EAST, LONDON

Hackney, Hoxton, Shoreditch and Old Street are the 'Hipster Capitals' of the city.

Known for their atmospheric dining & drinking spots, street food, street art and markets, East London is full of creativity, uniqueness and surrounded by a touch of shabbiness (in a cool way though).

Crate Brewery, Hackney Wick

Crate Brewery is the ultimate post work / weekend canal-side hangout. Once a factory now turned bar with it's very own tasty micro-brewery serving the freshest beers, Crate has definitely become a key spot in Hackney Wick. Recycled decor, innovative pizzas, plus, DJ's to provide your Friday night soundtrack we can only recommend to test this place out for yourself.

Tip - Drink: Their very own 'Crate Pale Ale' is wicked. Food: This may sound unusual but their Banana & Dahl Pizza is heavenly!

Nightjar, Old Street

This speakeasy-style cocktail bar is a true hidden gem steps away from Old Street Station, it's hard to spot where it's located at first but look out for the well-dressed doorman to guide you to the secret wooden door. Nightjar is an award-winning bar serving classy cocktails and bar snacks along with wonderful service and the very best raw Jazz band talent.

Tip - Drink: 100% try their creative cocktails, Hidden Gemsss highly recommends the 'Yorkshire Punch' (pictured above). Food: Ultimately 'Finger Food' but their Pimientos de Padron are pretty decent.

Grind, Old Street

Grind located on the iconic Old Street Roundabout has been serving up some of the best of London's coffee since 2011. With several located around the city, our spot is this one, the original Shoreditch Grind. An espresso, cocktail bar in one as-well dishing up an all-day menu plus a recording studio upstairs, what more could you want? A hip, laid-back yet lively joint, it's no wonder why we always head here when we're in the area.

Tip - Drink: Coffee and Cocktail? Their Espresso Martini's is a must! Food: Grind knows how to do a banging poached egg.

Pachamama, Old Street

Pachamama is a 'Peruvian Paradise'. With branches in Marylebone and Old Street, this joint is definitely top of our list to taste Andean inspired dishes that are full of flavour, juice and colour, made by the finest UK ingredients. Shabby-chic interior, sharing style platters of seafood, vegetables and chargrill meats, Pachamama is a fun, friendly atmosphere that screams excitement.

Tip - Drink: Ask the waiter for their special 'Spicy Margarita' you wont be disappointed! Food: Start with their Salmon, Avocado Jalapeño sauce (pictured above), it will get those taste buds flowing ready for the second extravaganza - 'Pachamanca' - Beef Short Ribs is a must.

Dinerama, Shoreditch

One of Shoreditch's popular hangouts, Dinerama is a sweet spot to catch up with friends. Set across two floors, this street food market offers 10 bars serving delicious dishes from across the globe. A colourful, energising open space with seating and roaring fires for those cold winter months, this is the perfect place to come all year round.

Tip - Drink: Noted above, its free until 7pm with a small cost of £3 afterwards, whatever is your beverage tickle, Dinerama can cater to fulfil! Food: Hidden Gemssss loves the vendor 'Raastawala', they serve the best Tandoori Chicken Kati Roll!

Petit Pois Bistro, Hoxton

This famed neighbourhood bistro in Hoxton Square is an intimate, upscale french eatery with a warm welcoming of leathered booths, dimmed lighting and a romantic feel with flowers laid on the table. Offering a classic, simple menu which defines the classic cuisine, this family run joint is a special secret in East.

Tip - Drink: Although Petit Pois serves fine french wines, underneath the Bistro is 'Happiness Hoxton' a sweet cocktail bar if you fancy a night cap...Food: Steak Frites is a must and most definitely make room for dessert so you can experience their unreal chocolate mousse, yes they come round with a huge bowl of it to serve!

The Barge House, Hoxton

This unique canal-side venue is the perfect spot for your weekend brunching. The Barge House offers wonderful views along Regents Canal with outdoor seating and an open planned modern, lively feel inside. It's an ideal venue to host multiple events or to simply enjoy a well deserved tasty, relaxing morning in the sun, snow, rain...

Tip - Drink: If you're there for a weekend brunch you have to try their cheeky Bloody Mary's. Food: Famed for their 'Breakfast in Bread' (pictured above) is exactly what it says on the tin, a delicious hollow sourdough bread packed with your breakfast delight.

On a side note, although East can seem a bit dingy at first it's here where you'll find the best, distinctive spots down a random side street! Go explore this spirited side of London, especially their Markets like Brick Lane on a Sunday!