Seemor
Shri Lakshmi FoodsBWorth Trying
82 Hoe St, London E17 4PG
· Indian restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (326 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Gujarati-leaning vegetarian spot with standout chaats and thalis, warm service, and BYOB, but inconsistent execution and value concerns on portions and pricing.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Shri Lakshmi Foods delivers solid neighborhood dining with warm, attentive service and vibrant thalis and chaats when execution peaks. However, inconsistent curry quality across visits and modest space comfort, especially in the basement prevent it from reaching higher territory. The upstairs setting feels cozy and welcoming for families seeking approachable Gujarati vegetarian fare, though portions and pricing create occasional value concerns.
Restaurant Summary
A cozy Walthamstow spot where thalis and chaats lead the way, the room feels warm and homely upstairs with friendly, attentive staff. Diners describe vibrant flavors when the kitchen hits its stride, though one guest noted, "service was kind and they adjusted spice just right." Be aware the basement can feel less comfortable, and the space overall stays intimate and compact. The cooking leans Gujarati-vegetarian, an elevated traditional style with street food touches rather than flashy fusion. When on form, the thali can be special; when off, some curries read watery or under-seasoned. Portions skew modest for the price, but early-evening mini thali offers solid value for a simple meal. Expect BYO with corkage and a menu that is ingredient-focused more than showy. Families will find approachable dishes like samosas, bhajis, dal, and mild curries that many kids recognize, though there is no dedicated kids menu. If your crew wants larger portions, consider sharing a thali with extra bread, and sit upstairs for a cozier experience; picky eaters may prefer milder options like dal or potato-based snacks.
At a Glance
- Warm, welcoming service with spice-level flexibility
- Strong vegetarian and vegan focus with gluten-free awareness
- Inconsistent curry execution (watery or bland reports)
- Portion sizes can feel small relative to price
- Basement seating less comfortable (cold, damp feel) compared to upstairs
What Sets It Apart
- vegetarian_gujarati_focus
- byob_corkage
- customizable_thali
What People Love
- Comforting, customizable thalis
- Street food starters like samosa chaat
- Genuine hospitality and welcoming owner
- BYO flexibility with low corkage
Points of Concern
- Curries sometimes reported as watery or under-seasoned; quality varies by visit
- Value concerns: small portions and perceived high prices compared with other East London options
- Basement seating criticized for comfort (cold, damp feel, noise)
- Order mix-ups and occasional reluctance to move tables weaken problem resolution
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£28-40 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair a £5.50 starter (kale bhaji or samosa) with a thali for a balanced meal
- Choose chaats and black dal on nights you want bolder flavors
Perfect For
- BYO date night with vegetarian focus
- Local casual dinners with sharing thalis
- Gluten-free diners seeking labeled options
- Small groups exploring chaats and snacks
Location Insights
Area: Lively high street in Walthamstow with independent shops, cafes, and mixed residential crowd; casual neighborhood dining.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; typical urban high street conditions.
Nearby: Near craft beer shop (BYO mentioned), other eateries, and retail; convenient for locals and small groups.
Hoe StreetHoe Street is a lively local high street within Walthamstow featuring a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. The dining scene is eclectic, catering to a mix of traditional East Londoners and newer, younger residents seeking casual and affordable dining options. The area has a community feel with a blend of multicultural influences.
Walthamstow VillageWalthamstow Village is a small, historic enclave within Walthamstow known for its charming streets, boutique shops, and upscale dining. It attracts a more affluent crowd looking for a quieter, boutique dining experience compared to the busier Hoe Street.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–22:00
Tuesday17:00–22:00
Wednesday17:00–22:00
Thursday17:00–22:00
Friday17:00–22:00
Saturday17:00–22:00
Sunday17:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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