Restaurants

A refit has given Pasha a slight change of emphasis. The look is modern rather than traditional, with muted pale-khaki colouring and a mirror at the back to increase the sense of space. The front still opens out on to the street. The menu has now been extended to include separate breakfast and lunch menus; on Sunday, roast beef with yorkshire pudding is offered alongside the traditional Turkish fare. Mixed meze were very fresh, with houmous and a mackerel-like fish particularly notable. Main courses didnt disappoint either; outstanding choices included lamb stew, which boasted chunks of melt-in-the-mouth meat, and duck kapama (stewed in a covered pot), served with sweet pomegranate sauce, potato and cabbage. Service was attentive, even if the staff were, as ever, slightly manic. Though its made a few changes, Pashas position as Islingtons top Turkish restaurant is not under threat. The food is still excellent, and the more adventurous flourishes on the new menu are more than welcome.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2008