Islington
Mediterranean Breeze

Mediterranean Breeze

21-23 Green Lanes, N16 9BS, Islington, United Kingdom

Greek • Mexican • Turkish • Seafood


"A friend and I stumbled on to this neighbourhood restaurant by chance; no research, no booking, no expectations. We were then blown away by the quality of the food: wonderfully fresh fish, beautifully cooked. The service is also exemplary. I've always enjoyed calamari, but this was by far the best I've ever had: truly succulent and juicy. The mussels were almost as good, and the sea bream kept up the standard. The spiced quince with ice cream made a nice change from baclava in a Turkish restaurant (they still threw in some baclava). The owner, Tony, provides excellent recommendations — make sure you take them! He knows what's fresh that morning, and how his wife cooks it. The bill comes hand-written, and Tony forgot to include the wine (obviously I corrected him). I can't remember the last time a restaurant bill made a mistake in the customers' favour! No service charge is included, and it deserves a lot more than the usual 12.5%. This is a wonderful, old-fashioned restaurant, run by a charming old couple, committed to maintaining old-fashioned standards. The food is more than great and the prices more than reasonable. Service is personal, honest and responsive (providing Tony turns his hearing aid on). Tony warns you if anything you wanted was bought in, rather than home-made. Why don't unassuming but wonderful restaurants like this get Michelin stars?"

Sekforde Arms

Sekforde Arms

34 Sekforde St, Islington, United Kingdom, EC1R 0HA

Vegan • Lunch • Seafood • British


"I previously reviewed this establishment a few months ago, but I felt the need to do so again as my experience was even better this time around. While my previous visit was good, today's roast was exceptional. The potatoes were crispy and fresh, and I always enjoy the vegetables that accompany the roast. The lamb shank was incredibly tender, though I felt it could have used a bit more flavoring such as rosemary and garlic infused into the meat. Despite that, it was still a great meal. My companions had the chicken and pork dishes and found them thoroughly enjoyable. Personally, I would have preferred they bring back the pork loin as I do not care for belly meat, but my friend loved it so it's a matter of personal preference. The restaurant was busy and we had to wait about 5 minutes for our table, but they were able to accommodate my disabled mother who cannot stand for long periods of time. The only disappointment was that they refused to turn on the heating. Considering the amount we spent, I believe it wouldn't have hurt them to do so, even just for the duration of our meal. I tend to get cold easily due to a health issue, but everyone else seemed comfortable temperature-wise. It is worth noting that they do not have a disabled bathroom, likely due to the age of the building, so I can't fault them for that. Overall, I would recommend this place for Sunday lunch as well as a pint during the week."