East London is famous for being the edgier side of town, where the City of London skyscrapers rub shoulders with the hipsters. If you love street art, galleries, cool bars, some of London’s best low-key curry houses, this could be the spot for you.
Brick Lane is famous for its nightlife in London City East, but is also a cultural melting pot of clothes shops, artisan food stalls and restaurants. Whether you are looking for vintage treasures at Beyond Retro or at the vintage market open every Sunday, or to satisfy your urge for a Salt Beef Bagel at the iconic Beigel, you will find it all on Brick Lane.
The views
Hyatt Place London City East is located adjacent to Brick Lane, a few minutes’ walk from Aldgate East or Whitechapel Tube stops. This is a prime location not only in terms of accessibility but for some epic views of London.
We are talking an up close and personal view of the City of London, including legendary buildings like the Gherkin and the Cheese Grater. My insider ‘Top Tip’ of the day is to book Room 802. This corner room offers outstanding views of the City and Canary Wharf, and from the large balcony you will get lost in the mesmerising spectacle.
From the sunrise over Canary Wharf to the sunset behind the towers, the dual aspect, large windows immerse you in the wonderful skyline. It was a surreal and dopamine inducing room which I loved sleeping and being in, and made for a memorable stay.
Pocketsquare
The awesome views continue on the 9th floor at the hotel’s Rooftop Bar, Pocketsquare. The name is a lovely nod to the textile trade that has been shaped by the migration and movement of skilled craftspeople to the area.
The bar offers 180-degree views over towards Canary Wharf where you can catch the sunset reflecting off the mirrored buildings whilst sipping on your cocktail of choice. The bar has floor to ceiling windows and retractable doors making it perfect in any weather.
Top Tip – you can get a breakfast on the 9th floor and take in sunrise over Canary Wharf for a zesty start to your day.
Sotto Cucina
The hotel has a beautiful Sicilian restaurant on the lower ground level. You will find authentic Sicilian dishes such as Caponata, rich and sweet with currants and pine nuts which paired beautifully with the creamy burrata. The Fennel Sausage Ragu was also rich in flavour and curiously addictive. We followed with expertly cooked Steak and Sea Bass.
The vibrant artwork, cool textiles and flamboyant tiling give the restaurant an intriguing, cool and cosy vibe. The service was beyond helpful and friendly.
Sustainability
Voted the most sustainable hotel in Europe 2023, the credentials list is impressive at Hyatt Place London City East. They even have biodiversity bird boxes, flowers and meadow grasses to provide respite for pollinators like butterflies and bees in the midst of this East London metropolis.
I noticed how friendly, chilled and happy all the service staff were and later learned that great emphasis goes into exemplary working conditions. The hotel champions diversity, with staff-care committees, and as you’ll notice, staff have the freedom to express themselves freely through their grooming and personal style.
Happy, artsy, admirably sustainable and with views, this is an affordable stay in the London you should not miss.
Review and Images by Emmie Blower @emmiebhungry
Feature image supplied
