Colebrookes

If the Government want to encourage more of a European café culture, they should send someone down to Colebrookes to take a look.

Colebrookes takes the flash and trendy out of the wine bar and instead opts for a more understated, relaxed atmosphere which suits the diminutive venue. Inside against the backdrop of a frieze - depicting Islington in times gone by - is a clutter of simple wooden tables and bar. During the summer months customers spill out on to the quiet street where there’s more seating. Jazz and blues arrangements twitter relaxingly out of the speakers. Some nights there’s live music; we saw a guitar-accordion duo whose mellow airs were the kind to whisk you straight across the Channel.

The snacky menu combines pieces from various parts of the European jigsaw. The exceptional French cheeses sit temptingly next to melt-in-the-mouth Italian hams and flavoursome Spanish black pudding. This is all complemented by a great selection of nibbles: olives, nuts and some truly moreish vegetable crisps. Their sharing platters are a great way to eat; your green eyes are never eyeing up your companions choice. The petite wine list maintains a great variety and this is backed up by a selection of beers from across the continent. And if you after something stronger, the forthcoming bar staff know how to mix a classic cocktail.

Tucked away as it is, but still close to Angel Tube, Colebrookes doesn’t have the same hectic atmosphere as other bars in the vicinity. Simple and serene, with fabulous food.

Live music every Wednesday.