A candlelit offshoot of Dan’s just down the road in Dalston, Ken’s is part wine bar, part neighbourhood bistro. And, it already feels like a classic. From the team behind Perilla, it brings the same thoughtful, produce-led cooking to a more relaxed setting. Expect small plates like nduja-spiked mussels, bavette with anchovy butter, and clever seasonal salads, all paired with a nicely curated list of low-intervention wines.

A well-oiled all-day operation and a go-to for working breakfasts, Caravan does it all: great coffee, inventive small plates, and an always-buzzy atmosphere. The Clerkenwell outpost has become something of a neighbourhood anchor and has been serving up brilliant brunch and coffee for over a decade.

From the team behind Berber & Q, Shawarma Bar brings smoky, spice-filled Middle Eastern flavours to Exmouth Market. Slow-roasted meats, pillowy flatbreads and addictive sides like amba-laced fries make it a favourite for a quick-but-satisfying bite.

New to Exmouth Market but already drawing loyal queues, Gerry’s specialises in hot, Italian-American-style subs. Expect fillings like mortadella, spicy nduja, or roast chicken with hot honey and crisp iceberg, all tucked into golden, pillow-soft rolls. There’s a tucked-away garden out back if you want to eat in, but these are just as good grabbed to-go and enjoyed in Spa Fields.

The original Exmouth Market institution. Moro has been here since 1997, bringing bold Moorish flavours and wood-fired everything to the street long before it was cool. The open kitchen, low lighting and always-inventive menu still make it one of the most coveted tables in town, and nearly twenty years on, it’s still always busy.

Technically just a short walk from Exmouth Market, but worth the slight detour. Quality Chop House is a Clerkenwell icon, known for its Victorian booth seating, perfect potato confit, and old-school British cooking with serious polish. Come hungry.

A beloved local institution with mismatched furniture, vintage posters and a row of table football tables that are always in play. Café Kick is lively, a little chaotic (in a good way), and ideal for a first date, post-dinner drinks or spontaneous games night with friends. The cocktails are solid, too. We love their Mojito.

This contemporary art gallery marks a subtle milestone for Exmouth Market’s creative credentials: in 2025, Elizabeth Xi Bauer opened its second London space here, expanding from Deptford to showcase emerging and mid-career artists within a crisp, minimalist setting. Keep an eye out for their rotating exhibitions.

If you’ve ever considered getting inked in London, chances are The Family Business has come up in conversation. Founded in 2003 by renowned tattooist Mo Coppoletta, this Exmouth Market institution has become one of the most respected studios in the country. The client list includes Kate Moss, Boy George and Jude Law, and they specialise in creative, old-school designs.

Letterpress lives on at Marby & Elm, a joyful little stationery shop filled with hand-printed cards, colourful notepads and cheeky typographic gifts. Every design is printed on an antique press in the back of the shop, and the results are beautiful.

A longstanding Clerkenwell favourite, EC One centres around ethical fine jewellery, with a strong focus on sustainability and in-house craftsmanship. Their designs are timeless with just the right amount of creativity, and they offer bespoke services if you’re after something one-of-a-kind.

Part florist, part lifestyle boutique, Botanique Workshop blends seasonal blooms with small-batch candles, homewares and gifts. A lovely spot to pick up a little something for someone (or yourself).