Towpath Cafe - Hackney

We walked from Kings Cross getting a bit confused when the canal goes underground thru Islington but helpful locals set us on the way down Chapel Market across... read more We walked from Kings Cross getting a bit confused when the canal goes underground thru Islington but helpful locals set us on the way down Chapel Market across Upper St to the resumption of the towpath. The cafe is another mile. Not too big a place but even on a Saturday, the queue was 10 15 minutes for canal side picnic benches. Brunch menu, including a very tasty tomato masala dal. The canal itself is rather murky, it must be said. Still, unique place, worth the effort to find. Walk a few hundred yds east to Kingsland Rd for bus to London Bridge.

Loved our grilled cheese and quince sandwich but no bathroom at the restaurant, is not considerate of Customers purchasing coffee, tea, wine and the like. Servi... read more Loved our grilled cheese and quince sandwich but no bathroom at the restaurant, is not considerate of Customers purchasing coffee, tea, wine and the like. Service was indifferent.

The food was of high-quality, with every dish bursting with flavor. We received a warm welcome and the service provided by the staff was both friendly and profe... read more The food was of high-quality, with every dish bursting with flavor. We received a warm welcome and the service provided by the staff was both friendly and professional.

Went to Towpath, very busy, that’s fine.. a couple were really sweet and sad do share our table, polite. Friendly, warm. Then the most arrogant waiter comes ove... read more Went to Towpath, very busy, that’s fine.. a couple were really sweet and sad do share our table, polite. Friendly, warm. Then the most arrogant waiter comes over and says you cannot sit here,.. I explained we invited … his response I’m in charge of these tables, not them, you have to move. Nice!!! No matter how good the food may be as a little charming oasis in very tatty part of east London, the staff are not EAst Enders, their superior attitude probably is better off in the shires! If you want nice food AND nice service, and be served by nice people, I suggest swerve this place.

The flavors in every dish at this restaurant were outstanding, with unique and complementary ingredient combinations. The staff was friendly and attentive, desp... read more The flavors in every dish at this restaurant were outstanding, with unique and complementary ingredient combinations. The staff was friendly and attentive, despite the slight delay in service due to the busy atmosphere. The cozy, rustic ambiance and peaceful canal-side setting added to the overall experience. This was my first time dining at Towpath Cafe, but it certainly won't be my last. I urge others not to be discouraged by any negative reviews.