Dining

The 4 Best Restaurants in Islington

Upper Street and beyond: where to eat well in Islington, from pre-theatre rooms to neighbourhood favourites.

In short: our top picks are Trullo, Westerns Laundry and Bellanger. 4 places in total, chosen on merit, with the full reasoning below.

Islington has quietly become one of north London’s best places to eat, with Upper Street and the lanes around it hiding everything from Michelin kitchens to neighbourhood institutions. These are the tables worth knowing, whether you are heading to the theatre or just staying local.

Place Area Price
Trullo Islington £££
Westerns Laundry £££
Bellanger Islington £££
Radici Islington £££
  1. Editor’s choice

    Trullo

    • Islington
    • £££

    Why we pick itA grown-up Italian above the Highbury corner; charcoal-grilled meats and handmade pasta.

    Worth knowingGroups are capped at eight in the evening, tables are hard to get at peak times, and it is a proper trip unless you are already near Highbury.

  2. Westerns Laundry

    • £££

    Why we pick itA wine-led room from the Primeur team; seafood, natural wine and a relaxed buzz.

  3. Bellanger

    • Islington
    • £££

    Why we pick itA grand Corbin and King brasserie on Islington Green; an all-day Alsatian charmer.

  4. Radici

    • Islington
    • £££

    Why we pick itFrancesco Mazzei's rustic southern Italian; a family-friendly room with real warmth.

Before you book

If you are seeing a show at the Almeida or Sadler’s Wells, tell them when you book and arrive; the good rooms here know the theatre clock. Book the destinations and walk in to the rest. And explore the side streets off Upper Street, where the best small rooms hide.

Common questions

What are the top picks in this guide?

Trullo is our editor's choice: A grown-up Italian above the Highbury corner; charcoal-grilled meats and handmade pasta. Trullo, Westerns Laundry and Bellanger lead the guide, with 4 places in total, all chosen on merit.

How does Lamplit London choose its recommendations?

Every place is chosen on merit, after first-hand visits where possible, with no pay-for-placement. Read our full method at https://www.lamplitlondon.com/how-we-choose/.