A longstanding pub on Dalston Lane, The Three Compasses is a fine example of the modern pub wave: a phenomenon which sees old, often worn locals transform into all-day neighbourhood hangouts, often with food-led concepts and kitchen residencies, craft beer, and a more upmarket feel. At The Three Compasses, you’re in for burgers and buns by Elliot Cunningham’s Lagom concept, sports fixtures, and a friendly social atmosphere.
Inside, you’ll find a mixed crowd of locals, post-work drinkers, and weekend diners, stopping in for anything from casual pints to long afternoon catchups. Interiors balance the heritage of the pub with clean modern pub design. We’re talking rich oxblood-toned walls split with dark green dado panelling with spindle-back chairs and pedestal tables to reinforce the traditional pub aesthetic, while vintage Guinness prints and handwritten chalkboard menus bring some subtle nostalgia.
At the time of writing, menus at The Three Compasses Dalston come courtesy of Lagom - a kitchen concept from Elliot Cunningham. Best known for his time at Hackney Church Brew Co, where Lagom made a name for itself as a barbecue concept, Cunningham has since taken Lagom in a slightly different direction, serving up a menu of burgers and buns at The Three Compasses Dalston. There’s a vegetarian fried celeriac burger too, with jalapeno tartar sauce, alongside fish pie croquettes and crispy triple-cooked potatoes.
Specials change regularly, but have been known to include half-roasted chicken (first brined for two days) with chilli sauce and garlic mayo, and crispy pork belly with five-spice dipping sauce. Aside from the food, there’s a covered terrace for year-round al fresco dining and drinks, plus pub quizzes, DJ sets and music nights.