Introducing Brent Cross Town Insiders. Get to know North London through the eyes of locals we love. From chefs and DJs to fitness and fashion professionals, our insiders share their favourite spots in the capital’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
Insider Guide: Aryan Tajbakhsh
Professional footballer and coach of community club Brent United Aryan Tajbakhsh has lived in North London since he was born. Follow Brent United on Instagram.
I’m coaching for a local community club called Brent United, who are dedicated to improving the lives of young footballers and use donations to support young people in the borough of Brent.
I was born in Edgware in October 1990, to parents of Turkish and Iranian descent. Ever since, my life has predominantly been centred around sport. I attended Mora Primary School, in NW2 then moved on to Hampstead School.
At school, I excelled in football and had multiple trials with premier league teams, but never quite made it in. I left school in 2011 to sign a professional contract abroad in the Turkish premier league. After that, I returned to the UK and worked in education, as well as playing semi-professional football. I then earned a professional contract in England with Crawley Town, playing football full-time, alongside going back to university to complete a degree in Global Business — I graduated in 2019.
Right now I’m coaching for a local community club called Brent United, who are dedicated to improving the lives of young footballers and use donations to support young people in the borough of Brent, helping them with equipment, kit, boots or whatever they need help with. I started a workwear supplying and embroidery/print business in 2021. I’d love to stay connected with football, perhaps becoming a football agent in the future.
These are some of my favourite North London destinations:
1. Brioche Boys
Location: Location: 61 Junction Rd, Archway, London N19 5QU
Follow: @brioche.boys Find out more: briocheboys.co.uk
The burgers look and taste insane! Go and load up on tacos on Tuesday, and don’t leave it too late or they’ll run out of them!
Insider Tip: This is the perfect place for grabbing moreish late night fries with friends.
2. The Stag
Location: 67 Fleet Rd, London NW3 2QU
Follow: @stagnw3 Find out more: thestagnw3.com
This is a great pub with a lovely atmosphere and a great garden right beside Hampstead Heath.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss pizza Tuesdays, when you can get two pizzas for the price of one, from 5pm.
3. The MMA Clinic
Location: 29-30, St Alban’s Pl, London N1 0NX
Follow: @themmaclinicangel Find out more: themmaclinic.com
I absolutely love the Thai boxing classes taught by ex-professional Chris Carley. It’s an incredible workout in a friendly but hard working atmosphere.
Insider Tip: Try a one-on-one session with Chris for maximum results!
4. Heads + Tails
Location: 175 W End Ln, London NW6 2LH
Follow: @headsandtailsnw Find out more: headsandtails.bar
This is a lovely venue for that special date night. I love the ambiance and they make my favourite cocktail exactly how I like it.
Insider Tip: Make sure you try the 'Maple Old Fashioned', and ask for extra sugar if you’re feeling super sweet on your date!
5. Inside Store
Location: Unit 503 Highgate Studios, 53-79 Highgate Rd, London NW5 1TL
Follow: @insidestoreldn Find out more: insidestoreldn.com
I love finding pieces to add to my home and creating beautiful interiors. Whether you’re after furniture and lighting for a big home revamp, Christmas decorations that are modern and playful, or smaller home accessories perfect for stocking fillers, this place is the spot!
Insider Tip: The candle selection is extensive and very unique!
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