NEIGHBOURHOOD CHARM, BOUJI FEELS, AND SERIOUSLY GOOD FOOD

By Tanya Howard | Founder, The Live Review London · @glamglitzlondon | Press Invite

There’s something about finding a spot that nails both flavour and atmosphere, and Elephant Hackney does exactly that. This place has that perfect mix of laid-back charm and understated luxury. It’s got the look of a cosy neighbourhood spot but feels like something special. With candlelit tables, attentive staff, and a soundtrack that just makes you want to stay for hours. It’s giving bouji yet affordable vibes.

The team recommended you select two two piattini, one primi & secondi, and one pizza between two people, and honestly? They nailed it. We went slightly over that, and ended up so full, but in the best way. We started with the House Bread & Butter and Prosciutto Rosa, technically extras, but who can say no to carbs and cured meats? The bread was warm, fluffy, and paired with beer butter that was next level. So much so, we ordered another portion to dip our pizza in. No regrets.

EVERY PLATE PACKS A BIG HIT OF FLAVOUR

For our piattini, we ordered Ox Cheek Croquettes with Anchovy Mayo and Squid, Gordal Olive Skewer e Friggitelli Pepper with Salsa Verde. The croquettes had a crunchy shell, melt-in-the-mouth filling, and a salty punch from the anchovy mayo cutting right through the richness. The squid was bright, herby, a little smoky from the grill, and beautifully balanced.

For our primi & secondi, we went for the Ziti Genovese Ragú, a slow cooked, deeply comforting dish that just screamed Italian soul food. Perfect for the colder Autumn nights we’re facing. Then came the pizza, the Diavola with Friggitelli Pepper, a proper showstopper. Meat, cheese, peppers, and the curveball… a honey crust. I will no longer be accepting any less on all pizzas going forward.

Dessert was sadly a no from me, for no reason other than I was simply too full for another bite. Char ordered the House Tiramisu to take away (she’s a ride-or-die for tiramisu). I would have asked for the Fried Lavender Donut, white chocolate & dulce de leche but they were all out. How intriguing do they sound? And sadly, my other option of Strawberry Gelato wouldn’t have travelled well.

COCKTAILS THAT DON’T BREAK THE BANK, AND A LOVINGLY CURATED WINE LIST

Drinks-wise, Elephant keeps it refreshingly affordable. Cocktails are all £8 (wild for London), and the wine list tops out at £50. We kicked off with a Passion Fruit Martini and a Spicy Margarita, both perfectly balanced, not too sweet, not too heavy, then shared a bottle of Prosecco because, well, obviously. Bonus tip: go on a Tuesday for their Marg + Marg deal, a Margherita pizza and Spicy Margarita for £20.

Everything we tried was genuinely delicious, and when we tried to pick a favourite, we couldn’t. Maybe the beer butter or honey crust on the pizza just for how unexpectedly good they were, but truthfully, every single dish hit. The staff were lovely, a special shoutout to Elleisha, who made the whole experience even better. She was so warm and friendly, and that kind of genuine service always elevates things.

What a gorgeous evening we had at Elephant Hackney. Whether you’re popping in for cocktails and small plates or settling in for a full dinner, it delivers on flavour, atmosphere, and friendliness. The space itself is intimate and beautifully designed. It’s bringing a bit of bouji energy to this corner of Hackney but still feels accessible and relaxed. Affordable, delicious, and full of personality. This one’s a Hackney gem I’ll definitely be going back to.

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Photo Credit: Lateef Photography