The Hobby Horse

Describing itself – quite reasonably – as a ‘pub of sorts’, this new Dalston local will be anathema to the wearers of Prada suits. But for those who like to get with the groove armada, this funky bolt-hole is bang on the Zeitgeist. Charity-shop clutter by the kilo & abandoned Toys R Us rocking horses set the tone. The crowd includes a fair share of skinny jeans bobbing along to the likes of designer/rocker Pam Hogg (touted as a forthcoming attraction when we dropped in). Order beers (Kasteel Cru, Kirin, San Miguel) & assorted wines (£12 for an acceptable Merlot) from a cash-only bar. A tiny kitchen churns out pasta, burgers, salads & bangers & mash with onion gravy – not exactly Heston, but about right at £6.25. Predictably laid-back service comes from creative kooks working to pay the rent.