Best restaurants in Islington
4 restaurants in Islington recommended by London's top food sources
Italian · Islington · Highbury
Trullo
Fifteen years of unwavering excellence have made this the gold standard for grown-up Italian dining, anchored by a beef shin ragù that's become legendary in its own right. Chef Conor Gadd's refined approach to Italian cooking creates the kind of candlelit, deeply satisfying meals that justify the restaurant's enduring reputation.
Pizza · Old Queen's Head · Islington
Hot Saint Pizza
Craft-focused pies built on distinctly Canadian dough—a 48-hour ferment with nutty depth—paired with inventive toppings that range from spicy Hawaiian to a standout meatball ricotta situation. The kitchen's NY sensibilities meet house-made precision, evident in everything from cobble lane pepperoni to a proprietary rye blend that sets their crust apart.
Newington Green · Islington
Jolene
Jolene elevates the humble pastry into something genuinely craveable, balancing delicate sweetness with textural precision—their rhubarb and almond creations are a masterclass in restraint. North London's finest bakery proves that great baking demands equal skill in both the sweet and savory realms.
Modern British · Hackney · Islington
The Marksman
Sharp, unpretentious modern British cooking draws crowds to this Hackney favourite, where chef Billy Stock's pedigree translates into confident, well-executed dishes rather than showboating. The vibrant neighbourhood setting and no-nonsense approach make it feel like the kind of place that prioritises what's on the plate over how the room looks.
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