OK, so this one may be in quite a few of the guidebooks but it’s such an essential part of a visit to East London, it’s almost rude not to mention it. This part of London used to be home to many Jewish immigrants in the early 20th century, but as they became more affluent many moved up to leafier north London. This in turn allowed for an influx of immigrants from the Asian sub-continent in the latter half of the 20th century which is why Brick Lane is home to so many curry houses today.
Beigel Bake (with the white storefront) and the Beigel Shop (with the Yellow front) are two Jewish businesses that remain here to this day, offering pretty much the same product – although Beigel Bake it is widely considered the better of the two, and will often have a queue. Open 24/7, this place pumps out beautifully chewy Beigels and other baked goods with such a fast turnaround, freshness is guaranteed. I’ll often drop in before or after a night out and witness such a brilliant cross-section of society – cabbies, students, tourists, clubbers and workers patiently waiting in line.
More often than not I’ll opt for their world-class salt beef beigel, generously filled with warm hunks of succulent meat and smeared with hot English mustard. When I’m not in the mood for meat, I’ll go for the equally satisfying smoked salmon and cream cheese. I’ll usually take half a dozen bagels to take home too.
Find your way with 222 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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Of all the reasons why you have to check out this idyllic boozer, perhaps the most important is that this is the home of the finest scotch egg in London.
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Birds sing while trains rumble along atop the parallel railway arches, old men play boule in the shade and planes skim overhead on approach to Heathrow.
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From the run-down chic aesthetic to the strong beer selection and excellent pub garden, there are no chinks in the Dog House's armour...
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Inside, the bar is a welcoming, tightly-packed vibe with old-fashioned, old-world decor with gorgeous bare wood surfaces & countless pictures on the walls.
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The unassuming, retro signage outside amidst the noise & din of Waterloo might pull you in, but what makes you stay is the genuine town tavern feel inside.
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With a rustic French feel, Pierre offers dishes with rich red-wine sauces and tasty meats from much of the spectrum of the French culinary roster.
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With old-fashioned vintage Guinness branding adoring just about every surface, this is the ideal spot to take a moment and enjoy a perfectly-poured pint.
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Built back in 2010 on the site of a disused railway line, it’s a local secret: a quiet, forest-like space to retreat to when city life becomes overwhelming.
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Inside, the rooms have distinctly different decorative styles. This is to give an idea of how the house would have looked at each stage in its history.
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222 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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