Rio Cinema

This legendary Dalston cinema opened as the Kingsland Empire in 1915 (although films were shown on the same site since 1909 in a converted shop). The venue was given a makeover and reopened as the Classic in 1937 – very similar to how it looks today. It became the Rio in 1976 and is now one of the few genuinely independent movie houses in London. With a newly added second screen to go with its grand two-tiered art deco auditorium – 400 seats in all – the Rio shows mostly independent and foreign films, with a healthy sprinkling of festivals, classics and films for kids during the holidays. The foyer is a compact but welcoming place to find food and drink (all from local East London suppliers, complete with vegan options), plus a new lounge bar in the basement. After the film, you can treat yourself to a meal at one of the local Turkish restaurants or a pizza at the neighbouring Voodoo Rays.