Amber Restaurant Halal Review

I’m writing this review reluctantly. Even as I type I’m thinking I could just not finish and upload it, but where’s the fun in that? So here goes, today I’m sharing with you guys an absolute hidden gem in East London – Amber. 

Amber is a huge nod to Amber Road, an ancient trade route which ran from the North and Baltic coasts to the Mediterranean Sea. The food in this gorgeous restaurant clearly has a mix of those influences but honestly it’s nothing like I’ve had before. 

But first, can we talk about how stunning this place is? Aesthetically it’s gorgeous. Bright and airy and filled with plants and mirrors; an Instagrammers dream. I feel like it really is the perfect setting for any occasion. 

Over the last 3 years I’ve visited Amber a lot to work from and it’s always a treat to bring friends to such a stunning place that’s tucked away behind the city.

The staff here are ALWAYS welcoming and I truly mean that. Every single staff member is helpful and they’re attentive without harassing you to finish up and leave. 

This week my friend and I were torn between lunch or brunch so we turned up at 11:30 and ordered both! 

The Shakshuka (Baked tomato, pepper ragout, eggs, tahini, sourdough) which I did get a little taste of was beautiful. The first thing she said was you can tell they use quality ingredients. The artisanal sourdough bread they use marries up with it perfectly. Its also the first time my friend didn’t ask for chilli sauce with her order!

I went for the Burnt leeks pide (Blue cheese, caramelised onions, basil, figs). There’s something about a strong cheese and caramelised onions that will always always draw me in and after practically inhaling it I can tell you I have no regrets. It was an unusual mix of ingredients but my goodness does it work. 

We couldn’t resist ordering the House Fried Potato‘s (chives, cemen mayo, truffle oil) too. Sorry but can you ever go wrong with skin on roasted potatoes? Delicious! I also always get their homemade lemonade and would recommend it to you too. One of the best I’ve ever had.

Is it expensive? 

For London, and we’re talking “the city”, which Aldgate is now known as it’s very reasonable. We ordered two mains, a side and a drink and it came to about £30 which I think is brill.

Is it halal?

I’ve just found out that both the chicken and the lamb are halal. Do ask before you order though.

Would I recommend it? Yes. Try EVERYTHING!