From Skyline views of Highgate, lively Camden to leafy Hampstead, North London is the charmer, greener and quieter side of the City.
North is where you go to almost feel like you're not in a city and quite frankly one of Hidden Gemsss most favourable areas.
Paolina Thai Cafe, Kings Cross
Paolina's Thai Cafe in our eyes is still pretty much a pure gem sitting in the heart of Kings Cross. With it's medium oak walls and intimate table setting, this Thai Cafe truly makes you feel warm, welcome and eager to try some of London's very best authentic, fresh, South East Asian delights!
Tip - Drink: What could be better than a BYO Cafe! Food: Kanom Pang Kung to start is a must followed by their classic Green Curry is one of the best.
Drake and Morgan, Kings Cross
Situated within London's 'tech central' of Pancras Square and just moments away from the station lies Drake and Morgan, a popular spot for any occasion. With several dotted around the UK it's no wonder why we had to check this out. Expect a colourful array of flowers, blankets, hot water-bottles and a tasty selection of drinks and all day menu.
Tip - Drink: What do you fancy? Whether its a cocktail, coffee, wine or beer, Drake and Morgan have you covered Food: We went for their special 'Chicken Waffle' and it didn't disappoint.
Little Creatures, Kings Cross
Built from their love and passion of Pale Ale, this much loved Western Australia beer brand, Little Creatures expanded their almighty wings to the vibrant, regents canal-side of Kings Cross. They've definitely established their very own love triangle of Aussie atmosphere, hoppy beers and finger-licking food to this sweet spot in the city.
Tip - Drink: You cant leave without trying their staple of a Pale Ale. Food: Nachos and Burgers what more do you want after a few cheeky pints!?
Roti King, Euston
Tucked down a side street steps away from Euston Station, Roti King has quite frankly made a name for it's self as a Malaysian hotspot. With a line always outside this eatery although small, simple and cosy truly defines the South East Asian culture and cuisine with a friendly and upbeat atmosphere.
Tip - Drink: Another BYO Restaurant, score! Otherwise their 'Milo Godzilla' is always a winner with the kids if they fancy something sweet! Food: Roti Canai (pictured above) is a simple yet mouth-watering starter!
Mestizo, Euston
If you haven't tried Mestizo, then you probably haven't tasted the best Mexican food in London! Between Mornington Crescent and Euston, lays the authentic, flamboyant Mestizo. Reflecting from the Spanish word 'Fusion', this Mexican joint fuses traditional cookery, solid selection of tequila's and vivid decor to give a sense of joyfulness to all enjoy.
Tip - Drink: Tequila Sours or something slightly lighter, the famed Pacifico Beer! Food: Most definitely their Taco Sharing Platter' allows you taste several original dishes (pictured above)!
The Albion Pub, Islington
This Georgian gem, famed for its outside space throughout summer and log fires in the winter months is a notable spot in the hip area of Islington. The Albion, prides it's self as an elegant, family-friendly affair located in an upmarket residential area, serving the finest British classics.
Tip - Drink: When the sun's out and you're out in their gorgeous leafy garden, an Aperol Spritz is a winner. Food: The good old English 'Sunday Roast' are decent here!
Duo, Camden
Duo London has definitely established itself as a successful, fun addition to Camden's lively venues. Renowned for it's jam-packed brunches of bottomless pancakes, prosecco, dance offs and karaoke, this gem is the perfect weekend hangout with their 'insta-perfect' decor, crazy cocktails and nightclub nights.
Tip - Drink: Anything from their wild cocktail menu, 'Unicorn Martini' sounds epic. Food: Their weekend brunches is one to experience!
The Old Eagle, Camden
What more could you want than a welcoming pub serving real cask ales along with their very own pukka Thai kitchen and pet cat named 'Churchill'? The Old Eagle, round the corner from Camden Road Station, is an easy-going pub offering quiz and live music nights, intriguing musical decor which will leave a place in your heart to for sure return.
Tip - Drink: Big Wave beer on tap hits the spot. Food: Another classic dish but the Pad Thai here is by far once of the best!
The Constitution, Camden
Tucked away in the heart of Camden overlooking the picturesque setting of Regents Canal, The Constitution is a fantastic British pub which has been admired by locals and visitors since 1858. A wicked beer garden that offer an ace selection of beers and cook up a tasty BBQ in the summer months along with a live music basement to entertain all year round, this pub is definitely a gem in lively Camden.
