Seemor

XhauriA-?Proceed Cautiously

Name: Xhauri
Address: 176 Hoe St, London E17 4QH, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.7

176 Hoe St, London E17 4QH · Mediterranean restaurant, Coffee shop · 4.7/5 Google (98 reviews)

Reservations · Takeout

Heartwarming Albanian comfort food with generous portions and friendly vibes; great value if you are okay with a back smoking area and occasionally quirky service.

Why it gets an A-? for overall quality

Preliminary Grade: This restaurant has only 98 reviews, which is below our 50-review minimum for reliable grading. This grade should be considered preliminary until more reviews are available. Xhauri earns its A- grade through excellent traditional Albanian cooking and outstanding value with generous portions, supported by reliable execution and spacious, welcoming atmosphere. The authentic neighborhood vibe and loyal following reflect genuine community appeal, though the functional design and occasional service quirks prevent grade A territory. A solid neighborhood gem for those seeking honest, hearty Balkan comfort food.

Restaurant Summary

The room feels warm and bustling with a steady flow of locals, Albanian TV music in the background, and staff who are quick with bread and a smile. One diner summed it up: "Huge bowls of soup with warm bread and friendly faces". Expect a community hub atmosphere more than polished formality, with generous plates and easy prices. The cooking leans traditional and hearty rather than fancy, anchored in Albanian comfort dishes like goulash, fasule, qofte, and lamb chops. The culinary approach is classic and produce-driven: well-executed staples over trend-chasing. If you love stews, fresh bread, and straight-shooting grills, this will hit the spot; if you are hunting for modern fusion or plated artistry, temper expectations. Families should find it quite approachable. There is no kids menu, but options like Buttered Spaghetti, omelette with chips, grilled chicken, and simple sides tend to work for younger eaters. Portions are large, so plan to share. Note: a back smoking area has been mentioned, which can carry some smell into the dining room; consider this if dining with sensitive noses.

At a Glance

Generous portions and excellent value for London
Authentic Albanian comfort dishes with fresh bread
Friendly, community-hub atmosphere
Back smoking area can affect overall smell for some diners
Service style can feel a bit unconventional at times

What Sets It Apart

authentic_albanian_specialties
exceptional_value_soups
homemade_bread_service
group_sharing_dishes

What People Love

The rich, comforting goulash and bean soups
Warm, homemade bread served alongside
Tender lamb chops with satisfying sides
Feeling welcomed in a genuine neighborhood spot

Points of Concern

A smoking area at the back has led to noticeable smoke smell for some diners (minority reports)
Service described as friendly but occasionally quirky or informal
Portions are very large, which can be awkward for solo diners
Traditional, meat-forward menu means limited options for strict vegans

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£22-34 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Pair a mid-priced main (£14-16) with a low-cost starter like byrek (£4) and finish with trilece (£4) for a satisfying and affordable three-course meal
Families: choose one main plus soup and sides to share rather than individual mains

Perfect For

Cold day soup cravings with fresh bread
Casual family dinners with sharing plates
Budget-friendly group meals
Curious diners exploring Albanian cuisine

Location Insights

Area: Lively East London high street with a mix of independent cafes, Balkan groceries, and everyday shops; local community hub feel.

Safety: Generally busy and well trafficked; typical urban London environment with adequate lighting.

Nearby: Near Walthamstow Central corridor and local markets; draws both local Albanian community and curious neighbors.

WalthamstowA vibrant and increasingly trendy neighborhood with a mix of traditional community feel and emerging hipster culture. Known for its diverse dining scene, local markets, and community-focused atmosphere.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday09:00–00:00 Tuesday09:00–00:00 Wednesday09:00–00:00 Thursday09:00–00:00 Friday09:00–00:00 Saturday09:00–00:00 Sunday09:00–00:00

Available: Reservations, Takeout

View full analysis on Seemor →