This landmark Islington country-house pub and its sizeable beer garden are feeling the benefit of a recent refurb: the “nouveau Georgian” decor works well and a smart new decked terrace with
parasols and cool cabanas invites lounging. Draught brews from Meantime, Camden, Veltins and Brooklyn, cocktails and chilled crisp wines are sunny-day thirst-quenchers, while locally produced craft
ales reflect each season – and there’s mulled wine for wintertime. Deep-filled deli sandwiches bolster an extensive menu that offers gazpacho, salt-and-pepper squid or mushrooms on toast with
Stilton cream ahead of pork and chorizo burgers or gnocchi with cannellini beans in a thyme and mushroom sauce. After that, think about salted chocolate caramel tart with clotted cream or lemon and
lime crumble. At the weekend, The Alwyne is a popular choice for lazy breakfasts and brunch; it’s also worth booking for Sunday lunch.