We understand that trendy London areas can be overwhelming; where does one begin? Hackney Road a few years back wasn’t even on the list. It was simply a means to get from Shoreditch to Bethnal Green. Then Columbia Road Flower Market popped up and it wasn’t so long after that more attention was given to the area. We’ve selected our favourite section, Hackney Road, and listed our top ten places along this stretch worthy of your time and efforts.
Just Fab
It’s vegan Italian street food inspired by Sicily meets the classic London red bus in this totally unique concept that came to Hackney in 2015. Food is sourced locally and is organic where possible, while the bread is made fresh by professional bakers.
455 Hackney Road, E2 9DY
The Laughing Heart
This late night bar and restaurant steals our heart. The food here is packed full of flavour (with notes of inspiration from the Far East) and the small plates are perfect for sharing over a bottle of wine from the extensive wine list.
277 Hackney Road, E2 8NA
Café Twelve
When you have those lazy days where you can’t even decide what cuisine you fancy, head over to Café Twelve. They have 7 different types of cuisine going through the week and the roof garden is the perfect place to escape the ground bustle.
57 Hackney Road, E2 7NX
Bad Sports
Bad Sports is a badass place. There are tacos (probably the best you’ll find around), sports and appropriately named drinks in the basement downstairs – be prepared to take the next day off work. Unnecessary Roughness, anyone?
184 Hackney Road, E2 7QL
Sager and Wilde
These guys know their wine (though we’re a fan of the bar snacks too, try the Cheddar and Ndjua Toastie). The wine list is not only extensive, but it changes everyday so you wine connoisseurs will never tire.
193 Hackney Road, E2 8JL
Morito
Hop along next door and you’ll find this gem of a place. This is their third restaurant incorporating flavours from Southern Spain, North Africa and the Mediterranean. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere, the open kitchen and don’t leave without checking out the horseshoe shaped bar.
195 Hackney Road, E2 8JL
Folklore
If music and a good old boogie is what you’re after then Hackney Road will not let you down; Folklore is a hidden gem, a wonderfully quaint bar with casual vibes, awesome music and a super friendly atmosphere. Make sure to check out their events too.
186 Hackney Road, E2 7QL
The Natural Philosopher
An intimate, beautifully decorated and classy place of a cocktail bar. It’s a true cocktail bar that focuses on just that – you can pick between the classics to the inspired such as an Old Fashioned Philosopher.
489 Hackney Road, E2 9ED
Hackney Coffee Company
For the coffee lovers, these guys will do justice by you. Hackney Coffee was inspired from a backpacking trip to Columbia, and the idea is more than just great coffee; it’s about savouring time and space.
499 Hackney Road, E2 9ED
Bufi
When you’re feeling for pizza, Bufi hits the spot. Chose from traditional Neapolitan pizza, Panzerotti (folded fried pizza) or Panuozzi (pizza sanwhich). For dessert, we’re recommending the Nutella and Ricotta Pizza Roll with Dulce de Leche ice cream.
19 Hackney Road, E2 7NX
Written by Nikki