London Islington Restaurant Guide

“None of its charm has been lost over the years”, say fans of this “romantic” and “spacious” Islington stalwart, where the best spot is “eating on the terrace overlooking the lovely garden”. “The cooking is old school, but very enjoyable”.

“For carnivores and beer lovers”, this attractively located Islington gastroboozer butchers its own meat on site, so “always produces the best cuts, excellently cooked”. There’s a good selection of craft ales too, “but really it’s more a restaurant than a pub”, and manages to “attract, train and keep very friendly and knowledgeable waiting staff”.

“Unpretentious, relaxed and with a wide choice of wines and small plates” – with the latter “nicely judged to complement wines” – plus “enthusiastic and knowledgeable service” win particular praise for the Battersea original of this small group, and also its EC4 spin-off “hidden away and almost under the crypt of St Bride’s Church”. Last year, a further outlet also opened in Islington (no reports yet), and in 2018 a new City branch opened near Liverpool Street. Top Tip: “Monday nights is the time to go as wine is sold at retail price”.

“The best ramen in London” (“the pork broth is wonderful – there’s nought better on a cold day, when it really hits the spot”) scores nothing but high praise for this small Japanese noodle chain with bars in Soho, Covent Garden and now also in Islington. Top tip – look for the “Burford eggs done just enough with a slightly runny yolk” and “don’t miss the truffle ramen, which is absolutely the best!”

Turkish-Kurdish outfit near Angel that offers “exceptionally good value for Upper Street”. “No fireworks here, simply decent portions of good food in a friendly place”. Top Tip: the “set menu of mixed mezze is an especially good bargain”.