Planque

Planque in Haggerston is a strikingly designed modern European restaurant built beneath two atmospheric railway arches, combining the serenity of minimalist architecture with the warmth of communal dining. At its heart is a long, 10-metre oak table and softly lit booths that invite shared experiences and conversation. Spearheaded by chef Sebastian Myers — formerly of P. Franco and Chiltern Firehouse — the menu draws on seasonal British produce with a distinct French accent. Dishes evolve regularly but have included veal sweetbreads with celeriac and brown butter, and aged beef ribeye with king cabbage and pepper sauce, all crafted with precise technique and relaxed finesse. The restaurant also features an exceptional natural wine cellar, spotlighting rare, low-intervention wines from small European producers — a major draw for East London’s wine-savvy crowd. Planque offers a curated dining experience that is at once casual and considered, ideal for special evenings or a sophisticated Saturday lunch. Critics have noted the confidence in its culinary voice, its architectural grace, and the unique rhythm created by communal seating. Open for dinner Monday to Saturday and lunch on Saturdays, this Haggerston favourite sometimes offers special seasonal events or wine-led evenings, making it as much a destination for oenophiles as for lovers of refined, modern European cuisine.

May 16, 2025