It's always been magical to press the discreet buzzer and walk into the quiet brick-walled garden of Rochelle Canteen, leaving gritty East London behind.

Steinsee is not the city’s grandest lake, but it has that rare combination: warm water, space for play, and a table waiting when the appetite arrives.

Det Vide Hus is super affordable, extra cosy (or hygge as we’d say in Danish), with one of the best coffees in the city & a great selection of Danish pastry!

In an area full of chains, visit the family-run Crown Café. I'm a big fan of their sandwiches & their pastel de nata and they make a great cup of tea.

A quirky Belleville-coded corner bar, Onze mixes retro decor, cheap happy-hour drinks, and a cast of “freaks and geeks” you’ll love to people-watch.

Ara Kafe reflects the old Istanbul aesthetic just in an original way. Its warm atmosphere and the quality has remained consistently high over the years.

Visit Eiffel Bazar if you’re hunting for a quirky souvenir or simply love rummaging through history. And don't forget to check the box of old cinema posters!

Sprout is a chic, minimalist pizza spot, small but welcoming. Fresh, local ingredients, house-made bread and sauces make their short menu truly delicious!

Wengo isn’t fancy, but it’s perfect for authentic, affordable Asian cuisine. Vegans and vegetarians get plenty of delicious options to choose from, too!

Before going there, I suspected it would be great, but my visit exceeded expectations. 270º rooftop has a breathtaking view over Valencia and cocktails.