The English Launderette

The English Launderette

Think of the last time that you entered a launderette in the UK, and you’ll promptly realise that you never have.

TV has most likely embedded deep within you the notion that Laundromats in the US are overflowing with men – all of whom look like the Diet Coke guy – smugly sitting shirtless while their only white T-shirt gets washed.  In stark contrast TV has probably also lead you to believe that most UK launderettes, and certainly those in London, are solely populated by gossiping, chain-smoking old Dot Cotton lookalikes.

Both of these wild and grossly unfair generalisations are completely accurate.

But it wasn’t always so.  The iconic British launderette was once the beating heart of communities around the UK: a place where local people would congregate, interact and wash their pants.

It is in this spirit of community that the team behind Rock Lobsta has decided to breathe life into the English launderette, by hosting a pop up restaurant in one between the 1st and the 9th October.

In “a nod to the past and a wink to the present” each evening will feature a ‘60s-inspired soundtrack put together by Howard Marks and a coin-operated bar that’s open from 18:00.  The meals, which start at 19:30, consist of a 6 course menu including cheese and pineapple, prawn and avocado, a mixed grill and a “dessert trolley of delight”.

Tickets available at £49/head.

The English Launderette | 18 Hewitt Street, Shoreditch, London EC2A 3NN 

Like pop up dining experiences? Check out our guide to the best pop up restaurants in London this month.