Leytonstone

Birthplace of film legend Alfred Hitchcock, this lovely area of East London has a fantastic selection of green spaces, independent businesses, cafes, and restaurants to explore.

A great variety of exceptional restaurants can be found at the High Road, including Singburi, a family-run Thai restaurant that was named Time Out London’s Restaurant of 2021. You’ll also find Guardian-reviewed, ‘astonishingly good’ Homies on Donkeys for authentic Mexican tacos.

The area is well-connected by public transport, making it an excellent option for commuters. Via the Central Line, there is easy access to Central, West London, Stratford, Westfield shopping centre, and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

You can escape the hustle and bustle of city life by visiting green spaces such as Wanstead Flats and Hollow Ponds, providing a peaceful retreat.

Forno

47 Church Ln, Bushwood, London E11 1HE

From the team behind Ombra, Forno is a popular Italian bakery, pastificio, and deli that offers a delicious range of Italian baked goods like maritozzi and focaccia, alongside cheeses, meats, fresh pasta, and wines.

Loop

216b Francis Rd, London E10 6PR

An intimate restaurant famed for its rotating chef residencies, offering a constantly evolving menu in a cosy, modern setting

Filly Brook

392 Grove Green Rd, London E11 4AP

Named after Leytonstone’s hidden river and located in Drill Hall, Filly Brook is a brilliant space to hang out in, whether for a drink, great food, or fantastic live music.

Homies on Donkeys

686 High Rd Leytonstone, Bushwood, London E11 3AA

A local taqueria, it has graffiti on the walls, hip hop beats coming through the speakers, food full of colour and flavour, and Chef Smokey somewhere in the background trying to crack a joke, Seriously, what’s not to like???

Unity Cafe

8 Richmond Rd, London E11 4BA

The almond croissants from this cafe on Richmond Road must be tasted to be believed. But be warned – one is never enough! Pair them with a delicious coffee, or sit in and sample the rest of the menu – it’s great too!

The Olive

25-27 Kirkdale Rd, Bushwood, London E11 1HP

This is a fantastic restaurant if you love the authentic charcoal grilled flavours of the Med. Great for both lunch and dinner, it’s also opposite Leytonstone station – very handy!

Yard Sale Pizza

622 High Road Leytonstone, London E11 3DA

Eat in, takeaway or delivery – the choice is yours. What isn’t up for discussion though is the awesomeness of the pizzas. Try the Herb Your Enthusiasm -it’s a vegetarian delight!

Hollow Pond

Whipps Cross Road, Leytonstone, London E11 1NP

If you fancy going all Wind in the Willows and “messing about in a boat”, then this is the place for you. Hire a row boat in the summer and take a trip across the water, maybe with an ice cream in hand!

The Birds

692 High Rd Leytonstone, London E11 3AA

Another hang out with a name inspired by local lad Alfred Hitchcock, this pub is the perfect place to stop off for a crafty beer and a natter on the way home. Check out the quiz and comedy nights too – they are always a riot!

The Rookwood Village

314 Cann Hall Rd, London E11 3NW

Set on Cann Hall Road, this pub offers something for everyone – a wide range of drinks, great pub grub, and large screen TVs for when the big match is on. There’s also a pub garden for when the nights are long and warm.

The Leytonstone Tavern

119 Harrow Rd, London E11 3PX

An independent local pub and dining room, with a menu focused on sustainably sourced produce, this is a favourite of those living in both Forest Gate and Leytonstone. Check out the Sunday roasts – they’re really, really good!

The Red Lion

640 High Rd Leytonstone, Bushwood, London E11 3AA

It describes itself as eclectic, warm and welcoming – we couldn’t have put it better ourselves! A pub since 1870, it has all the charm of an old boozer, plus a great food menu to boot.

The North Star

24 Browning Rd, Bushwood, London E11 3AR

A hidden gem, this pub was originally two cottages that were converted into a public house around 1858, and is one of the oldest drinking establishments in the area. The perfect spot for a quiet pint.