When crown laurels are handed out for the 2026 Best of Taste London, the spotlight belongs firmly to East 2 West’s extraordinary Harissa Lamb.
In a city brimming with culinary innovation, this £18 masterpiece from Hackney captured our hearts through pure technical precision and soul. Slow-cooked for four hours, the meat achieves a breathtaking, melt-in-the-mouth tenderness that effortlessly pulls apart. What truly sets it apart, however, is the kitchen’s mastery of spice: the house-made harissa-tomato glaze delivers a beautifully layered, aromatic warmth rather than aggressive heat, allowing the lamb’s natural richness to shine. Served over pillowy flatbread with punchy pickled vegetables for a bright, acidic contrast, it is elevated comfort food at its absolute finest.
