From Lasagne to Builders' Tea: The Long Life of E.Pellicci
Walk down Bethnal Green Road and it’s hard to miss E.Pellicci. The bright yellow café has been part of the neighbourhood for over 100 years, serving a mix of full English breakfasts, lasagne, and strong cups of tea.
Where It Started
The ‘E’ stands for Elide Pellicci, who kept the café going after her husband Priamo died in 1931. He started working there in 1900. Elide raised seven children in the flat upstairs while running the café downstairs—a proper East End setup.
Why Yellow?
The yellow paint appeared in the 1940s, chosen to brighten up the post-war gloom. Inside, the wood panelling was carved by Achille Capocci in 1946 and hasn’t changed much since. The café is now Grade II listed, which means it’s officially recognised as something worth keeping.
The menu is a mix of English and Italian staples. It’s still run by the Pellicci family and still attracts a loyal crowd—locals, cabbies, the odd film crew. If you're curious, their Instagram (@pelliccicafe) gives a good sense of what it’s like inside.
If you're in the area this is one place that cannot be missed. It's a true gem of Bethnal Green and a testament to the power of community and tradition in an ever-changing London town. You can also buy a copy of my painting of this wonderful little cafe here.