Slowburn

Walthamstow spot Slowburn isn’t one at all—it’s a love at first sight situation where you’ll be left wondering how soon you can call again. It’s a denim factory by day (hence the Blackhorse Lane Atelier sign and industrial estate location) but by night, the space hums with conversation instead of sewing machines. Smaller groups end up sharing the long tables, so it’s best for casual date nights where you don’t mind being overheard as you discuss switching internet providers. On weekends, there’s the odd outburst from an over-excited dog or baby as families with children dressed in their best Carhartt overalls eat surrounded by fabric swatches. The food suits a crowd too, or couples who like to order lots of interesting, snacky dishes—padron peppers with smoked miso dip, asparagus with curry hollandaise, and confit celeriac. The menu is seasonally led, but other than that, it takes inspiration from around the world with gyoza tacos and Thai red curry sauce making appearances. These veg-forward plates are tasty but it’s the meat dishes—braised pork belly with a sticky glaze and smoked chicken with charred, crispy skin—that leave a lasting impression.

photo credit: Aleksandra Boruch

photo credit: Aleksandra Boruch

photo credit: Aleksandra Boruch

photo credit: Aleksandra Boruch

photo credit: Aleksandra Boruch