beautifully – often with fruit peel frozen in the giant cubes of ice. The powder-pink grapefruit Paloma is finished with a couple of Fragata pimiento olives and a dash of the spicy brine. Proper cocktails with an extra flourish.

Set discreetly under two railway arches is this boldly designed wine clubhouse. Diners gather around one long table facing the kitchen to watch Seb Myers, formerly of Clapton wine bar P. Franco, plating his French-flavoured dishes. There’s a glass of wine suggested for every course and it’s a great spot to discover low-intervention bottles.