Lots of traditional charming country pubs around the area, but it can a bit hit and miss. A really friendly one with amazing food (and a unusually large veggie selection…) is the Beehive in Epping Green; close to the Great Wood. It's friendly enough you dare going there by yourself with the paper and are not at the mercy of local rubbernecks ("the rubberneck" = person who stares at strangers without any sign of guilt)

Sit. Drink coffee. Buy Leica. Leave penniless.

A gift from Kyoto - a beautiful hidden Japanese garden in Holland Park 

Leila McAlister's grocery shop and café off Arnold Circus, Shoreditch. You can find the best of everything, from jars of horseradish to eggs and croissants.

One of the best places in the world to see left field, experimental and creative new music which sits outside the realm of the mainstream. It should be cherished. I wish i went more often...Some highlights of mine include Midori Takada and Acid Mothers Temple.