BISTROTHEQUE
Brunch options in London seem to be infinite, so one has to choose wisely. I have already shared this place and now it’s time for another favourite, Bistrotheque. This East London gem has been around for a while. Hidden down a back street in Bethnal Green, it’s unassuming – so much so that on my first visit I walked straight past the old warehouse where it’s located. But once you pass the small courtyard and make your way up the stairs, the magic unfolds.
The converted warehouse is massive, really bright and airy. It’s a great mix between industrial and fancy: white-washed walls, vaulted ceilings, hanging lights, white table cloths and a rectangular long bar which always seems to be buzzing. Reservations are a must, especially for the weekend brunch. Where there’s an open kitchen, I love to seat nearby and watch all the action but my favourite spot in Bistrotheque is close to the piano. Yep, weekend brunch comes with a side of live music here. The eccentric pianist brings the room alive with his cover songs which include hits from Rihanna and Coldplay – I can watch him play for hours!
On the day I took the pictures below, my partner in crime and I decided to share a few smaller dishes to sample as much as we could. It all honestly sounded so good! We went for the crab meat with tomato sauce, bread crumbs and sweet basil, the steak tartare and the eegs royale – all washed down with peach bellinis and a cup of coffee. All dishes looked appetising and we were really happy with the quantity and price ratio which is not always fair in London. But the highlight of the meal were our desserts: French toast with berries and Chantilly cream and millefeuille with pistachio cream and fresh raspberries. They were both light, not overly sweet and decadent – the perfect sweet treats to end a truly great brunch.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun place to hang out for brunch in the East End with friends, Bistrotheque is a great option. I works for both small and bigger groups, has friendly service and really good food. Whatever you do, make sure to order the French toast and enjoy!
| INFO |
| Address: 23-27 Wadeson St, London E2 9DR, UK |
| Telephone: +44 20 89837900 |
| Website |
