EAST
The Family Business
At The Family Business, the tattoo is treated as a 21st-century artform. Step into a world of religious iconography and framed designs, where the hum of tattooing needles comes from the studio. Italian-born owner Mo Coppoletta was inspired by an early exposure to religious and decorative art.
58 Exmouth Market, EC1, +44 (0)20 7278 9526, thefamilybusinesstattoo.com
Meet the owner, Mo Coppoletta
Where do you go to be inspired?
Portraits have a lot of power. That's why I love the National Portrait Gallery (npg.org.uk). I'm also a fan of Italian art from the first half of the 20th century: the Estorick Collection (estorickcollection.com) is perfect for it.
Your favourite local places to eat?
Bistro du Vin (bistroduvinandbar.com) is number one for meat and oysters — its tartare is to die for. I discovered The Eagle (159 Farringdon Road, +44 (0)20 7837 1353) only recently — how could I have left the first-ever gastropub off my list for so long?
Best place for a drink?
69 Colebrooke Row (69colebrookerow.com) is London's best-kept secret. My friend Tony (the owner) is a cocktail genius.
Other eastern gems
The Owl & Pussycat
A den-like pub housed in a 17th-century, Grade II-listed building. The mix of historic and modern-day makes it unique. Plus it's one of the best spots for Sunday lunch.
34 Redchurch Street, E2, +44 (0)20 3487 0088,
owlandpussycat
shoreditch.com
Present
A mecca for men
who want to look fashionable but not too trend-led. There's an in-store barista and the clothes are a perfect mix of labels and styles with heritage.
140 Shoreditch High Street, E1, +44 (0)20 7033 0500, present-london.com
