Bistro Aix
54 Topsfield Parade Crouch End London N8 8PT
Who would’ve expected to find a smart French bistro here among the curryhouses of Crouch End? Having established a reputation as one of the best of its breed in north London, Bistro Aix has no need to move. This place is classic France – informal, stylish, a touch romantic. Just as authentic is the cooking, which has won the plaudits of both the critics and Arsenal striker Cesc Fabregas, who famously celebrated his birthday here. Starters include a tangy Salade Aixoise, with chevre and sausage, artichokes and olives, alongside classics like onion soup or pan-seared foie-gras. Mains are generally meaty, falling off the bone and flavoured with rich sauces – the essence of traditional French cooking – supplemented by classics from elsewhere like osso buco, and, rather cheekily, ‘cod et frîtes’.