While Brick Lane might be the first place that pops into your mind, the truth is, London’s hipster scene has evolved, branching out into diverse and often unexpected corners. Forget the overly-Instagrammed spots; this post delves into the genuine hipster hangouts where the vibe is authentic, the coffee is strong, and the beards are impeccably groomed (optional, of course). For each location, I am going to recommend a coffee ship, a bar, pub, activity and restaurant.
Hackney Wick: This once-industrial area is now a haven for artists and creatives. Think converted warehouses housing quirky cafes, independent breweries, and art galleries. The canal-side setting adds to the cool factor. Check out the numerous pop-up events and markets that frequently appear.
- Cafe: Thingy cafe is a small, independent cafe tucked away in Hackney Wick. Their cosy indoor space leads out to a leafy back garden.
- Bar: Number 90 Hackney Wick is a canal-side restaurant, bar and arts venue close to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
- Pub: The Lord Napier Star is a classic local for those living in the area. It has a roof terrace offering seasonal bites & draught beer, plus DJ sets & quiz nights.
- Restaurant: Barge East is a floating dining room with rustic decor offering seasonal fare with coffee, cocktails, beer & cider.
- Activity: The Hackney Wick Community Sauna is the total hipster hangout, offering authentic sauna and plunge pool experience. It is also based in the Bath House, which offers loads of cool events throughout the week.
London Fields: A sprawling park perfect for people-watching and soaking up the East London atmosphere. Grab a craft beer from a local brewery and relax on the grass. The nearby Broadway Market is a must-visit on Saturdays, offering a mix of street food, vintage clothing, and artisanal goods.
- Cafe: The Snappery East is based in a railway arch! It serves incredibly tasty brunch and bakes everything on site.
- Bar: Netil360 is laid-back rooftop bar with wooden tables and benches, serving beers, cocktails and street food.
- Pub: Pub on the Park is as it says on the tin, a pub on London Field’s park and very much a local favourite in the summer.
- Restaurant: Mare Street Market is an indoor and outdoor leafy market with communal seats serving pizza, deli & veggie cuisine plus a beer garden.
- Activity: Hackney City Farm because what is more hipster than hanging out in a city farm during the weekends. Also the London Fields Lido!
Dalston: Known for its vibrant nightlife, Dalston boasts a mix of trendy bars, live music venues, and independent shops. It’s a bit grittier than other areas, but that’s part of its appeal.
- Cafe: Brunswick East is an Aussie-run brunch spot hidden behind a car park in Dalston – that screams hipster vibes.
- Bar: Brilliant Corners is is a low-lit bar and restaurant serving cocktails, Japanese small plates and DJ sessions on an audiophile system.
- Pub: Red Hand is is a cool modern pub hangout serving up rare imports and local brews along with some carb-heavy grub!
- Restaurant: Little Duck The Picklery – the name is too hipster sounding! It’s a tiny restaurant and natural wine bar in Dalston. Cooking seasonal dishes, pickling and selling natural wines.
- Activity: So Dalston is the place to go partying at night, offering lots of options along the its main street, including Dalston Superstore, Jago and Mu.
Peckham: Once overlooked, Peckham is now a hotspot for artists and young professionals. Rooftop bars offer stunning views of the city, while the streets below are lined with independent shops, record stores, and vintage boutiques. Don’t miss the Bussey Building, a multi-purpose space housing a cinema, theatre, and rooftop bar.\
- Cafe: Ron’s Coffee House is a vegan cafe located in front of Holdron’s Arcade. It offers oat milk as the standard!
- Bar: Forza Wine is a laid-back bar offering cocktails, small plates & city views, plus terrace dining.
- Pub: Frank’s Café isn’t exactly a pub but it is an institution of the area. It’s a non-profit, arty venue open in summer season for drinks, simple food and music and drama events.
- Restaurant: OK, so there are way too many restaurants to recommend. Kudu is a friendly neighbourhood restaurant in the heart of Peckham serving up creative twists to the Modern Euro menu.
- Activity: Four Quarters is a no frills bar with retro arcade video games, serving a craft ale selection and US-style grill menu.
London Like a Local 