The rumour mill has been whirring on social media for a while now that Leytonstone High Road’s elegant former Barclays Bank was to be a new branch of Italian restaurant Figo. But this week all was revealed with signs just up in the window: it’s another pizza joint.
A peek at the restaurant’s website doesn’t give much away: “In the heart of Leytonstone, Eat My Pizza invites you to a culinary journey that’s all about the community. Dive into our menu, a fusion of classic Italian delights and locally inspired pizza creations. We’re not just a pizzeria; we’re your go-to spot for a genuine taste of Italy in the comfort of Leytonstone.”
We’ve also tried to find out more from the team themselves, but so far no joy. Let’s hope they do the historic building and its pretty roomy interior justice and it becomes a solid addition to what is becoming a nice little restaurant quarter alongside The Birds, Homies On Donkeys and Mum Likes Thai Food.
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We’ve not encountered Ukrainian sushi before, but sure are curious to try this new addition to Leytonstone High Road, which opened just two days ago, said the friendly server when we walked past today. The menu lists various sushi sets, as well as skewers, salads and sharing platters. Follow @aura_london.uk
Finally, in the shadow of the towering Arcelor Mittal Orbit, adjacent to the gargantuan new UCL building, is Riverside East, which opens this week in the leafy Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
It’s actually a reboot of the Orbit’s cafe-bar that has been in situ for the last decade. Under leaden skies it was gently buzzing at last night’s press launch: with streetfood traders and an entertainment space, it feels like a Southbank-style venue with outdoor bars offering craft beers, wines (and even a 6% blood orange Sundowner Spritz on tap), as well as Stoke Newington’s Truffle Burger dishing out its oozy patties.
Inside is a 300-cover café with a menu designed by Lulu Cox, (formerly of Rochelle Canteen, Bocca di Lupo and St. John): we’ve yet to taste much of this, although it promises things like smoked trout, plant-based burgers and flatbreads – and the arancini and slices of pizza doing the rounds last night were tasty enough.
Arguably the best spot, however, is the first-floor terrace, barely finished on our visit, with panoramic views over the Orbit one side and Stratford waterfront the other. This, we felt, is the place to hang out. Meanwhile the owners promise rotating pop-ups by streetfood and artisanal traders, as well as independent markets and outdoor screenings all summer. Follow @riverside_east
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