Seemor
Ottolenghi IslingtonA-Worth Trying
287 Upper St, London N1 2TZ
· Mediterranean restaurant, Breakfast restaurant, Cafe
· 4.4/5 Google (2416 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Creative vegetable-forward small plates and standout pastries with lively communal seating; excellent flavors but pricing and time-limits can feel steep for the casual diner.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Ottolenghi Islington delivers exceptional food quality with creative, produce-driven Mediterranean plates that justify its reputation, supported by strong service attentiveness and efficient pacing. Space comfort and occasional consistency variance prevent grade A territory, while the small-plate format and premium pricing create a specific dining experience best suited to adventurous diners seeking layered flavors over traditional comfort food.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with a deli counter stacked in jewel-toned salads and glossy cakes. Servers guide you through the sharing format while timed seatings keep the pace brisk. One diner put it simply: "Flavors were unforgettable, and the team kept everything flowing." Expect communal seating alongside a handful of private tables, and a crowd that mixes locals with cookbook fans. The cooking leans contemporary Middle Eastern–Mediterranean with global touches: creative, produce-driven plates where tahini meets miso, citrus cuts richness, and seafood is treated with care. It suits diners who enjoy layered flavors and variety over a single large main. If you prefer classic comfort dishes without surprises, the small-plate structure and punchy seasoning may feel intense. For families, breakfast is the sweet spot: pancakes, scrambled eggs, and pastries make it easy for kids. Lunch brings familiar proteins with salad choices. Dinner skews more adventurous with spices, nuts, and seeds appearing often, so picky eaters might struggle. There is no stated kids menu, but breakfast and simple sides can keep younger diners happy.
At a Glance
- Vibrant, vegetable-forward plates with distinct, memorable flavors
- Excellent pastries and eye-catching deli display
- Pricing adds up with small-plate format and time-limited seatings
- Occasional service brusqueness or rush at busy times
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- vegetable_led_menu_creativity
- communal_long_table_experience
- iconic_pastry_display
What People Love
- Inventive salads and vegetable dishes that feel special
- Precisely cooked fish and well-spiced lamb
- Show-stopping cakes for dine-in or takeaway
- Confident recommendations from staff when ordering
Points of Concern
- Small-plate pricing can feel high once you order 2-3 dishes each; some diners felt portions were modest
- Time-limited seatings and reminders near the end of booking can feel rushed
- Communal seating and acoustics may not suit those seeking a quiet, private meal
- Review patterns show isolated service lapses (rudeness or pacing issues) but not a persistent trend
- Creative/fusion menu may challenge conservative palates; nuts and seeds feature frequently
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£42-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For a balanced dinner: 1 veg plate (£10.50-13.00) + 1 protein (£17-24.50) per person, then share a dessert
- Breakfast value: Shakshuka (£14.10) or Pancakes (£10.50) plus coffee for a satisfying start
Perfect For
- A lively brunch with friends who like to share plates
- Date night for flavor explorers
- Celebrating with family that enjoys bold spices
- Solo diners comfortable at a communal table
Location Insights
Area: Bustling high street with boutiques, theaters, and cafes; draws locals and visitors for dining and pre-theater meals.
Safety: Generally safe, busy day and evening with good foot traffic and lighting.
Nearby: Near Almeida Theatre and numerous pubs, bars, and shops; strong weekend brunch trade.
IslingtonA trendy and sophisticated inner-city neighborhood with a sophisticated dining scene, featuring numerous gastropubs, artisan cafes, and high-end restaurants. Known for its elegant Georgian and Victorian architecture and progressive urban culture.
CanonburyAn upscale residential sub-area within Islington characterized by elegant townhouses, quiet streets, and a refined, intellectual atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday08:00–22:00
Tuesday08:00–22:00
Wednesday08:00–22:00
Thursday08:00–22:00
Friday08:00–22:00
Saturday08:00–22:00
Sunday09:00–18:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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