Clapton, located near Dalston, Hackney, and Stoke Newington, has evolved into a vibrant destination in its own right. A dynamic community of young creatives has flocked here, bringing along a remarkable array of pioneering restaurants, exceptional drinking establishments, and unique independent shops. This area is blessed with abundant green spaces and is flanked by the scenic River Lea canal, contributing to Clapton's off-the-beaten-track charm, cherished by those who are in the loop. With its laid-back ambiance and the perfect blend of traditional and modern enterprises, it won't be an overstatement to declare Clapton as one of the most thrilling pockets of East London. During the festive season, Clapton truly comes alive. One can't miss the opportunity to experience christmas day at the brook green hotel, a glorious event that captures the essence of the holidays and brings together locals and visitors alike. It's moments like these that show Clapton isn't just about the everyday hustle; it's also a place where community and celebration are deeply valued.
KRAPOW
KraPow offers a remarkable tale of a humble street-food stand evolving into a renowned establishment, arguably serving some of the finest Thai cuisine in London. Known for tackling traditional Thai dishes beyond the ever-present green curry, they masterfully bring forth the potent tastes of Northern Thailand. Their flagship KraPow Moo, a sizzling stir-fry of chilli and basil seasoned minced pork, plated over rice, and crowned with a fried egg, is a savory introduction to their culinary repertoire.
Location: 62 Chatsworth Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 0LS
Contact: +44 20 3858 9858
Online Hub: krapowldn.com
KraPow's journey from an everyday roadside food vendor to a settled restaurant reflects the determination and hard work of the team behind it. This success story is a testament to the power of authenticity, perseverance, and quality.
The gastronomical experience at this haunt also demonstrates that Thai cuisine offers a rich and varied array of dishes beyond the commonly known. By choosing to highlight the intense and fiery flavors native to Northern Thailand, KraPow brings a refreshing change to the usual fare available in most Asian-themed restaurants.
UCHI
Nestled away on a peaceful residential avenue, one may not expect to stumble upon exceptional sushi. And yet, that is precisely what you acquire at Uchi. The restaurant exudes subtle allure, from its exquisite Japanese-inspired tableware to the tranquil ambiance. The condensed menu maintains its allure through simplicity, showcasing a warm platter with options like chicken karaage, vegetable tempura, and grilled skewers, which can be paired with their sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri. The establishment also offers a delivery service.
Location: 144 Clarence Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 8EA
Phone: +44 20 3302 4670
Webpage: uchihackney.com
JIM’S CAFÉ
Still sporting the vintage charm of the previous proprietors’ 60s design, Jim’s now operates as a blend of a diner and biker café. It's a reliable locale for a potent cocktail at any hour. Breakfast offerings are available till 4pm, where their sweet-potato hash coupled with black beans and feta, stand as a highly recommended meal. Post that, double-decker burgers and a portion of truffled mac 'n' cheese dominate the dining scene. Exit with some Black Skulls merchandise wouldn’t come as a surprise.
Location: 59 Chatsworth Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 0LH
Phone: +44 20 3026 4465
Webpage: jimscafe.co.uk
SODO PIZZA
Nestled in the oft-overlooked side of Clapton, Sodo Pizza has garnered a faithful and passionate fanbase due to its innovative pizza toppings, crispy sourdough bases, and rich organic wines. Their distinct pizzas, such as The Wicker Man, always impresses with its novel combination of Cobble Lane 'nduja, smooth mascarpone, and zesty Scotch-bonnet-chilli honey. Spot this cozy pizzeria bustling with a lively blend of school kids in the afternoon, morphing into a romantic hotspot for lovers as night falls. While home delivery isn't available yet, you will receive a sweet deal for picking up and reusing your pizza box - a cut of £1 off your bill! And, if you'd kindly ask, they might even let you repurpose an old tomato tin as your new plant pot.
Did you know SODO was named after the popular London slang, ‘South of the Docklands’ while its sister branch in Clapton got the name from ‘South of Dalston’? The founders, Dan, Duncan and Warren wanted to keep it locally connected and continue to source their wine and beer from London producers.
