If you’re planning a weekend in London and want somewhere with serious personality, Shoreditch should be high on your list. It’s creative, colourful, a little bit chaotic and packed with some of the best food and drink spots in the city.
This is the London weekend break for anyone who has seen all the usual London tourist spots. You’ve seen the Tower of London, Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, now you want to see how Londoners actually live.
Think street art on every corner, rooftop cocktails, vintage markets, independent coffee shops and restaurants you’ll be telling your friends about for weeks afterwards.
Shoreditch is an absolute foodie paradise and I’ve shared some of my favourites but here’s a full guide to the best places to eat in Shoreditch.
It’s the kind of place where you can wander with no plan and still stumble across something amazing. But if you do want a plan, here’s exactly how I’d spend a weekend in Shoreditch.
Friday evening: Arrive and start with cocktails
First things first: check into your hotel and drop your bags. Shoreditch has loads of cool boutique hotel options and Shoreditch isn’t that big so wherever you stay you’ll be within walking distance of most things.
Your first stop should absolutely be cocktails, preferable on a rooftop to kick off the weekend properly. There’s something about watching the sun go down over London that instantly puts you in weekend mode.
One of the most popular spots is Queen of Hoxton, which is famous for its themed rooftop that changes with the seasons. In winter you’ll find cosy alpine vibes and hot cocktails, while summer is all about bright colours and frozen drinks.
If you want something a little more relaxed but still fun, wander over to The Book Club. It’s a Shoreditch classic with great cocktails, music and a buzzing atmosphere that feels social without being overwhelming.
Friday dinner: Go big on flavour
Shoreditch is one of the best places in London for food. If you’re in the mood for bold flavours and food that’s perfect for sharing, book a table at Dishoom Shoreditch. Their Bombay-inspired menu is incredible and this place is a London icon. Think black daal, house chaat, spicy lamb chops and the kind of naan you’ll end up ordering twice.
Another great option is Smoking Goat, a tiny Thai barbecue restaurant with a huge reputation. Expect smoky grilled meats, spicy salads and seriously punchy flavours.
Or if you fancy something more casual where it’s easy to please a big group, head to Boxpark Shoreditch. It’s a shipping-container food hall packed with street food vendors, so everyone in your group can pick whatever they fancy.
Saturday morning: Coffee and a wander
Shoreditch mornings are all about coffee and slow exploring.
Start the day properly with a flat white from one of the area’s brilliant independent coffee shops. Ozone Coffee Roasters is a favourite thanks to its huge open space and excellent brunch menu. Their smashed avo and eggs are exactly what you want after a Friday night out.
Once you’re caffeinated, go for a wander around the streets nearby. Shoreditch is famous for its street art, so keep your eyes open because you’ll see colourful murals and pieces from world-famous artists everywhere.
Even if you’re not actively searching for it, you’ll notice it popping up on building walls, alleyways and shop shutters.
Saturday late morning: Vintage shopping at Brick Lane
A Shoreditch weekend wouldn’t be complete without exploring Brick Lane.
On Saturdays and Sundays the area comes alive with vintage shops, markets and street food stalls. It’s the perfect place to browse for an hour or two.
Pop into Rokit Vintage or Beyond Retro if you love hunting for unique pieces. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, it’s fun just seeing the rails of colourful retro fashion.
If you’re visiting on a Sunday, the Brick Lane Market is packed with stalls selling everything from handmade jewellery to vintage cameras.
Saturday lunch: Street food heaven
By lunchtime you’ll probably be ready for something delicious, and Brick Lane is the perfect place to find it.
If you want variety, head straight to the Upmarket at Old Spitalfields Market food stalls or the street food vendors around Brick Lane.
You’ll find everything from fresh dumplings and bao buns to loaded burgers and cheesy raclette.
Another brilliant lunch spot is Flat Iron Square, just a short walk away. It’s a courtyard filled with food vendors, bars and outdoor seating that feels like a mini food festival.
If you’d rather have someone guide you around then check out this East London Street Food Tour I did a few years back. It was brilliant and a great way to sample lots of little dishes from so many local restaurants!
Saturday afternoon: Art, shops and a cheeky drink
Spend the afternoon exploring some of Shoreditch’s independent shops and galleries.
Redchurch Street is one of the prettiest streets in the area and full of stylish boutiques, bakeries and coffee shops.
If you fancy something sweet, stop by Jolene for pastries or cake. Their baked goods are legendary and absolutely worth the queue.
You could also pop into Boxpark again for a quick drink or wander through Spitalfields Market for more shopping.
Saturday evening: Rooftop drinks and dinner
After a busy afternoon, head back to your hotel to freshen up before dinner.
Start the evening with drinks at Aviary Rooftop Restaurant & Bar. It has one of the best rooftop terraces in Shoreditch with amazing skyline views and seriously good cocktails.
Then it’s time for dinner.
If you want something lively and fun, book Gloria Shoreditch. It’s an Italian restaurant that feels like a party, think giant plates of pasta, truffle pizza and tiramisu the size of your head.
Another great option is Brat, a Michelin-starred restaurant famous for cooking incredible dishes over an open wood fire.
Saturday night: Dancing or late-night cocktails
If you still have energy after dinner, Shoreditch is one of the best places in London for a night out.
For a classic Shoreditch experience, head to Nightjar, a hidden speakeasy cocktail bar with incredible drinks and live jazz.
If you’re more in the mood for dancing, XOYO is one of the area’s most popular clubs and regularly hosts top DJs.
Or if you want something low-key, just bar hop around Shoreditch High Street. You’ll find loads of lively bars and pubs that stay open late.
Sunday morning: Brunch (the most important meal)
No Shoreditch weekend is complete without a proper brunch.
One of the most famous spots is The Breakfast Club Spitalfields. Their pancakes are legendary and the vibe is fun, relaxed and a little bit chaotic in the best way.
Another brilliant brunch spot is The Hoxton Grill, which does everything from classic eggs benedict to indulgent waffles.
If you prefer something lighter, grab a pastry and coffee from Bake Street and enjoy a slow morning.
Sunday afternoon: Markets and a final treat
Before heading home, spend your final hours soaking up the atmosphere at Old Spitalfields Market.
It’s a beautiful covered market filled with independent shops, fashion stalls and more food than you could possibly eat in one weekend.
Pick up a few treats to take home or grab one last coffee before heading back to the station.
And if you’ve still got room for dessert, treat yourself to gelato from Gelupo or cookies from Ben’s Cookies.
Is Shoreditch worth visiting?
Absolutely.
Shoreditch is one of those neighbourhoods that always feels exciting. There’s always a new restaurant opening, a new bar to try or a hidden street art piece you didn’t notice before.
It’s creative, vibrant and endlessly fun to explore, especially if you love great food, good coffee and a cocktail with a view.
So if you’re planning a girls’ weekend in London, Shoreditch is the kind of place where you can eat well, drink well and come home with about twenty new restaurant recommendations.
Which, honestly, is exactly what we want from a weekend away.
