Ottolenghi, Islington

Ottolenghi is somewhat of an Islington institution.  It has a prime position on Upper Street, about halfway between the Highbury/Islington and Angel tube stations.  On most days, especially weekend mornings, there is queue out the door.  The restaurant specialises in fresh food with a modern Mediterranean influence.

I was meeting up with some friends for brunch at Ottolenghi on a Sunday and we waited about forty minutes in line.  Eek!  By the time we were seated, we decided to order off their lunch menu instead of the breakfast menu.

I had a mocha on the side and it was very, very good.  Sweet and chocolatey with a strong coffee kick.

 The lunch menu at Ottolenghi is simple – you can choose from a range of salads and protein to make up your plate.  Basically:

– two salads and a main (ie the protein) – £13.70
– three salads and a main – £16.20

The salads and proteins are all on display at the deli section in the front of the restaurant so you can have a good look before deciding on what you want.

They also do takeaway but i noticed that the takeaway line on this weekend morning was just as long as the queue of people wanting seats!

Despite the queue, I would definitely go back.