7 Gems of... Holloway Road (London N7)
North London has a lot to offer, and Holloway Road in and of itself brings a lot to the table.Though I am an Angel girl at heart, my time spent living in Holloway definitely introduced me to some gems that I feel are worth sharing. As it is the area of N7, I have decided to compile a list of 7 spots that are not to be missed when visiting Holloway Road… or just London itself!
1. Zia Lucia
If you’re looking for that pizza place, Zia Lucia may just be it.
Delicious pizzas? Yes
Baked in Wood-Fired Ovens? Yes
Good drinks? Yes
Tons of options for toppings? Yes
Four different types of dough options? Yes
Gluten Free options? Yes!
Ranked amongst my top 10 favourite pizzas ever, Zia Lucia definitely stands out as not only a gem on Holloway Road, but also in London. The constant 20-30 minute wait time that you that can unfortunately always expect before finding a spot is but another testament to it’s quality. Another benefit? For London, it’s very affordable, and if you don’t manage to finish it, they’ll happily doggy bag it for you.
2. Cookies and Scream
Vegan and gluten-free lovers can rejoice thanks to many wonderful dessert creations courtesy of Cookies & Scream! Those with dietary restrictions won’t only be smiling due to the sheer amount of wonderful offerings; the moment you step into this 50s-themed dessert shop, kind workers greet you and will always take the time to explain the menu items. I’ve also brought two of my friends who are able to eat anything to this spot, and they were both huge fans. It’s not just good for a vegan/ gluten-free spot - it’s just plain good.
They do brownies, “monster shakes”, and tons of pie options.
My personal favourite? As you can clearly see, the Cookie Sandwich with the icing inside! It’s divine, darling! The Chico Pie also shouldn’t be missed if you are a fan of peanut butter…
3. Le Péché Mignon
For a detailed analysis of Le Péché Mignon, check out the spotlight post: https://www.sarahfreia.com/myblog/cafe-lepechemignon
Le Péché Mignon, an independently owned French café, also sells lovely European delights and fine foods, such as sardines, cheeses, charcuterie, wines, pastas, and my personal favourite - yogurts from La Fermière.
Not your typical London café, this particular haunt has actual francophone waiters who will happily take your order in French. This made me feel extremely comfortable and right at home! Not to worry if you’re not fluent in the language of love: they are all very well versed in English, as well!
If you aren’t bothered by a nice talk with a stranger, this café does have one large communal table at which you can rub shoulders with other residents or visitors to the area.
Do be aware that the building in which it is located is currently under construction, so there is some scaffolding which blocks it’s main window from sight on the street. Keep your eyes peeled and you should be able to find it!
4. Vagabond
Oh, Vagabond. With your tell-tale blue cups, and the smell of roasting coffee that permeates the air the moment you walk into the café, you’ve definitely crafted your own “aesthetic” along Holloway Road.
This café, with it’s lovely little bicycle outside the main door, serves up a mean cup of coffee in a very large space that is perfect for student’s who need to study, or professionals who need to get done some last-minute tasks.
Vagabond makes their own roasts, which they put to good use in their caffeinated creations. They also have a few nice nibbles available, and they’ve always had a gluten free and a vegan option. I must say, I can’t believe I’m saying this, but their zucchini & lemon cake is very good. If you don’t mind trying something new, I recommend it!
P.S. I am LOVING how the two photos with my nail polish turned out. Can I be conceited for a moment? Because I want to be conceited for a moment. Wow. Those are… wow. Nice. I’m a fan!
5. Sambal Shiok
Sambal Shiok specializes in laksa, a Malaysian delight. What began as a street food stall, then a pop-up restaurant which many sell out runs, has led to this lovely little space that smells just as good as it tastes.
There are gluten free and vegetarian options on the menu, and they definitely doll out hearty portions! Healthy, hearty, and Holloway Road-approved!
6. EZ & Moss
EZ & Moss is a nice café on Holloway Road that takes into account many dietary restrictions: there’s vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options! The café serves up healthy lunches (think quiches, stews, and salads) and nice little desserts (brownies and “café cake loafs” [Who knows what these are called? I sure don’t]).
7. Provisions
Unfortunately, I got no photos when I last dined at Provisions! Set in a cheese/ wine/ charcuterie shop, Provisions does offer a few select eats for customers wishing to dine on one of their curated cheese or charcuterie plates.
I highly recommend allowing one of the knowledgable servers to curate the plate you order, and possibly suggest a wine. I’ve never been disappointed when I’ve done this!
Provisions is also fantastic as you can pop by and provide your home with some provisions of Camembert or Saint-Aubaine for your own dining pleasure at home. Je l’adore!
Another great mention is the inexpensive but flavourful Zen Wakoku sushi restaurant in Upper Holloway. Don’t be turned away by the food hall in which it is situation; the price for the quality in this cozy little joint is fantastic, and the servers are always kind.
Thank you for reading & eating, Lovely!
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