It’s been a minute since I imparted some knowledge via the fatvicks blog. The previous date night itineraries have gone down fairly well: we’re talking a smattering of glowing reviews and so far no relationship fatalities. I don’t want to say that this is a perfect plan, because anything can happen in Hackney on any given night, but I have repeated this little line up multiple times now and every time I think that this may just be the perfect local date for those living in the area.
Pre-dinner drinks / just drinks & casual food
It all begins with a pint down at my favourite and ex-local pub, The Chesham Arms. Unassuming from the outside, the Chesham is set down a quiet turn off the busy road that leads to Hackney Central. It sits at the end of a quaint side street that is lined with manicured little townhouses, and has almost definitely found its way into the background of a London-based romcom. Inside, the decor is traditional and the vibe is extra cosy. The people are a lovely mix of local boozers and young Hackney trendies, and you can find a range of tasty regional beers on tap; their crisp selection is also excellent. Outside, there is a large beer garden that is usually heaving no matter the weather. If you’re wanting a chilled one, I’d recommend ordering Yard Sale Pizza here, as you can get it delivered directly to your table. If your date falls closer to pay day, then you should resist the urge to order Yard Sale’s heavenly marmite and cheddar garlic bread and save yourself for the feast ahead.
Restaurant
Popping down the road to Well Street, you’ll find your new favourite local restaurant: Shankeys. A little coffee and bottle shop by day and restaurant by night, Shankeys was seemingly designed for date night. The windows, tables and walls are lined with only the waxiest of arty wine bottle candles, interspersed with vintage books and paraphernalia, all of which contribute to the romantic and warm ambiance. The menu is a highly unique Indian-Irish fusion. For drinks, you’ll find a beautifully curated, Irish-inspired range of cocktails that includes the Dublin Sour, a dangerously tasty whiskey and Guinness sour served on ice. If you ever thought that cauliflower cheese was an unsurpassable dish, then Shankeys’ paratha-layered cauliflower cheese will humble you: it is an explosion of highly flavoursome, curried, oniony, cheesy goodness that is crunchy and melty in equal measure thanks to the textured layers of paratha that lie between the florets. The crispy chaat potatoes, covered in a tangy, sticky, sweet and spicy honey and naga curry sauce, are as tasty and finger licking as they sound. The sea bream comes out in its entirety, sitting in a light, spicy XO broth and is light and incredibly moist, pairing beautifully with the bold and rich side dishes. I can confidently say, however, that it is the cauliflower cheese that yourself and your date will be returning for. Plus, they serve Chin Chin, which never goes amiss… when in Rome (Hackney).
After dinner drinks – not to be missed
Rolling from Shankeys to the next spot should take about ten minutes, and if you stayed at The Chesham, then it’s a mere five minute trip down the road. 107 E5, formerly P. Franco, is one of my favourite wine bars in London. I’ve recently returned from a weekend in Berlin, where I found myself in awe of Neukolln’s endless and perfectly vibe-tuned wine bars. They seem to have absolutely nailed the formula for small, dimly lit, atmospheric bars with excellent cocktails and wines on offer. 107, in my opinion, is edging closer to that ideal, but we could do with ten or so more of them please, London.
The facade of 107 is mostly window, which is a nice touch, and means you can sit on romantic, candle-lit little window ledge tables if you choose, people watching as you natter away. The bar consists of just one room, predominantly occupied by a large table designed for people to sit around communal-style as they sip on orange wines. It’s very Hackney, but it’s lovely. 107 often rotates chef residencies, so it makes for a good nibbles spot, too. Currently, until Spring 2025, chef Julie Hetyai is serving up some French-inspired dishes that change with the season. The waiters will help you out with any of your natural wine-related questions and allow you to sample from their extensive range. I’ve spent many a pleasant evening whiling away the hours with a bottle of murky orange wine, which seems to slip down worryingly quickly. Warning, none of that trendy wine is cheap.
After this three-pronged itinerary, it would take a lot for your date to ruin your night. Praying for you that all goes smoothly and that you enjoy. Any feedback welcome, of course.
P.S. I’ve just seen that 108 is actually closed until October 8th, so hold your horses