Walk past the basic stalls selling cheap clothes, sauce pans or fruit & veg in the very colourful Walthamstow Market and you find a gem in Cafe Rio. Without a doubt, this cafe has the most personality of any in the 'Stow with quirky furnishings influenced by American popular culture (note the American car lisence plates and other memorabilia adorning the walls). The menu is typical of a cafe--not extensive or all that special, but, dude, it's tastey. I have always apprecited the mediterranean/middle eastern influence. Until a sister cafe, Ricco's, opened up just across the market, it was also the only decent place to get coffee. The wait staff are friendly if at times a bit bumbley, but I've never seen the owner without a smile and kind word. Then, there is the garden out back--a secret stash of a place where you feel transported into quite a different world. Even in winter, the heaters make it possible to hang out with your posse away from the hustle of the market. But, sitting outside in front of the cafe is always fun when the weather is nice. All-in-all....the best cafe in the area without question and worth seeking out if you are ever kickin' it on the east side. read more