With its origins lying in silk weaving, Globe Town has since transformed into a vibrant corner of East London. If you’re looking for somewhere with a lively scene of independent businesses, you should consider living in Globe Town. You don’t have to wander far to find a cool café or stylish restaurant.
The area is quieter than other East London suburbs, benefiting from plenty of parks and green spaces. It’s also conveniently located within walking distance of Bethnal Green Tube station; commuting into and out of the City is easy in around 20 minutes.
So, whether you’re looking for a morning coffee spot or somewhere to unwind, here are our favourite places to visit while living in Globe Town.
The Green Truffle
Italian delicatessen The Green Truffle supplies an array of delightful ingredients. From local cheeses and meats, to freshly baked breads, handmade pasta, and unique dressings, you’ll always find an abundance of ingredients to inspire you in the kitchen. Whatever you’d planned to pick up off the shelves, you’ll be sure to leave with a bag load of treats.
Take a look at their extensive range of wines and craft beers for the perfect drink to complement your evening meal. And whether you’re a wine aficionado or unsure about the flavours of different grapes, the expert staff will be able to recommend bottles to suit your taste buds.
Address: 21 Roman Road, Bethnal Green, London E2 0HU
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 020 8981 4135
Follow: @greentruffle
Quarantacinque
Self confessed ‘serious Italian coffee’ providers Quarantacinque will be more than happy to serve your daily caffeine fix, courtesy of Caffé Molinari. The small café is just a few minutes’ walk from Bethnal Green Tube station, making it easy to pop by on route to the office.
If you have more time to spare whilst living in Globe Town, be tempted by their counter of homemade sweet treats and bakes, including croissants and biscuits. Pull up a chair in the window to watch the daily happenings. And for the lunchtime crowd, choose from a menu of homemade salads, paninis, and pasta dishes.
Address: 45 Roman Road, Bethnal Green, London E2 0HU
Telephone: 020 8981 6765
Follow: @cafequarantacinque
Sazzy & Fran Cafe
The cosy Sazzy & Fran Café boasts a number of healthy brunch options. The menu is primarily plant-based, making it the ideal spot for vegans and vegetarians. Popular dishes include the açaí bowl, which is filled with berries and other detoxifying ingredients, and the English muffin with caramelised seitan.
Furthermore, the café doubles up as a bakery, so you can pop by in the morning to pick up a freshly baked loaf of bread. And if you’ve got a special occasion coming up, the team’s master bakers are on hand to create a delicious celebration cake – the vegan way.
Address: 33 Roman Road, Bethnal Green, London E2 0HU
Email: [email protected]
Follow: @sazzyandfrancafe
Chiringuito
The Spanish-inspired menu at Chiringuito has something for everyone. Dine with friends to try out the restaurant’s array of tapas dishes. Classic options include chorizo al vino (chorizo soaked in red wine with bread) and patatas bravas (roasted potatoes with a tomato sauce). If your appetite still isn’t satisfied, choose from their larger plates of paella and their generously-filled tacos.
Embrace authentic Spain by pairing your meal with a glass of Sangria or wine from one of the country’s renowned vineyards. Not looking to dine? Step up to the rooftop garden to enjoy a cocktail or special-serve gin and tonic.
Address: Museum Gardens, Cambridge Heath Road, London E2 9PA
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 020 8981 3894
Follow: @chiringuito_ldn
The Larder
Situated just around the corner from Bethnal Green Tube station, The Larder is a relaxed place to meet with friends. As well as the lunch menu, the café serves a special all-vegetarian afternoon tea – best enjoyed in their sunny courtyard.
The café’s ethos is built around supporting independent local businesses. Inspired by age-old larders, only the finest staple and seasonal ingredients are used. All coffee beans are hand-roasted by East London roasteries, cheeses are supplied by Neal’s Yard, eggs and meat come from a local butcher, and freshly baked bread and cakes are transported from bakeries nearby.
You can find The Larder in a few other locations across London.
Address: 241-243 Globe Road, Bethnal Green, London E2 0JD
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 020 3490 1404
Follow: @thelarderlondon
The Approach Gallery
Championing the work of London artists and emerging international artists, there’s always something different to see at The Approach Gallery. The contemporary art gallery displays a diverse mix of works. From photography and fashion-influenced exhibitions to digital and sound installations, the gallery aims to evoke all the senses.
So pop downstairs to The Approach Tavern for a pint after fulfilling your dose of creativity.
Address: 1st Floor, 47 Approach Road, Bethnal Green, London E2 9LY
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 020 8983 3878
Follow: @approachgallery
The Approach Tavern
Despite its location below The Approach Gallery, The Approach Tavern is an unassuming classic British pub. It attracts a lively crowd every day of the week with a mix of locals and after-work drinkers. Beer fans can delight in the pub’s extensive beer list, including 20 on tap.
Whatever time of year you visit, the pub is primed for all weathers. The outdoor beer garden is perfect for relaxing in the sunnier weather, but also offers a rain cover and heat lamps to protect from the typical British weather. And in the winter months, cosy down inside by the log fires. The pub is entirely dog friendly, making it a good meeting spot for your furry fields.
Address: 47 Approach Road, Bethnal Green, London E2 9LY
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 020 8980 2321
Follow: @theapproachtavern
Meath Gardens
Although Meath Gardens used to be a cemetery, this park is now open for all to enjoy. Thriving off of the support of the local community, the park has many plans underway to encourage plantlife and wildlife habitats.
The garden is set back from the main roads, providing a peaceful haven amid the bustle of the city. So if you’re looking for a quiet spot to walk the dog, somewhere to enjoy a morning run before work, or a secluded place to read a book, the park is well located in Bethnal Green. And you can enter via Regent’s Canal footbridge or a small passage on Smart Street.
Address: Smart Street, Bethnal Green, London E2 0SN
Living in Globe Town
So if you’re considering living in Globe Town, you can enjoy a healthy mix of quiet green spaces and bustling eateries. Nestled within the lively Bethnal Green, you’ll always find something going on in the area. Learn more about where to live in East London by reading our blog.