Looking for the best restaurants in Bethnal Green? These are the top places to dine in the area.
Words by Janet Simmons
Bethnal Green is authentic East London at its best.
With trendy Shoreditch just around the corner, Bethnal Green has fast become one of the coolest places to hang out in the capital. And with that comes plenty of excellent dining options.
From an abundance of Italian haunts to flavour-filled Venezuelan food, read on to discover the best restaurants Bethnal Green boasts.
Best restaurants in Bethnal Green
E Pellicci
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Searching for authentic Italian restaurants in Bethnal Green? We’ve got you. E Pellici is the place to go.
This family-run restaurant has been in business for over 100 years and is also a legendary local favourite. Known for being the Kray twins’ favourite breakfast stop, it’s no surprise that their breakfast is incredible. Believe us when we say that the fried bread is some of the best you will ever have.
And, as you might expect from an Italian restaurant, the pasta dishes are mouth-watering, with tasty homemade sauces and a killer winelist to go alongside
Issho-Ni
££
When it comes to Bethnal Green restaurants, Issho-Ni is a hidden gem. This Japanese Izakaya serves up tasty sharing plates and traditional Japanese dishes with an innovative twist.
But you really need to head here for the bottomless brunch. Let’s be honest, high quality sushi can be ridiculously expensive. Not only is the sushi here delicious, but it’s unlimited, making it excellent value for money, if you ask us.
You can also build your own bento box here – a popular lunch option. The crab croquettes and truffle mayo are insane. Plus, you can’t go wrong with classic maki rolls.
Yan Ji
££
Spice lovers need to check out Yan Ji in Bethnal Green. This Korean BBQ Restaurant offers tasty Korean dishes in a cosy, intimate setting.
We love grilling their meat skewers at the table. Seriously, we could gobble up a lot of these.
But, if you’re not in the mood for skewers, then try the Bibimbap (meat with rice and veggies, mixed) and the Kimchi pancakes.
They also offer an exceptional array of vegan and vegetarian options. Head here for some of the best food in Bethnal Green.
Arepa
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If you love Venezuelan food, you won’t find a better place than Arepa. And, if you’ve never eaten Venezuelan food, here’s where to go.
Situated on Paradise Row, this small chain offers wonderful and fresh Venezuelan food at reasonable prices.
Having lunch in Bethnal Green? You can order two mains here for £25 – an excellent day date that won’t break the bank. We’re obsessed with their chicken with guava glaze, but remember to save room for their soft white crispy plantain… And wash it all down with raw cane lemonade.
The Love Shack
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Bethnal Green has quite the reputation for excellent vegan dishes. But nowhere is as good as The Love Shack. Head here for tasty vegan food, magnificent cocktails and a laid-back atmosphere.
We reckon that the restaurant’s romantic atmosphere would make it an ideal choice for a first date. We’re big fans of the Good Karma Shawarma Flatbread, washed down with a pineapple and jalapeno margarita, of course.
Brawn
££
Located in the heart of the vibrant East London food scene, Brawn has struck that perfect balance of tasty food and an upbeat atmosphere.
The neighbourhood restaurant serves delightful Mediterranean-style dishes made from fresh ingredients – they source from local suppliers and producers to achieve this.
Our top picks? Stand-out menu items include the Cornish chicken with sausage, savoy cabbage and mustard. Though the pork shoulder ragu is equally as tempting.
And, as you would expect from a trendy neighbourhood spot, they also have a superb selection of wines available.
Lahpet
££
Want to try something new? London has, of course, got you covered. Lahpet is a Burmese joint that offers a unique insight into a criminally underrated cuisine.
Must-try dishes include Shan Noodles, Lentil Chow Chow and Mohinga. Save room to try Lahpet Thohk, a pickled tea leaf salad layered with crunchy peanuts, dried shrimp and chilli.
We’re also kind of obsessed with the drinks menu, where innovative and refreshing cocktails take centre stage. Whether you opt for the rum-based Ngapali Breeze or the Smokey Monkey (a unique blend of whiskey and chilli jam), you’re in for a real treat.
