High-energy Dalston spot for bottomless brunch, strong cocktails, and saucy wings; great fun when staffed well, but service speed can swing.
Chips n Dat delivers solid food quality anchored by standout wings and creative fusion plates, plus attentive service that shines during peak brunch hours, but inconsistent execution and variable wait times prevent a stronger showing. The small, functional space lacks distinctive ambiance, and polarized experiences across visits, from rapid top-ups to 30-plus-minute delays, undercut what could otherwise be a more reliable destination.
Dalston energy runs high here: expect lively music and flowing cocktails with servers who often anticipate the next round. Guests describe sessions where refills arrive right as glasses dip and birthdays get a sweet little flourish. When the team is humming, the room feels fun and celebratory. The kitchen leans creative comfort with a fusion streak, not fussy dining. Think panko shrimp, wings dressed in Lagos buffalo or suya, and brisket-topped fries—accessible food with bold, cross-cultural sauces. The culinary approach feels contemporary and playful: classic bar favorites lifted by distinctive spice profiles. Most enjoy the flavor-forward sauces; a few wish the base chicken had deeper seasoning. Families can make it work with burgers, fries, and mild wings, but bottomless slots skew adult and noisy. The menu offers real vegan choices like the mushroom-based "calamari" and a vegan burger, which helps; still, kids who avoid heat or unfamiliar sauces may prefer simpler items. Plan earlier visits for a calmer scene and check sauce heat levels before ordering for picky eaters.
Area vibe: Trendy East London corridor with nightlife, casual dining, and creative crowd; popular for weekend brunch and pre-drinks.
Safety: Generally busy and well-trafficked main road; typical urban vigilance applies late night.
What's nearby: Near Dalston Junction/Kingsland stations, surrounded by bars, music venues, and independent eateries.