Seemor

Casa Fabrizi (formerly Alpino Cafe)A-

1 Chapel Market, London N1 9EZ · Restaurant, Breakfast restaurant, Italian restaurant · Islington

Beloved Angel cafe blending hearty English breakfasts with homestyle Italian pasta at fair prices, strong local following, minor service and coffee consistency hiccups.

Our take

Casa Fabrizi delivers solid neighborhood dining through strong food quality anchored by hearty breakfasts and homestyle Italian pasta, supported by exceptional customer loyalty spanning years. Market-side charm and cozy ambiance create genuine local appeal, though tight quarters during peak service and occasional coffee inconsistencies prevent grade A territory. Competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants for reliable, unpretentious dining.

In more detail

On Chapel Market, this spot hums with a neighborhood rhythm: clatter of plates, steam from the espresso machine, and servers weaving through regulars who know their order by heart. A diner summed it up: "Hearty plates, warm people, and prices that make sense." The room feels cozy and bustling, with a market-side charm that leans more local haunt than tourist magnet. In the kitchen, the approach is classic rather than flashy: homestyle Italian pasta and fry-ups done with care. Lasagna and carbonara read old-school and satisfying, while the full English wins loyalists for generous portions and fair pricing. Coffee gets mostly praise, though a few cups miss the mark. Expect friendly service that can decelerate when every table is full. Families do well here because the menu fits what kids actually eat: pancakes, eggs, bacon, and simple pastas. There is no need for adventurous palates—this is comfort-first cooking. Vegetarian options appear, but if you need gluten-free or vegan depth, ask before you sit; choices look limited but workable for simpler needs.

Standout dishes

What people love

Worth knowing

Location Insights

Area vibe: Bustling market street with locals, office workers, and weekend shoppers; casual and community-focused.

Safety: Generally safe and lively during trading hours; good foot traffic and lighting along Chapel Market.

What's nearby: Near Angel station, market stalls, shops, and other casual eateries; residential streets nearby support regulars.

Frequently asked

What should I order at Casa Fabrizi (formerly Alpino Cafe)?

The Full English and classic lasagna or carbonara are the most reliable picks, with breakfast mains around £10-13 and pasta about £12-16

What should I know before going to Casa Fabrizi (formerly Alpino Cafe)?

It is a casual, family-run spot that fills up at breakfast and can feel cramped with slower service during peak times

What's Casa Fabrizi (formerly Alpino Cafe) like?

A cozy, market-side cafe with lively breakfast energy and a local, family-run feel

Opening Hours

Sunday08:00–14:00 Monday Tuesday07:00–14:00 Wednesday07:00–14:00 Thursday07:00–14:00 Friday07:00–14:00 Saturday08:00–15:00
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