For something a little more insider than gloobles favourite Quality Chop House, head a few doors down to its sibling bottle shop for steak tartare topped with shoestring fries and plates of handmade cavatelli with Ventricina sausage. The set lunch menu is a steal so book ahead for a midday table.

Big Flavours and Rough Edges is the name of The Eagle’s first cookbook – a title pinched from an early review. And while flavour might sometimes still trump presentation, this independent boozer is as good for a pint at the bar as it is for its hearty plates of cuttlefish stew and sausages on a heap of lentils. One of London’s truest gastropubs.

Through some humble-looking black painted doors in Clerkenwell is the emporium of art and design that is Hollybush Gardens. The temporary exhibitions are remarkably curated and simultaneously interdisciplinary. Pop by for a performance or lecture, and swing by the shop before you leave. You're sure to find a book you never knew you needed. 

While we don't often hang out deep underground, this cute, plant-filled basement just might change that. This Clerkenwell restaurant is perfect for brunch or a sunny Saturday afternoon spent on the terrace.