Elk in the Woods (CLOSED)

Having started out as a bar, the Elk presents more of a gastro face during busy lunchtimes, but regulars to this Camden Passage haunt aren’t discouraged from ordering up a Cucumber Martini (with Hendrick’s gin, £8) or Tobia Rioja and occupying a wooden table for a while. Martinis, seven in number (Polish with Zubrówka Bison Grass vodka, Watermelon & Basil with Pinky vodka) dominate the cocktail list, but you’ll also find zingy options such as a Grapefruit Mojito (with Matusalem Classico and fresh mint) or the Elderflower Fizz (with Buffalo Trace bourbon). Draught beers include Sagres, Kronenbourg and Theakston’s ale, with bottled Moretti, Corona and Asahi alongside, and those pregnant or driving have a few non-alcoholic cocktails to choose from: the Orange & Ginger Zing (orange juice, freshly squeezed lemon, ginger ale) hits the spot. Elk in the Woods is also a place for a quality breakfast, with the likes of duck egg with asparagus, sausage and toast dippers, and over-the-top sandwiches: veal doorstep, or rare breed lamb burger in torteno roll with grilled courgette and mint jelly.