Northaw Restaurant Guide

“The jewel of Cockfosters” at the northern end of the Piccadilly Line – this vibey self-styled ‘Anatolian with attitude’ serves “posh Turkish food” in a “great atmosphere” (“like you’re in a central London restaurant”, according to fans). The grilled meat is “very good”, and “on Saturday night there’s a DJ and people really dress up”. There’s a second branch at The Grove spa hotel near Watford and also (as of July 2025) an outpost in the West End (inside the Horizons Casino in Leicester Square).

The “Mediterranean/posh Greek” food is “consistently good” at this high-performing spot that is a “fantastic addition to Barnet High Street” – it’s “really buzzy on a Saturday night”, and “new specials are frequently added to the menu”. Former apprentice Gerry Sands was promoted to co-ownership by founder Louis Loizu at the age of just 21.

Near Oakwood tube, this superior local Italian is one of the top options for a meal in the surrounding ’burbs. Complete with tablecloths and a tasteful interior, it’s in a traditional vein, serving “homemade Italian food expertly prepared by Carmelo” (Carnevale, the chef, who hails from Sicily). Pasta and risotti are numerous on the menu, plus a few more substantial main dishes. They’ve also recently opened a nearby coffee shop, Caffè Amore.