Mangal 1, Dalston
If it’s good enough for Jamie Oliver, Rick Stein, Ottolenghi, Sam Clarke and Gilbert and George, all of whom are ardent fans, then it must be doing something pretty special. While Mangal 1’s exterior does not give too much away, it’s what the inside that counts when it comes to this Turkish delight. Founded in 1991, what it doesn’t know about kebabs served up in freshly made pillowy bread is scarcely worth bothering with. And, of course, you can bring your own booze to wash it all down – plus corkage is free. There is no website, but you’ll find it at 10 Arcola St, London E8 2DN.
Tayyabs, Whitechapel
This award-winner is an institution, having served up the most wonderful Punjabi food to its loyal punters since flinging open its doors in 1972. A proper East End curry house, you won’t find a chicken korma in sight; rather it’s all about the legendary lamb chops and mixed grills. Bring your own wine or beer, for which there is no corkage fee. Book it.
Anima E Cuore, Kentish Town
When Mustapha Mouflih and partner Alessandro Altoni – alumni of Le Gavroche, The Ledbury, L’Anima and Sketch between them – opened Anima E Cuore in an unassuming location on Kentish Town Road, they brought with to the north London enclave a truly authentic slice of Calabria. The menu changes daily, but what is always assured is that the 22-cover establishment is very reasonably priced and that its pasta, fish and meat will be beautifully prepared and presented. Locals adore it, and so do we. Costs are kept yet further down by the fact that punters can bring their own wine, with just a £5 corkage fee. There is no website, but you’ll find it at 129 Kentish Town Road, London, United Kingdom NW1 8PB.
Rasa, Stoke Newington
Rasa has been serving up joyful culinary odes to Keralan vegetarian cuisine since it opened in the mid-nineties – and the tone is set by the arresting pink exterior, which is as eye-catching as the flavours inside. The dishes are aromatic and bursting with spices, perfectly complemented by your own selection of wines. Do try its Masala dosa, its chewy paratha, its bonda, and its avial and bring your own booze, for £2 corkage per person. We love its backstory too. They say: ‘Rasa was born out of the childhood memories of its founder, Das Sreedharan, who helped his mother manage the family vegetable plot, and who herself cooked for Das and his family in their village in Kerala with the utmost love and devotion. “My mother was passionate about the ingredients she would give our family; vegetables had to be fresh, perfectly ripe. She grew her own or bought directly from farmers; then she cooked them to bring out their maximum flavour and health, and served them, with love, to her children,” Das says.’ No further convincing necessary. Book it.
Little Georgia
Little Georgia serves up authentic Georgian cuisine in a cosy and intimate setting. The menu is filled with hearty dishes like khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and chakhokhbili (chicken stew), which pair wonderfully with both white and red wines, whilst the friendly atmosphere and eclectic decor add to the charm. Plus, there is no corkage fee. Book it.
Cây Tre
Slap-bang in the centre of Soho, the always-bustling Cây Tre, which also has a sister restaurant in Hoxton, offers up an authentic taste of contemporary Vietnamese cuisine. The minimalist, lamp-lit decor puts the onus on the food, which comes up trumps every time, its dishes fresh, flavourful, and beautifully presented. From pho to its exemplary banh xeo, the menu is versatile enough to pair with various wines and beers – expect to pay £3 corkage per person. Book it.
Piebury Corner
Calling all pie lovers! Piebury Corner in King's Cross combines the best of British pie-making with a relaxed BYOB policy. Whether you prefer meat, vegetarian, or vegan pies, there’s something for everyone here, from the classic steak and ale to chicken Balti pie. Pair your pie with a robust ale or a crisp cider for the ultimate British experience. Corkage is £2 per person.