Address: 126 Upper Clapton Road, Clapton, London E5 9JY
Telephone: +44 20 8806 5626
Website: sodopizza.co.uk
MEET MY NEIGHBOURS, THE DUMPLINGS
There's a gem hidden in the heart of Clapton, a Chinese dumpling joint run by a family, that has quickly taken the local food scene by storm. They're famous for their lamb and coriander potstickers, a delicacy that on any given night will have the restaurant so full that the windows steam up. While they don't accept reservations, they feature a mystery sake bar in the basement and a partially open terrace to ensure you have a splendid night out. In addition to the in-store dining, they are also currently providing takeaway and delivery services.
Address: 165 Lower Clapton Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 8EQ
Phone: +44 20 3327 1556
Website: myneighboursthedumplings.com
This is an excellent place to start your exploration of the top 10 Chinese eateries in London
WELCOME TO DOM'S PLACE!
Credited with adding a unique flair to Turkish cuisine, Dom's Place, a family-owned restaurant since 1974, has recently surged in popularity. With a menu that creatively enhances Turkish culinary staples such as grilled halloumi and hummus, served with cool craft beers, they knew exactly how to cater to modern palates. Satisfy your taste buds by choosing between having your favorite grill wrapped gently in a fluffy flatbread or served as a platter with sweet-potato fries. Dom's Place also offers pick-up and delivery services to better serve its customers.
Address: 199 Lower Clapton Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 8EG
Phone: +44 20 8985 5454
Website: @domsplace
LUCKY & JOY
Lucky & Joy, a delightfully playful establishment, offers a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. Created by two former associates of Morito, this spot fuses edgy décor with bold, high-quality dishes. Their unique ordering system - marking your selections on a paper menu - combines the charm of nostalgia with modern efficiency, ensuring that dishes, such as the fiery smashed cucumbers, turnip cake (a personal endorsement), and illustriously served pineapple-fried rice, are brought to your table hot and swift. They also offer takeout and delivery options for convenience.
Address: 95 Lower Clapton Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 0NP
Telephone: +44 7488 965966
Website: luckyandjoy.co.uk
A SLICE OF BLUE
A Slice of Blue injects originality into the heart of Clapton with its unique concept: a 'pizza pub'. This creative endeavor is the result of Santa Maria (previously bestowed the esteemed honour of producing the best pizza in London) and the mastermind behind Firezza joining forces. Complementing the Italian delicacies is a selection of locally crafted beer from breweries of East London, with a vibrant display of live performances that includes vocalists, lyricists, poets, and disc jockeys. This blend of great food, drink, and entertainment truly sets it apart in a sea of ordinary pizza places.
Address: 43 Lower Clapton Road, London E5 0NS
Telephone: +44 20 8533 3301
Website: @asliceofblue
"Nobody Asked Me"
An emerging hotspot spanning two storeys, "Nobody Asked Me" is a specialist provider of imaginative cocktails crafted from unique spirits and glass-borne wines that frequently hail from distinct regions or nations. Thursdays are reserved for exquisite pairings of cheese and wine. On Sundays, they extend a warm welcome to guests aiming to experience spirit tasting. Their attentive service additionally includes offerings for takeout.
Address:88 Chatsworth Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 0LS
Telephone: Not applicable
Website:nobodyaskedme.co.uk
P Franco
Shelves adorned with numerous bottles, and a large communal table placed centrally, P Franco's wine shop tends to magnetize swathes of eager customers who often overflow into the pavement. Yet, don't be discouraged. Their service encompasses a to-go option for their selection of wines. The staff, armed with an extensive knowledge and a non-intimidating approach, will expertly guide you to the perfect bottle suitable for your desire and financial capacity. Despite their humble setup of just two induction heaters, P Franco manages to attract an ever-changing roster of chefs. These culinary maestros craft delightful seasonal small dishes and have remarkably etched P Franco's name as one of London's top dining establishments.
