CIRO'S

In the heart of Islington, CIRO'S is a vibrant neighbourhood spot where relaxed elegance meets genuine warmth. Known for quality ingredients, a thoughtfully crafted menu and attentive service, it suits everything from casual breakfasts to long lunches and lively dinners. Stylish yet comfortable, it has quickly become a go-to for locals and a welcome find for visitors to North London.

The cooking leans Italian in spirit, favouring house-made and carefully assembled flavours. Focaccia panini set the tone, from fennel salami with parmesan, house pickles and garlic mayo to roasted courgette and aubergine lifted by basil pesto and softened with Taleggio. Zuppa del giorno might bring roasted butternut squash, parsnip and sage with sourdough, while fresh pasta comforts with classic lasagne or cavatelli and sausage ragu.

Antipasti and small plates invite sharing: house-made focaccia with olive oil and balsamic, marinated olives, cannellini bean with anchovy and paprika butter crostini, and Taleggio with smoked chili jam. To finish, choose a traditional tiramisu or an artisan cheese plate with Sardinian crackers, then raise a glass of spumante, from prosecco to lambrusco, or settle into a vino rosso such as Montepulciano or Nero d’Avola. Drop in, linger, and let CIRO'S do the rest — la dolce vita, Islington-style.