Blondies

You'll find yourself in a stripped-back space that feels more like a mate's living room than a destination cocktail bar—which is exactly why people keep coming back. The bartenders actually know what they're doing (no theatrical faffing about), mixing sharp drinks that won't leave you skint, and the crowd tends to be a mix of locals who've clocked it as their regular spot and people who've wandered over from Hackney or Clapton knowing they'll get a proper drink and good chat. It's the kind of place where you can rock up solo for a martini or bring a crew and camp out for the night.