Address: 107 Lower Clapton Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 0NP
Telephone: +44 20 8533 4660
Website: pfranco.co.uk
The Tram Store is located in the historic tram depot of Clapton, London. This space, rejuvenated by the passionate owners, now embodies a rustic charm with reclaimed parquet floors, distressed brick walls, and a touch of greenery with various indoor plants. It is an ideal setting for enjoying a brunch, with their remarkable vegan menu - the pan-seared Portobello mushrooms on toast, blanketed in a rich tarragon and cashew sauce is a must-try.
Alongside their tempting food, the Tram Store offers a range of carefully curated items from eco-friendly floor cleaner to beautifully screen-printed greeting cards. They are currently also offering takeaway and delivery options.
Adding a piece of trivia, the building served as the electric tram depot at the start of the 20th century and symbolizes Clapton's transportation history.
Also, it's worth noting that the area is rich in a variety of other delightful eateries and antique stores that further contribute to its quaint charm.
Address: 38 Upper Clapton Road, Clapton, London E5 8BQ
TelephoneNumber:+44 20 8806 5099
Website: tram-store.co.uk
LELE'S
Lele's, with a comprehensive vegan offering and delectable delicacies for those with gluten intolerances, is a cafe that embraces everyone, including furry companions. Do remember to bring along your pet dog, as they cater specially to them as well. Their operational hours are from breakfast till lunch. Please note, they decided to favor sustainability over trend, eliminating avocado toast from their menu. Instead, their delightful array of cakes and pastries steal the spotlight, topping it off with a vegan afternoon-tea affair that occurs once every month.
Address: 50 Lower Clapton Road, London E5 0RN
Telephone: not available
Website: leleslondon.com
MILLFIELDS COFFEE
Making its presence known at the northern entrance to Chatsworth Road, at the tip of Millfields Park, is Millfields Coffee, a lively independent café. Enjoy your cuppa on the go—made with coffee beans from East London’s Dark Arts Coffee—or relish a leisurely brunch featuring artisan sourdough, courtesy of Charles Bakery, another gem in Clapton.
Address: 145 Chatsworth Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 0LA
Telephone: not available
Website: millfieldscoffee.co.uk
Sam Huddleston
LION COFFEE & RECORDS
Experience varies when you visit Lion, from the calm and quiet accompaniment of a cappuccino and new vinyl record purchase, leading up to a stimulating Espresso Martini-induced hangover from a spontaneous Courtney Love concert. The snug space has an unpredictable yet lively rock 'n' roll vibe that we wholly appreciate.
Address: 118 Lower Clapton Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 0QR
Telephone: +44 20 3769 0747
Website: lioncoffeerecords.com
46B ESPRESSO HUT
Situated at the opposite end of Chatsworth Road, towards Homerton, you'll find this pocket-sized coffee house. Here, freelancers are quite often seen bent over their computers, nursing their cortados. Its regular patrons rave about the delectable cheese toasties that are prepared with E5 Bakehouse sourdough and packed with yummy fillings, including chorizo and house-made chutneys.
Address: Brooksby's Walk, Homerton, London E9 6DF
Telephone: +44 7702 063172
Website: 46b-espressohut.tumblr.com
INTRODUCING THE MERMAID
For a comprehensive dining experience, The Mermaid stands out with its invincible service. It continually dazzles its patrons with a rotation of 20 different craft beers on tap, sampled with the assistance of perceptive staff who are always willing to let you taste first. Exceptional cuisine is a given, ranging from a variety of succulent burgers to Taco Tuesdays, and they even serve a stellar vegan roast dinner. The venue does not fall short on entertainment either, offering a myriad of board games for an exciting evening out, and a designated downstairs space for hosting private get-togethers. Please note, the establishment is temporarily closed and will be reopening on 19 August 2020.
