Brick Lane, in London’s East End, is a vibrant tapestry of cultures and experiences. Famous for its curry houses, the street also boasts a rich history of immigration, reflected in its diverse shops, markets, and street art. From vintage finds to delicious street food, Brick Lane offers a sensory feast and a glimpse into the ever-evolving heart of London. It is definitely one of my favourite streets in London but can feel slightly overwhelming and there are definitely some tourist traps to avoid here. So this is my guide to navigating one of the most important and iconic streets in London.
Cafes
- Kahaila: Kahaila isn’t your average coffee shop. This social enterprise cafe serves up delicious, ethically sourced coffee alongside a menu of tasty treats. What sets Kahaila apart is its commitment to empowering women, with all profits going towards supporting their work. It is a great place to work from too!
- Katsute 100 Brick Lane: For a more tranquil experience, head to Katsute 100 Brick Lane. This Japanese-inspired cafe offers a serene escape from the vibrant street outside. Expect minimalist decor, calming music, and a focus on high-quality matcha and Japanese teas. They also offer a selection of Japanese-inspired light bites and sweets.
- Nude Coffee Roasters: If you’re serious about your coffee, Nude Coffee Roasters is the place to be. These guys are passionate about their beans, roasting them in-house to ensure the freshest and most flavorful cup. The focus here is on quality coffee, served in a no-frills, industrial-chic setting. It’s the perfect spot for a quick caffeine fix or to chat with the knowledgeable baristas about all things coffee.
Food
Brick Lane, London’s vibrant heart, is not just famous for its curry houses. This bustling street is a melting pot of flavors, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences. From mouthwatering vegan dishes to authentic Italian cuisine, Brick Lane has something to satisfy every palate. Here are five of the top restaurants on Brick Lane that you shouldn’t miss:
- Vegan Yes: Vegan Yes is a haven for plant-based foodies. This relaxed, eclectic cafe serves up Italian & Korean fusion vegan fare such as pasta & kimchi. They incredible owners will chat to you whilst you are eating, making it feel like you are eating in their front-living room.
- Aba-Ra!: A Georgian offers a unique culinary experience with its exquisite Georgian cuisine and wine.
- Dal Fiorentino Brick Lane: For a taste of Italy, head to Dal Fiorentino Brick Lane at 6 Cheshire St. This restaurant serves upauthentic Italian flatbreads from Tuscany
- Aladin Brick Lane: Aladin Brick Lane offers a wide range of Bangladeshi, Indian, and Pakistani dishes. This restaurant is known for its flavorful curries, baltis, and grills.
- The Beigel Bake: No trip to Brick Lane is complete without indulging in the legendary bagels from The Beigel Bake. This iconic bakery is famous for its salt beef bagels, which are made with a special recipe and served fresh daily.
Shopping
- Libreria Bookshop: This bookstore is a haven for book lovers, with a wide selection of new and used books. The store is also known for its curated selection of contemporary titles and its architect-designed space.
- Brick Lane Bookshop: This independent bookstore is another great option for book lovers. The store has a wide range of literary genres for adults and kids, as well as gifts and events.
- Rokit: Rokit is a vintage clothing store that sells men’s and women’s fashions, as well as recycled designs. The store is known for its eclectic mix of clothing and accessories, and for its commitment to sustainability.
- Crisis: Crisis is a charity shop that sells a variety of items, including clothing, furniture, and homewares. The store supports people who are experiencing homelessness or poverty.
- Vintage Vinyl Brick Lane: This record shop is a must-visit for any music lover. The store has a wide selection of new and used vinyl records, as well as CDs and DVDs.
- Dark Sugars: this tasty chocolate shop offering a range of gourmet chocolates, truffles & hot drinks, plus gift boxes. They also offer free samples ;).
- Taj Store: My go to place for purchasing Indian spices and ingredients. I literally could spend an hour here exploring the amazing ingredients.
Bars and Pubs
- Brick Lane Tap Room: This tap room showcases a rotating selection of craft beers from local and international breweries. It’s a great place to discover new favourites and enjoy a relaxed pint.
- Juju’s Bar and Stage: This eclectic venue hosts a variety of events, from live music and DJs to theater performances and comedy nights. It’s a great place to experience the local arts scene and enjoy a drink in a unique setting.
- Kill the Cat: Award-winning craft beer bar and bottle shop that entices you to be more adventurous in your beer choices. Drink in. Take away. Shop online. Stay curious.
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