We meet Ananda Eidelstein, chef, former food editor, mother and founder of FINAL DATES, a London-based wellness brand creating date and dark chocolate truffles made with organic ingredients for mamas-to-be.
Born from a simple pregnancy ritual, FINAL DATES began when Ananda wanted to make those final weeks of pregnancy feel a little more indulgent. What started as a personal treat has grown into a brand centred on nourishment, wellbeing and celebrating the everyday milestones of motherhood.
A Stoke Newington local, Ananda knows exactly where to find the best coffee with a buggy in tow, the playgrounds worth hanging out at and the best independent shops. From Neapolitan pizza and Japanese sweets to family theatre, leafy walks and the perfect gelato stop, here, Ananda shares her ultimate guide to a family day out in Stoke Newington.
Ananda Eidelstein Shares Her Favourite Family-Friendly Spots in Stoke Newington
A Favourite Coffee Spot (That Has Enough Space For Buggies)?
Foku recently opened on Stoke Newington Church Street (the Good Bagel used to be at this location, and I spent a lot of time sitting at the back with other mamas during my first mat leave). Foku has made the seating area feel even bigger, and the vibe is really tranquil. It feels like such a hidden gem for a group of mamas and their buggies. I’ll definitely be coming with baby #2 for some matcha or coffee and Japanese sweets.
Alternatively, Everyday Sunshine has great coffee, the best cheese toasties, vibrant, happy art, and enough room for buggies, too. (Do note they’re only open Thursday-Sunday though!)
A Great Playground Nearby?
Butterfield Green playground is our favorite. My almost-4-year-old and all his buddies love playing in the sand. It’s a decent size and contained enough that you don’t feel you have to chase the kids around. And there’s a really nice community feel usually after nurseries get out for the day. Bonus: It gets great sunlight on a nice day. Extra bonus: It’s very close to Luminary Bakery.
Cool Shops For Little Ones And Grown-Ups?
There are so many amazing independent shops on Church St.— it’s a treasure trove! What Mother Made has the cutest (and most stylish) clothes for babies and kids (and women!), handmade in East London. It’s a one-stop shop, with a thoughtfully curated selection of essentials like dining sets and hats, for example, plus toys, books, and gifts. There’s also a shelf beautifully curated with books, gifts, and treats for parents or mums-to-be! Run don’t walk, and you might snatch a box of FINAL DATES in store.
Across the street is Nook, a gorgeous gift shop with greeting cards, homeware, and stationery. Further down is Search and Rescue, but be warned you might want everything in sight. They carry jewelry, blankets, bags, stationery, homeware; the list goes on. I always have to go in to take a peek.
And a gem of a clothing shop for women is Hilda. The store houses a highly curated mix of vintage and new finds. The sweet and friendly owner has an impeccable eye, and the clothes are impeccable, too. Every time I bring a friend to the shop, she buys something!
For food lovers, there’s Stokey’s Delicatessen with a wonderful range of pantry essentials, including those from small businesses, plus coffee and food gifts.
Cultural Places To Go With Kids Nearby?
Abney Park is a captivating place for a stroll, and on hot days it’s cooler thanks to the shade provided by the luscious trees. Beyond the history that lies in this old cemetery, there are lots of birds and foliage to take in for mini scavenger hunts and stick-loving little ones. The new cafe is a bonus.
Very close to Stoke Newington, we love Little Angel Theatre in Islington. They put on the best kids’ theatre and puppet shows for a range of ages, and the programme is constantly changing.
Last but not least, the Estorick Collection in Canonbury has family days. The museum houses Modern Italian Art, and the family days allow for easy-breezy discovery of the Collection. On other family days, they offer sensory play for under 5s.
Family-Friendly Favourite Restaurants?
Vicoli di Napoli is our family spot! The owners are incredibly kind and so good with little ones. The Neapolitan pizza is incredible and loved by kids and grown-ups alike. We can’t pass their blue door without our son wanting to go in. There are often families dining, so you feel very welcome, and if you happen to be the first to show up, grab the window seats. On a mild day, sitting in the garden eating pizza al fresco can feel like a mini getaway.
The Good Egg, as well as Fink’s at Clissold House, are other neighborhood gems we love.
Not a restaurant per se, but The Spence Bakery is great for grab-and-go pastries, bread, or egg and cress rolls.
And finally, your perfect family day in Stokey?
Breakfast at Ester’s— everything, absolutely everything there is divine. Not much room for buggies but they do have a kids menu! Then we’d stroll down Church Street toward Clissold Park and pop into a few shops on the way, including the used books shop which has a lovely selection of kids’ books. Once at Clissold Park, the leisurely strolls are rare now, but a picnic is always in the cards. The playground will be a must; there’s no escaping it. Thankfully, Fink’s Pump House or Fink’s at Clissold House has the coffee and treats fix covered. Then we’d head toward Romeo & Giulietta for quality gelato, and maybe even make a pit stop at The Prince and catch up with neighborhood friends.
Photo credits: Abraham Garcia Moreno (main image) and Safia Shakarchi (top two images).
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