Tip - Drink: Wanted to feel like you're in Spain? Good news, they have Estrella on tap . Food: A burger from their BBQ are pretty darn good!
Camden Town Brewery, Kentish Town West
Founded in 2010, Camden Town Brewery has flourished to become one of the biggest beer producers in London with it's clever marketing, famed 'Hells Lager' and innovative base under Kentish Town West railway arches. Brewery tours, beer tastings, quiz nights, football sessions or just a place to hangout post-work, you name it, this brewery is a place to 100% check out with it's fine selection of beers and numerous pop-up food vendors for a bite to eat.
Drink: If you can't decide go for their tasting option to try a variety. Food: Doesn't which vendor is in their pop up food bar as all of them are independent and incredible!
Crêpes à la carte, Kentish Town
Bringing a taste of the French sweet and savoury delicatessen to Kentish Town, Crepes à la carte has become the perfect place for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Keeping to it's tradition by using organic buckwheat flour and using fresh local suppliers where possible from Brittany, it's here in this cosy, light eatery where you'll truly taste a fabulous galette.
Tip - Drink: Also specialising in coffee, it's worth a cuppa here. Food: All of them are divine, but Hidden Gemsss loves 'La Biquette' (pictured above)!
Doppio, Kentish Town
If you're around Camden / Kentish Town this is definitely a place we always stop to grab a perfectly brewed cup of coffee. The warehouse style venue where Doppio is situated genuinely characterises what the supplier is all about from coffee workshops, espresso bar and showroom alongside a handful of tables surrounded by shelves of beans and machines, this industrial feel spot is pretty darn sweet.
Tip - Drink: Take your pick, each cup is ace. Food: A selection of tasty pastries on show, we always love to go with the almond croissant!
Kentish Town Stores, Kentish Town
Hidden just off Kentish Town High Street you'll find another independent favourite of ours, Kentish Town Stores. Whether you need a creative, quiet space to work, add another gorgeous handmade ceramic piece to your collection or simply wanting an Allpress Coffee fix, this store always puts a smile on our faces with their friendliness and atmosphere.
Tip - Drink: Any of their coffee's are tasty, we always love a Flat White. Food: With a selection of mouth-watering pastries, we love their Banana & Walnut bread!
Bean About Town, Kentish Town
Having several pop-up stores around the city and their very own original cafe in Kaimuki, Hawaii, Bean About Town no a thing or two about coffee. With their main pop up by Kentish Town Station this is the perfect place to grab a cup to fix your caffeine urge. The baristas are extremely friendly and if you're a regular they always remember your order which is a score.
Tip - Drink: We love their Cortados but they can pretty much whip up whatever you fancy. Food: A selection of morning treats are on offer, their flapjacks are delicious.
Knowhere Special, Kentish Town
Once prison cells now turned into a hidden, exclusive basement bar, Knowhere Special is definitely a special spot in North London. It's not the easiest to find at first but steps away from Kentish Town Station you'll find a neon sign, leading you to a dimly lit, mashed up decor, cosy date night boudoir.
Tip - Drink: Clever cocktails! We love their Margaritas. Food: Unusual pairing snacks, ask the waiter for advice.
Carrot & Daikon, Kentish Town
With a motto of 'fast, fresh and flavourful', this family run deli shop serves up some of the best Vietnamese comfort food in North London. Carrot & Daikon prides itself as serving healthy, homemade classic dishes whether it's for a quick takeout snack on your lunch break or to dine-in pre 02 Forum gig. Delicious food, quick service and friendly staff, this gem is one to check out.
Tip - Drink: Ever had Vietnamese Coffee? Give it a go! Food: Summer Rolls to start and their honey caramelised pork Bahn Mi (Vietnamese Baguette) is a winner.
Little Bay, Kilburn
Little Bay in Kilburn is all about a unique dining experience with a really reasonable priced tasting menu. Step inside a vibrant Modern Europe restaurant with candle lit tables, bold decor and mezzanine balconies curating a romantic yet laid back atmosphere, perfect for those first date spots or casual catch ups with friends and family.
Tip - Drink: They have a decent selection of liqueur coffees to check out. Food: Their Choux de Crab for starters and Profiteroles for dessert are pretty good here!
