BBQ obsessive Man Hon Luk of Hon's BBQ dates his fascination with all things 'cue after a trip to a poker tournament in Texas led to a chance meeting with pitmaster John Bates. Back in London Hon started a range of popular pop-ups, followed by a long term residency in Hackney Wick which introducers Londoners to his idiosyncratic approach, marrying Texan BBQ with Asian flavours. He's in the last stages of a crowdfunder in the run-up to opening his first permanent restaurant on the site of the old Silo restaurant in Hackney Wick. A long-time resident of the area, he's agreed to share his favourite places to eat and drink close by.
Inis
13 Rookwood Way, Fish Island, London E3 2XT
This is the first place I would tell guests to check out if they couldn’t get a seat with us. Or if I just want a nice meal out in the area. It's modern Irish/European food served in a gorgeous dining room.
Luk Bros
East Wing Oslo House, 7 Prince Edward Rd, London E9 5LX
Two brothers who are probably from the same bloodline as me hundreds of years ago have cornered the lunch market in the area with their Chinese lunch boxes. Their food is fast and delicious.
Hearth
Unit 30, 86B Wallis Rd, London E9 5LN
Tucked away in the quietest part of Main Yard is probably the most socially conscious bakery in East London. Their sweet treats have kept me going during long meat-smoking sessions many times.
Kūbō Garden
13 Copper St, London E20 3AW
A new cafe in the area targeting Asians! I like their fruit iced tea options, and they do a very decent Banh Mi. Even more useful for some is that they are laptop-friendly too.
Essential Vegan
Unit 1, @All My Friends, 96 White Post Ln, London E9 5EN
It’s ironic. Perhaps borderline ridiculous, that my most-visited establishment in Hackney Wick over the last two years has been a vegan café! I still go in after leaving All My Friends for a smoothie and BLT.
See also
For more of these local area guides, visit the My Manor page.
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