Stoke Newington – once considered the wrong side of shabby – is today a lust-have postcode for north Londoners seeking a slower pace that’s still sufficiently urban. A bonifide yummy mummy Mecca, the area is finding increasing favour amongst hip young families who congregate along Church street’s plentiful selection of bistros and bakeries to sip lattes and talk pre-school. Blue Legume is one such spot. And, while it sports a sufficiently kid-friendly vibe, the crowd also comprises plenty of students and creative types; armed with The Guardian and possibly a hangover.

Celebrating it’s 15th birthday this year, Blue Legume’s secret is two fold: generous sized portions of freshly cooked brunches with a Mediterranean twist, plus the art of making patrons feel like they’re in their own home. So it’s a little scruffy; papers strewn on the floor and kids milling around, but ultimately it’s an affable, jazz-infused space where loyal locals can be found chomping on organic honey waffles with fresh fruits (delicious), or perhaps a goats’ cheese stuffed aubergine piled high with inventive salads. If there’s still room after one of the calorie-defying brunches, Blue Legume’s lip-smacking cake cabinet is reason alone to visit Stokie a little more often.