BTW began as a club night at deceased basement venue Plastic People, where it provided a safe haven for record enthusiasts. Vinyl was king, and so it is here, with one single plate taking pride of place next to the bar and a Tannoy Gold soundsystem creating the kind of atmosphere musos crave. Pair inventive cocktails with bowls of nourishing Asian food.
It’s the borough where all the cool kids come out to play, so it’s hardly surprising that you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to drinking options in Hackney. Cocktail bars are cutting edge, but in a way that’s not too try-hard. Wine bars bring the beverage down to earth. And some of the country’s best breweries are found in the area, with hip, hop-heavy taprooms for the beer-loving public to explore. Browse through our list of the area’s best bars for boozing inspiration come day or night thoughout the Hackney borough.