A Morning Adventure at New Spitalfields Market: A Culinary Journey
On my recent day off, I decided to indulge in a leisurely visit to New Spitalfields Market, conveniently timing my arrival for around 9:30 AM. Admittedly, this is a bit late for the bustling market, which typically comes alive between midnight and 3 AM. Nonetheless, the atmosphere was calm, with just a handful of early risers exploring the site.
While my visit was more about taking it easy and enjoying a hearty breakfast than witnessing the market at its peak, I plan to return early on another day to experience the full vibrancy of the traders in action.
After a leisurely stroll through the market, I headed over to a charming eatery called Dino’s for breakfast. Upon entering, I noticed a distinct absence of menus or any sort of signage detailing the offerings. When I inquired about the menu, the friendly gentleman at the counter—whom I assumed to be Dino himself—lightheartedly replied, “I am the menu,” with a warm chuckle.
What followed was a delightful feast: I ordered the big fry-up, complemented by a smaller fry-up for my companion, along with two steaming cups of tea and some of the finest toast I’ve ever tasted. The total came to a reasonable £20, a small price for such a satisfying meal.
For those considering a visit to New Spitalfields Market, keep in mind that many traders begin to pack up by 7-8 AM. While the market is open to the public, it seems that most transactions are on a bulk basis, catering primarily to businesses. Also, be aware that there is a high-visibility vest requirement for market-goers; while it wasn’t enforced during my visit, I suspect it would be for those arriving earlier.
If you’re planning your journey, the closest Tube station is Leyton, but I highly recommend getting off at Stratford. This way, you can enjoy a scenic walk through the Olympic Park, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your outing.
Next time, I’ll aim for an earlier start, eager to soak in the bustling spirit of New Spitalfields Market and perhaps try a few more culinary delights. Until then, enjoy your own explorations!