Seemor

Banana Tree IslingtonB+Worth Trying

Name: Banana Tree Islington
Address: 412-416 St John St, London EC1V 4NJ, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.6

412-416 St John St, London EC1V 4NJ · Restaurant, Asian restaurant, Bar · 4.6/5 Google (3615 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout

A lively Pan-Asian spot in Islington with creative dishes, friendly staff, and great vegan options—just expect moderate prices and occasional service hiccups.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Banana Tree Islington delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality and attentive, friendly service that earn consistent praise. However, inconsistent execution—particularly temperature and portion reliability—and isolated food safety concerns prevent a higher grade. The vibrant Pan-Asian menu, excellent lunch value, and welcoming atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit for casual dining, though it falls short of the area's premier restaurant standards.

Restaurant Summary

Banana Tree Islington brings a vibrant slice of Southeast Asia to the heart of Islington, serving up a creative Pan-Asian menu that’s as colorful as its decor. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with staff like Maria and Mesi earning rave reviews for their warmth and attention to detail. Whether you’re popping in for a quick lunch or gathering a group for a pre-theatre feast, you’ll find generous portions, bold flavors, and a menu that caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs.The culinary approach here leans contemporary, with fusion twists on classic dishes—think vegan gyoza, legendary beef rendang, and a Pad Thai that some call the best in the UK. The menu is packed with vegan and vegetarian options, and staff are consistently praised for their allergy awareness and willingness to customize orders. Prices are moderate for central London, especially with the excellent lunch deals, though a few diners have noted smaller portions or higher prices for certain mains.For families, Banana Tree Islington is a solid choice. The menu features plenty of kid-friendly options like Pad Thai, spring rolls, and sweetcorn fritters, and the casual, bustling vibe makes it easy to bring little ones along. Reviews mention family groups and large parties being well accommodated, and the staff’s friendly approach helps everyone feel at home. Just be aware that during peak times, service can slow down, so plan ahead if you’re on a tight schedule.

At a Glance

Creative Pan-Asian menu with standout vegan and vegetarian options.
Friendly, attentive staff—Maria and Mesi are local legends.
Excellent value lunch deals and group-friendly atmosphere.
Occasional slow service and inconsistent portion sizes.
Some mains (like Beef Rendang) may be smaller than expected for the price.

What Sets It Apart

creative_pan_asian_menu
strong_vegan_and_vegetarian_options
friendly_named_staff
excellent_lunch_deals

What People Love

The Pad Thai—often called the best in London
Staff who remember regulars and go above and beyond
Vegan and vegetarian options that don't feel like an afterthought
Group-friendly vibe and accommodating large parties
Excellent value lunch deals

Points of Concern

Some diners report slow service or long waits during peak hours.
A few mains (notably Beef Rendang) are smaller than expected for the price.
Isolated incidents of cold food or inconsistent dish quality.
Rare but notable allergy and dietary mix-ups—always double-check with staff.

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£25-32 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Try the Pad Thai or Blackened Monks Noodles for a signature experience.
Opt for the lunch deal for best value.
Vegan diners have multiple starter and main options—ask staff for recommendations.

Perfect For

Pre-theatre dinners before a show at Sadler's Wells
Group celebrations or family meals
Vegan and vegetarian diners seeking variety
Casual lunches with friends or colleagues

Location Insights

Area: Bustling, cosmopolitan area with a mix of young professionals, families, and theatre-goers; lively but not overly touristy.

Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy with steady foot traffic, especially in evenings.

Nearby: Close to Sadler's Wells Theatre, Angel tube station, shops, and other restaurants; popular pre-theatre and after-work spot.

ClerkenwellA sophisticated urban neighborhood with a mix of historic architecture and modern design studios, featuring innovative restaurants, artisan cafes, and a vibrant professional dining scene.

St John Street CorridorA dynamic street known for its design-centric businesses, boutique restaurants, and contemporary workspace environments.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–22:30 Tuesday12:00–23:00 Wednesday12:00–23:00 Thursday12:00–23:00 Friday12:00–23:00 Saturday12:00–23:00 Sunday12:00–22:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout

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