London Hackney Wick Restaurant Guide

Just across the canal (technically the River Lea) from the Olympic Park, this Hackney Wick mainstay exudes vibey East End cred, especially when you can pose in summer on the large, sunny terrace. On the menu: funky pizza and brews from the right-side-of-grungy in-house microbrewery, at good prices. Unsurprisingly, it can be utterly rammed at peak times.

“Tom Brown’s single-minded passion for fish and seafood shines through” at his “mecca of fine dining” – a post-industrial space “tucked away not far from the canal” in “wondrously trendy Hackney Wick”. “We love its informality and the friendliness of the staff” who give “detailed descriptions explaining the provenance of each dish” from “a stunning menu”. “So, get your skinny jeans on, tousle that beard (man bun optional) and go!” Top Menu Tip – “fabulous crab bun with pear hoisin”; “shrimps in a sort of panna cotta, decorated with sprouting herbs and vegetables… inspired”.

“Wow! Every dish has a story to tell and some of them are especially yummy!” at Douglas McMaster’s groundbreaking ‘zero waste’ project, in Hackney Wick’s ‘White Building’ (above the Crate brewery) in a high-ceilinged, white-walled post-industrial space. Considering its hipster credentials and admirable ethos, it has made surprisingly few waves here in the capital since the move from Brighton in 2019. Covid-19 didn’t help, but it now seems to be gaining more recognition. “Sitting at the bar you get an excellent view of the kitchen mechanics creating the delicious dishes. The whole dining experience from source to fork is explained by friendly and knowledgeable staff. A unique dining experience that’s extremely enjoyable”.

2021 Review: This in-house restaurant of the famous smoked salmon smokery (est. 1905) on the River Lea is a “lovely place to eat the best smoked fish, with a great view” – in fact, two views: from a viewing gallery over the smokery, and across to the Olympic stadium next door. For West Ham fans, it’s ideal for a pre-match lunch; for everybody else, “a bit out of the way, but worth the schlep”.

Part of a hip project for London’s fashionistas on ‘Fish Island’ beside the Hertford Union canal in Hackney Wick – this newly opened (May 2024) café sits at the foot of a converted block by the water that’s part of a campus with studios, manufacturing, co-working and venue spaces. One of the founders was a former high-up at The Ginger Pig whose meat features on the wide, easygoing and brunch-friendly menu presided over by chef Craig Johnson (formerly of Arbutus and The Corner Room). Coffee is from local roastery Bad Coffee.