This independently owned café isn’t just an island of calm for a steady stream of twenty- and thirtysomethings, it’s also the home of London Fields Radio, which is hosted from the corner of the room. As a result, some visits can be a little noisy, with interviews broadcast in the tiny space in real time. But it’s a fun, laid-back atmosphere that’s also reflected in the decoration. Recycled apple crates are used as makeshift tables, and curvy corrugated iron counters show off an array of cakes and pastries. Food is top-notch, with suppliers such as Brindisa, Ginger Pig and the local E5 Bakehouse.
Coffees are equally stellar, with beans from nearby Climpson & Sons. Toasted snacks hit the mark too, with portobello mushroom and goat’s curd on sourdough, chorizo and rocket sandwiches, and a very generous portion of avocado on toast. It might not be the biggest café in Hackney – brace yourself for a pram jam – but what it lacks in elbow room is more than made up for by the excellent food and a killer flat white.