Riley

This bright, spacious art-themed parlour-café would be welcome in most neighbourhoods, but in the heart of Crouch End it feels like more of the same. The artisan-made ice-creams and sorbets are a draw, certainly, though on our visit the choice was dull and the mood of disappointment wasn’t helped by an exhausted counter assistant.

We made do with vanilla, chocolate, fiordilatte and strawberry, all of which were good, though it was the yoghurt flavour that really shone with its zingy, refreshing tang. The selection of wholesome Mediterranean-inspired salads, sandwiches and tarts spread across the counter is enticingly homey; combined with the relaxed decor and plenty of space around the tables, Riley is in a prime position to become a favourite with the Bugaboo brigade. Cakes, brownies, milkshakes and well-made coffee complete a generally pleasing picture.