Restaurant: The Bonneville
Address: 43 Lower Clapton Road, London, E5 ONS, Tel: 020 8533 3301
What? Hackney, or more specifically Lower Clapton, has recently been hosting a whirlwind of new fully-fashionable bars and restaurants. The Bonneville is perhaps the grandest addition to the clique, formerly a rowdy pub, now it looks and feels like stepping into Hackney's gothic past (if it had one). But once through the doors, The Bonneville is like a secret you stumble across and can't bear to part with.
What's the crowd? You want me to say hipsters right? Just because it's Hackney? Didn't see a single beard. OK one or two. It's definitely a place to be seen at.
We ate: Head there for cocktails and you'll find yourself torn between long, short and tall delights, head there for food and you'll be treated to wonderful French-inspired dishes from chef Oliver Launey (and there's not a small plate in sight.) Head there for food and cocktails and you'll be in a little bit of heaven.
Don't miss: Just go to the loo. You'll know.
The perfect +1: Dinner with friends. The atmosphere in The Bonneville is a truly pleasant one. Friendly, happy-to-see-you vibes from the staff - always a plus.
140 verdict: I welcome the new food revolution in Hackney, especially if it means I can pop into The Bonneville for a quick Twinkle and an oyster on the way home.
Here for reservations -> The Bonneville
Here for The Bonneville Twitter
