The best new restaurants in East London

Hoax in Dalston brings a fresh, modern take on Italian dining, helmed by long-time figures on London's hospitality scene. The kitchen turns out plates like  chicken with black truffle and pan brioche, a house cacio e pepe, and beef cheek slow-cooked in red wine, with a theatrical tiramisu finished at the table. Downstairs, a discreet basement bar offers a more intimate setting for cocktails after dinner.

Meet Bros is a grand steakhouse featuring a contemporary, nature-inspired setting with a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. The group's second London branch, located in Shoreditch, serves top-quality cuts of steak complemented by Asian-influenced appetisers and mains. The fully halal menu is paired with a broad selection of alcohol-free drinks, while the striking venue is also available for exclusive private events.

Combining Neapolitan roots with the spirit of classic New York slice joints, Vincenzo's first outpost in Bushey quickly earned cult status, luring pizza lovers willing to travel for what's often hailed as the finest New York-style pizza in the UK. Now the pizzeria has landed in Shoreditch with a two-level space decked out in retro green-and-white marble floors, old-school oil paintings, and vintage photographs.

By night, The Good Egg at Eat 17 in Walthamstow Village becomes Proud Mary Pizzeria, complete with psychedelic colours and a lively soundtrack. The menu features generously topped pizzas such as the Rebel Queen with hot honey, mozzarella, parmesan, and caponata, plus sides and bites like za'atar fried chicken. A vinyl player adds to the atmosphere, letting diners spin psych-rock favourites while they eat.

Velvet Taco, the US chain, is launching its first UK outpost in Broadgate Circle, showcasing its playful, globally inspired twists on the Mexican taco. Expect unconventional fillings such as fish 'n' chips or shepherd's pie, alongside more traditional favourites. The lively space, lit with neon, also features a bar serving palomas, margaritas, and other fitting cocktails.

From the team behind London's Electric Star pubs, Firestarter takes things up a notch with its flame-fuelled approach to dining. This fiery restaurant celebrates live-fire cooking, serving up smoky burgers, crab doughnuts, Galician ribs, and other sizzling dishes, while signature cocktails, shots, and other refreshing drinks help douse the flames.

The London Fields offshoot of South London's Mr Bao is a compact spot devoted entirely to wontons. Guests can mix and match their fillings – from juicy prawn to traditional pork – and pair them with either rich broth or lo mein noodles. Taking cues from Hong Kong's lively noodle bars, this snug walk-in eatery delivers an authentic and energetic slice of Cantonese dining.

Led by Ivan Tisdall-Downes, previously of Native, Field Notes reiterates his commitment to sustainable cooking. Drawing on his international experience, the restaurant presents an ever-changing menu inspired by global influences but grounded in seasonal British produce. To match, the “living drinks” list spans wild sodas, botanical cocktails, and natural wines.

Arriving in London from France, Il Bambini Club delivers a theatrical spin on the classic Italian trattoria, swapping rustic charm for full-blown Versailles glamour. Think plush fabrics, glittering chandeliers, and ornate flourishes in every corner, with the same all-out indulgence extending to the menu – handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, desserts piled high, and fine Italian wines. There's live music to set the mood, and the cocktail bar keeps the party going well into the night.

Once known as Pachamama East, this spot has been reborn as Lagana, still under the same ownership but now channelling a Mediterranean vibe. The focus is on inventive, Greek-inspired dishes, with the namesake lagana stealing the show – puffy, oven-fresh flatbreads paired with an array of tempting dips. True to its predecessor's reputation, the cocktail list remains a standout feature.

Set high above the city on the 25th floor of Hoxton's Art'otel, Solaya is a French-Mediterranean dining spot helmed by Michelin-starred chef Kenny Atkinson. Boasting a striking setting, the space offers an elegant main restaurant alongside secluded balcony areas for private dining. Guests can also unwind with signature cocktails and a curated wine list in the plush lounge bar.

Jiāonest began as a series of intimate supper clubs, born from a craving for the warmth and comfort of home cooking. Now a cosy Chinese restaurant, it delivers the bold, fiery flavours of Chongqing, serving favourites like mapo tofu, gōng bǎo chicken, and deep-fried duck duck rice toast. A thoughtful wine list provides welcome relief from the spice, while the space itself features custom-made furniture and handcrafted ceramics, crafted in collaboration with young London artists.

