Seemor
La Mela Mediterranean Cuisine in HackneyA-Worth Trying
25-27 Marsh Hill, London E9 5QA
· Mediterranean restaurant, Breakfast restaurant, Brunch restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (632 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Friendly Mediterranean cafe-restaurant with standout brunch and mezze, reliable service, and moderate prices; a strong local pick with a few noise and pricing gripes.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
La Mela Mediterranean Cuisine delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional food quality anchored by standout mezze and reliable brunch execution, paired with genuinely attentive service that handles allergies and guest preferences with care. Consistent execution across repeat visits and a warm neighborhood atmosphere support reliable dining, though the pleasant but modest setting and occasional pasta variability prevent the higher distinction needed for grade A territory.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and inviting with a neighborhood bustle that suits brunch as much as dinner. Service draws praise for genuine care, with one diner noting, "staff kept us topped up and checked on allergies without fuss." Outdoor tables sit near a busy road, so the back garden room is the calmer choice for larger groups. The kitchen leans elevated traditional Mediterranean with mezze that shines, well-cooked seafood, and satisfying grills. Pastas and brunch plates are popular; steaks get high marks and portions run generous. The culinary approach leans contemporary comfort: ingredient-led with a few premium touches rather than flashy fusion. Families are well covered with a proper kids menu around £6.95 (pasta, fish and chips, pancakes) and flexible staff. Brunch favorites like the Full English or La Mela brunch work for less adventurous eaters, while mezze and salads suit mixed preferences.
At a Glance
- Standout mezze and reliable brunch with generous portions
- Friendly, attentive staff with good allergy awareness
- Dedicated kids menu at budget-friendly pricing
- Outdoor seating can be noisy due to traffic
- A few reports of uneven pasta seasoning and pricing sensitivity
What Sets It Apart
- broad_all_day_menu
- dedicated_kids_menu
- garden_room_for_groups
What People Love
- Welcoming, attentive service that remembers regulars
- Vibrant mezze and seafood cooked with care
- Generous brunch plates that feel like good value
- Comfortable neighborhood vibe with space for groups
Points of Concern
- Roadside outdoor tables can be noisy and fume-prone
- Occasional inconsistency on pastas or chicken doneness
- Some diners feel prices are high for the area, especially with drinks
- One-off claims of high service charge; typical London 10–12.5% is more likely
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£35-47 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with mezze then share a grill or seabass to balance richness
- Families: pair a kids meal with side veg or hummus to round out plates
Perfect For
- Weekend brunch with friends
- Casual family dinner with kids
- Group celebrations in the garden room
- Solo coffee and laptop session midweek
Location Insights
Area: Residential Hackney near Homerton with creative, family and student mix; casual neighborhood energy.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; some roadside bustle and fumes noted at outdoor seats.
Nearby: Close to green spaces and local high streets; draws locals for brunch, coffee, and casual dinners.
HackneyA trendy and dynamic neighborhood with a rich mix of historic and contemporary architecture, featuring a thriving food scene, independent businesses, and a bohemian urban atmosphere.
HomertonA transitional neighborhood with a mix of residential streets, emerging cultural spaces, and a growing reputation for affordable living and creative energy.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday08:00–19:00
Tuesday08:00–19:00
Wednesday08:00–22:00
Thursday08:00–22:00
Friday08:00–22:00
Saturday08:00–22:00
Sunday09:00–19:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →