Stage 3

Pop-up perfectionists Platterform have gone the whole hog with this quirky little joint in central Hackney. Just minutes from Hackney Central station it is an exciting new edition to the area's cultural quarter. Tacked onto the side of Hackney Empire and facing into a lovely little quad of shrubbery, the corner lot means that the views out onto the street are great for people watching - and Hackney always has some pretty eccentric people to watch. The Balinese interior includes an affable hodge podge of Oriental designs, wooden barrels, bright and ugly old masks and other kitschy objects. The real focal point of the venue though is their commitment to local artists; the space is full of new colourful wall designs by local illustrators; creating a real sense of pride in the community.

That said, this space excels most obviously in their cocktail range. Platterform have had a little while to perfect their art, and taking their crazy flavour combinations into a larger permanent space has made no difference to the joy and creativity involved in crafting each delicious glass. Try the Homeboy for a delicious cup of tangy sweetness wrapped in a brown paper bag, or their pastel-pink Botol cocktail which you can suck up out of a cutesy glass bottle. The oriental mash-up of influences in their food menu perfectly complements this creative drinks menu; the spicey squid being a succulent must-try if you are ever passing by. So if you're ever in the area, or even not - this bar is worth a trip in itself, then try out Stage 3's bright and fun take on the cocktail bar experience.