St Katherine Docks is one of my favourite places in London. Not only is it relaxing to walk around, it also hosts plenty of cafes and restaurants. It reminds me of Poole Quay, Dorset, which is where I grew up. It is located in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets.
One day I was walking through St Katherine Docks and discovered a food market. It was a Friday and I thought it was a one off so I nosed around and discovered the market comes every Friday between 11:00 am – 2:00 pm. It is a bit like borough market but a little smaller in feel.
Lots of stalls come every week including hot food like fish and chips or delights from the falafel stand Chikp: Authentic Falafel, which I had a wrap from. The stalls that caught my eye included a fudge stall called Cookies and Cream and the French patisserie stand Comptoir Gourmand. The fudge I thought was an ideal gift for the sweet-toothed birthday friend and I always admire the pastry delights of French cookery.
Taking a step out of the market, there is a lot more to admire at the docks. My favourite restaurant there is Côte Brasserie. Every time I go there I am impressed with their flavorsome fish dishes. And what better view than the docks to look out upon at dinner time! Other tasty restaurants there include Ping Pong, Café Rouge and Zizzi.
I have always wanted to go to Tom’s Kitchen, maybe I will one day. It highlights seasonal produce on the menu and dishes range from confit lamb to beer battered pollock and chips. If that doesn’t make your mouth water, nothing will.
If you wish to indulge in a cake and coffee, my favourite place to go is White Mulberries. It is so cute inside with lots of yummy cakes on display. The people in there are very friendly too. It was a hot day when I went to the docks and so I bought an iced coffee from there. It was just the ticket!
Finally, I feel I must comment on the cookery school in the docks. The Smart School of Cookery is owned by Ann Hood, a previous BBC Masterchef contestant! Courses range from cheese making to macaroon classes, mmm.
If you have yet to visit the market at St Katherine Docks do go and explore. If not a Friday market day, you still won’t be disappointed with the array of cafes and restaurants there.