If you need a break from the eclectic cool of Whitechapel, this is the spot. Famed for its comfortable atmosphere and friendly, helpful staff, the warm lights  provide a warm welcome to weary culture-hunters. The menu may be small, but there’s nothing on it that isn’t beautiful and interesting, and the same goes for the wine list. For all that, the prices are very reasonable and it’s a popular spot.

There are different options for lunch (served 12:00-16:00): salads, soup of the day, mac and cheese, toasted Sourdough topped with your choice of chorizo picante, smoked haddock or butternut squash - each accompanied with different toppings - at a reasonable  £6.75, or Cumberland sausage, smoked bacon, portobello mushroom and cherry tomato for £6.50.

Dinner plates (Thursdays 17:30-20:00) include soups, cheese and vegetable platters and small bites such as bay, lemon and chilli marinated Halkidiki & Kalamata olives, or Wasabi peas & tempura. Beer and wine available.

The Café offers equally delicious freshly baked cakes and biscuits, with newspapers and art publications available to peruse.

Whitechapel Gallery Café/Bar

77-82 Whitechapel High St  London E1 7QX

Opening Times

Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 10.00–18.00

Thursday: 10.00–21.30 (last orders)

Saturday-Sunday: 10.30–18.00