At the junction of Hanbury Street and Brick Lane I know that if I am feeling peckish I can march left up Brick Lane and find one of London's most famous late night eateries, the 24 hour Beigel Bake shop. One of the final reminders that this part of London is hugely significant in the Jewish history of London. A salt beef bagel - perfect for mopping up the ale on my travels.
On this occasion I am on the quest for more beer and am turning right into Brick Lane and walking past the myriad of Indian restaurants demonstrating that the area is now more famous for its Bengali population. If there is a better choice of Indian food anywhere in London I have yet to find it. Every restaurant seems to be home to "London's Best Curry Chef". Take your pick !
Past the restaurants, supermarkets and sweetshops, I turn left into Heneage Street and away from the hustle and bustle of Brick Lane and into the oasis that is the Pride of Spitalfields and one of my favourite beers, Fullers London Pride. The pub sells a range of Fullers beers and if you are very lucky you will also find something from one of the better microbreweries such as Crouch Vale.
This is a another very traditional pub and very peaceful away from the main drag. However, the peace was broken on my visit by my favourite song ever coming on the jukebox Forever and Ever by Slik a 1975 number one for a young Midge Ure. (To those of a certain age, I challenge you not to sing along). As I was swaying and singing, it was quickly time to leave without lingering to look at the historic photos that cover the walls. If you are in the area, this pub is an absolute essential stop-off place for a beer.
1 comments:
I'd never admit to singing along with Slik, but I LOVE the Pride of Spitalfields, it's like walking into an episode of 'Minder'.
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