In a few weeks time (provided there is no gazumping in the meantime) I will be a North London resident. I’ve lived South of the river for just over a year now and there are loads of places that I will miss having on my doorstep. Brixton Village will be a big loss and it’s going to take a good local Chinese to beat Mrs Wongs in Streatham. However, I’m also really excited about discovering all the wonderful things that my new area has to offer.
This weekend I started my exploration of North London early and went for a quick bite to eat at St Johns Tavern in Archway. My landlord-to-be had told me how wonderful it was and, as I was in the area, it seemed rude not to pop in.
It was a really lovely pub, exactly the short of place that I would want as my local. The bar area was traditional but with a modern touch. There was a nice atmosphere, with people chatting on bar stools and playing boggle at their tables. Most importantly there was a good selection of reasonably priced drinks on offer. There is a big restaurant area in the back but we stayed in the bar and were still able to order from the restaurant menu.
The menu was varied and had something for everyone. It mainly focused on Bristish food and there was also a separate bar menu with exciting sounding nibbles such as scotch eggs. I was watching the dishes being delivered to the tables around me and everything looked amazing.
Unusually, I decided to go for a veggie option. I had gnocchi with a tomato and red pepper ragu, kale and parmesan.
I was expecting the gnocci to be small but instead there were three huge ones.
I wasn’t especially hungry, hence going for the veggie option, but as soon as I started eating I just couldn’t stop. I think my clean plate is testament to how good it was. A perfect 8!
I also managed to grab a taste of the sturgeon with caviar and lemon butter. Yum!
Other options on the menu included rump steak, a whole seabass to share, pork chops and beer battered coley. All fairly traditional dishes but done to a high standard, often with a bit of a twist.
The food wasn’t cheap, I think the sturgeon was £15 and the gnocchi was £12 but given the quality, the prices were pretty fair.
My appetite for St Johns Tavern is now well and truly whetted and next time I shall make sure I have time for a starter, main course and a pudding!
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Every Meal Matters 