Cornerstone

WHO
The clue is in the name – Tom Brown. Formerly a chef in Nathan Outlaw’s Michelin-starred kitchen, Tom’s own restaurant builds on a rich blend of solid knowledge, Cornish produce and joyful combinations.

FOOD
Salmon pastrami with a pepper crust like the one used to make Sicilian Primo Sale cheese – £5
A pickled oyster that’s reminiscent of Nathan Outlaw’s cuisine, but which doesn’t taste like any other oyster you’ve ever had before – £5
A delightful surprise in the form of gurnard carpaccio with roasted almonds, dots of delicious yoghurt and finely sliced grapes that will change your life 
Dreamy scallops with orange XXX that’ll leave you wishing there was more than two mouthfuls 

DRINKS
If only more restaurants had such a handsome list of house cocktails and wines chosen so skilfully. The list changes frequently, so trust your serving lady or gentleman. For us, winner takes all: Mosel, a crisp-to-death skin-contact orange from Germany – £12.5

DECOR
Sophisticated black stone and moody metals dominate the newly built interiors. Warmth comes from extraordinarily comfortable mid-century-style wooden chairs (the rounded back rests would’ve made Ercol happy!), hand-thrown ceramics with natural speckles and artwork (mostly photography) from local artists. Which, luckily for you, is all for sale!

NOISE
All we remember is hearing something about “magic horses” followed by the Beatles – may well have been a dream.

SEATING
Most couples, whether they be romantic duos or business partners, will chose the intimate tables sprinkled throughout. However, if you’re not going to propose, we suggest sitting at the counter and marvelling at all the activity in the open kitchen.

VIBE
Bring your own. The first fine dining experience in Hackney Wick’s formerly rough-hewn arts district, it’s easy to feel intimated by Cornerstone’s sophisticated appearance. But there’s no reason to be. The kind-hearted staff is the least stuffy in London and the chefs behind the kitchen counter will graciously glance at your radiant smile as their creations dance across your tongue.

SERVICE
Typically included.

WOULD RECOMMEND
Don’t come if you don’t enjoy fish. Otherwise, allow yourself (and your portemonnaie) to indulge in one of London’s most special fine dining experiences. Having that said, we recommend lunch for a lighter ambiance.