Apples & Pears

If you’re looking for some spicy mixology in Whitechapel, set your sights on this converted mobile phone store flanked by local curry houses. The cocktail list keeps it local & ethnic – try a Banglatini (spiced rum, chilli, watermelon & lemon), the E1 (essentially an Eastender’s mint julep) or the eponymous apples & pears at £7.50. The narrow, brick-lined corridor space with its old ‘joanna’, distinctive stairwell & back yard feels like a funky postmodern Cocker-nee version of one of the alleys frequented by notorious local Jack the Ripper (whose name graces yet another cocktail). A&P is also a fiercely independent music venue, hosting live acts & DJs on different nights of the week. Pies are the solid ballast of choice, served with mash, peas & gravy.