Introduction: A Long-Awaited London Brick Lane Experience
Hello, this is CityNomix from Photomo. While my everyday job is in digital marketing, my passion lies in exploring cities both domestically and internationally, uncovering and sharing local culture. This time, on the cloudy evening of November 14th, 2024, just after 6:19 PM, I finally made my way to London’s iconic Brick Lane. My main goal? To savor the famous salt beef beigel from Beigel Bake. This is a record of that city walk, including a stop at an alluring shop I discovered along the way.
The walk from Liverpool Street Station to Brick Lane was more than just a commute; it was a journey filled with discovery. Along the path were unmissable spots I’d been curious about, such as the select shop GOODHOOD and the record store Rough Trade East. The Brick Lane area, in particular, had a vibrant yet somehow calm atmosphere, making the simple act of walking an exciting sensation.
GOODHOOD: A High-Sense Space Offering Everything from Fashion to Lifestyle
My first stop was GOODHOOD, a select shop located in East London. Its minimalist yet impactful facade was quite impressive.
Inside, the store showcased not only fashion items but also interior goods and stylish audio equipment, all selected with a unique aesthetic eye. It truly felt like a lifestyle concept store.
An Impressive Brand Lineup and a Touch of Japanese Pride
One of the charms of GOODHOOD is its wide range of brand selections. They carry international streetwear brands like Stussy, and also cutting-edge Japanese brands like C.E (Cav Empt). Seeing Japanese brands appreciated overseas always fills me with a sense of pride. Incidentally, C.E (Cav Empt) is also available at Dover Street Market London, which speaks to its popularity.
It felt less like a store merely selling products and more like a place that was curating and transmitting culture. Simply Browse the items was an enjoyable experience. The product selection was extensive, with a particularly good range of Stussy items.
Eye-Catching Design Goods and Audio
Looking around the store, I noticed unique and well-designed interior goods that are rarely seen in Japan. What particularly caught my eye was a collection of colorful and stylishly designed speakers.
Furthermore, an analog record player by the Swedish audio brand Transparent was on display. Its minimalist and transparent design was truly a work of art – a must-have for any music or design enthusiast.
These items felt less like mere products and more like art pieces that could enhance a space.
Record Hunting and the Charms of Brick Lane
After leaving GOODHOOD, I continued down Brick Lane and soon spotted Rough Trade East. I checked for used records there, but unfortunately, didn’t find what I was looking for this time. However, not wanting to give up, I popped into Vintage Vinyl Brick Lane and, to my delight, found an Oasis bootleg record, which I promptly purchased. This is exactly why I can’t quit used record hunting.
Brick Lane is not just home to record stores like Rough Trade East; it also boasts numerous vintage clothing shops, trendy pubs, and restaurants. It’s an area packed with so much to see and do that you could easily spend an entire day there and not get bored.
Finally! Beigel Bake and the Coveted Salt Beef Beigel
With my record hunting complete, it was time for the main event of the day: Beigel Bake. Although it was already evening, the queue stretching outside the shop was a testament to its popularity.
However, the wait wasn’t as long as I had feared. Customers ordered quickly, and the staff worked with remarkable efficiency, so the line moved steadily. The interior was unpretentious, with no excessive decorations – exactly the kind of atmosphere you’d expect from a long-established local favorite. This unassuming charm was part of its appeal.
An Unforgettable Taste Sensation
After about a 10-minute wait, I finally had the legendary salt beef beigel in my hands.
Unable to contain my excitement, I took a bite right outside the shop. The experience was incredible. The salt beef was unbelievably tender and juicy, with the perfect amount of saltiness. The pickle it came with was also exquisite, its acidity and crunch providing a delightful accent that enhanced the overall flavor. It was a texture and flavor I had never experienced in a beigel before. I was simply blown away. I devoured it in what felt like an instant, completely lost in the moment. This taste, without a doubt, will be one of the reasons I return to London.
Conclusion: A Brick Lane Experience That Satisfied Body and Soul
My visit to Brick Lane was a short but incredibly rich experience. Not only did I fulfill my long-held dream of tasting the salt beef beigel at Beigel Bake, but I also made new discoveries at GOODHOOD and enjoyed the thrill of record hunting. The Beigel Bake beigel, in particular – its taste, the atmosphere of the shop, and its history of being loved by locals – has been etched in my memory as an unforgettable “sensation.”
I sincerely hope that wonderful establishments like this continue to thrive for years to come. With a full stomach and a happy heart, I made my way back to my hotel. Brick Lane and Beigel Bake are places I will definitely visit again.
Beigel Bake Official Website: https://www.beigelbake.co.uk/
Google MAP of the location: