The Top Restaurants in Hackney, London

Seasonal small-plate restaurants might be a dime a dozen right now, but Bright really is something special. Sure, it ticks all the on-trend industrial-chic boxes, but it’s Bright’s welcoming atmosphere and real ‘neighbourhood restaurant’ vibe that elevates it from the aloof coolness that so many of its contemporaries fall into. East London legends William Gleave and Giuseppe Belvedere head up the kitchen and create beautifully produce-centred dishes that allow the flavours to speak for themselves. If you’re all about the ingredients, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Recommended by local insider Josh Lee

Cramped and convivial, Peg’s unpretentious decor and yakitori-inspired grill menu make for an unforgettable eating-out experience. As part of P Franco’s small-but-punchy culinary empire, there’s a big focus on seasonality and simplicity. Prices are incredibly reasonable, too, particularly for the location and style of food – suffice to say, Hackney plus market-driven produce doesn’t normally come cheap. À la carte dishes start from £4, and punters can enjoy an excellent-value £15 set menu for lunch – the perfect way to sample some of Peg’s most exquisite flavour concoctions. Recommended by local insiders Josh Lee and Chiara Miele

Looking for deliciously prepared Chinese dumplings, but don’t feel like battling through the hordes of Soho tourists? Family-run My Neighbours The Dumplings has locations in Lower Clapton and Victoria Park Village and is the local go-to for dim sum-style dining. Interiors are modern and fun whilst remaining relaxed – the only issue you’ll experience is trying to decide what to have from the consistently mouth-watering sharing plates on offer. Each site also has a sake bar attached, so showing up a little early to sample a sake-based cocktail or two is definitely a good idea. Recommended by local insider Olivia Dicker

Hackney’s premier wine bar doubles up as a stylish seasonal food joint. Head chef Tom Anglesea creates contemporary British menu options that draw inspiration from flavours from all over the world. Expect combos like Cornish cod with Jersey royals and nori, Sichuan crème brûlée, and pig’s head terrine with Chinese mustard. The service is warm, friendly and extremely knowledgeable, which is particularly useful when trying to decide which of the extensive list of artisanal, independent wine options you should choose to pair with your meal. Recommended by local insider Olivia Dicker