From the team that brought us Pop Brixton and Peckham Levels comes Hackney Bridge’s The Courtyard, East London’s latest venture into outdoor dining which has just opened and is ready for business.

The timing could not be more apt as news circulates of a heatwave hitting the UK next month following what media outlets have labelled “washout May”. Who isn’t desperate for some alfresco drinking and dining? Throw in a prime canal side location and some of East London’s best loved street-food traders plus craft beer and speciality wine, and you’ve got yourself a party!

Street food in The Courtyard comes courtesy of seven traders who are all from Hackney and the surrounding areas. For those looking for a classic East End treat, The Jewish Deli are onsite with traditionally-made hot salt beef, bagels, latkes, falafel & reuben sandwiches. Seafood fans can expect delicious soft-shell crab and fish burgers from Da Fish Ting, and meat-lovers can rejoice, as STEAKhaus are on hand to deliver succulent and sustainable steak and chips. Filigrillz are serving up authentic Filipino flame-grilled meats and combos, lsewhere, Hermanos Taco House is dishing up mouth-watering tacos and burritos with a twist, and fans of Italian cuisine can enjoy classic neapolitan pizzas from Made in Puglia, and fresh, seasonal pasta dishes from Pasta E Basta.

Look out for a number of great events throughout the summer, including screenings of the Euros and select Wimbledon matches on a giant 2m X 3.5m outdoor screen. For dates and times of football screenings, visit www.hackneybridge.org/euros

 If that wasn’t enough, later in the summer Hackney Bridge is also launching a Sunday Market serving fresh produce from independent retailers and makers. Alongside this will be a giant indoor dining hall called Hackney Bridge Kitchens, with many more street food traders and space for over 100 diners. Elsewhere, Hackney Bridge will feature workspace and studios for artists and makers, and a number of independent retailers currently open for business.

For more information, and how to book your spot at The Courtyard visit www.hackneybridge.org

Written by Claire Coveney