I’ve been bitten by the travel bug!  I don’t know about you, but as soon as I get a taste of vacation I want more.  As you know, I was just in London for a few days and it was the escape I needed.  I’ve been lucky enough to have visited London before and fell in love.  However this time around, I was looking for a slightly different experience.

When I was researching neighborhoods, I was intrigued by the east end.  There’s so much to see and do in London, but I was craving something off the beaten path and not so touristy.  Shoreditch became our home base for the week and was just what we were looking for.  It’s one of London’s up-and-coming neighborhoods and I can see why.  Shoreditch is a great mix of restored brick warehouses, gritty street art, independent coffee houses, eclectic restaurants and bars.

Here’s a run down of the places we went to and loved…

STAY

Ace Hotel:  Good location, fantastic rooms and great scene.  The lobby was always packed with people working on their laptops during the day and enjoying cocktails into the night.  And the rooms came with a turntable and records- bonus!

EAT

Bottega Prelibato:  This hidden gem is divine and has incredible fresh made pasta.  The place is adorable and the staff is fantastic.  It’s tiny so be sure to snag a reservation.

Dishoom:  Brick lane is known for it’s fantastic Indian food and Dishoom is the place to nosh.  The food was authentic and delicious.  Great spot and it’s always packed.

Tramshed:  Celebrated chef Mark Hix is the mastermind behind Tramshed.  It’s known for the chicken and steak to share along with other really good apps and cocktails.  It’s also home to a gigantic Damien Hirst formaldehyde sculpture of a cow and cock which takes center stage in the open space.

SIP

Callooh Callay:  You will find this quaint cocktail lounge nestled within the mix of bars and restaurants on Rivington street.  Great spot, good vibe, and fantastic cocktails.

Fix Coffee:  Love me a good independent coffee shop and this one did not disappoint.  Excellent coffee and a great spot to sit and sip.

Boundry:  Beautiful rooftop bar that’s open all year round – can’t go wrong.  You can enjoy drinks, apps, and a beautiful view.

SEE

There’s a lot to see in Shoreditch.  I loved all of the street art and was excited to see an original Banksy right by my hotel.  You can check out two Banksy pieces on Rivington Street, but be sure to check out the rest of the street too.