If you're moving to Islington, you’re in for an absolute treat. This area of London is packed with things to do and see, from vintage shops to market stalls, not to mention a vibrant hospitality scene. So, whether you’re looking for boozy games of high-tech darts in a fairground-themed bar or some chilled drinks by Regents Canal, Islington has you covered, and so does DesignMyNight, who wrote us this list of the best bars and restaurants in the area.
By DesignMyNight:
Laki Kane
Laki Kane (which means ‘lucky person’ in Polynesian) will give you the tropical fix that London weather just can’t provide. If you fancy a drink, then their exotic cocktails are sure to sort you out. It does, however, seem silly to stop at drinks when they have a whole Pan-Asian menu on offer - anyone for pork dumplings and fried noodles? With live entertainment, delicious food and a tonne of rum to taste test, Laki Kane is guaranteed to become a firm favourite.
Address: 144-145, Upper Street, N1 1QY
The Skinny Kitchen
If you’re a lover of all things bottomless brunch (we’re talking tantalising cocktails and amazing food) then Skinny Kitchen is a must. If you head over on a weekend you’ll be met with DJs, dancers, singers and even a trumpet or two that will make you feel like you’re in Ibiza. You can also pop in during the week for a healthy meal (try the soba noodles or halloumi salad) or some laid back drinks.
Address: The Skinny Kitchen, 52 Upper Street, N1 0QH
Homeboy Islington
We all love our home comforts, but it’s also a struggle to say no to some cheeky drinks. Popular Irish bar, Homeboy, combines the best of both worlds. This award-winning cocktail bar has some absolutely cracking cocktails for you to try, including the Belfast coffee (an award-winning drink). If you didn’t think this place was Irish enough, it’s also known for serving the best pint of Guinness in London, which is quite the title - but you can be the judge of that.
Address: 108 Essex Rd, N1 8LX
The Islington Townhouse
If you’re looking for a place to gossip and drink cocktails, The Islington Townhouse can certainly accommodate. Just a stone’s throw away from Angel Station, this little spot boasts some great craft beers and ales which are all sourced locally - nice, right? The Islington Townhouse looks like a traditional British pub, but it has a whole load more to offer such as banging sharing platters, wordly wines and gorgeous private dining spaces for extra special occasions.
Address: 13 Liverpool Road, N1 0RW
Barrio Angel
Barrio is a cocktail bar like no other. It has something for everyone, whether that be banging beats to dance to, topical cocktails or delicious Mexican beer. This bar even hosts an impressive rota of quirky events across the weekend, including their battle of the boybands musical bingo brunch - try saying that quickly. Everyone loves a cheeky deal, so Barrio’s happy hour will certainly catch your eye too. Two-for-one cocktails and £3 tacos Monday to Thursday? Yes please.
Address: 45 Essex Road, N1 2SF
Bubba Oasis
If you’re looking for a new local spot for a drink in Islington, then definitely check out Bubba Oasis. However, Bubba Oasis’s days and nights are dramatically different. By day, go to relax and have a bite to eat (delicious wraps and salad bowls are firm favourites). But as the evening closes in, the prosecco is popping and so is the party. You can expect top DJs, performers and other house party style events to take place. Go see the magic for yourself.
Address: 57-58 Upper St, N1 0NY
Little Bat Bar
They’re not ones to brag about it, but Little Bat Bar is known to be one of the best bars in London. Their cocktails are created by star mixologists - anyone fancy a hop cosmo or concrete jungle bird? Plus, its Alice in Wonderland-themed interiors add to the magical feel that really makes this place stand out. Little Bat is the perfect spot for meeting friends for a cheeky drink or (if you’re feeling a wild weekend) you could try their bottomless brunch which includes some amazing Mexican munches.
Address: 54 Islington Park Street, N1 1PX
The Narrow Boat
Life in the Big Smoke can (sometimes) be a bit hectic. That’s why finding and knowing about hidden gems, such as The Narrow Boat, is a must for those wanting to take a step back from the hustle and bustle. This place is the only pub to sit directly on Regent’s Canal in Islington, so the views are 10/10. Plus, they offer a vast array of craft ales, wines, beers and supposedly the best bloody Mary in the city. If you’re heading out for a drink or a cheeky Sunday roast, The Narrow Boat is not one to walk past.
Address: 119 St Peters Street, N1 8PZ
Flight Club Islington
The first rule of Flight Club: tell everyone about Flight Club. This venue is exciting; it looks like a fairground that has collided with a British pub. Grab a cocktail (or two) at its unusual bar and challenge your friends to a game of darts where no one can cheat thanks to the automatic scoring. It’s a chance to have a laugh, get competitive and catch-up with friends and family. If you've worked up an appetite, make sure to try out their pizza paddles or sharing platters.
Address: 56 Upper Street, N1 0NY
Hot Stone
If you’re looking for an authentic Japanese dining experience in London, then Hot Stone has you covered. The chefs use hot stones to sear the food, ensuring it’s cooked to nothing less than perfection. For those not in the know, this is an ancestral technique that’s been used for many many years in Japan, and it’s proved so popular that you can now find it in Islington. The head chef was a former head sushi chef at a 5-star hotel in Mayfair, so you just know the food is going to be out of this world.
Address: 9 Chapel Market, N1 9EZ
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Looking for more of the best restaurants in Islington? Visit DesignMyNight and follow them on Instagram and Facebook; @DesignMyNight.
DesignMyNight is the UK's fastest growing discovery website, with over 3.8 million monthly users. It's present in over 21 UK cities, alongside Ireland and Australia and is the number one platform for finding and booking a table at the best bars, restaurants and pubs alongside purchasing tickets to some of the biggest events, pop-ups and experiences in the business.
Check out more DesignMyNight area guides guest written for Foxtons buyers and renters by the DesignMyNight team.
