Lydia Brasserie

This was a brunch spot on a sunny Saturday. It's away from the hustle and bustle of Crouch End. It was empty and the owner was obviously very keen on customers from the street. I chose the place because cilbir is one of my favourites and it was blander than the cilbir I make at home - it was definitely played safe seasoning/flavour-wise. The atmosphere was strange as not many people in. It was disconcerting to hear a manager tell off a junior member of staff for a mark on a salt shaker or something excessively where we were eating - from a hospitality background, this should have been done out of customers' earshot. All in all, the sunshine and company made it but I'm sure there are better places in CE to have brunch.

Really lovely, friendly neighbourhood corner café with a Turkish vibe. It’s more home cooking than fine dining to be honest, but we live around the corner and love to drop in now and then as a treat for breakfast, lunch (cheese and mushroom omelette with a glass of Turkish red wine, my wife loves the fish cakes) or dinner (grilled sea bass for me, maybe hummus and pitta to share as a starter). There’s always a friendly welcome and a relaxed atmosphere. Tables outside are nice on a Summer’s day, despite Crouch Hill being quite busy. There are more sophisticated dining experiences available in Crouch End, and sometimes Lydia Brasserie is less well attended in the evening than, say Floral Hall across the street (Tapas, very nice, book ahead) but that’s a shame because there should always be a place for a friendly neighbourhood café. Go there.

Charming calming off the beaten track Brasserie. Cosy and warm on a wet Easter weekend they served piping hot American cafe. The menu is massive and impressive and full of healthy choices as well as a typical English fry up if you insist, but with top ingredients. We brought our own cake for a birthday and the staff, always attentive and helpful and quick, were happy to cut and serve - and they put a belting birthday sound track on for a few minutes too!

The BEST customer service in London! We have spent three days in London and this has to be the most friendly place to visit. A warm welcome by the lovely Turkish guy who was happy to talk about the local area and his journey to Crouch End. Lovely food in a cosy atmosphere. Will definitely be back soon