Best Restaurants, Pubs and Cocktail Bars in East London

East London pulses with culinary energy, blending historic pubs, Michelin-recognized fine dining, and inventive cocktail lounges. Neighborhoods like Shoreditch, Hackney, and Dalston offer diverse options for food lovers and night owls alike, from smoky Basque grills to underground speakeasies.

Shoreditch: The Heart of Culinary Innovation

Shoreditch stands as East London’s epicenter for bold flavors and creative presentations. This area draws crowds with its mix of high-end tasting menus and casual street eats.

• The Clove Club: A two-Michelin-starred gem pioneering fine dining here, led by chef Isaac McHale. Expect British ingredients elevated through precise techniques.
• BRAT Restaurant: Known for Basque-inspired sharing plates with smoky grills. Multiple locations highlight its popularity, including a London Fields pop-up.
• Plates London: Offers vegan innovation with a serene courtyard, earning a Michelin Star. Siblings Kirk and Keeley Haworth transformed a derelict space into a calming retreat.

These spots showcase Shoreditch’s evolution from gritty warehouses to gastronomic hubs, perfect for those seeking elevated experiences amid urban buzz.

Hackney’s Eclectic Bar Scene

Hackney buzzes with bars that cater to every mood, from craft beer havens to quirky cocktail dens. It’s ideal for relaxed evenings or lively nights out.

Beyond these, Crate Brewery shines for its riverside seating and fresh pints, while La Camionera adds Latin flair with vibrant drinks.

Iconic Pubs and Gastro Gems

Traditional pubs endure in East London, often upgraded with modern twists. They provide hearty meals in atmospheric settings.

• Ten Bells: Opposite Spitalfields Market, this gastro-pub serves pine salt-crusted chicken tenders and superior prosecco. Popular with locals for its authentic charm.
• Prospect of Whitby: A historic spot with solid reviews for classic British fare.
• The Hoop and Grapes: High-rated for cozy ambiance and reliable pub grub.

These venues balance nostalgia with quality, making them staples for visitors wanting a taste of old London.

Cocktail Havens for Nighttime Adventures

East London’s speakeasies and bars redefine mixology, offering drinks served in puzzle jugs or with theatrical flair.

• Nightjar: Old Street’s underground icon with a menu spanning historic eras. Try the Hug a Wild Cat, a tequila-jam sensation.
• Discount Suit Company: Features Czech beers and live jazz alongside padrón peppers.
• Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town: Hidden entrance adds intrigue to inventive cocktails.

These bars elevate evenings, blending creativity with East London’s cool factor.

Dalston and Beyond: Emerging Hotspots

Dalston and nearby areas like Clapton offer fresh discoveries. Angelina in Dalston fuses cuisines innovatively.

Clapton tempts with trendy bars and eateries, as explored in local guides highlighting neighborhood hangs.

Brick Lane’s Street Food Legacy

Brick Lane thrives as curry central, with beigel shops like Brick Lane Beigel Bake drawing crowds for 24/7 bagels. It’s a sensory overload of spices and stalls.

Farringdon’s Fine Dining Edge

Farringdon bridges East and central London with upscale options.

• Bouchon Racine: French bistro classics upstairs.
• Brutto: fuss-free Florentine fare.
• Sessions Arts Club: Romantic Wes Anderson-style setting.

Practical Tips for Dining in East London

Book ahead for Michelin spots; pubs often walk-in friendly. Explore on foot or via Overground for efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-try dishes in Shoreditch?

Smoky Basque plates at BRAT and innovative vegan at Plates London top lists.

Best bars for cocktails in Hackney?

Equal Parts and Nightjar lead for creativity and ambiance.

Are there affordable eats near Brick Lane?

Yes, beigel bakes and curry houses offer value.

Which spots have Michelin recognition?

The Clove Club (two stars), Plates London (one star), and Bib Gourmands like Smokestak.

Ideal for groups or dates?

Pubs like Ten Bells for groups; Sessions Arts Club for intimate dinners.