Tucked away in East Barnet, Pinch of Salt bistro is a true hidden gem. The cosy restaurant serves up a blend of creole Mauritian and European fare, along with fun house cocktails. Hop off the train at Oakleigh park or the tube at Cockfosters, and after a short walk, you'll find this totally unique restaurant. Inside, there are artistic black and white prints, touches of blue and turquoise to give a marine feel and a buzzy atmosphere as friendly staff shuttle around the delicious food on offer.
Enjoy playful takes on classic cocktails, like the lemongrass and ginger mojito or the 'sex on the island'. More classic concoctions like margaritas and espresso martinis are available too. For a simpler sip, diners can instead opt for spirits like Black Cow vodka and Bombay Sapphire gin. Those who prefer beer should try the Phoenix lager - an authentic Mauritian beer, while those who prefer wine can enjoy a short and reasonably priced list of wines by the glass or bottle.
A meal at Pinch of Salt starts with authentic Mauritian street snacks, such as gateaux piment (a crunchy fritter of split peas, fresh herbs and chilli). Other starters include honey garlic chilli chicken wings, BBQ wings, calamari with lemon and garlic aioli, shell-on black tiger prawns with creamy curry leaf and butter sauce or bread and oil with marinated olives. The mains are similarly authentic, so be sure to try the mine frite (Mauritian fried noodles with vegetables, omelette and a choice of beef, chicken, seafood or veg). The drunken duck is another must: duck legs slow-cooked on the bone with warm spices, red wine and stone baked bread or rice and a side of salad. Finish the meal with a lemongrass creme brulee, banana or pineapple flambee or chocolate and orange cake.