L’Absinthe: North London’s most authentic French bistro

Hidden in the inner streets of Primrose Hill, a few minutes walk from the busy and touristy high street of Camden Town, L’Absinthe is the local bistro that everybody wishes to have in their own neighbourhood.

The entire experience begins with the welcome of the extravagant owner Jean-Christophe Slovak, who set up this little restaurant after a career spent in the company of former three-Michelin-star chef and patron Marco Pierre White.

The atmosphere is cosy, relaxed and warm – some details could be improved: cutlery, glasses and the poorly laminated menus, for instance.

However, the service is very friendly and the food on offer consists of classic French dishes. We start with the snails with garlic butter and parsley, which was just delicious and well worth £6.95.

The main course is a generous portion of beef bourguignon with mashed potatoes, a real – quality – stomach-filler for just £10.95.

The wine list is simple but showcases a nice selection of bottles, including a very warm Côtes du Rhône which was a perfect pairing for the bourguignon.

L’Absinthe has expanded next door with a deli, but be sure to try the bistro first: it is a little gem not to be missed.

★★★★★

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Filippo L’Astorina, The Editor
Photos: Marco Carboni

To book a table at L’Absinthe, 40 Chalcot Rd London NW1 8LS, call 020 7483 4848 or enquire here.