If you're looking for sections of East London beyond the trendy Shoreditch and Hackney, take a wander around Bethnal Green and Whitechapel (where Jack the Ripper did his dirty deeds).
Lewin Chalkley of the bicycle shop/cafe, Look Mum No Hands!, gives us the inside word of what you can do and eat in these London areas off the beaten path.
- Fancy a game of cricket? Take the tube to the Bethnal Green or Mile End stop and head up to Victoria Park, where cricket matches are played on a daily basis in the warmer months. Also the first public park in London, it offers a vast space for children to play, couples to take romantic strolls and music lovers to rock out at the annual Field Day festival.
- For a midday break or some celebration after an accomplished day, head a couple of blocks south from Victoria Park to The Approach Tavern. Monday is their pub quiz night, a British tradition for any decent London boozer. When the mercury falls, patrons sit by the cozy fireplace, and summers are made for relaxing in their outdoor porch. No matter what time of the year, it's the perfect spot for London pub food and ales.
- Sometimes you need a big plate of meat to satisfy your cravings. Head towards the crossroads of Bethnal Green Road and Cambridge Heath Road for Nico's Cafe. They're known for their big portions of egg and chips and mixed grill served on two plates. Their all-day long menu works as a hangover cure.
- In the Whitechapel area, Tayyabs is a favorite for locals looking for curry beyond Brick Lane. This lively, multi-level eatery packs in guests looking for delectable curry dishes, mixed grill and their most popular dish, the fiery lamb chops. Expect a wait during the weekends, but it's worth it for the atmosphere and food alone.
- Just down the street from Tayyabs towards Commercial Road is the equally lively and popular Pakistani BYOB eatery Lahore Kebab House. Your tastebuds will thank you with their intensely-spice curries, kebabs and Tandoori Roti. Their budget friendly menu and legendary status among Londoners makes it a must-visit in Whitechapel.
