Juniper Dining
100 Highbury Park, N5 2XE; 020 7288 8716
Tube: Highbury & Islington
The scene: A shining light in Highbury’s burgeoning dining scene, this intimate family run restaurant’s decor has an understated elegance. Black and white prints hang on creamy walls, candles flicker on the wooden tables, while staff play jazz to complete the laid-back experience. When we visit on a Friday night the place is buzzing with a mix of families and couples.
The grub: Stylishly presented modern European and British fare with generous portions. Starters are lovingly prepared: my smoked duck salad oozes flavour. For mains, my partner’s tender rib eye steak arrives with a mountain of chips, mushrooms and onion rings while my fish of the day, baked sea bass, is melt-in-the-mouth delicious, thanks to its buttery sauce. Desserts are delectable, especially the baked chocolate pudding and the baked lemon tart.
Bill please: Starters cost from £4.50, mains from £10.95 and desserts are £5.25.
Verdict: The cooking is pretty special at this great value eatery.
4/5
– Janine Kelso
