London eateries that merit a podium place
By Michelle Tchea |
July 27, 2012, Friday
|
Print Edition
Print Edition
THE London food scene is constantly under scrutiny from self-professed food critics. However, with everything from top-end establishments and pop-up restaurants to chains and old fashioned pubs seemingly lining every main street of the British capital, tourists at high-profile events such as the London Olympics can feel baffled by the choice and concerned they make the wrong one.
Finding a decent eatery around tourist attractions may not be easy, but when it comes to enjoying the Games, feeding a growling stomach will be a hurdle many tourists must overcome. In the heart of east London, the Olympic Stadium straddles four boroughs, however, none that are considered a "foodie's paradise."
So where do you go for a decent meal in between events? Sure, you can head into the newly established Westfield Stratford City and dive head first into a food court chain. But for those looking to fuel up on something a bit special, pay attention now.
The Counter Cafe
Apparently London's best kept secret, The Counter Cafe is a perfect place for those who don't have a ticket to the Olympic Stadium. Sitting in the shadow of the stadium and in the very creative Hackney Wick area, this cozy little cafe combines the hipster London vibe with blue retro flip-up theater seats, plus a roaring good cup of coffee. Friendly staff serve up delicious brunch options, with the Mumbai scramble a crowd favorite. Homemade pies are a cheap and delicious option for lunch.
Address: 7 Roach Road, Hackney Wick
Formans' Restaurant and Bar
If you decide not to brave the crowds to catch a glimpse of Tower Bridge, a visit to another iconic London establishment, Forman's, should be organized. While it's easy to bypass the restaurant, which incorporates East London's oldest smokery, and head straight for the concessions stands in the stadium, do yourself a favor and pop in for some of the city's freshest seafood - done well. It serves up classic British staples, the cured smoked salmon and eel fillets are favorites for those who choose surf over turf. Oh, and don't forget to bring your camera - there are stunning views of the stadium from this slightly upmarket environment.
Address: Stour Road, Fish Island, Hackney Wick
Tel: (020) 8525-2390
King Edward VII
A visit to London must definitely include a visit to one (or two) local pubs. Luckily for visitors to the Olympic Stadium, a traditional pub dating back to its 19th century is only a short walk from the main action. The surroundings are Victorian London while the food is a mix of modern gastro pub meets shared tapas. Prices are affordable, ranging from 9 to 18 pounds (US$14-18) for a decent plate of food, like a veggie burger to mixed grill plate.
Address: 47 Broadway, Stratford Tel: (020) 8534-2313
Lucky Chip at The Selbright Arms
If just watching the marathon gives you hunger pangs, head to Lucky Chip for a burger fix. Previously in Netil Market, Lucky Chip has its loyal burger fans lining up for some of the city's "dirtiest" burgers. You can choose your meal based on your love-hate relationship with Hollywood actors such as the Kevin Bacon - porked up with a lot of porky goodness. However, true grease heads are suggested to go for the John Belushi - a heart attack burger loaded with fois gras, bone marrow and truffle oil.
Address: 31-35 Coate Street Tel: (020) 7729-0937
FARM
The countryside comes to the city of London, well this part of Hackney with FARM: shop. A short train ride from the Olympic Stadium is an urban food "hub" featuring an arts venue, fish pond, rooftop chicken coop, indoor allotment and, of course, a cafe serving produce fresh from the farm.
Address: 20 Dalston Lane, Dalston
Tel: (020) 3490-5124
The Hackney Pearl
The Hackney Pearl may have won a host of awards since opening in 2009, but it's not resting on its laurels, the menu remains diverse and just as creative as when it first hit the food scene. A seasonal menu and a very affordable pre-fixe menu are on offer for a growing lunch crowd. Produce is local, right through to the drinks menu, which includes beer and cider from Meantime Brewery in Greenwich.
Address: 11 Prince Edward Rd, Hackney WickTel: (020) 8510-3605
The Corner Room
The Corner Room is not an easy place to find. There is no phone, no website and no way to make a booking. But owner Nuno's ambition of creating a neighborhood restaurant that combines informality and affordability makes the search well worth the effort. Although the philosophy is to create an informal dining experience, the menu is, thankfully, the opposite. Go for lunch to really reap the benefits of a bargain - three courses for 21 pounds - and enjoy delicate creations such as sea bass ceviche and rump of lamb.
Address: Patriot Square, Bethnal Green
Brawn Restaurant
A piece of France comes to London with Brawn. The owners of the famed Terroirs have moved on and created a more affordable food destination that has some of the best steak tartar outside of France. A trendy atmosphere and unique concept encourages eaters to "graze" the menu and share plates. With pork rillettes, terrines as well as a list of affordable (8 to 14 pounds) mains, Brawn is a great introduction to those looking to taste a little bit of France.
