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How East London has become London’s most vibrant destination
by Rebecca Caughey – July 31, 2024
East London, with its lively and eclectic neighbourhoods, has evolved in recent years into one of London’s most vibrant destinations, writes Rebecca Caughey
The East End of London seamlessly blends rich history with a contemporary hipster vibe, offering a mix of street food markets, innovative restaurants, legendary bars and a thriving street art scene.
Driven by a mix of innovative businesses, substantial residential developments, and a vibrant cultural scene, neighbourhoods like Shoreditch and Hackney have become entrepreneurial hubs, attracting cutting-edge brands and creative startups. But East London is more than just a trendy destination: it’s a culinary epicentre where tradition meets innovation, and community spirit thrives. It is home to a melting pot of cultures, reflected in its diverse food offerings, which keeps it at the cutting edge of London’s gastronomic scene. It’s an offering so brilliant that a visitor to London could spend a whole week eating and drinking like a king in East London … and never visit the same place twice.
Old-school dining
Brick Lane, famous for its curry houses, is home to old school Indian establishments that pride themselves on traditional recipes passed down through generations. Restaurants like Aladin and City Spice serve up aromatic curries, flavourful biryanis, and freshly baked naan, enticing locals and tourists alike.
Another staple is the nearby Old Spitalfields Market, which combines its history with contemporary food culture. Here, visitors can savour dishes from around the world, such as Greek souvlaki, Korean BBQ, and Italian pasta, or stop for a strong shot of coffee at Grind, a cute pink coffee truck. The Humble Crumble, located in the heart of Spitalfields Market, specialises in fruit crumbles with a variety of toppings and custards. It’s a comforting and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any time of day: the crème brulée crumble is highly recommended to combat jet lag after a long journey.
Iconic eats
Among East London’s dining gems are a few standout establishments that have become iconic in their own right. Dishoom pays homage to the Irani cafés of Bombay, India, serving up a mix of classic and contemporary dishes in a charming, vintage setting. I went for dinner and ordered the rich House Black Daal which cooks for more than 24 hours and is incredible. Many locals told me I had to return for breakfast, so I went back for the Bacon Naan Roll.
Another notable spot is St. John Bread and Wine, an offshoot of the famed St. John restaurant. Known for its nose-to-tail dining philosophy and owned by New Zealander Margot Henderson and her husband Fergus, St. John Bread and Wine offers a menu that emphasises simplicity and bold flavours. Dishes like the legendary roasted bone marrow on toast and the Eccles cake with Lancashire cheese showcase the restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition. Its minimalist decor and focus on seasonal British ingredients make it a beloved institution and a must-visit.
For those seeking a touch of Italian panache, head to Gloria in Shoreditch. The vibrant trattoria, part of the Big Mamma Group, serves up sumptuous Italian fare with a side of theatrical flair. Dinner is a feast for the eyes (and your Instagram account) and includes dishes such as 10-layer lasagne, a simple but expertly executed carbonara served in a whole round of pecorino, and the towering lemon meringue pie.
Smoking Goat, inspired by the bustling canteens of Bangkok, brings a taste of Thailand to East London. This vibrant eatery is known for its fiery flavours and communal dining style. Signature dishes like the smoked brisket and the fish sauce wings are a hit among patrons looking for bold, authentic Thai cuisine in a lively setting.
Boxpark in trendy Shoreditch is a pop-up mall crafted from repurposed shipping containers and serves as a hub for innovative street food. Each container houses a different vendor and their ever-changing line-up ensures there’s always something new to try. Highlights for me included the juicy burgers from Black Bear Burger, followed by an Espresso Yourself from the Soft Serve Society: a delicious affogato soft-serve icecream with Oreo crumbs and a butter cookie.
Towpath Café along the Regent’s Canal offers respite from the urban streetside hustle if you’re ready for some quiet time. This al fresco cafe serves seasonal British fare with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their slow-cooked lamb is the perfect dish to eat while watching the world go by on the canal.
Dapper drinks and supper shops
Londoners love their after-work drinks and The Ten Bells, a pub with a rich history dating back to the 18th century, is an East London institution. Once frequented by Jack the Ripper’s victims, The Ten Bells retains its Victorian charm while offering a contemporary selection of craft beers and spirits. Its cosy, timeworn interior and storied past make it a unique spot to enjoy a pint and soak up the local history.
Seed Library, located in the basement of One Hundred Shoreditch, is at the other end of the scale: a contemporary cocktail bar that redefines the drinking experience thanks to megastar mixologist Ryan Chetiyawardana, aka Mr Lyan. With a focus on minimal waste and sustainability, Seed Library crafts unique cocktails using housemade infusions and locally sourced ingredients. Menu highlights include a Black Elderflower French Martini made with potato vodka, black elderflower liqueur and pineapple, and a Galangal Penicillin, made with Patron tequila, mezcal, galangal honey and lemon.
For alcohol-free entertainment, head to Broadway Market, held in Hackney every Saturday, for gourmet delights from around the world. From artisanal cheeses and freshly baked pastries to exotic street food and locally sourced produce, it embodies the eclectic spirit of the area. Try the succulent pork (cooked for 20 hours) roast rolls if you happen to be there around lunchtime.
At Columbia Road Flower Market, you can find everything from fresh blooms to artisanal foods. Surrounding the Sunday market are a plethora of cafes and eateries that offer delightful treats to enjoy as you stroll through the stalls. Pavilion Coffee is known for freshly baked goods and high-quality coffee, and the commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices makes it a beloved part of the community.
Street art
East London’s streets are a living, breathing art gallery, adorned with vibrant street murals, intricate graffiti, and thought-provoking installations. As you stroll from eatery to eatery, you can spy works from renowned artists like Banksy, ROA, and Ben Eine. Nelly Duff, an art gallery on Columbia Rd, specialises in contemporary street and graffiti art by emerging and established artists, offering a dynamic collection. Located on Shoreditch’s Curtain Rd, Jealous Gallery is another cornerstone of the local art community. Known for its innovative approach to printmaking, Jealous collaborates with a wide range of street artists to produce limited-edition prints and original artworks. The gallery’s exhibitions are diverse and constantly evolving, featuring everything from bold, graphic prints to intricate, hand-drawn pieces.
Where to stay
For those looking to immerse themselves fully in the East London experience, there are notable accommodation options that blend comfort with the area’s distinctive vibe.
One Hundred Shoreditch is a landmark that was until 2020 the only London branch of The Ace Hotel. Now renamed, it provides luxurious accommodations and hosts a variety of dining and drinking establishments. Its rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city skyline, perfect for sipping cocktails while watching the sunset.
Mama Shelter, part of a hip European chain, is a unique blend of boutique hotel and eclectic dining space. The vibrant interior design, featuring bold colours and quirky details, sets the stage for a memorable dining experience; once dinner service is complete, the dining room becomes a venue for soul and jazz bands and DJs. If you stay there, pop across the road to the bustling Kiwi start-up Ozone Coffee Roasters, for a taste of home, some caffeine and banana bread.
