Little Mercies

We like Little Mercies’ way of thinking. The Crouch End bar has a mini drinks section of the menu called, “What to drink when you are still thinking about what to drink”. The mini oyster martini is bone-chillingly cold, with vodka which has been infused with oyster meat. It tastes briny rather than fishy. It sums up the creative nature of the neighbourhood spot, where staff are more than happy to get geeky with you about their specials, or just make you a really great classic. Come later in the week when the hustle and bustle of the classy bar—all exposed brick and deep-blue banquettes and stools—picks up, drawing out locals who’ve clocked off early on a Friday, and couples settling in for Saturday date night with a few decent European small plates.