As winter fades into early spring, East London’s food scene undergoes a refreshing transformation.
March invites chefs and artisanal bakers to trade heavy comfort stews for bright, hyper-seasonal plates showcasing prized spring ingredients like wild garlic, forced rhubarb, and early-season herbs.
From the scenic railway arches of Hackney and London Fields to the buzzing streets of Shoreditch, East London offers an exceptional trail of independent bakeries, vinyl-led wine bars, and cozy neighbourhood bistros ideal for springtime dining.
Pophams Bakery
197 Richmond Rd, E8 3NJ
Pophams is a bright, Scandinavian-style artisanal cafe-bakery, famed for its sourdough, flavoured pastries & coffee. At its London Fields abode, Popham’s outside seating makes it perfect for a morning catch up over their famous maple-bacon croissant, or a choice from their almost infinite range of fresh bakes.
They’re constantly creating interesting bakes, recently collaborating with Jenki on a limited-edition signature laminated dough which was filled with JENKI’s ceremonial grade matcha, white chocolate namelaka, and anko jam.
For march, they’re serving hot cross buns - and we can’t wait to get our hands on one!
E5 Bakehouse
Arch 395-397 Mentmore Terrace, E8 3PH
Just down the road from Pophams, tucked under the railway arches in Hackney, E5 is worth the journey out of central London.
Driven by a sustainable approach, this bakery uses traditional techniques and locally-sourced organic flour to make its London-famous sourdough. Their 72-hour fermented sourdough bread takes center stage on the menu and is incorporated into each dish, whether that's their classic Sourdough Sandwich with Cheddar cheese and house made pickles and fresh crisp lettuce, or halloumi bun with harissa scrambled eggs.
The spot for comforting, seasonal choices.
Moving south from London Fields toward Columbia Road and Shoreditch, East London’s evening dining options cater to every mood, from lively music-focused venues to romantic, rustic dining rooms.
Bambi
Netil House, 1 Westgate St, E8 3RL
Continuing your journey southwards, this popular Hackney haunt serves food created by Chef Jamie Thorneycroft, formerly of Lagom, focusing on a vegetable-forward menu that takes inspiration from Mediterranean, Mexican, Peruvian, and Thai cuisine.
With a menu ideal for sharing, Thorneycroft’s additions include Whipped ricotta with hot honey, Trout tostadas with a miso dressing and Picanha with cowboy butter. Bambi has recently reopened following its renovation, doubling in size. The bar and terrace are available for walk-ins throughout the week.
Not only a restaurant, stay for a while after your evening meal and enjoy the atmosphere as the venue turns into a lively party.
Menu highlights at Bambi include their whipped ricotta drizzled with hot honey, fresh trout tostadas with savoury miso and their tender Picanha steak finished with rich cowboy butter.
The Marksman
254 Hackney Rd, E2 7SB
The Marksman isn't just a pub; it’s a neighbourhood institution that has perfected the art of the modern British Sunday. After you’ve fought the crowds at the flower market, retreat here for what is arguably the best roast in the city.
If you’re after more refined dining, head upstairs for a rotating menu which is offering a great selection for march, we’re loving the sound of their battered bacalao served with slow-cooked onions and dill emulsion.
The wood-paneled dining room is warm and inviting, providing the perfect backdrop for their legendary beef and barley buns. It’s refined comfort food at its absolute peak, making it a mandatory stop for any March food tour.
Campania & Jones
23 Ezra St, E2 7RH
Campania & Jones is tucked down a cobbled side street, behind Columbia Road. The restaurant has an atmospheric setting, like you’ve just stumbled across a gem in an old European town. The interiors are all stripped-back brick, weathered wood, and flickering candlelight.
The menu is a love letter to Southern Italian comfort; expect hand-rolled pasta like stracci with slow-cooked ragu. It is the ultimate spot for a long, wine-fueled lunch.
If you’re after some “nonna-approved” lasagna, make sure to book a table for Sunday, when their specialised lasagna dish is available between 12 and 5pm. Campania & Jones offers affordable, high-quality, and generous portions, a perfect way to head into the new week with a full belly, and a smile on your face.
Whether you are grabbing a morning cardamom knot at Pophams, enjoying a slow Sunday lunch at Campania & Jones, or sharing seasonal small plates at Bambi, East London continues to lead the capital in culinary creativity. As tables fill up quickly during the sunnier March days, booking ahead ensures you won't miss out on the best flavors of the season.
Image Credits: Pophams, E5 Bakehouse, Bambi, Marksman Public House, GIULIA VERDINELLI
