Wandering along the canal in Hackney in summertime there’s a kind of dream world going on where the residents of the houseboats and barges spread out their lives onto their top decks. Bicycles and deck chairs just fit in amongst planters of flowers and herbs. It was this way of life that gave Sarah Brading and Rich Baker the idea for Flat Earth. Living on a narrow boat they grew their own vegetables on the roof and turned them into pizza toppings, and from there began to run a series of popular veggie pop-up’s.
Just up from the towpath on Cambridge Heath Road, the couple now have their first restaurant, Flat Earth. Something of that laidback waterside vibe has transferred to the space with its hanging houseplants, vintage floral curtains and bar counter that’s made from repurposed scaffolding planks.
The original idea was to create meat free pizzas that are kind to the planet. In fact sustainability is the focus in all aspects of the business – from the micro-seasonal menu to the wine sold on tap or in reusable bottles. If you like what you’re drinking the ‘bottle return’ scheme means you can buy a reusable bottle to take home too. Suppliers’ have all been vetted for their eco credentials, and they include as many local businesses as possible like Climpson & Sons coffee and Flavour Fred – a professional forager whose finds go into the cocktails.
During the day the menu is simple and mainly centres on sourdough toast with all sorts of toppings. We visited in the evening for delicious small plates and pizza – the 5 onion starter is not to be missed, whilst the Hackney Hot was our favourite pizza. The dough is a wholesome one – made with 50/50 Gilchester’s Organic heritage grain flour and WildFarmed flour – so you feel quite virtuous afterwards compared with a normal pizza.
A Little Bird Loves
