The philosophy of The Russet, located at Hackney Downs Studio, is to provide local people with good food at reasonable prices as well as to provide a creative space for holistic education for the wider community.

The interior of the venue is simple with the focus being on the diverse events put on throughout the week, such as CINE-REAL, a non-for-profit film night and Jam Sandwich, an eclectic line up of live art, music and spoken poetry.

The food is healthy and homely and the drinks menu consists of a good range of seasonal cocktails, craft beer and fine wines. It's clear that The Russet is one venue where profit is put on the back burner and the customer is at the forefront and as such it attracts a laidback local crowd. The bar closes relatively early so it would be great for a chilled drink before hitting some of the Dalston bars or clubs in Hackney.