Spitalfields Spotlight

23/09/2025

Spitalfields is more than just a vibrant London destination; it’s a community built by the people who bring their craft, creativity and stories to life here every day.  

In our new Spitalfields Spotlight series, we want to shine a light on the makers and designers who give Spitalfields its unique character. Come along as we share their journeys, inspirations and the stories that make Spitalfields truly special. 

Rupert & Charlie Avery, Founders of Dos Mas Tacos  

Dos Mas Tacos brings the bold flavours and vibrant spirit of Mexican street food to East London, serving seasonal, authentic dishes with a fresh street-style twist. 

Family is at the heart of Dos Mas Tacos, what drove you as brothers to open in Spitalfields and how has the community influenced your cooking?  

“Spitalfields has always felt like a place full of possibility, creative ideas, energy and real community and being part of that is a real pleasure. It has influenced our cooking in ways we didn’t expect. It’s made us think more about comfort, generosity, and flavour that brings people together whilst keeping up with the busy pace of the city on the day to day.”

Francesco Maria Manson, Founder of Chi Chi + The Pasta Family  

Chi Chi + The Pasta Family serves up authentic Italian pasta and flavourful dishes from their vibrant food truck. 

Your pasta brings a taste of Italy to London, what do you hope the Spitalfields community feels and experiences through your food? 

“Our goal is to create more than just a meal, we want to transport people. For the Spitalfields community, we hope our space feels welcoming and familiar – a place where neighbours gather, stories are shared, and everyone feels a little more connected. It’s about bringing a piece of Italy’s heart to the vibrant spirit of East London.” 

Steve Yeates, Founder of Steve Yeates Art  

Steve Yeates is a London sculptor and member of The Arts Market, transforming recycled waste into bold figurative art with a modern edge. 

Spitalfields is known for creativity, what role does being part of this artistic community play in your journey as an artist? 

“Spitalfields is a hub of creativity and I love mixing with all the diverse characters that bring their amazing creations to the market. I get to meet people from all over the globe and make creative connections with the visitors coming to experience this iconic market. Spitalfields creates the perfect back drop to present my sculptures and get constructive feedback.”

Jordan Razavi, Founder of Omnes 

OMNES is a sustainable women’s fashion brand creating beautiful, responsibly made pieces that redefine the way we shop, wear and think about fashion. 

Your name means ‘all’, what makes Spitalfields the perfect place to share that sense of community?  

“Spitalfields is a vibrant cultural hub with a rich history of artists and artisans. There’s a spirit of collaboration across both the brands and the local community that makes space for unexpected moments.”

Justin Webb, Market Trader 

Justin Webb, longtime Spitalfields trader and shop owner, has been part of the community since 2005, serving a diverse clientele with passion and pride. 

You’ve been here since 2005, over the years at Spitalfields, what memory stands out as most memorable and what keeps you coming back? 

“When we first threw open the doors back in 2005…Pricilla Presley walked in and bought several pieces with her daughter. She wore the jacket on the tv that night and we were all so proud of our work. The East was really starting to bubble with such a diverse group of people, and we were so happy to be a part of it. Still to this day we all love the work at Oscar Milo and continue to see and look after such a great diverse clientele, it makes the days so much fun.”

Niko Dafkos, Co-founder of Earl of East  

Earl of East is a London brand and store offering independent design and sustainable home fragrances.  

You’ve had many milestones since opening in Spitalfields, what has been your proudest moment?  

“Spitalfields has been really special for us because it feels like coming full circle – from starting out as a small market stall to now opening our fourth store in London’s historical traders market. For me, the proudest moment has been seeing the space come alive with our community, while also welcoming so many new faces through the door.”

Francesco Calvagna, Company Director of Mamma’s Goodies  

Mamma’s Goodies brings a taste of Sicily to London with their iconic Ape Classic, serving up authentic Italian flavours and family tradition on three wheels. 

Your food evokes a real sense of home and comfort, what do you hope to share with the Spitalfields community through it? 

“At Mamma’s Goodies, we aim to bring the community something real, honest and satisfying. Our food is inspired by simple, high-quality ingredients and the kind of everyday comfort you find in homemade recipes. Being part of the Spitalfields Market is about connecting with people from all walks of life and we hope our food brings a sense of warmth and joy to anyone who stops by.”

Jason Dervin, Spitalfields Estate Director  

Jason is the Spitalfields Estate Director, dedicated to preserving the area’s rich history and culture while working with the community to build lasting connections rooted in pride and passion. 

Working with so many creative and passionate people must be inspiring. What do you find most rewarding about being part of this community?  

“Being such an integral part of the Spitalfields Community is deeply rewarding, working with so many diverse people and groups toward a common goal over a sustained period has been incredibly fulfilling and has broadened my understanding & knowledge of this special area with its history and culture. Giving back to the community has helped to strengthen these bonds. The team I work with are all extremely passionate and I cannot imagine working anywhere else where pride and passion run so deeply.”

Astrid & Miyu Fausto Vatiero, Tattoo Artist 

Astrid & Miyu is a London-born jewellery brand known for its stackable designs, in-store services including piercings, fine-line tattoos, welding and engraving.  

As a tattoo artist, you must hear incredible stories, what have you learned about the Spitalfields community through the people you’ve tattooed?

“Tattooing the Astrid & Miyu Spitalfields community has been an incredible journey. Every person who visits studio brings with them a unique chapter – memories, hopes, fears – all woven into the artwork they choose. The community here is a beautiful reflection of East London’s diversity, what connects them all is a shared need to express something real, something true to who they are.”