EartH Kitchen

You’ll find this all-day restaurant on the first floor of multi-use space Evolutionary Arts Hackney, a former art-deco cinema which is now primarily used as a concert venue. Interiors see a mixture of midnight blue table tops and light wood chairs, while hanging lights which could pass for an art installation and house plants lining the walls serve as a reminder that you’re in Hackney.

Although the name makes Earth Kitchen sound like it is run by a bunch of back-to-nature hippies, the restaurant in fact has some serious chef pedigree. Heading up the kitchen is Chris Gillard, who was formerly executive chef of the much-feted St John Group.

Much like St John, the menu here sees simple, classic dishes made with best-of-British produce and a sprinkling of expert skill. The offering changes seasonally, but on our visit we enjoyed the likes of a nicely charred Welsh rarebit toastie, and a medley of soft cauliflower florets, leek shavings and silky butter beans. To round off your meal, try a heavenly ginger pudding which arrives steaming and filled with stickiness, or keep it simple with the delightfully tart and impressively creamy blood orange sorbet.

Earth Kitchen isn’t trendy or flashy, but its use of high-quality produce is evident in its dishes, all of which are fairly priced. Head here for a casual meal or take advantage of the small but perfectly formed ‘pre-show’ menu.

TEMPORALY CLOSED

With a name like Earth Kitchen, you might expect this Hackney café to be run by a group of hippies, but it’s actually got some serious chef pedigree. At the helm, you’ll find former executive chef of the St John Group, Chris Gillard, alongside Auro Foxcroft, who founded Hackney’s Village Underground.

The restaurant finds its home on the first floor of multi-arts space Evolutionary Arts Hackney, and features a mirrored ceiling and brightly coloured tables. The seasonally changing menu might include the likes of griddled mackerel with beetroot leaves and horseradish, or perhaps a slow-roast lamb breast with pickled raisins and mint. Vegan options meanwhile include the likes of crispy polenta with roast carrots, fennel, radicchio and salsa verde. The wine list has a European focus, while a schedule of events keeps diners entertained, including jazz bands on Thursdays and DJs come Sunday.   

Images: Tom Bowles