Address: 49 Columbia Road, City of LondonTel: (020) 7729-5692
Finding a decent eatery around tourist attractions may not be easy, but when it comes to enjoying the Games, feeding a growling stomach will be a hurdle many tourists must overcome. In the heart of east London, the Olympic Stadium straddles four boroughs, however, none that are considered a "foodie's paradise."
So where do you go for a decent meal in between events? Sure, you can head into the newly established Westfield Stratford City and dive head first into a food court chain. But for those looking to fuel up on something a bit special, pay attention now.
The Counter Cafe
Apparently London's best kept secret, The Counter Cafe is a perfect place for those who don't have a ticket to the Olympic Stadium. Sitting in the shadow of the stadium and in the very creative Hackney Wick area, this cozy little cafe combines the hipster London vibe with blue retro flip-up theater seats, plus a roaring good cup of coffee. Friendly staff serve up delicious brunch options, with the Mumbai scramble a crowd favorite. Homemade pies are a cheap and delicious option for lunch.
Address: 7 Roach Road, Hackney Wick
Formans' Restaurant and Bar
If you decide not to brave the crowds to catch a glimpse of Tower Bridge, a visit to another iconic London establishment, Forman's, should be organized. While it's easy to bypass the restaurant, which incorporates East London's oldest smokery, and head straight for the concessions stands in the stadium, do yourself a favor and pop in for some of the city's freshest seafood - done well. It serves up classic British staples, the cured smoked salmon and eel fillets are favorites for those who choose surf over turf. Oh, and don't forget to bring your camera - there are stunning views of the stadium from this slightly upmarket environment.
Address: Stour Road, Fish Island, Hackney Wick
Tel: (020) 8525-2390
King Edward VII
A visit to London must definitely include a visit to one (or two) local pubs. Luckily for visitors to the Olympic Stadium, a traditional pub dating back to its 19th century is only a short walk from the main action. The surroundings are Victorian London while the food is a mix of modern gastro pub meets shared tapas. Prices are affordable, ranging from 9 to 18 pounds (US$14-18) for a decent plate of food, like a veggie burger to mixed grill plate.
Address: 47 Broadway, Stratford Tel: (020) 8534-2313
Lucky Chip at The Selbright Arms
If just watching the marathon gives you hunger pangs, head to Lucky Chip for a burger fix. Previously in Netil Market, Lucky Chip has its loyal burger fans lining up for some of the city's "dirtiest" burgers. You can choose your meal based on your love-hate relationship with Hollywood actors such as the Kevin Bacon - porked up with a lot of porky goodness. However, true grease heads are suggested to go for the John Belushi - a heart attack burger loaded with fois gras, bone marrow and truffle oil.
Address: 31-35 Coate Street Tel: (020) 7729-0937
FARM
The countryside comes to the city of London, well this part of Hackney with FARM: shop. A short train ride from the Olympic Stadium is an urban food "hub" featuring an arts venue, fish pond, rooftop chicken coop, indoor allotment and, of course, a cafe serving produce fresh from the farm.
Address: 20 Dalston Lane, Dalston
Tel: (020) 3490-5124
The Hackney Pearl
The Hackney Pearl may have won a host of awards since opening in 2009, but it's not resting on its laurels, the menu remains diverse and just as creative as when it first hit the food scene. A seasonal menu and a very affordable pre-fixe menu are on offer for a growing lunch crowd. Produce is local, right through to the drinks menu, which includes beer and cider from Meantime Brewery in Greenwich.
Address: 11 Prince Edward Rd, Hackney WickTel: (020) 8510-3605
The Corner Room
The Corner Room is not an easy place to find. There is no phone, no website and no way to make a booking. But owner Nuno's ambition of creating a neighborhood restaurant that combines informality and affordability makes the search well worth the effort. Although the philosophy is to create an informal dining experience, the menu is, thankfully, the opposite. Go for lunch to really reap the benefits of a bargain - three courses for 21 pounds - and enjoy delicate creations such as sea bass ceviche and rump of lamb.
Address: Patriot Square, Bethnal Green
Brawn Restaurant
A piece of France comes to London with Brawn. The owners of the famed Terroirs have moved on and created a more affordable food destination that has some of the best steak tartar outside of France. A trendy atmosphere and unique concept encourages eaters to "graze" the menu and share plates. With pork rillettes, terrines as well as a list of affordable (8 to 14 pounds) mains, Brawn is a great introduction to those looking to taste a little bit of France.
Address: 49 Columbia Road, City of LondonTel: (020) 7729-5692
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