Mess Cafe, Hackney

The nominator quite rightly sang this café’s praises saying that it summed up everything a café should be. This of course prompted us to try it for ourselves. One of three cafes within 10 doors of each other, the understated Mess Café was clearly the most popular of the three – despite being almost full we were quickly shown to our table and were given a first class service from then on. Definitely somewherecan sit and chat with friends for hours over their delicious food or a cup of tea. 38 Amhurst Road, London E8 1JN.