best places to eat in Stratford

If you’re thinking about where to eat in Stratford and looking for something with a little sophistication, here’s our round up of some of the best restaurants in and around Stratford Cross.

16-19 Victory Parade, East Village, E20 1FS

A self-described “Restaurant, Cocktail Bar and Wine Cave”, Darkhorse serves up a range of Spanish and Italian inspired small and main plates. With 80% of their cooking done in their charcoal oven using natural apple wood they only use seasonal produce to create classic flavour combinations that involve a twist or two. We particularly enjoyed the roasted hake and the warm English asparagus side.

If you’re looking for a good selection of beverages, we think Darkhorse is one of the best places to visit in East London. The wine list is extensive, well selected and the bar is well stocked. The cocktail list features some classics which can often be hard to find, try a 30-day aged Negroni or a salt caramel espresso martini! This is one of the best Italian restaurants in Stratford and not to be missed!

3 Prince Edward Rd, London E9 5NP  

Not quite Stratford but in neighbouring Hackney Wick, Cornerstone is one of East London’s few restaurants with a Michelin Star. 

Best suited to those who really appreciate fine dining (as well as seafood) the menu here changes depending on the produce available. Diners can eat a la carte or sample the  good value tasting menu with wine pairings.

The chef, Tom Brown, is an alumnus of Nathan Outlaw (perhaps why seafood is a recurring theme) and you can watch the chefs in action, given that the open kitchen sits right in the heart of the restaurant. 

38 Romford Rd, E15 4BZ

For simple but delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes served straight from the grill, you won’t go wrong at The Grill Stratford.  The steaks are of course the highlight,  with an excellent lineup of cuts cooked to your specifications and served with your choice of sides, from fries to spicy rice. But there’s also plenty for non-steak lovers, from The Grill’s famous Frango grilled chicken to grilled tiger prawns to towering burgers. 

The Grill is also halal-certified from HMC, and an alcohol-free establishment, with a great range of playful mocktails and non-alcoholic beer. If you're after a nice restaurant in Stratford, this is one to check out.

Manhattan Loft Gardens, 20 International Way, E20 1FD 

If a special treat is the thing, Allegra will deliver in spades. Combining innovative European cuisine with East London’s best cocktails and timeless hospitality, the Allegra emanates glamour. Their innovative and contemporary European style food was recognised at the 2023 National Restaurant Awards where they were voted the UK’s 49th best restaurant.

With a sophisticated bar, a sizeable, and rather beautiful terrace and roof garden, this is a perfect place for an intimate get together or for gatherings and celebrations with family or good friends.   

3 Prince Edward Rd, London E9 5NP

You’ll also find Gotto Trattoria in Hackney Wick, on the banks of the River Lea. Think of it as a little slice of the Italian Riviera set up by three brothers and a friend! Their menu features homemade vermouth and a menu overspilling with seasonal Italian ingredients.

The menu is small yet perfectly formed and tries to use a wide range of carefully sourced British produce and exceptional Italian ingredients. A range of classic, homemade pastas accompanied by simple sides and classic “dolci”.

Looking for other Stratford Cross restaurants ideas? View all our restaurants here.  For other things to do in the Stratford area, download the Stratford Cross app and catch up with all things Stratford! The app is available on the App Store and the Google Play Store.