Best Spitalfields restaurants

Spitalfields – the home of haggling, hats and houseplants. With markets, street vendors and quirky shops galore it has long been regarded as the beating heart of London’s East End, drawing in local London residents and tourists alike to bag a bargain or just ogle at all the oddities on offer. However over recent years the area has also gained quite the foodie reputation with a plethora of restaurants and street food vendors popping up left, right and centre. Unsurprisingly creative restaurateurs are drawn to its eclectic buildings, laidback arty vibe and happy-go-lucky community. Chefs love it too – with so much fresh produce available on their doorstep and an appreciative clientele of down-to-earth foodies who care more about what’s on their plate than what’s underneath it. You won’t find many white tablecloths here – distressed wooden tables, unruly foliage and mismatched furnishings are far more à la mode – but whatever the day of the week or the time of day there’s always a buzz in this part of town.

Spitalfields is also a mixing pot of cultures, giving rise to a diverse assortment of international cuisines to choose from. Thanks to its thriving Bangladeshi community Brick Lane has become as renowned for its curry houses as it is for its market; but a few streets down and there’s everything from Chinese (Sichuan Folk ) and Thai (Som Saa), to Burmese (Lahpet) and Middle Eastern (Ottolenghi, Bubala) to choose from. Not to mention some fantastic British institutions (St John, The Culpeper and Hawksmoor to name a few), showcasing the best local and seasonal ingredients the UK has to offer.

Whether you’re totally new to the area or a seasoned regular, we have made a list of the best Spitalfields restaurants that you need to tick off your bucket list. Cameras at the ready, these places are made for your Instagram.