The Spaniards Inn, Hampstead
This iconic pub situated on an idyllic corner of Hampstead Heath has been an enjoyable setting for a truly memorable drinking and dining experience dating back since 16th century with thoughts of Dick Turner and Charles Dickens being regulars. This wood-panelled pub provides a homely fireplace for those cold nights and large garden for outdoor pints and good quality British comfort food.
Tip - Drink: Depending on the weather, they do a lovely mulled wine in winter and an ace selection of craft beers and artisan spirits too. Food: Listed as one of the 'Ten Best Pubs' for a Roast, that's got to be tried!
The Wine Cellar, Highgate
Having opened just last year, this new hotspot within the Parliament Hill Fields area has been a popular haunt to sit back, relax and enjoy their large variety of worldwide wines. Located on the popular cycling hill climb route, Swains Lane, The Wine Cellar has been a fabulous addition. If you don't want to sit in you can have the pleasure to take a bottle home as-well trying their fine tea and coffee offerings in the morning.
Tip - Drink: The 'Margaux Domaine De Maucaillou', France bottle is wonderful. Food: The Charcuterie and cheese boards are rather tasty if you're a bit peckish.
Chango, Highgate
With several stores in other leafy neighbourhoods such as Richmond and Wimbledon, it's no wonder why Chango decided to open up in Highgate as their next Empanada store. This unassuming gem sits right on the high-street, you may have walked past it without even realising! Next time you're in the area be sure just to smell the authentic aromas that Chango has to offer, they've definitely brought a slice of Argentina to London.
Tip - Drink: They have a great offer when you purchase their South American brew coffee too. Food: Empanada all the way, be sure to try their spicy chicken or goats cheese and pumpkin!
Cricks Corner, Archway
Want to try one of the best Bacon Baps, Cheese Toasties and speciality coffee in London? This neighbourhood cafe nestled on Dartmouth Park Hill corner delivers just that! Cricks Corner is an epic spot in Archway for your weekend laziness delights and morning rush to work take-outs, with their feel at home, amiable ambience.
Tip - Drink: Their cold press juices are pretty decent and they know to make a good cup of Coffee too. Food: Make sure you get their homemade special spicy ketchup sauce on your Bacon Bap!
Archies, Archway
Another pretty special corner hangout in Archway, Archies! Slightly larger than Cricks this cafe is a chic all-day dining space specialising in feel-good food, sweet treats, Climpson & Sons coffee as-well as cocktails in the evening! If you're around the area, make sure you take a step inside.
Tip - Drink: If you're brunching then their 'Pink Grapefruit Mimosas' are spot on! Food: Most definitely try their 'Chimichurri Steak Sarnie', it's a winner!
Fink's Salt & Sweet, Finsbury Park
Located in-between the popular Finsbury Park and the leafy neighbourhood of Stoke Newington, Fink's Salt & Sweet is a rustic-chic cafe and deli not only welcoming you with a smile but serving up some delicious treats. Whether it's grabbing a coffee, stocking up on some kitchen items or catching up with a mate over a bite to eat, Fink's Salt & Sweet is always one to check out when you're in the area.
Tip - Drink: They make a pretty good cup of brew, so take your pick. Food: The Focaccia with burrata and pesto not only is a hangover cure, but simply one of the best breakfast sandwiches to get in the North!
Victoria Stakes, Muswell Hill
Up past Highgate you'll come across another leafy affluent area, Muswell Hill, here is where the family-run, independent, local pub, Victoria Stakes sits. Having created a slice of village life to the area, this gastropub offers three diverse spaces, including, private events space & wedding licence along with a fine variety of seasonal, sustainable, homemade & ethically sourced dishes along with craft beer, wine and spirits.
Tip - Drink: White Wine from the UK? Go on then! Why not try the Bacchus, Albourne Estate. Food: The House vegan burger is smashing.
Beavertown Brewery, Tottenham Hale
Founded in 2011 by Logan Plant, the son of Robert Plan, sing with Led Zeppelin, Beavertown soon established itself as a key player in the craft brewery world with its juicy flavours and distinctive, colourful, artsy branding. With it's very own brewery in Tottenham Hale, make sure you head down their on a Saturday to enjoy their wicked taproom along with some epic food vendors.
Tip - Drink: We love their classic - Gamma Ray American Pale Ale! Food: Souvlaki Street entices you to some delicious wraps.
On a side note, as mentioned before North London is the perfect place to feel rested! Why not check out the famed Highgate Cemetery or Alexandra Palace on your northern adventures.
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