Chef Abby Lee's modern Malaysian restaurant Mambow first stormed the London restaurant scene in 2020 when having started as a market stall it first opened in Peckham to rave reviews. Now she's moved the operation east to Lower Clapton where her fantastic flavours have been given full rein in a much larger and permanent space. Living in Hackney Central she agreed to share her favourite local food and drink recommendations with us.
Dough Hands at the Spurstowe Arms
68 Greenwood Rd, London E8 1AB
Reminds me of New York-style pizza with its thin crispy base, each pizza is filled as much as possible with the toppings done right. So good. With a great pub to match.
Yuki Bar
426 Reading Ln, London E8 1DS
It's amazing how someone could make an archway cosy with a beautiful wooden setting. Exciting wine list and some homey Japanese snacks to pair. Love the grilled onigiri in dashi and Egg & sesame mayo.
Papo’s Bagels
73-75 Shacklewell Ln, London E8 2EB
My favourite bagel in London. New York-style bagels with a proper chew to them. The cold cuts one would be my pick for sure.
Binch
51 Greenwood Rd, London E8 1NT
A tiny wine bar/shop with a great list of French wines and selected English beer too. I love intimate spots where maybe only 20 people could fit in, feels like you’re hiding away from the world.
Casa Fofo
158 Sandringham Rd, London E8 2HS
An unassuming one Michelin star restaurant just round the corner from my flat. It’s such good value for money, focusing on Italian and Japanese influences, with also an understanding on how to combine those flavours elegantly. Doesn’t feel fussy inside.
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