Fika, Brick Lane

Brick Lane may be famed for its Beigal stores, Indian restaurants and Turkish food, but there's a tiny corner that's bringing the Scandinavian cool, thanks to Fika bar and kitchen.

Named after the Swedish term for coffee break, by day it serves up strong coffees and cinnamon rolls, while by night it attracts a mixture of diners and young professionals looking for a peaceful alternative to the raring hipster bars.

The restaurant serves a mixture of nordic dishes, including Elk burgers and the classic Swedish meatballs, plus (surprisingly good!) vegetarian options. There's a good cocktail menu as well, with themed drink names and a unique presentation. All served on a wooden log platter, of course.

Find it at: 161 Brick Lane, E1 6SB

Champs - Rough Trade East, Brick Lane

Part of the Old Truman Brewery buildings, Rough Trade East, a mecca for vinyl fans sits right at the heart of Brick Lane. Although it may have branched out into selling books and coffee to the (mostly bearded) customers, the staff are true music lovers themselves and are always on the lookout for the next breakthrough act. You'll see posters for the most obscure releases lining the walls, alongside all the indie label favourites.

Tonight's special performance was from Isle of Wight brothers, Champs, performing tracks from their new record Vamala. The pair's music sways gracefully from soft country ballads, to synthy 80s inspired indie pop.