Legado marks the second London establishment from Michelin-starred chef Nieves Barragán Mohacho of Sabor fame. The Shoreditch restaurant likewise celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Spain, drawing inspiration from lively tapas bars, whole-animal asadors, fresh coastal seafood, and more, all rooted in authentic Iberian flavours.

After quickly earning praise and a loyal following during its residency at The Pembury Tavern, Ace Pizza took things up a notch by opening its first standalone location near Victoria Park. Here, they dish up their unique interpretation of pizza, combining the charred crust of Neapolitan bases with the sturdy, foldable form of a classic New York slice for a unique London style. Their signature pizza sandwiches are available here as well.

Campanelle is an all-day Italian restaurant set within the historic walls of the old London Shipping Exchange. Spanning two floors, the venue features a terrace, an open kitchen, a private dining area, and a dedicated wine room. Designed as a tribute to Italy's rich culinary tradition, the menu showcases everything from light bites and antipasti to hearty pasta and sharing plates like 45-day dry-aged ribeye topped with seasonal truffle.

Noisy Oyster in Shoreditch is a bistro and martini bar with a focus on seafood. The menu showcases fresh fish and seafood specialities alongside creative seasonal vegetarian options. The venue's sleek yet understated design blends timeless elegance with contemporary flair. Guests can enjoy their meals paired with perfectly crafted miniature martinis.

Much like the rest of the Big Mamma family, Barbarella is a full-blown love letter to Italy with a flair for OTT indulgence. Set in Canary Wharf, the restaurant draws inspiration from the glitz of 1970s Roman cinema, decked out with touches like Ferragamo silks and a gleaming chrome lounge. The menu delivers fresh protagonists to Big Mamma's repertoire, like a metre-long spaghettone or crisp Roman-style pizzas. There's a waterfront terrace with its own dedicated gelato menu, too.

The family-run Singburi built a reputation as one of London's finest Thai restaurants, with its small original spot always bustling and famously tricky to book, given its lack of a website and unpredictable phone responses. Now under the stewardship of a new generation, this much-loved Leytonstone gem has relocated to a larger space in Shoreditch. Despite the move, it remains true to its roots, continuing to serve expertly crafted, authentic Thai cuisine.

Originally hailing from Paris, Dumbo debuted its first UK location in Shoreditch. Celebrated for its minimalist style and pioneering smashburgers, the brand now serves up its famously crisp-edged patties, golden fries, and house-made chicken nuggets in East London. Everything on the menu is crafted using top-tier, ethically sourced ingredients from trusted local producers.

Gina in Chingford is a heartfelt venture from renowned chef and author Ravneet Gill and her husband Mattie Taiano, named in honour of his mother. The restaurant blends the charm of a family-run spot with the bold spirit of a traditional chophouse.

Lina Stores started as an Italian deli but has grown to a number of restaurants specialising in fresh handmade pasta. Their stracciatella ravioli, pappardelle, tagliolini, and other authentic pastas come slathered in sauces, parmesan, and truffles. For dessert, polish off a panna cotta or another classic Italian treat. 

A favourite spot for brunch lovers, Brother Marcus restaurants across the city serve up fresh Eastern Mediterranean dishes in a laid-back setting. Savour delicious mezze and brunch staples like harissa eggs or shakshuka while unwinding on the terrace or in the cosy indoor space. This location is the biggest Brother Marcus venue yet.

Angelina in Hackney gained recognition for its innovative tasting menus that blend Italian and Japanese influences, and this spot is its laid-back counterpart. Here, the focus shifts to a relaxed dining experience centred on fresh pasta dishes and grilled specialities, all infused with wafu fusion elements. The chic space includes a roomy interior with an open kitchen and an inviting outdoor seating area.

Duchy marks the return of the team behind the much-loved Shoreditch bistro Leroy, which closed in 2024, retaining familiar touches like the wall of 200 records. The menu takes inspiration from the historic Duchy of Savoy, spanning French and Italian influences. Highlights include brown crab arancini, côte de boeuf, and Dover sole with sauce Grenobloise, paired with Savoy-region wines and cocktails.

Renowned chef Daisuke Shimoyama's restaurant Kokin is a sleek, design-focused destination with impressive views over East London from its two outdoor terraces. Equipped with a traditional Japanese charcoal grill, the expansive dining space offers refined dishes like sushi and Wagyu beef. One of its standout experiences is the live bluefin tuna breakdown evenings, where guests can watch an entire fish expertly prepared before their eyes.

