Machine No 3: Bar in a neighbourhood that is Well on the up

What they say: A neighbourhood bar from the creative minds behind The Three Compasses in a dilapidated old laundry on the corner of Well Street.

What we say: Well Street is definitely on the up. Machine no 3 joins brunch hotspot The Well Street Kitchen, Josh and the Dane’s café, Mother Kelly’s and a new pizzeria within the space of about 200 yards. The décor hits all the familiar east London notes of exposed brick walls, warm copper pendant lighting and nostalgic music. Grab one of the seats at the bar so you can commandeer the barman’s attention and get him to rustle up some off-menu cocktails. It was rather quiet on the weekday we went, but it's early days so this could change. We've heard it ramps up at the weekends, so head on a Friday or Saturday if you're after more of a party vibe - it has DJs playing until 1am.

Order: The cocktails are good rather than excellent – but with prices starting at £6.50, these are extremely good value. Margherita lovers will appreciate the Smoky Tommy (£7), which includes a delicious injection of Mezcal; Gimlet fans should try the Southside: a simple but effective combo of gin, lime and mint at £6. It also has a good selection of natural wines and craft beer - but we had the most fun when we told the barman to rustle up something with our favourite spirits.

Good for: locals – the area is not overflowing with bars so it’s a welcome addition and has all the makings of a great neighbourhood bar – but you wouldn’t trek from other parts of town especially for it.

By the way: As well as serving up plates of charcuterie and cheese, you can also order in mezze and grilled meats from the Turkish joint next door – our kind of collaboration.

Find it: 271 Well St, E9 6RG; @machineno3

Follow Kate on Twitter @kate_lough and Going Out @ESgoingout