On an unassuming stretch of Stoke Newington High Street, two doors down from a laundrette and next door to a chippy, you’ll find tiled, pastel-blue bar with shutters adorned with a massive mural of a woman riding a tiger. Venture behind the glittery, salmon pink doorway and down an atmospherically lit flight of stairs to enter what founders Thea Cumming and Lucia Massey have described as ‘a haven celebrating empowered feminine energy’. Think hot-pink décor, mezcal-based cocktails and, in the restaurant upstairs, a Latin-inspired food menu that includes chunky cassava fries, tightly-packed empanadas and totopos with creamy and spicy dips. Throw in live music, cabaret, workshops, alternative comedy and more for a seriously escapist paradise. Doña is ultimately a self-described creative hub – and there’s plenty here to inspire.
Order this
The Mezcal Margaret is the quintessential Doña order and in common with the venue’s inclusive ethos, there's an array of options: spicy, classic or cucumber and coriander-infused.
Time Out tip
Once ensconced at Doña, you’re on east London’s unofficial ‘Mezcal Mile’, a mouth-watering strip of bars and venues – including Hacha and Corrochio’s – also enamoured of the excellent agave spirit. Marvellous!
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