This is an old-school drinking den that still feels like a boozer, with London’s best burger on the menu. Chefs Ed McIlroy and Jamie Allan, known as Four Legs, also cook up creative plates of sole swimming in brown butter and cod cheek with jamón and mojo rojo. But for first timers it has to be the slightly sloppy Dexter burger, which is just as good as everyone says.

With what is arguably the best burger in London, Four Legs is an absolute no-brainer. Though we do love the burg, of course, we are most enchanted by the roast chicken. Do. Not. Miss it!

With a chef from St. John and a multi-layered potato cake to rival The Quality Chop House, Saltine makes no secret about its inspiration. Founders Mat Appleton and Jess Blackstone are also behind north London mini coffee empire Fink’s. And while the exposed brick space is a little predictable, the genuine and charming staff maintain Saltine’s spot as a solid Highbury favourite.

This is the original London restaurant from Jeremie Cometto-Lingenheim and David Gingell (also behind Jolene and Westerns Laundry). The converted car garage is a Canonbury institution, but the success of the group’s most recent openings has only made it even more of a destination. A dreamy local celebration of British ingredients with a Michelin Bib Gourmand.