![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.mostlyfood.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/hera-cocktail-1.jpg\")
Drawing inspiration from the goddess Hera, queen of the gods in ancient Greek mythology, and known as the protector of family and celebration, the restaurant HERA has achieved the enviable objective of being a warm and convivial meeting, drinking and dining spot in Stratford, East London.<\/p>\n
HERA is a gem. Don\u2019t expect white walls with blue accents. Yes, that would be very Greek but let\u2019s save that for holidays in the sun with trips to the rustic local taverna. This is a confident London restaurant. You chose it, so you already know it\u2019s Greek. The black walls and lofty ceilings talk of sophistication.<\/p>\n
The bar here is spectacular and welcomes the expectant diner at the entrance. HERA offers a menu of unique signature cocktails, and we enjoyed a brace of them. The eponymous HERA cocktail is a white and foamy confection of vodka, lemongrass, yoghurt, cucumber and lemon. This is the perfect cocktail for warm summer evenings.<\/p>\n
Karpouzi Island was my choice, and it was a winner. Vodka, melon mix, mint and lime combined to present a tangy and refreshing libation and would be appreciated by anyone looking for a classic sour cocktail profile.<\/p>\n
![\"Hera](\"https:\/\/www.mostlyfood.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/hera-calimari-new.jpg\")
Outstanding Food<\/h4>\nA selection of meze arrived, and they paired well with our drinks. Be warned! These \u2018nibbles\u2019 are irresistible: remember there is a whole meal coming. The Breadbasket of thick slices of sourdough toast, pita bread and crostini sticks were practical and delicious dipping implements for Taramas, that creamy smoked cod roe, and Melitzano Salata which is finely chopped smoked aubergine with thyme, honey and balsamic. Its flavour owes so much to the grilling.<\/p>\n
Our generous starters arrived. We chose Greek Salad of tomatoes, cucumber, onions, olives, feta, capers and rusk with Greek olive oil. Those rusk cubes had the advantage over the usual bread as they retained their crunch. Fried Calamari with aioli, lemon, chilli and coriander was a considerable plate of seafood in a light batter. Don\u2019t miss this one!<\/p>\n
Grilled Sea Bass with lemon oil was my guest\u2019s main plate, along with a bowl of roast potatoes. The whole fish was fresh-tasting, succulent and flavourful, needing nothing more than those potatoes.<\/p>\n
![\"Hera](\"https:\/\/www.mostlyfood.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/hera-chicken.jpg\")
Chargrilled Chicken Skewer marinated in honey mustard was my main dish. The quality of meat at HERA is outstanding, and prepared by a skilled chef. The meat had a distinct and delicious char and was moist and tender. And that flavour! This should be a signature dish here.<\/p>\n
But there was still a dessert! Ekmek Kataifi is layers of shredded kataifi pastry, pistachios and silky custard cream. Take your time with your meal \u2013 slow down and savour every bite of generous hospitality through to its sweet conclusion.<\/p>\n
I was impressed by HERA in every regard. The food is delicious and confident. No need for extravagant and contrived garnishes, it\u2019s just quality ingredients prepared well with authentic Greek passion and pride. We loved it. And my only regret is that I didn\u2019t say \u2018Keep my unfinished chicken warm between two plates. I\u2019ll be back.\u2019 Yes, we will gladly return.<\/p>\n
![\"Hera](\"https:\/\/www.mostlyfood.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/hera-dessert-new.jpg\")
HERA<\/h4>\n4 Arber Way
\nStratford
\nLondon
\nE20 1JS<\/p>\n