Café 1001

Café 1001 is one of those East London institutions that somehow manages to stay under the radar while quietly becoming a local favourite. Tucked inside the old Truman Brewery, it’s bigger and warmer than you’d expect from the outside. The coffee is genuinely excellent—velvety and balanced with no bitterness—and if you haven’t tried the sticky toffee twist, you’re missing out. It’s a modern take on a British classic, crisp on the outside, soft and buttery on the inside, with just the right amount of sweetness.

What sets this place apart is its dual personality. By day, it’s a relaxed café with comfy leather sofas, communal benches, and a soundtrack of gentle jazz or lo-fi house. You’ll find locals working on laptops, catching up with friends, or just drifting through the afternoon. Come evening, the atmosphere shifts into something more vibrant. TheFunktion One sound system takes over, vinyl DJs spin, and the upstairs area often stays free—perfect for a chess night on Tuesdays if you’re into that sort of thing. It’s a rare spot that feels equally at home as a daytime coffee stop or a late-night cocktail lounge.

The only reason I’m not giving it a perfect score is that it can get a bit crowded on weekends, and the menu is relatively simple. But if you’re looking for a place with soul, great coffee, and a soundtrack that doesn’t overpower conversation, Café 1001 is your spot.