Bodega 50
A charming East London community café that for several years didn’t even reveal its name, Bodega 50 still doesn’t have a website. What it does have however is a very devoted clientele, with most likely to have heard about it through friends or live nearby. Inside there’s a relaxed atmosphere where the smooth, velvety latte we sampled comes courtesy of Climpson & Sons. There’s also tasty vegan fare, fresh juices and delicious homemade cakes and breads. The perfect place to while away some time, thumbing through books (compliments of the café) or contemplating a few grocery purchases.
50 Allen Road, N16 8RZ
020 7683 3869
Abney Park
Not to be confused with nearby Clissold Park, this is, in fact a cemetery. Not just any old cemetery mind, but one of London’s ‘Magnificent Seven’ and a finer place to take a stroll around you’d be hard pushed to find. Wander down it’s crooked, overgrown paths to discover incredible Victorian tombstones, with Salvation Army founders General William and Catherine Booth’s family plot being an excellent example near the Church Street entrance. Another claim to fame is that Amy Winehouse filmed some of her Back to Black music video here. There’s also a rather nice chapel in the centre.
215 Stoke Newington High Street, N16 0HL
020 7275 7557|
abneypark.org
The Lacy Nook
Slightly off the beaten track on Cazenove Road lays The Lacy Nook, a fabulous Balkan restaurant run by the lovely Elena and Jana, which also just happens to have one of the biggest gardens in town. On a summer’s day settle in for a feast al fresco of small sharing dishes (we’re still dreaming about the smoked aubergine, labneh, whey, crispy shallots and mint) washed down with a reasonably priced vino. Now that’s the kind of outdoors dining we like!
8 Cazenove Road, N16 6BD
020 7683 1065
thelacynook.com
The Cookery
Okay, so hardly a secret, with queues forming outside this High Street butchers even on a weekday, but often overlooked by those preferring style over substance (the type who opt for the super expensive Meat on the Church Street). Jeff and his team will always see you proud, whether a fore rib of beef, their legendary pork and leek sausages or a special order of ox cheeks.
113 Stoke Newington High Street, N16 0PH
020 7254 0499
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