bar esteban

In the heart of Crouch End, Bar Esteban hums with the easy confidence of a neighbourhood favourite. Exposed brick and warm timber set the tone for a modern bistro with Spanish soul, founded in 2013 by record-producer and sherry aficionado Stephen Lironi alongside chef Pablo Rodriguez and manager Naroa Ortega. The trio channel serious Iberian know-how into a North London address.

The cooking leans into tapas tradition while nudging it forward. Salt-cod croquetas and prawns al ajillo share space with chipirones and fried aubergine drizzled with honey, made for passing. The specials board might move from Figs and Blue Cheese Salad to Tosta de Cangrejo, while Jamon Ibérico de Bellota and an Iberian Charcuterie Board speak to a devotion to provenance. Vegetables shine too, from beetroot salad with ajoblanco to grilled cauliflower dressed in Mojo Verde.

Seafood is a particular strength: Grilled Halibut with Basque Piperrada and Arroz con Pulpo carry sunlit, coastal flavours, balanced by hearty meats like Crispy Pork Belly with Mojo Verde and Chargrilled Chicken with Romesco Sauce. For a sweet landing, think Chocolate Ganache or a lush slice of Basque Cheesecake, perhaps chased by Spanish wines, older sherries, a Talisker 10-year or an Espresso Martini.

Relaxed yet stylish, Bar Esteban suits both the impromptu catch-up and the date-night detour. Settle in, order another round of small plates, and let the conversation unfurl. Ready to graze your way through North London? Pull up a stool and tapas to it.