Sodo Pizza
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Looking for the best Italian restaurant Bethnal Green boasts? We can’t pick a favourite, we’re afraid, but Sodo Pizza is one of our go-to spots for pizza.
It’s the sourdough crust that really cements their pizza as the best in the neighbourhood. The goats cheese, olive, onion, truffle oil, chilli honey, and walnut option is pure decadence. But, if we’re honest, the Margherita offering is our favourite – simple but delicious.
Other menu highlights include Buratta and Salsa Macha, and a stellar selection of natural wines to wash everything down with.
Sager + Wilde
£££
When it comes to Paradise Row Bethnal Green restaurants, pasta lovers need to check out Sager + Wilde.
The first thing that hits you when you enter Sager + Wilde is the décor. The restaurant is tucked away inside a railway arch. The cavernous ceilings paired with warm wood create an impactful yet cosy atmosphere.
The wine list is well worth a trip alone. They offer an outstanding selection of wines from all around the world, and their toothsome pasta dishes make the perfect pairing. Highlights include a braised ox ragu, focaccia bread and juicy olives.
Bistrotheque
£££
Bistrotheque seems to have had the ‘Gram in a chokehold in recent months. And we can see why.
The décor is stunning – the restaurant is set in a converted, white-washed warehouse, and the interior is the ultimate balance of both swanky yet laid back.
The menu is brimming with simple but flavourful French-inspired dishes. Try the roast chicken or steak tartare and you won’t be disappointed. And, as expected from a swanky French joint in London, the wine menu holds up, too.
Laxeiro
££
Tapas lovers, say hola to Laxeiro.
Isabel Rios opened Laxeiro in 1982 after leaving a rural farm in Galicia. Originally, Laxeiro started as a deli, but the food was so insanely popular that it evolved into a full-blown tapas restaurant.
Upon arrival, it’s the cosy interiors adorned with local artwork and wooden touches that impress, but the menu will completely win you over: Paella, albondigas (beef meatballs) and pulpo a la gallega (Galician style octopus), among plenty other dishes.
Make sure you save room for dessert. A trip wouldn’t be complete without churros con chocolate.
Da Terra
£££
When it comes to tasty food in Bethnal Green, Da Terra is one of our favourite spots. Established in 2019 by Rafael Cagali, Da Terra offers exquisite Brazilian-inspired cuisine with an experimental twist.
With two michelin stars (and prices to match), the ever rotating tasting menu features plenty of meats and seasonal veggies. We quite fancy a posh date here.
In case you were thinking of chancing it, Da Terra is definitely not somewhere you can just turn up to – make sure you book in advance.
Other Places to Eat in Bethnal Green
The Camel
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The Camel is a local favourite. A traditional pub that sits behind the Museum of Childhood.
Serving up a small menu of British classics, the pie and mash is their speciality. They’ve managed to take a humble classic and transform it into something a little more gourmet.
However, it’s the welcoming atmosphere and friendly patrons that really set The Camel apart. Whether you’re searching for hearty pub grub or good company, you’re sure to love The Camel.
Boom Bap Burger
£
Situated on Paradise Row, Boom Bap Burger is the perfect place to grab a quick bite to eat.
The Blue Cheese Burger, a delightfully cheesy option with pickles, is our favourite. Though the Drop It Like Its Hot is a suitably spicy offering for those who fancy something with a little bit more of a kick.
The menu is surprisingly dotted with plant-based options, so vegetarians and vegans will definitely be able to find something to enjoy.
While you’re there, make sure to nab a portion of their cheesy fries – you’ll thank us.
Practical Tips for Exploring The Best Bethnal Green Restaurants
- Booking a table in advance is a good idea – particularly at some of the more expensive or upmarket restaurants.
- Bethnal Green is served by the Underground and the Overground with easy access from Holborn and Bank.
- While in the area, explore nearby spots such as Spitalfields, Columbia Road Flower Market and Shoreditch on foot.
