Iznik

In the heart of Highbury, Iznik distils the rich flavours and generous spirit of Turkish dining into a stylish yet welcoming neighbourhood address. Plates arrive with a painterly touch, while the charcoal grill sends a gentle aroma through the room, promising comfort and celebration in equal measure.

The table begins with fresh meze and vibrant salads: perhaps the silken embrace of Humus Kavurma crowned with sautéed lamb, or the lightly spiced pleasures of İznik Köfte with its sweet flicker of onion and chilli jam. From the fire, Şiş İznik brings tender lamb skewers kissed by smoke, while Pirzola delivers lamb rib cutlets with char and succulence in elegant balance.

Heartier Turkish staples speak of home-style craft. Nohutlu Bamya folds chickpeas and okra through nutty bulgur, and Karnıyarık layers aubergine with lamb and tomato, served with rice and a cool spoon of cacik. Bright counterpoints arrive in Pancar with beetroot, grapes, walnuts and mint, or a simple garden salad of cucumber, tomato and onion.

Attentive service and a cosy neighbourhood rhythm make Iznik as fitting for weeknight suppers as it is for special occasions. Guests can book a table, linger over the grill’s glow, and let North London’s take on Turkish hospitality steal the evening—one smoky skewer at a time.