The eclectic nature of Hackney makes for a culinary paradise in East London. Its trendiness coupled with the melting pot of ethnicities has ensured that there is something for everyone’s taste. And with fresh produce the order of the day, there is no shortage of quality. Here, we take a look at the best restaurants in Hackney (and ever-so-slightly beyond).
1. Faulkners: 424-426 Kingsland Road, E8 4AA
One of the best known chippies in London, Faulkners has been serving plates of quality made to order F&C and its legendary mushy peas for over sixty years. Despite the ownership changing on a seemingly yearly basis, the quality of the food hasn’t. An East London staple.
2. Somine: 131 Kingsland High St, E8 2PB
This corner restaurant in Dalston is especially unremarkable on the eye. However it is known for serving some of the best Turkish fare in East London in a casual cafeteria style. Differing slightly from the grilled meats of other Turkish restaurants in the area, home cooked stews and rices are made from scratch.
3. Tre Viet: 245-249 Mare St, E8 3NS
This delightfully decorated eatery on Mare Street serves generous portions of fresh Vietnamese fare at reasonable prices. It is always full be it a weekday or a weekend so make sure you book early. You are allowed to bring your own alcohol as well. Expect brash service, but that’s nothing out of the ordinary.
4. Leyton Technical: 265b Leyton High Road, E10 5QH
Ok, so the Tech isn’t technically in Hackney. However, just a 10 minute walk from Homerton is this fantastic gastropub that inhabits the old Leyton Town Hall. Originally a pop up for the London 2012 Olympics, it is now open permanently, serving incredible pub grub – their burgers are sublime as is their signature slow roasted Ox cheek. Wash it down with some delicious craft beer.
5. Railroad: 120-122 Morning Ln, E9 6LHÂ -NOW CLOSED-
This trendy eatery is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner on trendy Morning Lane in Homerton. Railroad is known for quality organic meat and a vegetarian dish that varies daily, as well as great coffees and beers and always great service in a warm, cozy atmosphere (read: hipster vibe). Be warned however, that it is on the pricey side.
6. LMNT: 316 Queensbridge Rd, E8 3NHÂ -NOW CLOSED-
This former pub is known for is decor as well as its food. Describing itself as the “most eccentric dining room in London,” the entire place is an opulent homage to ancient Egypt, Rome and Greece. Serving homely food with bold flavours at reasonable prices, this place is certainly a break from the ordinary.
7. Pavilion Cafe: Corner Old Ford Road, Victoria Park, E9 7DE
While the order of the day at the Pavilion Cafe in Victoria Park is cooked breakfasts and artisan sandwiches, it is continuously voted one of the best places to eat in London, as they use only the best organic produce. The setting is glorious too, overlooking the lake in the park and will be a perfect spot to visit if this coming summer is as glorious as they predict.
8. Tayyabs: 83-89 Fieldgate Street, E1 1JU
To visit this world renowned curry house, you have to venture slightly out of Hackney and into Whitechapel, but it will be well worth it. The queues round the block are testament to the legendary Punjabi cuisine at this family run restaurant. It is definitely worth booking and what’s more, you can bring your own booze! What’s not to love?
9. Rita’s: 175 Mare Street, E8 3RH
Another pop-up that has found a permanent home, Rita’s is where you go to get served quirky traditional cuisine (with more than a hint of Asian infusion – see the bacon and egg chow mein below) and very strong cocktails by cheerful bearded and tattooed members of staff. This is no run-of-the-mill meal out, which is perhaps why it is so popular among both the hipsters and the foodies.
10. The Advisory: 161 Mare Street, E8 3RH
This new burger joint is situated in the former Women’s Advisory Service office, which caused somewhat of a stir about the perceived negative effect of gentrification. Putting politics to one side however, The Advisory has a relaxed decor and simplified menu, serving delicious beef, chicken and veggie burgers with numerous toppings, as well as breakfast and brunch (including amazing bacon and maple syrup pancakes). Their homemade hash browns are worth a try too.
Want to see which of our top 10 restaurants is closest to you? Use our interactive map.
Map credit: Rachel Banning-Lover