Location: 181 Clarence Road, London E5 8EE
Contact: +4420 8533 9677
Web: themermaidclapton.com
THE CLAPTON'S GEM
The Clapton Hart is an intriguing locale with a rich history that takes you back to the 18th century. Once known for its vibrant nightlife, it has since transitioned into a quirky hangout filled with assorted furniture pieces, evening comedy shows, and unparalleled Sunday banquets. Further enhancing its appeal is the spacious outdoor patio, luring families and large circles of friends alike.
Location: 231 Lower Clapton Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 8EG
Contact No.:+44 20 8985 8124
Online Portal: claptonhart.com
THE CROOKED BILLET PUB
Retaining its authentic neighborhood charm, The Crooked Billet continues to resist total overhauls wrought by gentrification. During summer, its expansive beer garden is a coveted spot amongst locals, particularly when a major match is broadcast. For those not too keen on soccer, there are ping-pong tables available for your entertainment.
Location: 84 Upper Clapton Road, Clapton, London E5 9JP
Contact Number:+4420 3058 1166
Official Site: e5crookedbillet.co.uk
THE ROYAL LADY: PRINCESS OF WALES
Located strikingly alongside the canal, the Princess of Wales has the ability to make you feel like you're in a distant rural haven rather than on the bustling Lea Bridge Road. When the sun is high and pleasant, grabbing a deckchair and making a quick order at the burger stand is a must. Moreover, as the chilly wind stirs in, inviting fireplaces within the place offer a warm welcome.
Location:146 Lea Bridge Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 9RB
Contact: +44 20 8533 3463
Online presence: Find out more about The Royal Lady: Princess of Wales here
INTRODUCTION TO CHATSWORTH ROAD MARKET
Every Sunday, from 10am to 4pm, Chatsworth Road Market is bustling with energy and life. A kaleidoscope of cuisines from around the world can be found here, offered by an array of street-food vendors, each bringing their unique flavors on a revolving basis. While the selection of traders is smaller than its neighbor, the Broadway Market, this lends to its easy-going vibe and essence of true community spirit. Here, you can savor freshly-made falafel, purchase a potted plant for your home, or discover fashionable clothing and accessories created by local talents. Unfortunately, the market is not in operation at the moment, but you can track updates on their website.
Location: 46-51, Chatsworth Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 0LH
Phone Service: not available
Website: hackney.gov.uk/chatsworth-road-market
THE ROUND CHAPEL
At the enchanting, Grade II-listed Round Chapel, a real gem of Clapton, London, one can indulge in a myriad of diverse activities. Apart from the thrill of finding vintage treasures priced by their weight, the chapel also hosts soul-soothing sessions of gong sound therapy. For music enthusiasts, this cultural hub regularly features performances by local artists. A range of pocket-friendly events also fit the bill, so ensure you keep a tab on their upcoming roster.
Location: 1D Glenarm Road, London E5 0LY
Contact Number: +44 20 8986 0029
Official Site: roundchapel.orgDid you know? The Round Chapel, a symbol of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture, is a must-visit destination for lovers of history, architecture and culture. Moreover, it is also the home ground for Hackney Colliery Band, launching its alternative music voyage from here.
CASTLE CINEMA
Having been restored to its former glory following a triumphant Kickstarter campaign, Castle Cinema offers its patrons a luxurious experience. Its decor features charming curved ceilings, opulent, comfortable armchairs, and a bar that channels the glamour of the 1920s - truly a destination in its own right. It's not just about the vintage aesthetic, though. This cinema also offers the latest film releases, live broadcasts, and even unique screenings tailored for patents and babies. Even better - on Mondays, cinema tickets can be snagged at the steal of £5. Please be advised that the cinema is temporarily closed at this present time.
**Location:** Castle Cinema, First Floor, 64—66 Brooksby's Walk, Homerton, London E9 6DA
Contact: N/A
Online Portal: thecastlecinema.com
Experience Tranquility at Supply Yoga
Step into the serene and welcoming space at Supply Yoga, where tranquility is the order of the day. This unique yoga studio operates as a social enterprise, providing free classes to those in need by using the funds generated from paid sessions. The inclusive nature of the studio ensures that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, feels welcome and accepted.
