Gracing the foundations of an unremarkable residential block just off the Kingsland/Stoke Newington Road strip, if you were to judge Birthdays by its cover and keep on trotting down Shoreditch way you’re pretty much guaranteed to be missing out on a night to remember—or not, as the case will probably be. For beyond that faceless facade lies a tricked out, two-floor bar and basement space that, though still in its infancy, has hosted parties for the likes of worldwide monolith of being cool and sarky Vice and radiophonic beast NTS. Sure, it may not look like much—the stripped back interior is dominated by matte shades of grey—but that’s because they spent all their dollar on the tech spec. And take one trip downstairs and you’ll thank them for it—the Funktion-One sound system takes the beats that blast out the speakers and elevates them to a whole new echelon of filth.

Intent on making Kingsland its kingdom, Dalston Superstore continues its all conquering march south towards Shoreditch—and they’re proving that they’ll be democratic rulers if not anything else. With the Superstore a stock favourite for those in search of a bit of variety and the recently opened Voodoo Ray’s pizza parlour catering to those looking for a slice or five of NY-style fuel, the expanding empire needed something to satiate the late-night, wide-eyed, wild-childs now falling under their jurisdiction. Dance Tunnel is their solution—a dank, scuzzed-up rave basement in the bowels of Voodoo Ray’s. And from the Funktion One soundsystem mercilessly battering the bare concrete walls to the music policy—leaning towards the leftfield of house, techno and disco—they’ve got it spot on.

Peruvian food is a bit of an enigma for most, a mystique that has propelled the curious towards Soho’s Ceviche in their droves.

Truly evocative of an authentic South American pisco bar, Ceviche is blessed with a chaotic albeit friendly charm. Sunshine colours are splashed throughout the room, Peruvian posters adorn the walls and then there’s the aforementioned pisco, a traditional type of grape brandy, on tap (the pisco sour being a particular highlight). The devil is in the details at Ceviche and indeed, there’s eccentricities galore such as the hilariously melodramatic Peruvian soap opera playing in the toilets.

The food however is the undisputed star. Bursting with exotic flavours it is both unusual and refreshing. Ensure you try the Don Ceviche, chunks of sea bass cold cooked in lime juice and amarillo chilli. This alchemy of simple ingredients creates an unbelievable taste that will inevitably seal your return visit.

Now the dust’s settled on the London Olympics, Hackney Wick has returned to relative calm. But as one of East London’s most up-and-coming areas–not to mention an artistic hub–it’s been a hive of activity regardless of any sporting shenanigans. One of its more picturesque additions is Crate Brewery, on Regent’s Canal.

Its high ceilinged interior has been decked out with reclaimed materials from around the area, and is stylishly minimalist; something reflected in its pizza-centric menu. Choose from homemade yums ranging from Sage & Truffle Potato to Laksa Chicken. Wash one of these down with any of Crate’s on-site beers and it’s likely a return visit will already be on your mind.

Situated in the heart of the theater district, Haymarket Hotel is perfect for business travelers and pleasure travelers alike. Easily accessible and near some of London’s best shopping, eating and drinking, the Haymarket is comfortable though a bit pricey.

Watch out for the extra charges they slap on (for Internet, phone calls, etc.), which can really add up. That said, if you feel like splurging, you won’t be disappointed by Haymarket’s perfectly designed interior, spacious rooms and welcoming staff.

If you do stay in one of the 50 guest rooms, make sure to check out their indoor pool complete with light installation.