Hello, Tamping Grounds
Is Cann Hall Road the new Francis? Just kidding. But this welcome reinvention of the awesome former Lakehouse Hungarian restaurant (read that review with a teary eye here) is, finally, a place to grab good quality coffee on the edge of Wanstead Flats. Oh, and it’s exquisitely near the lovely duck-filled Jubilee Pond, too. Expect a simple interior, with a handful of garden tables cheering up the pavement, and choose from an assortment of banana loaf, almond croissants, caramel tarts and, most importantly, well-priced pastel de nata (£1.65). Coffee is from respected Muswell Hill-based roasters Fireheart (a brand we don’t often see in East London). @tampinggrounds, 324 Cann Hall Rd E11 3NW
And let’s not forget Belle Juin
Remember the plant store in East Village that subsequently turned into Bamboo Mat’s rather swanky Stratford sister? Well, the skinny is that at the end of last year they took over the island-like hub in the middle of Cann Hall’s skate park (once beloved as Patch) next to the underrated weekend Farmer’s Market. And it looks great: there’s all manner of plants adorning the exterior, and a riot of sticky and sweet stuff washed down with superlative brews inside. What are you waiting for, school mums and Wanstead walkers alike? @bellejuin 250 Cann Hall Rd, London E11 3NN
J’Adore…we’re here for it
First thoughts: the interior fit has been done nicely and an appealing board listing coffees in an on-point font lurks above the counter of cream-topped patisserie and pastries. Will it recompense those who miss the mighty Morny? Time will tell, but it should be a welcome addition to a stretch a little lacking in good coffee (the illustrious Wild Goose aside). A covered garden courtyard is behind the main dining room, too: it’s surprising how far these old shops go back. 644 High Rd Leytonstone, E11 3BD
UPDATED 30th April
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