Sitting snug between London Fields and Hackney Central stations, you’ll find Pizza Express on buzzy Mare Street opposite Hackney Empire Theatre, and a stone’s throw from Hackney Museum. True to its trendy tradition, the pizzeria boasts modern interiors – think sleek minimalist booths and ceiling plants seamlessly tied together by polished wood panels.

The spacious first floor has a relaxed vibe ideal for catching up with mates or stopping in for a bite after nosing around the street’s brimming cultural hotspots (museum snobs, theatre geeks, and blockbuster fans, you’re all in good company). The speciality here is excellent pizza, obvs, and the chefs certainly know their way around some dough; choose from a smorgasbord of flavours fit for veggies, vegans and carnivores.

Kids are offered a brilliant range of smaller portions with the Piccolo menu, which includes a variety of gluten-free options. Pepperoni slices aside, the dessert menu is to die for with tiramisu, Sicilian lemon and white chocolate roulade, vanilla cheesecake, and the newest treat, white chocolate & salted caramel pizza dolce.

Naturally, this restaurant is an easy choice for family and friends get-togethers, but the location is spot on for casual date nights. You’re surrounded by live music venues (hello, Moth Club) and bars here, so it’s a relaxed place to pop in with a hot date and wind down with a reliable slice.

Now that I think about it, I’m due a visit to Hackney.