Le Mercury

You don’t usually associate cheap with good value, but that’s what you get at Le Mercury. It’s highly commended by its loyal customers with glorious reviews. Established since 1985, the no-frills French bistro is found along Islington upper street. It’s so popular that there’s a second restaurant Le Mercury Deuxieme on Upper Street. Visiting during early lunch hours, being the only customer, getting served straight away.  

Le mercury has three floors to dine. The ground floor has smaller tables with white linen cloths for those dining in groups of four. Aquamarine painted walls, and large windows let in the natural light. Only one staff was on the floor working at the time.  

The Menu

Presented with the menu, the prices are fixed starters at £5.50, mains at £12.50, sides at £3 and desserts from £2.45. I went straight in for the pork belly for lunch, given a selection of baked bread and butter to start.  

The food

Out with the mains, it was presented on a large deep white plate, a large slab of pork belly on a bed of sautéed curly kale, underneath the kale there was the surprise of mashed granny smith apples. A thick dark rich gravy. Portions are large at Le Mercury; it was a battle to tackle all of the roast pork. Some parts were warm and some parts were a bit cold. The kale, mashed apple and gravy I polished off on no time.  

Le Mercury is a great cheap and cheerful option for no frill’s French food at rock bottom prices, they serve Sunday Roast for £11.95. My total bill for a main, drink and service was under £20. Evenings times are usually packed, and lunch hours are the perfect time to visit.  

Le Mercury restaurant details  

For more information visit Le Mercury restaurant website.  

140a Upper Street, 

London, 

N1 1QY