The Yellow Bittern

Bistro, British, Irish·
££££
·

Good to know

Average Price
££££ - £30 - £49
Cuisines
Bistro, British, Irish
Ambience
Cool, Cosy, Lively, Quirky
Food Occasions
Breakfast, Lunch
Food Hygiene Rating

About

The Yellow Bittern on Caledonian Road is deliberately old school. Run by Belfast-born chef Hugh Corcoran, it operates exclusively on weekdays with two lunch sittings. Reservations for the 18 seats are accepted solely via telephone or by sending a handwritten letter or postcard to the restaurant. The Yellow Bittern also maintains a cash-only policy, a decision that has sparked both admiration and frustration.

Designed with an air of old-world charm, the restaurant’s interior features lemon-yellow walls adorned with carefully selected Irish memorabilia, including evocative portraits of literary greats such as Samuel Beckett and Brendan Behan. This aesthetic pays homage to Ireland’s rich cultural heritage, setting the tone for an experience that feels as much about storytelling as it is about food.

The heart of The Yellow Bittern lies in its concise yet carefully curated menu. Chef Corcoran draws upon his culinary experiences in the Basque Country and Paris to craft dishes that are hearty, comforting, and imbued with Irish influences. Menu highlights include dishes like creamy leek and potato soup, Dublin coddle—a traditional Irish stew of sausage, potatoes, and bacon—and flaky guinea fowl pie. To complement the food, the restaurant offers a thoughtfully selected wine list that emphasizes natural wines sourced from small-scale producers, ensuring that every sip resonates with quality and character.

Beyond the dining area, the restaurant’s basement houses an eclectic bookshop that adds a literary dimension to the overall experience. The collection spans a range of genres, with a particular focus on Irish modernist authors, inviting guests to browse and perhaps find inspiration among the shelves.

The Yellow Bittern offers a refreshing retreat where food, culture, and history intersect. Whether savoring a hearty Irish-inspired dish, discovering a literary treasure in the bookshop, or simply soaking in the nostalgic ambiance, diners at The Yellow Bittern are sure to leave with both their appetites and imaginations thoroughly intrigued.

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FAQs

Can I pay by card at the restaurant?

No, the restaurant takes cash payments only.

Helpful? 0

How do I book The Yellow Bittern?

Yes, you can book via the phone or, curiously, via postcard addressed to the restaurant.

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Is The Yellow Bittern open for dinner?

No, the restaurant is only open for lunch, with two sittings at 12pm and 2pm.

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Location

20 Caledonian Road, King's Cross, London, N1 9DU

020 3342 2162 020 3342 2162

Website

Opening Times

All day
Mon 10:00-18:00
Tue 10:00-18:00
Wed 10:00-18:00
Thu 10:00-18:00
Fri 10:00-18:00
Sat Closed
Sun Closed

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Call The Yellow Bittern to make a booking on:

020 3342 2162 020 3342 2162

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