My name is Elena Smileva, a self-taught chef, world traveller,  and food lover. I love cooking. Being from the Balkans, food has always been central part of my life and culture. For me food evokes memories of childhood, family, friends, celebrations, love, happiness and joy. Waking up every day with the thought of eating something that will make you smile is one step closer to good life. To me food never gets boring. 

The Lacy Nook is a labour of love. It started 3 years ago as a  restaurant in Stoke Newington. Our goal was to serve tasty dishes with unique flavours; plates full of personality and distinctive tastes predominantly from the Balkan region. As we mainly cook with herbs in the Balkans, we fused our flavours with Middle Eastern spices and condiments, and brought an original flavour to the London palate. 

After 3 years of good times, rough times, challenging life decisions, we closed our doors in February 2019. But the desire to cook and feed hasn't ceased yet. I decided to shift in reverse. You can now find us doing street food, private catering and my favourite super clubs/popus. I still get to cook every day, but I can also find time to reflect upon myself and enjoy life.