From Mexican Wahaca canapés to Turkish delights in Antepliler, Basil-infused pizzerias at La Porchetto to the aromas of Thai Square, Islington is hardly short of places to dine, particularly with the array of cafes and restaurants lining the famous ‘Supper Street’.
But more prominent than ever is the demand for ‘themed’ restaurants – in essence, where the ambiance takes priority over the cuisine. We’ve proved that having both is possible. Here’s our pick of the five best themed eats in Islington.
Blighty Coffee, Finsbury
If you’re looking for the perfect Sunday brunch spot, Blighty Coffee is the place to be. Inspired by 1940s Britain, this WWII-themed eatery, with its sepia-coloured menus and vintage décor lends itself to an unhurried atmosphere.
Grab a book, get comfortable and enjoy the lovely garden at the back as you enjoy blighty favourites, such as Eggs Shropshire with asparagus and blue cheese and an Orancino – a cappuccino poured over fresh orange rind, an exclusive to Blighty Coffee.
Dans le Noir, Clerkenwell
Dinner with a twist. Dans le noir is French for ‘in the dark’, and the restaurant takes its name literally. This Clerkenwell restaurant is based entirely on suppressing your sense of sight, encouraging you to use your sense of smell and taste to experience the true quality of the dishes instead.
You are guided and served by blind waiters who talk you through the French menu, all whilst you anticipatorily adjust to the pitch-black surroundings.
Indian Veg cafe, Angel
As you enter this Indian café, there is no turning back. Once you’re in, you can’t escape the gigantic press cutting which says, Veg says, “UN Chief: Go Veggie to Save the Planet”.
This, quite evidently, is the theme of this small food hall, formerly known as Bhelpoori House. The Veg café, based near Chapel Market, is the epitome of vegetarianism. Covering the walls are data about vegetarianism, graphs and mottos to keep you entertained while you help yourself to the all-you-can-eat buffet, which is priced at only £3.95.
Issy’s Milky Way, Angel
This 50s themed brightly-coloured coffee shop is a change from the washed wood rustic coffee shops that line Islington streets.
Instead, a sweetshop-esque café greets you as you enter. An ice cream parlour lines one side of the café, while the walls are decorated with 50s ornaments.
Serving everything from lattes to ice cream sundaes, this coffee shop-cum-ice cream parlour has it all.
Nannas, Canonbury
Immerse yourself in 70s culture at the newest cafe Islington has to offer.
Brown sofas, shag pile rugs and fringed lampshades bring back a serious case of nostalgia at this café and pantry.
Grab a newspaper, recline on the comfy sofas or discover the pantry, which features locally produced goods, a selection of cookbooks, magazines and mid-century art.
I thought Issy’s had shut and it was now a sushi place?
[…] The 5 best quirky cafés in Islington The 5 best quirky cafés in Islington. By Tanveer Mann on March 10, 2015. Fancy eating lunch in a cosy 1940's themed coffee shop? How about in total darkness where you can't see what you're eating? You can find both these places (and more) in Islington. Read more on Islington Now […]