The story
On Stoke Newington Church Street, Calong brings a distinct perspective to East London dining. This cosy neighbourhood restaurant blends Korean and European influences, working with the best of British seasonal ingredients. The result is a menu that feels both grounded and inventive, driven by the produce of the moment.
The kitchen’s approach is matched by a concise list of ethically made wines, chosen to complement the food’s vibrant, layered flavours. The atmosphere is warm and unpretentious, the kind of place where the cooking does the talking.
Calong’s quality has been recognised with a Michelin Bib Gourmand, awarded for good quality, good value cooking. It’s a fitting nod to a restaurant that delivers thoughtful, satisfying meals without ceremony. Open for dinner Wednesday to Saturday, and for lunch Friday to Sunday, it has become a fixture for locals and anyone seeking a genuinely good meal in Hackney.
Recognition
Ambience
Details
History
good quality, good value cooking
‘Calong’, Google helpfully tell us, means 'stylish' in Busan dialect – a good name for Joo and Sujin Won’s effortlessly cool modern Korean bistro, which has taken over the former home of Rubedo. It’s a tiny site, little more than 30 covers, still with Rubedo’s bentwood chairs, white walls, and blackboard menus. If that makes it sound a little French – like it wouldn’t look out of place in Paris – that's not surprising given that Joo was head chef at Galvin at Windows for 15 years. The dialogue between his Gallic training and his Korean heritage is discernible on every plate, from his trademark kimchi fritters and buttery mushroom claypot rice to BBQ onglet with greens and bulgogi jus. Sharp lines and vivid flavours characterise Sujin’s desserts too. The baked Alaska deserves all the attention it gets. A handful of interesting cocktails (soju spritz, sesame Old Fashioned) lead on to a sensibly priced natural wine list, with bottles from £36.
Location
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