Going out guide: East London
Featuring the area's best club night, record shop, DJs and morning after breakfast spot, all recommended by a local.
Life
Words: Jess Ajose
Jessica Ajose, aka Jjess, is a proud Eastender and a reliably excellent DJ. You’ll find her on the decks at many cool parties in London, or at any of PinkPantheress’ gigs across the world.
Best club night
Shindig, founded by AyChibs and Elladhc, is a night where anything goes music policy wise, so it brings an open and fun crowd who will dance to anything. The DJs are always top notch.
Three local DJs to look out for on flyers
AYCHIBS, AAA, Vanessa Maria and I’m going to have to give myself a cheeky mention.
Legendary artists you need to have listened to
With East London being the birthplace of grime it’s without a doubt I have to mention my favourite grime MC and my favourite artist in general: Kano.
Nightlife photographer who you want to be snapped by
Waryamus.
Best boozer
People’s Park Tavern in Victoria Park — great roasts.
Bar that serves past midnight
High Water in Dalston!
Beloved takeaway
Pepper & Spice in Dalston for some Caribbean or EKO in Homerton for some Nigerian food.
Cafe for the morning after
For a good standard fry up go to Number One Cafe on Well Street in Hackney.
LGBTQ space
La Camionera, a fab lesbian bar on Well Street.
Local hero
Sistah Space, based in Dalston. They’re a charity that supports women of African and Caribbean heritage affected by domestic and sexual abuse.
Coolest local radio station
Foundation.FM. I’m biased because I have a show on there but it’s true!
Shop to get records for a DJ set
Flashback Records on Brick Lane, for a well-curated selection of new and old stuff.
What not to say to a local
East Londoners get an unhinged rep but we’re friendly people! Just be respectful.