What to order: The signature kimchi and cheddar toastie, which is a thing of dreams
After over two years of pop-ups, Flat Earth has finally opened its first permanent restaurant on the fringes of Broadway Market and Hackney. This vegetarian and vegan hangout sits on the corner of Vyner Street, a discreetly creative hub in East London. The space is light-filled and inviting, delivering all-day dining from brunch through to supper. You get the impression that every detail has been considerately put together with sustainability at its core – even the lampshades are made from old orange peel. Pizzas are made with 100 per cent heritage dough – we tried the Mushroom and Egg topped with Somerset cheese, eggs with the brightest yolks, mushrooms, Bechamel and smoky tomato drizzle. Hunky garlic croutons mop up the juices in a generous bowl of Panzanella salad on the side, and for brunch, there is Climpson’s & Sons coffee and (more) kimchi in the form of shakshuka with homemade focaccia.
There's a great selection of wines stacked high on cabinets painted that mesmerising Marrakech blue of the Yves Saint Laurent Jardin Majorelle. Take away or drink-in – many come in reusable bottles as part of a return and re-fill scheme. I opted for a very decent orange Vinho Verde (there’s a choice of three organic wines on tap, too). If you’re after something stronger, the owners’ friend George Fredenham forages botanicals locally which are then brewed and distilled into wild boozy concoctions. Order the fig leaf and sweet woodruff Martini.
Address: 288 Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9DAWebsite: flatearthpizzas.com
27. Pizzeria Pappagone
What to order: Pizza parmigiana
I want to start by saying that I’m obsessed with Pizzeria Pappagone. It’s affordable, it’s casual, it’s frenetic, but most importantly, it’s delicious. This much-loved pizzeria slings out crisp Roman-style pizzas at its two locations, the original being in Finsbury Park. The menu can feel overwhelming, but let me do you a four by telling you to stick with the classics. The Pizza Margherita and Pizza Parmigiana are fourites and must-order dishes to share with friends. Top tip: Add a side of Insalata Mista for a bit of freshness. This spot is my go-to dinner for catching up with friends; it’s cheap and cheerful and feels like a big Italian family has adopted you, all while still being in the heart of London. Amber Port
Address: 131 Stroud Green Road, Finsbury Park, London N4 3PXWebsite: instagram.com