High Water is a straightforward, always-reliable back-pocket cocktail bar in Dalston that suits pretty much any occasion.

The Duke of Wellington is a proper pub where pints are pulled, the Premier League is playing, and the pool table always has a pound coin put down.

Slurp Yard is a huge walk-in wine bar in Dalston with a changing menu.

Oren is a low-lit and lowkey eastern Mediterranean spot in Dalston perfect for when you want a bit of this and a bit of that.

Micky’s is a chippy in Dalston that you can rely on. The fish is freshly cooked and they’re always happy to put absolutely anything in a bun for you.

Attawa is a modern Punjabi restaurant in Dalston with a delicious array of branded breads, karis, and must-order dhaal.

Umut 2000 is a classic ocakbasi restaurant just off of the Kingsland Road. Come for the grilled meat and lamb ribs. Stay for the excellent staff.

Mangal II is a classic Turkish restaurant that’s doing things a bit differently. With superb grilled meats, sourdough pide, natural wines, and more.

Ewerts is a Caribbean takeaway spot in Dalston freshly cooking superb smoky jerk chicken, pork belly, and more.

Peppers & Spice is a takeaway-only Caribbean spot in Dalston that’s a great all-rounder and a must for patties if you’re in the area.

Mangal Pide in Dalston is a tiny lahmacun and pide shop perfect for a quick and freshly made snack.

All Island Grill is a little Caribbean restaurant in Dalston that makes jerk chicken, oxtail stew, and fried chicken worth travelling for.

Brunswick East is an all-day Australian café and coffee shop with lovely courtyard seating.

Footnote is a spacious coffee spot on Wilton Way in Hackney that makes a great option for catching up with friends.

Allpress is an excellent two-storey coffee spot with a lovely patio are.

Snackbar is a café and workspace on Dalston Lane that serves a range of unusual and excellent Asian-inspired breakfast, lunch, and brunch plates.