Cantaloupe

More than 15 years old & still going strong, laidback Cantaloupe is the ideal spot whether you fancy a quick post-work pint or a drawn-out weekend brunch. Light, airy & pared-down, with that typical Shoreditch warehouse feel, this is a totally unpretentious hangout – in contrast to some other venues in this neighbourhood. Settle into one of the comfy leather sofas or bag one of the high wooden stools & share a platter of serrano ham & bresaola – or perhaps something sturdy such as fish pie with seasonal greens or roast pork belly with curly kale & apple sauce. There’s a creditable choice of wines under £20, too. Various weekly themed nights keep the punters interested (Wednesday means comedy), although most people use Cantaloupe as a local warm-up before the serious partying begins.