Take Las Vegas glitz, add a dash of Morocco, some 1950s kitchenette design and a bit of reclaimed timber and – hocus pocus – you have the magical Ruby Violet. We’re not sure what Tufnell Park has done to deserve one of London’s premier ice-cream parlours, but whether you’re on a date or out with the kids, there are few occasions this place doesn’t suit. The ices (expect a choice of 18) are all made in a pristine kitchen from Duchy Originals organic milk, free-range eggs and a glass and a half of discernment.
Reliably excellent standard flavours are supplemented with intriguing diversions such as rhubarb and verjus, or elderflower and prosecco. On the counter there’s usually a gooey curiosity such as Guinness and blue cheese or chocolate-beetroot cake. For parties and special occasions you can order flower-shaped sorbets, layered balls and bombes, and ‘antarctic rolls’ of ice-cream in sponge. Drinks continue the high-level tone with fabulous hot chocolate made with Callebaut Couverture, Newby teas and Square Mile coffee. Service can be slow, if we’re being picky, but on the whole this place is excellent.