You may have tried out many of the places mentioned in the first part of ‘A Weekend in Islington’. But guess what? Here are some more recommendations from Alex!
Stop #1 – Pophams bakery
While Saturdays are the perfect high-energy springboard into the weekend, we all know that Sundays were made for lazy awakenings and slow, sleepy starts to a day fuelled by strong coffee and buttery pastries so head to Pophams for both of those things, its reputation as one of the capitals finest bakeries entirely justified…want savoury? Pick up the Marmite, Schlossberger & Spring Onion swirl. Got a sweet tooth? You’ll love their weekend specials usually focussing on seasonal ingredients like rhubarb and blood orange. After a lighter option? Check out their creamy yoghurt bowls topped with nut butters and roasted fruits.
Stop #2 – Chapel Market
Head up to Chapel Market for the long-running Islington Farmer’s Market; established in 1999 and more popular today than ever, this is where locals come to stock up & support small businesses selling everything from rainbow coloured fruit & veg to fresh cut flowers, luxurious milk and cream to loaves baked that morning and a whole host of produce including honey and eggs.
Stop #3 – Copperhouse Chocolates
Swing by Copperhouse Chocolates for an artisanal, vegan hot chocolate made with single-origin cocoa and catch a glimpse of life as a chocolatier in their on-site production kitchen.
Stop #4 – Screen on the Green
Wander down Upper St and treat yourself to an early afternoon film in the beyond gorgeous Screen on the Green, where a single screen, luxury sofas with footrests, and cocktails made to order come together to create a truly sumptuous cinematic experience.
Stop #5 – Regent’s Canal, Victoria Park
If you feel in need of a gentle Sunday stroll along the canal to work off breakfast and make room for lunch, you’re in luck with Angel being a central point towards Stoke Newington, Dalston or Victoria Park in one direction or King’s Cross, Camden + Primrose Hill in the other.
Stop #6 – Sunday roast at Canonbury Smokehouse
Sundays = roasts for many people, and Canonbury Road’s Smokehouse is a truly great place in which to enjoy that most classic of dishes; meat changes weekly and comes from the best UK farms before being roasted with care + smoked with sustainably sourced English oak and although it is a meat-centric spot, there are also excellent vegetarian options on a menu that frankly makes me dribble every time I ogle it online.
Stop #7 – Local grocery shopping
If however, you’re done in after a busy few days exploring this most charming of London neighbourhoods, there’s a strong chance you’d rather pick some bits up to enjoy at home with a glass of wine on the sofa so I suggest you…
- shop some of London’s best independent groceries at Superette
- pick up flavourful Korean ingredients at Oseyo to whip up some epic kimchi noodles
- take home the freshest fish at Moxons perfect for fresh + colourful poke bowls
- create an Italian feast with authentic pastas & olive oils from Da Giovanna
- snap up some vibrant Middle Eastern grain & veggie heavy salads at Ottolenghi
- don’t forget dessert in the form of exquisitely shaped patisserie from Belle Epoque
About the author: Having lived in N1 for nearly a decade, Alex is one of the borough’s biggest fans with a particular appreciation for all the great places to eat and drink in the neighbourhood; working in food means she is always keen to seek out new places in which to find interesting ingredients or delicious plates to share with friends and family all-year round.
Cover photo by @fullerpeter
NB! If you would also like to contribute to the Islington Storyteller, get in touch at islington.london@outlook.com.
