*Checks call sheet* – Wrap Time 8pm – *Silently cries*

Picture the scene, you’re hiding in the toilet with your phone because you’ve already had a full day pretending to be a grown up and there’s still over 2 hours to go. You’re tired and hungry and the automatic light in the loo has just turned off on you making you feel like the world’s most pathetic person. All this pain, because of the dreaded late finish.

But there is a neon light at the end of the tunnel if you’re filming here at First Option, as many of London’s top bars and restaurants can be found in our beloved Shoreditch. As summer is fast approaching, we thought it high time we give a selection of some of our favourites.

Old Street Records Bar

Old Street Records Bar touts itself as, ‘The new home of live music, cocktails, pizzas and good times in Shoreditch.’ It is open to the small hours… ‘every freaking day’. What more do you want?

Old Street Records Bar – Old Street

The Big Chill Bar

Big Chill Bar is a lively urban bar, eatery and music venue in the heart of Brick Lane. Serving quality craft drinks, tasty bar snacks, and has a live DJ every Thursday – Sunday.

The Big Chill Bar – Brick Lane

Dishoom

Inspired by the old Irani café’s of Bombay, with their slow turning fans, authentic food and faded elegance welcoming all.

Dishoom – Boundary Street

WM Barker and Co

If you want a change of pace, you can pop down into the trendy basement of WM Barker & Co. and be amazed by the sumptuous decor, the eclectic mix of people and of course, their impressive selection of drinks.

WM Barker and Co – Bishopsgate

Bavarian Beerhouse

Monday – Wednesday you will find it as a German restaurant, serving delicious traditional food and of course their indisputably amazing beers!  However, Thursday – Saturday is an all year round Oktoberfest party! Das ist gut!

Bavarian Beerhouse – City Road

The Grocery

For the best organic and fairtrade grub then head to The Grocery cafe on Kingsland road. Or if you fancy cooking at home, grab some healthy ingredients and maybe pick up some wine from their vast selection of independently imported bottles from all over the world.

The Grocery – Kingsland Road

See it’s not so bad working late at First Option, as there’s plenty on offer to help you unwind after a long day. Now put your phone away, get off that toilet and go out there and you pretend to be an adult like you’ve never pretended before!