Erol Alkan's Secret London

Tips on London's best coffee and curry from Mr Alkan.

Mario's Cafe
Kelly Street, Kentish Town

As immortalised in the opening track from St Etienne's best album 'So Tough', which perfectly illustrates the mix of musicians and arty types who used to, and still do frequent this wonderful North London cafe. From my first visit in 1991, it's been run by Mario himself at the counter, often with an acoustic guitar touting chef somewhere behind him. I practically lived here between the years of 1992 to 1996, and as a result I've met many lovely and creative people here. I recommend the Parmegana...

Angel Music
First Floor, 25 Denmark WC2

Situated above another guitar shop (well, it is Demark Street), Angel Music is been run by Andy Hackett, ex-guitarist with the brilliant Rockingbirds (ask your dad..) and general all round nice bloke. I buy all my guitars from him, as do proper pop stars like Paul Weller and various members of Oasis. If you need your gear fixed or wanna have a custom guitar made, go see Philippe in the back room. I would however like to advise you all to never, ever give Andy a lift home in your car whilst he is drunk. Oh, and find yourself a copy of Gradually Learning, it's great!

Arabian Coffee Company
Old Compton Street

Not planning on getting any sleep until you are considering retirement? Then there is no better way to stay wired and destroy your immune system then to drink thick black, copious amounts of coffee. Very much Victorian in its design, it boasts a beautifully elegant interior, and the service is second to none. Every taste - from the finest light coffee to the kind of stuff you could insulate your attic with - is catered for. If coffee aint your thing, check out the herbal teas.

Franco's
Rivington Street, EC2A

One of the pleasures from working in either of the East London Miloco studios is that lunch time is always most definitely spent at Franco's. A brilliant old school cafe in the heart of Old Street, which offers the best breakfast, omelette or pasta options without breaking your wallet. Ignore the countless overpriced cardboard charmed sandwich 'bars' in the area and enjoy.

Blue Audio Visual
44 Duncan Street, Angel N1

If like me, you spend most of your money on studio equipment, you'll probably find Blue Audio of some interest. Its the place I've been able to get some of the more interesting bits which inhabit my studio. Finding vintage equipment in London is pretty difficult, but the odd thing pops up in here from time to time. I bought an Arp Avatar from here, and there's only 300 of those in the world. But you have to be quick, and be lucky. Ask for Bart, he's pretty helpful.

The Spice
Fortess Road, Tufnell Park

THE GREATEST INDIAN RESTAURANT IN THE WORLD. Tell them Erol sent you. I cannot tell you any more than that.

Published: 4/10/2007

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