SlowBurn, in Blackhorse Lane, has been named as one of Britain’s best local restaurants in 2025 by the Good Food Guide.
The unique restaurant aims to “champion” vegetables and shares a space with craft jeans maker Blackhorse Lane Ateliers.
Founder and head chef Chavdar Todorov said it is “amazing” to have won a best local restaurant award.
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“We were a little surprised but very proud as well at the same time,” Chavdar told this paper.
“This recognition, as well as from the Guide, is also from the people that come and dine with us.
“It’s a very humbling experience to know that people trust us and like what we do, and have taken the time to vote for us as well.”
SlowBurn has an ‘inclusive’ menu with a focus on veg (Image: @adashandasplash)
Customers at SlowBurn dine amongst sewing machines and industrial-size tumble dryers, and Chavdar believes this unique environment is one of the reasons why people return.
The restaurant is only open between Friday and Sunday – due to Blackhorse Lane Ateliers operating during the week – and the dining tables are only brought out once the factory closes at around 4pm on Fridays.
Regulars also like the “inclusive” menu approach, says Chavdar, with vegetables at the centre but still “a little bit for everybody”.
SlowBurn was founded during the Covid pandemic, and five years later has formed “close” ties between the community and its “loyal” team of around 15.
Chavdar said: “Everyone seems to be happy working here.
“One of the biggest achievements I kept saying is people actually reaching out to us and wanting to work with us.
“People seem to recognise that it’s a good place to work and it shows: if people are happy working here, the guests will be happy.”
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The Good Food Guide best local restaurant awards are in their 15th year, aiming to spotlight independent venues across the country.
Almost 60,000 votes were cast for the 2025 awards.
Other winners in London include the Lacy Nook in Walthamstow, Miga in Hackney and Chuku’s in Tottenham.
