The Best Restaurants In Whitechapel, London

Something of a stalwart on the East End scene, Tayyabs is undoubtedly one of the most beloved restaurants in the area. The family-run Punjabi restaurant grew from humble beginnings in 1972 to take over three separate premises, and now sees huge queues of people streaming from its doors most nights. But it’s worth the wait – the menu features Indian classics cooked to perfection (the lamb comes highly recommended), and the atmosphere is second to none. Book early and bring your own bottle to avoid disappointment.

With the recent influx of rib shacks and burger joints onto the capital’s food scene, it can be hard to find one that stands out. HotBox, however, manages exactly that. All exposed brick and benches, the American barbecue specialist puts the focus firmly on its mouth-watering selection of meat. If you can manage it, the Smoked Selection is a tour de force of barbecue food as it should be, and is matched perfectly by a small but carefully considered selection of sides. For after dinner drinks (if you aren’t too full to move), head downstairs to 46 and Mercy, who offer cocktails and an artsy atmosphere in equal measure.

One thing East London does well is a pub, and The Culpeper is one of the finest in Whitechapel. An upmarket bar downstairs, the second floor restaurant features stunning seasonal food in a beautifully restored setting of parquet floors and ambient industrial lighting. The menu changes often, incorporating as often as possible the local and (literally) home grown; much of the produce is grown in the Culpeper’s own rooftop garden, perhaps taking inspiration from the 17th century Spitalfields herbalist, Nicholas Culpeper, for whom the pub is named. For classic dining with a touch of class, The Culpeper is hard to beat.

Lahore Kebab House is another renowned Pakistani restaurant in Whitechapel. It offers an array of traditional Pakistani dishes with a focus on succulent kebabs and grilled meats. The menu includes a wide selection of flavorful curries, tandoori dishes, and biryanis. Lahore Kebab House is known for its generous portions and excellent value for money, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

The Stable is a pizza restaurant and cider bar with a unique concept. Situated on Whitechapel High Street, it offers a wide selection of artisan pizzas, each named after famous horses. The restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients to create delicious and inventive pizza combinations. As a cider bar, The Stable boasts an impressive range of ciders to complement the pizzas, making it an ideal spot for casual dining and relaxed social gatherings.
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