228 Brick Lane,
Shoreditch,
E2 6DG
(020) 7729 6444
The ViewLondon Review
The once rather derelict north side of Brick Lane has been rapidly developing into a cultural minefield in the last 12 months, overtaking its popular curry house laden south end. On the north east corner of Brick Lane sits Casa Blue, a curiously haphazard Moroccan themed eatery and DJ bar that is filled with a unique, hippy-like charm.The VenueWith coloured bulbs strewn across its full glass front, Casa Blue is impossible to miss, sitting amongst its neighbours like an alluring Eastern Christmas tree. The lounge area is separated into two sections, made up of scruffy sofas, pretty lanterns, candles, and wooden benched tables.
The toilets downstairs are tiny, and on some cubicles there is either no door (the men’s) or you have to physically hold the door shut while you relieve yourself. Instead of being annoying, this is almost rather amusing; it’s an addition to the rough and ready charm the venue offers.
The AtmosphereThe staff here are warm and friendly although they can often be off in a world of their own (you may sometimes need to pop to the bar yourself for assistance). That said, they mostly maintain a smiling and helpful service.
In the early evening, classic indie music pours softly out (think along the lines of Pulp and Primal Scream) while guests drink and eat. A popular destination for both tourists to stumble across and locals to frequent, on Friday and Saturday night this place comes alive as local DJs spin Electronica to an eclectic, lively crowd that dance inside and later spill right out onto the pavement, smoking roll up cigarettes and chatting.
The FoodThe kitsch menu at Casa Blue is handwritten and colourful - it almost looks like a child’s painting. For £10 you can order a Moroccan platter to share, which is huge and comes with hummus, dolma, olives and other spicy delights, served alongside a generous piece of flatbread. This is perfect for 2-4 people, all the ingredients are fresh and authentic with excellent eastern flavours.
The DrinkThe shared platters make a fantastic snacking tray to accompany the delicious Mojitos they serve here (cherry and strawberry are particularly tasty). On the beer front there is one option - dusty bottles of San Miguel from the cellar downstairs. Good job that’s a tasty beer!
The Last WordCasa Blue is definitely an already popular watering hole and eatery worth visiting. Visually and spiritually, this place has plenty to offer, and the audios provided are spot on. You’ll most definitely keep coming back here to revel again in this, a curiously moreish environment.