Renowned chef Tom Harris already had a Michelin star under his belt when he teamed up with Jon Rotheram to buy the Marksman Pub in 2014 with the idea of bringing Michelin-quality food to a pub in their resident Hackney – the Marksman was named Michelin Pub of the Year in 2017.
Describe your ideal day off in Hackney.
I would start with a run in Victoria Park, followed by coffee at the Grand Howl in Well Street. I would have lunch at Morito, pick the kids up from school and go for sushi at Uchi, meet friends for a few drinks on the Hackney Road, have dinner at Brawn and end up at the Marksman dancing round the jukebox.
What is your favourite bar or restaurant?
Sitting up at the bar at Bentley’s eating a prawn cocktail, oysters and dressed crab is always a treat.
What is your favourite shop?
Choosing Keeping on Columbia Road is an awesome stationary shop – any excuse to buy a new pen.
What was your most memorable night out in Hackney?
My wedding night. We had a post-reception party at the Old Cholmeley Boys Club in Dalston. We had a seven-piece gypsy jazz band and danced until the wee small hours.
What is your favourite open space in Hackney?
Victoria Park – I walk through it most days to take the kids to school, I celebrated my son’s first birthday there, I run around it three times a week, and we often hang out there at the weekends. It never bores me.
Where would you take visitors to show them the best of Hackney?
Columbia Road flower market, followed by a Sunday roast at The Marksman, of course.