Goldie London: Summer in the City

Okay, so the title might be a little misleading.. I don't know if you've noticed but we've hardly had consistent weather in the summer of 2011.. Luckily East London has a ton of places to go when you can't languish in the heat at your nearest park with a cold jug of Pimms or G and T.

I had a think about which are the best places (in my opinion anyway) to recommend to y'all... and I hope to get some cool suggestions back from you guys!

The Village Underground

If you've ever looked out of the Overground between Hoxton and Shoreditch High Street Stations you may have noticed some graffiti'd train carriages on the roof. They form part of the The Village Underground which is a multi-use creative space. They host slightly alternative exhibitions and live music. I've went there for a club night a while ago and the converted warehouse was the perfect venue. The listings are varied there'll undoubtedly be something on that floats your boat.

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Sadlers Wells

The dance orientated theatre is in Angel but the postcode begins with an 'E' so I'm adding it to the list. The big show of the season is Fela! Beyonce claims to have been inspired by the choreography and the afrobeat music for her newest album.. and if it's good enough for Beyonce, then it's good enough for me.

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Tay Do

It may look unassuming from outside but rest assured the food is quite brilliant. It hasn't to this day been quiet when I've been there, which is definitely a positive start. It's literally just seconds from everything in Shoreditch so it definitely qualifies as East London. The food they offer varies from the standard fare you'd expect on a Vietnamese menu but then they've thrown in slightly more exotic Braised Catfish in Caramel and Spicy Frog's Legs.. If the UK climes aren't at their best (which is more often than not) - Tay Do also deliver!

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LN-CC

Late Night Chamelon Cafe is a concept store that stocks clothing, music and books. It's hard to quantify what makes so good. Requirements to book appointments to view the clothes add the air of mystery that can't exsist on the highstreet. The uniquely modular retail space is almost gallery-like.. It really was hard choosing a photo that captures the essence of the store. What makes it really special is that unlike retailers like Browns and net-a-porter, LN-CC consistently stocks the really avant garde designers that really pushes left of centre. I cannot recommend it enough.

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Department of Coffee and Social Affairs

The name is deceivingly official sounding.. it's really just a coffee shop. Well, not just a coffee shop - I'm a girl who like a good cup of coffee and this place prides itself on it's superior beans.. I think the target audience is probably the suited city workers but anywhere that has Portugese custard tarts as nice as this place is my kind of place.. The menu changes from morning to afternoon, switching from pastries to heartier cakey fare.. It's also a bit quieter, I think, so you can savour your 'heart warming' hot chocolate at your leisure.

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The Last Tuesday Society

For the record, I don't spend all my time in bars, restaurants and shops.. I do like a cultural excursion now and again. The Last Tuesday Society is a relic of the bygone days the Victorian Curiosity Shop.. part museum/part retail space.. It's definitely unique. The things they exhibit sell are a mixed bag - there's a lot of taxidermy but then there's a lot of other stuff too. It's hard to produce a clear picture of what they sell as they are literally busting at the seams with stock.. I think miscellaneous is an appropriate word. The curator/owner also runs fittingly odd events too. I wouldn't say it's for everyone but if you like antiques like I do.. you might have found mecca.

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Luna and Curious

This boutique is full of unusual finds, for yourself or for friends! Everything is quirky and individual, from Momocreatura jewellery to amazing false eyelashes shaped like seashorses, it's hard not to spend hours in here. Now they're online as well I love browsing their selection for things that I know no-one else will have.

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Violet Cakes

To the uninitiated, Violet Cakes looks like just another house on Wilton Way. Step inside though and you'll find cookies, hot cross buns, cupcakes, mini cupcakes, pies, brunch, you name it they do it! It all looks as good as it tastes - this place is a true gem of a find - just don't go in there while hungry.

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The Bridge

I really can't fault this place, great food, great coffee and wonderfully indulgent decor that adds to a unique ambiance found almost no where else. Located just a stones throw away from the Goldie office right near Shoreditch High Street Station, The Bridge is perfect for anyone looking for an unexpected
treasure, accompanied by delicious cakes with a dreamy relaxing atmosphere.

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Rosa's Restaurant

Rosa's does the most amazing modern Thai food that plus the place is is so warm and friendly. There is another one in Soho but my favorite is the one in Spitalfields (kinda opposite All Saints). Inspired by a creative marriage of Thai and British influence, Rosa's boasts a wonderfully charming atmosphere that keeps me coming back again and again.

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Cat and Mutton Pub

A firm fixture of the East End since way back in the 1600s!! If you're looking for a lively spot to chat with friends over a couple of drinks then this pub, located on Broadway Market, is ideal. The food is good too and the place always attracts a vibrant crowed.

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Shoreditch House

So, this place is members only but its totally worth a mention. Shoreditch House is reasonably unassuming from the outside which is what makes it so special. There are a number of wonderful areas to explore and loose yourself in, the best of which is the huge pool area dotted with comfy loungers and happy people dancing. Of course the location is great for getting home, being just a stones throw away from Liverpool Street Station. But, if you just can't drag yourself away, you can rest your head in one of their beautiful rooms for the night. Perfect really.