Rubedo
Stoke Newington, London
Entry
Esoteric beverages, natural wines and ‘super-seasonal’ small plates with incredibly affordable price tags help to make this edgy little East London eatery a neighbourhood hot spot positively brimming with exuberant personality. The owners say their food is a passion project guided by their experience, a take on cuisine sans frontières with a European backbone and an almost evangelical commitment to cannily sourced British ingredients. So be prepared for an unpredictable repertoire of zesty little dishes tailored to the calendar and celebrating what’s ‘good right now’. We have gorged on excellent fritto misto with tarragon mayonnaise and plates of whole grilled mackerel jazzed up with fermented greens and sweet Szechuan vinaigrette, as well as a ‘generous and delicious’ special of ox heart and ribeye tartare dressed with sour cream and scattered with katsuobushi (bonito flakes). Home-cured charcuterie (sliced to order and served with sauerkraut) is a fixture, but the menu might also promise pickled watermelon with panzanella, or grilled lamb with peach and apricot mostarda, or monkfish teamed with coco blanca and chicory – Italian and Spanish accents shine brightly here. Likewise, happy endings embrace Basque cheesecake with strawberries as well as deep-fried Taleggio drizzled with hot honey. Thankfully, staff are clued-up and highly knowledgeable about everything – including the hugely appealing drinks list. Dive in and you might find curious fermented libations, cider and an enlightened selection of ‘vins vivants’ free from chemical or mechanical interventions. France Spain and Italy are the main contenders, but Austria, Georgia and Lebanon also have their say. It's all very fresh, very local and very ‘now’.
Dining Information:
Counter seating, Wheelchair access, Family friendly, Dog friendly, Credit card required
35 Stoke Newington Church Street, Stoke Newington N16 0NX
020 7254 0364
