Cafe/Bistro Gallipoli
102 Upper Street, Islington, London N1 1QP
Turkish, Lebanese, Middle-Eastern, whatever they call the food at this Islington stalwart, it's certainly more-ish – and so popular the owners run three separate Gallipoli restaurants within a short stretch of Upper Street. All serve the same good-value menu, offer the same friendly and generous service, and tend to be full every night. Book if you’re coming in a group; otherwise they should be able to squeeze you in somewhere. Cafe/Bistro Gallipoli is the pick of the bunch, for its glorious Ottoman-themed décor, with the ceiling festooned with dangling lamps and trinkets, and the walls covered with old prints. Come in the evening to see it at its best and enjoy a fine menu of meat, fish and, above all, vegetarian delicacies. The set dinners are well priced, especially if you fancy a kebab or substantial main course. But the mixed meze plates are large enough for most appetites and give you the chance to try the falafel and hummus, or a smoky aubergine spread that’s here spelled Baba Ghannuge. They also serve lunchtime sandwiches and full breakfasts, both English (bacon and egg) and Turkish (sausage, feta, and mixed salad).
