This inviting French restaurant on a bustling corner of up-and-coming Clapton is led by an all-female team (‘Les Nénettes’ translates as ‘the girls’) who have experience in the kitchens at the likes of Club Gascon and Bistrotheque. Charming staff seat diners in a rustic-chic space which boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, while there’s a small terrace for warmer months – the perfect place to enjoy the excellent charcuterie boards with a glass from the (exclusively French) wine list. Arrive hungry, as you’ll want to try everything on the menu. We loved the remixed frog’s legs, served buffalo style, like chicken wings – sticky, tongue-tingling and perfectly complimented by an intense blue cheese dip.
Next up, a selection of cheeses, ranging from mild to knock-your-socks off rich, was served with warm bread and tangy onion jam. From the mains, top shouts include an enchanting veggie option of crispy polenta topped with asparagus and a runny egg yolk, and a helping of juicy duck magret on a mound of tagliatelle. Dessert should not be missed; we’d recommend the noir et blanc mousse au chocolat: soft, cloud-like white chocolate mousse, paired with its rich chocolate opposite and topped with a crisp wafer. If you can’t make it to dinner, Les Nénettes is also open for brunch and lunch, but whatever time of day you dine, you’re sure to be welcomed with open arms.