Guide to Hackney Dining

Your Guide to Eating Out in Hackney

This vibrant pocket of East London is home to a thriving food and arts scene—and we’ve handpicked our favourite local spots to help you feel right at home. Whether you’re in the mood for a Michelin-starred experience, elegant small plates, or a relaxed bite before or after the concert, Hackney has something to surprise and delight.

Refined Dining

Behind

An intimate Michelin-starred dining experience from chef Andy Beynon, focused on a spectacular fish-based tasting menu. Just 18 seats. One kitchen. A truly special treat.

14-min walk/6-min drive to Hackney Empire

Casa Fofó

This low-key Hackney gem serves a seasonal tasting menu that’s precise, creative and full of heart. Michelin-star quality with neighbourhood warmth.

14-min walk/6-min drive to Hackney Empire

Sesta

Modern British ingredients meet Southeast Asian flavours in this stylish but unpretentious favourite. Flavour-forward, fun, and a future classic.

8-minute walk to Hackney Empire

Relaxed & Sharing Plates

Lardo

Seasonal Italian dishes, crisp sourdough pizzas, and a well-chosen wine list served in a bright, glass-wrapped space. Stylish but unfussy, Lardo is a reliable favourite for laid-back dining with real East London character.

5-minute walk to Hackney Empire

Elliot’s Hackney

Wood-fired, produce-led dishes and natural wine, served up in an easy-going setting. Great for a casual catch-up or a leisurely late-night supper.

13-min walk/5-min drive to Hackney Empire

Dough Hands at the Spurstowe Arms

Deliciously crispy, ‘London-style’ pizza served in one of London’s friendliest pubs. Walk-in only, perfect for anyone looking to soak up some Hackney vibes before the concert.

9-min walk to Hackney Empire

Papi

An eccentric spot known for its upbeat atmosphere and characterful seasonal menu. An invigorating start to your evening out in Hackney, highly recommended by locals.

11-min walk to Hackney Empire

Quick Eats

LAGOM at Hackney Church Brewing Co.

Expect bold, flame-cooked, Swedish-inspired dishes in this brewery taproom setting. As Jay Rayner said: ‘Bold live-fire cooking that throbs uncompromisingly with flavour.’

6-min walk to Hackney Empire

Mare Street Market

Communal tables, buzzing energy, great pizza, deli bites, and cocktails. No fuss, just fuel before the music.

4-min walk to Hackney Empire

Peck Peck

Fried chicken like you’ve never had it before! Pop over for fresh perspectives on a delicious classic alongside draught beer and cocktails, before or after the concert.

2-min walk to Hackney Empire