E8's first class venue

First up, this is not a DJ bar in the sense that you can eat, drink and dance in one setting.

The distinction between the hangingout and dancing environments is clearly delineated by Hackney Central's split levels: downstairs houses a bar and restaurant while the upstairs, accessed through a different entrance, a club.

The bright white exterior suits the former Victorian train station, while its rectangular bar feels light, airy and spacious thanks to arched bay windows and a high, loft-style ceiling.

On our visit, the strikingly mixed crowd was getting into its weekend swing whether perched by the bar, conversing over a light bite and wine, or kicking back on the sofas and settling in for the night.

Upstairs with slick sounds from House FM, the scruffy denim and Converse All-Star crew boogied away alongside Patrick Cox-clad soul boys. Unusually for a club, the staff were attentive and helpful; emptying ashtrays and directing us towards the VIP room for a wider selection of drinks.

It's very reasonably priced (£2.90 for a Havana Club and mixer), sophisticated yet relaxed, and the distinct lack of Shoreditch look-at-me wannabes makes it a breath of fresh air.

Hackney Central
Amhurst Road, E8 1LL