
Shot by a City Insiders curator.
Tucked under the railway arches just off Mare Street, Hackney Church Brew Co is the kind of spot where you can grab a pint of their award-winning beer and a plate of seriously good food without breaking the bank. The industrial-chic space feels authentically Hackney—exposed brick, chunky refectory tables, and a laid-back vibe that welcomes everyone from beer nerds to late-night snackers. Don't skip the Lagom pop-up when it's running (the slow-cooked pork belly is legendary), but even on a regular night, their rotating beer selection and simple, flavour-forward small plates hit the mark.
Solid brewpub with great beer and decent food
Hackney Church Brew Co has carved out a solid niche in the area as a no-frills brewpub that actually delivers on both beer and food. The taproom itself is a study in industrial charm—think exposed brick, high ceilings, and those massive refectory tables that encourage lingering over a pint. What really sets it apart is the quality of the beer; they brew their own stuff on-site and it's consistently good, from hazy IPAs to rich stouts. The food menu changes depending on which chef is running the pop-up, but when Lagom was in residence, the slow-cooked pork belly was easily one of the best things I've had in London. Even without the pop-up, they've got solid small plates and a decent Sunday roast going on.
The atmosphere is very much "local pub but cooler"—you'll see a mix of regulars, craft beer enthusiasts, and people just looking for a relaxed night out. It's not fancy, and that's the point. The service is friendly but not overly attentive, which fits the vibe perfectly. Prices are reasonable for the quality, especially compared to some of the overpriced spots down Mare Street. If you're looking for a place to grab a beer and maybe some food without the pretension, this is your spot.