Nestled between striking new buildings forming part of the International Quarter in Stratford, a modern Greek goddess stands proud: HERA Restaurant. A product of love, authenticity, attention to detail and stories that will transport you straight to your favourite Greek Island. And whilst the settings and the food are delightful, what really makes the experience unforgettable when you visit HERA Restaurant are the people who work there. They look after you like family.
A Warm Welcome
As you walk into the lobby of the restaurant, you’re immediately greeted by warm smiles and tantalising music that prepares you for a truly memorable experience. You soon forget the hustle and bustle of busy London and enter a completely different dimension.
You might be greeted by Daphne, whose charming smile will immediately make you feel at ease and relaxed. Later the team manager, Harris, might come and say ‘hello’ and crack a joke to really get you in a good mood. Whoever greets you, there is no doubt that the HERA team will give you the warmest of welcomes.
An Impressive Bar
Don’t resist the temptation to stop by the bar as you enter the restaurant. Remember: you’re in Greece now, there’s no rush, life moves more slowly now. Order a drink before dinner and enjoy both the impressive view of the bottles’ display behind the bar and the even more impressive cocktails you’ll be served in the lounge.
A must-try is of course HERA’s namesake cocktail. Expect the unexpected. The taste doesn’t resemble anything you would have tried before. Herby and extra smooth. This cocktail does not disappoint. And if you want to try a second one, the Muses Kiss will provide you with another tasting adventure! And while you sip your drink, notice the music softly playing in the background: it really enhances the atmosphere and your cocktail experience.
A Culinary Journey Through the Best Greek Cuisine Has to Offer
Once you sit at the table, ready to eat, give up all control. One of the capable waiters will guide you through the menu, which is built around a sharing concept. If you’re lucky, you might be looked after by the charming Zoe, who’s originally from Greece and has a fantastic story for each of the dishes. She will help you select plates that will allow you to mix complementary flavours and truly maximise your Greek culinary experience.
And when one thinks of Greece there are of course a couple one must try, starting with the absolutely incredible Feta Saganaki: a delicate tablet of cooked feta, enveloped in sweet honey and lemon angel’s hair. It is sublime. Zoe will tell you how this reminds her of Sunday lunches at home with her mum back in Greece. And while you taste this delicious feta it’ll feel like being there with them!!
From the delicate flavour of feta to the powerful and punchy taste of the smoked aubergine, accompanied by a yoghurt sauce. There’s even some truffle sprinkled on top. Although the truffle gets perhaps a bit lost in such a powerfully smoky dish, the addition is sophisticated and welcomed nonetheless.
And when you are ready to really dive deep into the Aegean or Mediterranean Sea, the grilled octopus will not disappoint. It’s accompanied by a Fava bean purée and a tomato salsa that will allow you to play with different combinations until you find the perfect balance that works for you!
And of course, no meal is complete without something sweet. There are a few authentically Greek options to choose from on the menu. The Halva cake served with chocolate sauce and pecan nuts is an interesting one with an enticing sensation on the tongue. It has a slightly grainy texture from the semolina base with ground cinnamon but don’t let that put you off because this dessert carries really authentic flavours you won’t find in any British puddings. A must-try.
An Incredibly Well-Designed Space
Whilst the drinks, the food and the lovely people working at HERA are definitely the main reasons why you will thoroughly enjoy this place, it doesn’t hurt that the restaurant is also beautifully designed. It’s spacious, it has style and grandeur. You’ll definitely feel a sense of occasion when stepping into this fantastic space.
Even the washrooms are stunningly decorated, and you’ll find it hard to resist the temptation to take a little selfie in the mirror, while surrounded by impressive marbles and lush plants.
A Place You Will Definitely Want to Go Back To!
There could not be a better time to try this new Greek restaurant at the edge of the impressive Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. HERA is one of those places that provides more than a good meal. It is a memorable place, especially because of the incredibly passionate people who work there, including their very talented chef, Greek of course, who has designed a truly authentic menu inspired by the best of Greek cuisine constructed from the finest authentic ingredients!
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All imagery courtesy of HERA Restaurant.