Cafe Donatella, Whitechapel

You'll find yourself on Nelson Street in Whitechapel surrounded by the neighbourhood's eclectic mix of vintage shops and curry houses, but Cafe Donatella feels like stepping into someone's Italian kitchen. It's the kind of place where the owner knows regulars by name and the coffee is pulled with the sort of care that makes you wonder why you bother with chains. The counter's always busy with people grabbing espresso and a pastry, or sitting at cramped tables with a proper lunch. Don't expect craft latte art or Instagram aesthetics—just honest, well-made food and drinks at prices that won't make you wince.