Brilliant Cocktail Bars Around E8

Tiny bar, big heart. The £8 martinis are the headline act (and they’re properly made), but it’s the lovely, welcoming team and easy, good-time atmosphere that keep people coming back. Now a proper neighbourhood gem that reminds you why Dalston does bars so well. Must try: Vodka Martini

Hidden in plain sight on Kingsland Road, this sultry little speakeasy trades big bar chaos for velvet draped intimacy. Expect sharp, spirit-forward cocktails, candlelight, and a crowd where all are welcome. Ask the bartender and they create to your taste.

From the A Bar with Shapes for a Name team, this Dalston spot feels more like a creative studio than a typical cocktail bar. Expect playful prebatched serves, experimental flavours and a crowd that is here to try something new. Casual, social and quietly cool. Must try: the Dulce De Leche Espresso Martini

A Dalston classic for people who care about what’s in their glass. Seasonal menus, proper technique and flavours that feel thought-through rather than showy. Small, intimate, and dangerously easy to settle into for the night. Must try: Lil Green Olive.

A listening bar first, cocktail spot second but the drinks still hold their own. Japanese-influenced serves, vinyl-only sound system and a crowd that appreciates both. Start mellow, end dancing. Must try: White Negroni.

Just reopened with more space, this is a wine bar-meets-cocktail hangout-meets DJ-led hotspot. Natural wines, clever mixed drinks and a soundtrack that keeps the room buzzing. Come for one, stay for the whole night. Must try: the Blackberry Clover Club or the Pickle Martini

Jazz bar, cocktail den and late-night sanctuary rolled into one. Expect elegant drinks, low lighting and live music that turns a casual drink into the perfect date spot. Must try: the Rampai

Agave lovers, this one’s yours. Tequila and mezcal take centre stage, from punchy margaritas to smoky sips. Lively energy, neon glow, and always a good choice. Must try: Mirror Margarita