The very definition of a hidden gem, The Lacy Nook is the type of place you want to keep all to yourself.
Located on Cazenove Rd, away from the main stretch of Stoke Newington’s Church Street, you’re not going to stumble upon it – it’s truly one for those in the know.
The homely restaurant is located over two floors, but as the sun was shining we ate brunch in their peaceful garden – it’s a real sun trap!
Founded by Elena and Jana (both originally from Macedonia), the fusion menu is a blend of the owners extensive travels and home cooked favourites, all bought together under one tasty roof. For brunch, expect classics such as avocado on toast or smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, but all updated with a Lacy Nook twist.
Highlights for us included the cheddar pancakes with sweet maple cured bacon and a perfectly poached egg with just a drizzle of local honey. The Beef Cevapi is a traditional Balkan dish you’ll definitely want to try. Mini beef sausage/kebabs are served alongside flatbread, sweet onions and delicious dips – both roasted red pepper and kajmak. If you’re not sure what that is (we didn’t know either!) there’s a handy guide explaining all of the more exotic ingredients.
For dessert we drank expertly made Cortado’s and tucked into the best baklava in town. Not overly sweet, it’s made fresh each day with raspberries and pistachio from a treasured family recipe.
We loved that The Lacy Nook uses local produce – the granola is from Husk & Honey; salad from Growing Communities; Hackney Square Root Sodas; beer from Redchurch Brewery; Mission Coffee; and bread from The Dusty Knuckle, a Dalston bakery who offer training and employment to young people through their work experience scheme. The Lacy Nook also supports the charity Made in Hackney, located directly opposite the restaurant, which provides access to healthy, affordable food through community training schemes.
As much as we wanted to keep this place all to ourselves, it’s really only fair that we spread the word.
