Little Bat Bar

From the team behind Shoreditch’s Callooh Callay, Little Bat Bar is a worthy addition to Islington’s drinking scene. A cocktail bar that also flaunts a fine line in small plates, their 2025 food menu is the work of one of London’s hottest chefs, James Cochran, whose jerk fried chicken is the powerfully crispy stuff of legend. Meanwhile, on the tipple list are punchy signature drinks, a trio of ‘cold AF martinis’ (vodka, gin or vesper), plus a reasonably priced wine selection starting at £7 a glass. The front section of the venue is all high stools and low lighting, or grab a booth at the rear where the walls are festooned with eclectic art. Staff are attentive, prices are neighbourhood-friendly, and did we mention that chicken?

Order this: If you’re a whisky fan then, the Devil’s Water has a lot of it - four types in fact, plus miso and ginger, all clarified with milk. If that sounds a bit much then the Little Bat team are a dab hand at seasonal specials, including zingy summer spritzes.

Time Out tip: Formerly heading up the sadly now defunct 12:51, make sure to go to Little Bat Bar hungry for cookery as devised by Cochran, as well as thirsty. From scallop ceviche to hash browns with confit egg yolk, these are more than just bar snacks.