Furanxo

A great local deli, love having it nearby for quality tinned fish, cheese, beans, cold meat and other treats when needed. They do stock some delicious wine as well - but personally I find its hit and miss - I never know if a bottle will turn out to be really really good, or rather odd or inconsistent tasting. That could well be down to my lack of knowledge of natural wine styles, but it still gives me pause for thought when picking up a bottle. Ps. If this was still a little wine bar(doesn’t seem to be anymore?), I would totally pop in for a pre dinner apertif every now and then!

A breathe of fresh air in the heart of London. You walk into a wine bar, expecting an overload of people and overpriced menus. Not here. Fantastic selection of white, red, orange wines and sherries. Great selection of cheese and cured meats. Super well cared for by staff. Amazing low tempo music in the background. Quaint interior. And my favourite of all, a SANAA architects inspired bathroom (whether intentional or not). Wrapped around by white corrugated iron, resembling the Factory on the Vitra Campus. Loved every bit. Wish it was closer to us.

Lovely bit of Spain hidden away between the buzz of Hackney and Dalston. Come here for the high quality wines and vermouth. In the evenings it transforms from a deli into a wine bar where you can sample the store’s produce. There’s a small menu to accompany your drinks of choice helpfully suggested by the knowledgable staff. And the peaceful setting for intimate chat that’s so rare in this part of town where blaring speakers is the norm. There’s so much to love about this place it’s difficult to fault. It’s not cheap, but you come here for quality, which they deliver in abundance.

We came here last night for a glass of wine, and we decided to stay for several hours. The ham is amazing, the cheese selection perfect, and the wine is unparalleled in this neck of the woods. The service was fantastic, very kind, friendly, warm, and highly knowledgeable. We're definitely going back, and would highly recommend it.