Bald Faced Stag

Standing atop three floors of solid Victorian construction, the eponymous stag has a fair amount to boast about. The front bar with its angular glass chandeliers leads through to a large, handsome dining room whose chocolate-brown walls are dotted with black & white photos of old Finchley. It’s a happy, gregarious place, filled with courting couples, groups & families eating together. The open kitchen deals in contemporary dishes made with fresh, quality ingredients, at prices that allow for regular visits. Tender char-grilled squid comes with earthy chorizo & a piquant tomato sauce, grilled calf’s liver is generously proportioned & served pink in the middle, while banana & toffee ice cream pie is a light, icy twist on the banoffi theme. The wine list roams through Europe & the New World, with 15 selections available by the glass.