Ara is an all-day dining spot from Turkish chef Murat Kilic, blending global influences to create a diverse and flavourful menu, complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine list. Located in Aldgate East, the restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating while embracing sustainability by repurposing industrial waste, such as steel offcuts for lighting and pineapple farm by-products for leather upholstery.

Housed in a Grade II-listed building above The Knave of Clubs, One Club Row is a stylish restaurant and bar drawing inspiration from New York City's sophisticated charm. This cosy venue features a walk-in bar and encourages leisurely lunches accompanied by martinis. The menu offers indulgent yet satisfying dishes, including the likes of bone-in ribeye with chipotle hollandaise and fresh tuna crudo. A live pianist enhances the ambience.

Hailing from Peckham, 081 Pizzeria offers a fresh and modern take on traditional Neapolitan pizza. The vibe is trendy and youthful, blending a respect for tradition with a creative twist. Their menu features a wide range of toppings, complemented by an array of Neapolitan-style small plates perfect for sharing. Calzones and deep-fried stuffed pizza buns are a menu highlight.

Tatar Bunar, a Shoreditch eatery specialising in Southern Ukrainian fare, is run by a duo of Ukrainians. The cosy venue is adorned with artwork and decor crafted by Carpathian artisans, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with a courtyard for alfresco dining. Rooted in tradition, the kitchen offers classic Ukrainian dishes such as borscht and chicken Kyiv, all inspired by cherished family recipes.

Bône in Shoreditch embraces understated elegance, offering an intimate 20-seat dining experience with a simple three-course set menu crafted from top-quality ingredients, including playful perks like unlimited chips. Open exclusively for weekend dinners, this intimate restaurant has quickly become a sought-after spot on London's dining scene thanks to its minimalist approach, focus on flavour, and relaxed ambiance.

Widely regarded as some of the finest in the world, Din Tai Fung's legendary xiaolongbao dumplings are also coming to Canary Wharf. These meticulously crafted parcels, featuring a delicate, paper-thin wrapper folded precisely 18 times, are filled with an array of meats and vegetables and served steaming fresh. Din Tai Fung Canary Wharf offers not only a spacious dining area and a room for private group meals but also an immersive show kitchen where guests can witness the artistry behind their meal.

Templar is a modern restaurant and wine bar in Stratford Cross, featuring an interior that draws inspiration from Italian modernism. The menu showcases European cuisine with a strong Italian influence, offering inventive small plates that highlight seasonal produce and bold flavours. To accompany the dishes, there is a regularly changing selection of low-intervention wines and innovative capsule cocktails.

Deeply rooted in Italian indulgence, Senza Fondo stays true to its name, which translates to “bottomless” in Italian. The Shoreditch eatery specialises in unlimited servings of lasagna, available in both meat and vegetarian options. The menu also features a selection of classic Italian comfort food, including pasta and pizzette. With a dedicated Negroni bar tucked away at the back, it's a lively, sociable spot.

Bar Valette in Shoreditch is a laid-back dining spot launched by Michelin-starred chef Isaac McHale, renowned for The Clove Club. Offering a more informal experience than its prestigious sibling, the restaurant showcases European dishes inspired by Spanish and French culinary traditions. With a focus on relaxed dining, Bar Valette balances comfort with sophistication.

Soul Mama is the creation of acclaimed jazz musician and broadcaster YolanDa Brown, blending food and music under one lively roof. The restaurant's menu brings together comforting, homestyle dishes inspired by the flavours of Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. Just as the kitchen celebrates global soul, the stage does too, with a daily line-up of live performances spanning jazz, reggae, gospel, and beyond.

Once a much-loved pop-up, Tiella quickly earned a following for chef Dara Klein's inventive take on Italian cuisine, infused with subtle New Zealand inflections. Now settled into its first permanent home in a converted pub, the restaurant blends the charm of a contemporary trattoria with the warmth of a neighbourhood bar. Guests can expect generous plates of Klein's celebrated antipasti, pastas, and other Italian favourites.

The 72-cover steakhouse at the Four Seasons beside Tower Bridge centres its menu around flame-driven dishes and top-tier cuts, pairing modern culinary ideas with old-world character. Its name, Cooper's Cut, nods to Sir Edwin Cooper, the architect responsible for the landmark building the hotel now occupies.

Bancone has earned plenty of praise for its handmade pastas. Every strand and shape is rolled or folded on-site, then served in a sleek, contemporary setting. Expect plates such as cacio e pepe, courgette-filled ravioli, or slices of aromatic smoked duck, alongside house cocktails and a thoughtfully assembled wine list featuring the occasional hard-to-find bottle.