I grew up around this area - it really is a gem of a place. The interior is so cool, with sort of organised clutter everywhere. They have a little garden and they serve food. Its not the best in the world, but the whole experience there is great.

SOAS university has a small gallery space dedicated to exhibitions about Asia, Africa and the Middle East. There's a small but beautiful Japanese zen garden on the rooftop (currently closed for refurbishment)

You could call me biased, given this is the 3rd Highbury restaurant in my list, but if you're doing so then you've clearly never tried the Biang Biang Noodles at this unassuming little BYOB gem

The best live jazz band I ever heard was at a packed out night in Brilliant Corners. I was happy to be squashed.

The best ice cream I have ever tasted in England – You are allowed any and every flavor and they shape it into a rose.