1. It’s genuinely neighbourhood
Whether you’re swinging by solo or with your mates, pull up a stool at the communal table. The chances are you’ll actually chat to another local before you leave; we’ve spent more than one convivial (and extended) Saturday afternoon there (ending up in a new WhatsApp group – but that’s another story). Oh, and the small list of rotating draft craft beer options is as tempting as the natural vino by the glass. Then there’s the lure of all that delish artisan produce – bread, olives, posh cheeses – from the deli section.
2. The wine-tastings are relaxed
Last week we enjoyed an educative but more importantly, chilled, soiree with expert sommelier Roberto of Northern Italian vino merchants Sen. There were five glasses to knock back – sorry, sip – ranging from a couple of tangy organic fizzes to white, skin-contact and red. He introduced each with some notes to look out for, but there was no tortured long-drawn-out sniffing and swilling, allowing us punters to enjoy discussing each with our partners and each other. And the accompanying sourdough and cheeses (ciao taleggio, ciao gorgonzola!) helped soak things up too.
3. That outdoor alley is remarkably peaceful
Vintage wooden bierkeller tables fill the pedestrian thoroughfare alongside Leytonstone’s railway arches, creating a vibe that feels a million miles away from noisy old Grove Green Road. The only thing you’re missing is the evening sun, so bring a wee sweatshirt even on a summer evening. Or just head there at lunchtime for some serious rays. Sunscreen at the ready.
4. Negronis are £6
Yep, this is a personal thing, but those cheeky cans of Pocket Negroni are a snip at £6. Friendly owner Michaela will add the requisite amount of ice in an appropriate tumbler – making it cheaper than a pint, and surely one of the best-value cocktails in the area. Cin cin indeed.
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5. There are supper clubs and oyster stalls
For oenophiles, most days there’ll be a new Gamay, or something special from Slovakia. But there’s also a schedule of pop-ups and supper clubs: recent ones have included Sicilian and vegan nights, while next up on the 28th June is chef Katy Severson with a 5-course seasonal feast including snacks and dessert (£40 pp). And the occasional pop-up weekend oyster bar is always fun, too. Keep an eye on Arch Deli’s Insta for more on all this.
Arch Deli, open Thurs-Sun (closes 9pm, 6pm Sunday) off Grove Green Road railway arches, follow @archdeli_e11
