Kids Saturday Night Fever in N16

I’d been meaning to check out That Place on the Corner, the popular family cafe in Stoke Newington, since Ezra was Jed’s age. Especially when I heard about their monthly Kids Disco, held every last Saturday of the month.

So to round off a busy half-term, and with dad on a late shift, I booked a table for myself and the babes for ‘dinner and dancing’, starting at 6.30pm.

Stoke Newington often tops the baby-friendly neighbourhoods list, even ahead of South London’s infamous Nappy Valley. That Place on the Corner is located on Newington Green amidst a cluster of shops selling baby clothes and gear.

By day, the cafe hosts a wide range of classes and activities for under fives and their families and it’s also a hotspot for children’s parties.

But on this Saturday night, it was all about the groove.

The small group of diners seemed friendly and down to earth, many greeting owner Sam with hugs and cheery waves. There was already a party atmosphere with a pop soundtrack playing as we took our seats for dinner.

The menu boasts hearty, home-cooked food ranging from spag bol to sausages and mash. We opted for burgers.

I must confess I was surprised at how tasty mine was, really succulent meat and well seasoned with a good portion of fat cut chips and salad.

The kids’ versions (£4.50 kids’ menu) arrived on two mini bagels, with chips and tomato sides.

We’d barely finished chewing when DJ Natalie was on the decks urging us to the dance floor.

I’ve partied with the babes at top grooves like Baby Loves Disco and most recently Charlie Dark’s Bookworm Babies.

The Kids Disco at That Place on the Corner was more low-key, with an intimate feel. It was kind of like being at a wedding where one minute you’re waltzing with your toddler, the next you’re doing the conga behind someone’s drunk granddad.

But that was part of its appeal. People felt free to let their hair down.

The loud music, flashing lights and a chance to grab the mic were an instant draw for little rockers.

I couldn’t keep Jed away from the dance floor. Or the DJ.

At first, Ezra was pulling his wallflower act.

Then the rhythm took control and his inner MJ burst loose.

While trying to do one move, he landed headfirst on concrete and wound up with a Loony Toons size lump on his forehead. Definitely not the look he was going for!

Thankfully, he perked up a bit after Sam provided an ice pack and plenty of TLC. Actually I think it was the Spiderman balloon that did the trick!

Despite the head-crushing blip, we had a really fun time at the Kids Disco. If you’re after a family-friendly night on the town, with yummy food and feel-good tunes, don’t hesitate to check it out.

That Place on the Corner Kids Disco runs every fourth Saturday. Pre-booking is advised.

Kids Eat Free every Friday night from 6pm plus storytime with Rose.

For more events and activities, check out the web site.