1. We visited one of our favourite Hackney restaurants at the weekend, Railroad on Morning Lane. It’s small, very cosy and serves up the most delicious dishes – each course offers three options; they really do meat so well, slow-cooked lamb and rare steaks, always a veggie dish too. We arrived at half seven when it was still quiet, but it quickly filled up. 2. Chicken livers with garlic and sage on toast to start, yummy. For the mains, shoulder of lamb and Onglet steak (forgot to photograph, too busy wolfing). 3. I like the tables for two by the windows the best. 4. The Cru Virunga chocolate cake was rich, moist and not too sweet, served with creme fraiche. Fresh mint tea on the side.