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Symposium – Natural Wine Bar, Bottle Shop & Italian KitchenA-Worth Trying

Name: Symposium – Natural Wine Bar, Bottle Shop & Italian Kitchen
Address: 363 Roman Rd, Bow, London E3 5QR, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.7

363 Roman Rd, Bow, London E3 5QR · Wine bar, Coffee store, Delivery service · 4.7/5 Google (383 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

A cozy East London Italian wine bar-deli hybrid with warm service, skilled pastas, and natural wines; value skews fair-to-good but desserts and specials can feel pricey to some.

Why it gets an A- for overall quality

Symposium delivers A-grade performance through exceptional food quality anchored by consistently praised pasta and tiramisu, paired with outstanding wine expertise and attentive, owner-led hospitality. The intimate neighborhood setting and strong loyalty following reflect genuine appeal, though modest space constraints and occasional portion concerns prevent grade A territory. A reliable, well-executed natural wine destination for Italian food enthusiasts.

Restaurant Summary

The room feels warm and homely, the kind of neighborhood spot where staff remember faces and guide you toward bottles you did not know you needed. Guests describe attentive, personal service and say things like, "They walked us through the list and checked in without rushing." However, expect modest portions rather than heaping plates, and note an occasional gripe about value on desserts or specials. The overall mood is relaxed but lively. The cooking leans classic Italian with a seasonal bend, supported by a focused, natural-leaning wine list. Think well-executed pastas, parmigiana, and a tiramisu that earns repeat praise, plus rotating specials and occasional supper clubs. The culinary approach leans elevated traditional rather than showy, with wine pairings playing a starring role and the deli case adding that market feel. For families, gelato is a reliable win and simple pasta or parmigiana can suit younger eaters. There is no dedicated kids menu, and the setting is intimate, so bring little ones early or off-peak. Based on the current menu, expect gelato choices and a few veggie-friendly dishes; adventurous kids will do fine, picky eaters may prefer the simpler items.

At a Glance

Owner-led hospitality with thoughtful wine guidance
Consistently praised tiramisu and well-cooked pasta
Portions can be modest; a few feel desserts or specials are pricey
Small space; service may feel rushed at peak times
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food

What Sets It Apart

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What People Love

Genuine, welcoming service that feels personal
Natural wine recommendations that elevate the meal
A tiramisu many call a must-order
That cozy neighborhood-gem atmosphere

Points of Concern

Some guests report modest portions, particularly on certain mains and desserts
Pricing for desserts and select deli items can feel high to value-focused diners
Service can feel rushed when the room is under-staffed or very busy
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; CONCERN: Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£32-44 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

If undecided, pair a veg-forward starter like fig and burrata with a mineral-leaning white; finish with gelato or tiramisu depending on sweet tooth.
Workers lunch at £9.90 is the best entry point if you want a taste of the kitchen with a drink included.

Perfect For

A relaxed date with natural wine exploration
Weeknight neighborhood dinner with a couple of small plates
Solo glass at the bar with a snack
Low-key celebrations with food-loving friends

Location Insights

Area: Residential East London high street with independent shops and a creative, local vibe.

Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; typical urban awareness advised at night.

Nearby: Near Roman Road market stretch, cafes, bars, and daily-needs retail; draws neighborhood regulars and wine lovers.

BowA traditional East End neighborhood with a mix of historic council housing and new developments, characterized by a blend of traditional and emerging urban cultures. The dining scene reflects the area's multicultural demographic with diverse, affordable dining options.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday Tuesday16:30–23:00 Wednesday16:30–23:00 Thursday16:30–23:00 Friday12:00–23:00 Saturday12:00–23:00 Sunday12:00–18:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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