Even during these challenging times, Supply Yoga has adapted to bring solace straight to your home. They now offer daily live-streamed yoga classes, allowing you to practice from the safety and comfort of your own living room. Simply make a £5 donation to support their mission.
Address: 20 Median Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 0PL
Telephone: +44 20 3857 4810
Website: supply.yoga
TRIANGLE
Located on the lively Chatsworth Road, Triangle is a beloved local hub offering a selection of unisex fashion labels and refined homeware. The store prides itself on presenting merchandise tailored to the taste of the community, featuring items like the breezy cotton dresses from LF Markey, stylish clothing by Universal Works and elegant decorative pieces by Ferm Living. Discover handmade jewellery crafted by local artisans and the all-natural skincare range from the Grown Alchemist, making it an ideal destination for thoughtful gift shopping. The brand assortment is ever-evolving, ensuring a fresh shopping experience every visit.
Address: 81 Chatsworth Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 0LH
No Contact Number
Website: trianglestore.co.uk
DARLING & GOLD
Nestled within the walls of a previous pie-and-mash restaurant, Darling & Gold presents an exclusive mix of male and female attire, novel add-ons, and intriguing household items. It's a coveted destination spot for aficionados of Scandinavian style, home to labels like Just Female and Vagabond. The store also offers an array of home décor essentials such as throw pillows, wall adornments, and even an unexpected cactus-shaped vase to spruce up any space.
Location: 20 Chatsworth Road, London E5 0LP
No Contact Number
Web Link: darlingandgold.com
Interesting fact: Did you know the building that now houses Darling & Gold was once a traditional pie and mash shop, a common type of London eatery dating back to the 19th century? Now, instead of offering hearty food fare, it's a haven for unique fashion and home wares with an undeniable Scandinavian influence.
AWAY FROM THE MAINSTREAM
While it's easy to frequently rely on big online retailers, it's vital to recall and celebrate the independent businesses on our local streets. One such place is Pages of Hackney, an inviting bookshop that brims over with an array of novels varying in genres. In addition to this enticing collection, you can find books focusing on politics, environmental concerns, art and gastronomy, providing a well-rounded comprehension on different subjects. An added advantage is an engaging collection of children's books that inspire young minds. Plus, there's a dedicated corner where you can find treasured second-hand books. Amidst the current Covid-19 scenario, it's heartening to know they are still operational and delivering books.
Location: 70 Lower Clapton Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 0RN
Contact no: +44 20 8525 1452
Website: pagesofhackney.co.uk
JANE HAMILTON
Renowned for her exquisite artistic approach, Jane Hamilton, a skilled designer, has made a name for herself in the fashion industry. Known for her magnificent modern leather bags and upscale women's attire, her workspace serves as more than just a studio - it is a stage to display beloved local creators and her favourite smaller brands. Jane Hamilton is a fervent supporter of UK-based production and uses fine Italian leather to meticulously construct every piece. Her commitment to the craft shines through the love-infused products she creates.
Location: 112 Lower Clapton Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 0QR
Contact number:+44 20 8985 7500
Online presence:katesheridan.com
KUU LONDON
When you step into the tranquility of KUU London, you'll be greeted with a refreshing herbal tea. The place operates with the belief that holistic wellness can be achieved through a fine blend of services like osteopathy, meditation, massage, and yoga. It's a haven for new mothers and pregnant women as well, providing a range of tailored services. Additionally, the venue is known for conducting unique workshops, encompassing topics as diverse as sound bath sessions or insightful discussions relating to nutritional aspects.
Few might be aware, the name 'KUU' translates to 'void' or 'emptiness' in Japanese, embodying the notion of a serene, clutter-free mind. This idea is reflected in the calming ambiance of the space. Apart from these, KUU LONDON also adopts a unique practice of "yin-based" yoga, focused on passive, longer-held poses aimed at rejuvenating the connective tissues in the body.
Location: 76 Lower Clapton Road, Lower Clapton, London E5 0RN
Contact Number: +44 20 3302 8288
Online Presence:kuulondon.com