Noci (meaning walnut in Italian) looks over Islington Green and is just a six minute walk from Angel tube station. Although now boasting three sites across London, this North London restaurant is its original branch, where it serves regional pasta dishes made with seasonal ingredients and updated versions of classic Italian street food. In fact, many of the Noci team have been here since day one.
Plush banquette and window seats orbit the central communal table and high stools, with reclaimed materials being put to good use here. The whole space is bathed in light thanks to the large windows, and a terrazzo-topped dresser showcases fresh pasta from the kitchen.
The chefs take inspiration from their heritage and travels across Italy to create fresh pasta dishes, regional street food-inspired snacks, spritzes and a small but perfectly formed wine list.
Starters might include house focaccia with datterini tomato, thyme and garlic, or for something a little lighter, salad of peas, broad beans, charred shallots and anchovy dressing.
The menu changes frequently, but diners can expect the likes of paccheri tossed with Neopolitan Genovese ragu (this dish is often referred to as 'poor man's ragu' due to its money-saving ratio of onion to meat). Elsewhere, silk handkerchiefs with beef and marsala jus, confit egg yolk and guanciale is a staple for good reason.
Daily specials are scrawled on the central tiles so remember to check there for fear of missing out.
The drinks are just as seasonal as the food, with cocktails on tap as well as 'Seasonal Spritzes' on offer. These include playful flavours such as yuzu and rhubarb, lemon and elderflower and a spicy Tommy's Margarita.
Noci Islington is located near many popular attractions, including the Everyman Screen On The Green, The Almeida and The Business Design Centre.