Goodbye Horses

Goodbye Horses has always felt like one of Islington’s best-kept secrets, and now, with a freshly minted Bib Gourmand to its name, the secret’s very much out. An evening here plays out like a dinner party at a not-so-struggling artist’s townhouse: a little pretentious on first impression, impeccably styled, and deeply charming once you settle in. 

Inside, the details do most of the talking. Hand-painted curtains frame the room, records lean casually by the door, and a tight-knit crowd perches at the solid oak counter, swirling wine in glasses stamped with a horse-and-moon logo - a knowing nod for those who catch the Q Lazzarus reference.

The space is beautiful yet unfussy, polished but relaxed, like it’s all been thrown together at the last minute by someone with extremely good taste. Staff drift between chatting star signs with solo diners, evangelising orange wine to sceptics, tweaking the record player and quietly steering you towards dishes you didn’t know you needed. 

The food fits the mood perfectly: elegant, shareable and ideal for casual dinners or low-key date nights. Standouts have included the oxtail ragout with broken rice - light, deeply savoury and scattered with crispy nuggets of joy - and a cheese toastie that has no business being this good, all tangy, stretchy indulgence lifted by a sharp leek pickle.