There are plenty of low-lit, wine-led, aspirational-feeling restaurants in Hackney, but Brawn was one of the first and is still the standout. It’s on the corner of Columbia Road and the whitewashed room has always got a bit of a buzz about it. The food is of the European-leaning sharing plates variety, and their parmesan panisse is the stuff of candlelit, date night legend.

If we were to think of one modern restaurant that has had a definite influence on London, it would probably be Brawn. This Italian-accented, European restaurant just off Columbia Road can be largely attributed to the rise of the small plates and natural wine movement in the city, and it's exactly the kind of food we want to be celebrating with as the world slowly returns to normal. Bold flavours and a kind of relaxed yet warm vibe make this the sort of restaurant you’d want to move to the area for simply to make it your local.

Brawn is a European-inspired neighborhood hang-out on Columbia Road that features a light and airy Mediterranean-style dining room – a space that is flooded with natural light and offers diners a view of Ravenscroft Park. In terms of the menu, Brawn offers sharable starters and mains that focus on meat – particularly pork. Whatever you do though, be sure to save room for one of the best desserts London has.

With daylight pouring in from wall-to-wall windows that look onto Columbia Road, this corner spot has all the finest qualities of a neighbourhood restaurant. The daily menu at Brawn is centred around seasonal produce for imaginative yet classic small plates, enjoyed alongside a pared-back ex-workshop interior and flawless service. It is a no-brainer to get over there this spring when the sun is shining.

Brawn is celebrating a decade of serving Columbia Road locals a seasonal menu that reflects the produce and traditional recipes of Europe. Think grilled calçots with ajo blanco and chopped egg, crab bisque and wood pigeon with lentils and walnuts. Classic flavours are paired beautifully in a rustic and informal setting that fits perfectly in its east London surroundings.

Brawn, known for its culinary prowess, offers desserts that are an ode to simplicity. Here, a few well-chosen ingredients come together to create masterpieces that embrace the essence of sweetness in its purest form. If you are looking for a dessert place while exploring East London, then this place is one to check out in addition to those in Shoreditch Boxpark.

Brawn has evolved significantly since it first opened in 2010 – and under chef Ed Wilson’s ownership, it’s only become more delicious. Granted, the menu pulls inspiration from across Europe rather than limiting itself to Italy – moreish ingredients rather than culinary traditions rule here – but good luck finding better agnolotti in brodo in London.

🍽️ Mediterranean | $$$ | Website | 📍 Google Maps (Shoreditch) | 📞 +44 207 729 5692. There are so many things to love about Brawn, a darling Mediterranean restaurant on Columbia Road. The decor and atmosphere spanned across two rooms are very simple, but rustic, making it a comfortable and cozy setting to enjoy your meal.

Brawn is a mediterranean restaurant on Columbia Road with a neighbourhood feel and focus on rustic dishes. From pastas to beans to a focus on pork, Brawn has a thoughtful, small menu changing each month. With simple wooden tables in a light-filled space, Brawn is a charming and cosy place to go in East London.

East London does neighbourhood restaurants exceptionally well. And this Columbia Road spot – on the far end of the flower market – is still one of our favourites. It opened in 2010 as a wine bar, before adding a kitchen a few years later.

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account. A post shared by Brawn (@brawn49). Identifying itself as a neighborhood restaurant with a casual ambiance, you can taste fine Mediterranean cuisine here.

An incredible wine list, great spot for lunch if you're looking to drink something special with a menu afforded equal love. They always have something great on the record player also.