The Star By Hackney Downs — Restaurant in London

The Star by Hackney Downs — Eclectic, Energetic, and Endearingly Hackney A true East London original, The Star by Hackney Downs blends retro charm with community spirit. Perched right by Hackney Downs Park, this pub is more than just a place to grab a pint — it’s a creative hub, a party venue, and a street food showcase all rolled into one.

Highlights:

Karaoke in a gypsy caravan — powered by Lucky Voice, it’s quirky, cozy, and wildly fun

Pop-up kitchen — rotating street food residencies every few months keep the menu fresh and exciting

Courtyard garden — perfect for sunny afternoons and casual hangouts

Function rooms — ideal for birthdays, meetings, or spontaneous dance parties

Vibe: Think 90s interiors, mismatched furniture, and a laid-back crowd. It’s rough around the edges in the best way — welcoming, unpretentious, and full of character.

Service: Generally friendly and fast, though experiences can vary depending on the night. Expect a mix of locals, creatives, and karaoke enthusiasts.

Prices: Mid-range for London — decent value considering the entertainment and atmosphere.

Final word: Whether you're here for a pint, a psychic reading, or a singalong in a caravan, The Star delivers a night to remember. It’s messy, magical, and...

I was disappointed by my visit here, although I shoulder some of the blame for that. I came hoping to sample the delicious looking hot dogs I saw on their menu a few weeks ago, only to find out when we arrived they didn't do them. The reason was this place hosts pop up food outlets rather than having its own menu. The wings outlet here at the time provided us with some delicious chicken wings, but as my heart was set on hot dogs even that quality couldn't overcome my disappointment.

However, more disappointing was the service and lack of atmosphere. It was late on a Wednesday and there were only about 2 other people here - I imagine it may be busier on a nice day with people retreating from the park across the road. However, the staff were very indifferent, even if I couldn't go as far as calling them rude. They were also in a hurry to get rid of us once we were the last ones out and didn't make us feel welcome at all.

I'd try it again if I happened to be in Hackney Downs on a nice day, but certainly won't be making any special...

The staff are friendly, the drink is good, the food is actually quite impressive... Well done them...

This is, sadly, another pub that reflects who spends their money there, and not the majority of locals. Back in the day you would find locals from a mixture of backgrounds and ethnicities, but now you find the 'new hackney': young, white, trousers too small, interesting facial hair. Which is fine. I mean hey, that's where the money is and it is a nice place that does decent drinks and very good food, albeit a bit pricey. They pitch it at peak 'good food for a price'.

I just find it a little sad that Hackney is being slowly divided into two camps, 'up and coming' (The Star) and 'nowhere we can afford' (the locals). This is not the Star's fault though, just a commentary on the direction that our beloved city is headed in. I had a nice time here.

I came for a pint after a footy game, both of which I enjoyed greatly,...