Restaurant
St. JOHN Smithfield
Fergus Henderson's influential Smithfield restaurant, founded in 1994 and known for nose-to-tail British cooking from a daily changing menu.
Poppies Spitalfields
An East End fish and chip restaurant off Brick Lane, part of a small London group whose story dates back to 1952.
At a glance
- Type
- Fish and chips
- Area
- Spitalfields, London, United Kingdom
- Price
- $ · Budget
- Official site
- poppiesfishandchips.co.uk
Good to know
- Eat in
- Takeaway
- Click and collect
Why we recommend it
Poppies is an East End fish and chip restaurant on Hanbury Street, just off Brick Lane, part of a small London group whose story begins in 1952. The founder, known as Pops, set out to make the best fish and chips in London, and the restaurants keep that tradition alive with a nostalgic, retro-styled look. The Spitalfields branch, close to Brick Lane, is one of the group's best-known sites.
The menu centres on fish and chips done the traditional way, with fish fried in batter and served with thick-cut chips. Alongside classic white fish, the menu includes other fried seafood such as scampi, as well as sides like mushy peas, curry sauce, pickled onions and gherkins. There are usually alternatives for anyone who does not want fish, and desserts lean towards British comfort food. Portions are generous, and the food is straightforward and filling.
Poppies suits families, groups of friends, budget travellers and anyone looking for a classic British meal while exploring East London. The atmosphere is casual and cheerful, and it works for a quick lunch or a relaxed evening meal. Children are welcome, and the menu has simple choices for younger diners.
You can eat in, take away or order click and collect through the website, and delivery is also available through the main delivery apps. Tables can be booked online, which is useful at weekends when Brick Lane and Spitalfields are busy with market visitors. Check the official website for current opening times before you go. Because it is close to some of East London's busiest Sunday markets, lunchtime on a weekend can be crowded, so an early lunch or a weekday visit is usually calmer. Takeaway portions are easy to carry to a nearby bench or square if the restaurant is full. Poppies also has restaurants in Camden, Soho and Portobello Road.
Hanbury Street links Brick Lane with Commercial Street and the Old Spitalfields Market. Liverpool Street and Shoreditch High Street stations are within walking distance, and Aldgate East is also nearby. The Sunday markets on Brick Lane and at Spitalfields, the Truman Brewery and the street art of Shoreditch are all close, making Poppies a convenient stop on a day exploring the East End.
Poppies Spitalfields FAQs
Can I order to take away?
Yes, Poppies offers takeaway and online click-and-collect ordering.
How old is Poppies?
Its heritage dates back to 1952.
Can I book a table?
Yes, tables can be booked online.
Does Poppies deliver?
Yes, through the main delivery apps listed on its website.
Is it good for families?
Yes, it is casual and welcoming to children.
Are there other branches?
Yes, in Camden, Soho and Portobello Road.
Which station is nearest?
Shoreditch High Street, Liverpool Street and Aldgate East are all within walking distance.
What is nearby?
Brick Lane, Old Spitalfields Market and the Truman Brewery.