#ZonaByNight - Taste of the Caribbean

Under the watchful eye of a Roman wolf, something new has happened to Stoke Newington’s dining scene. Zona N16 is a little bit of Europe mixed with a lot of Stoke Newington or, very possibly, vice versa. There are distinct nods to founder Chris Goulbourne’s Italian background, of course – that wolf, a regional wine list in the form of a hand drawn map – but, as Chris explains, he wanted to take it further, with a family friendly approach, a hidden gem of an outdoor terrace, an all day, crowd-pleasing brunch menu – and a short menu of classic “goldfish bowl” gin and tonics. Chris was also determined to acknowledge the building’s history, from its days as W A Higgs – a Victorian tea importer, appropriately enough. The original sign looks down on the main dining room, while the back room features an original fire place. The interior’s bare brick, wood floors and pastel tiles give a relaxed, Mediterranean feel, while an open kitchen prepares a hugely appealing all day menu that ranges from brunch classics to Zona N16’s own delicious creations. There is, genuinely, something for everyone, from the health conscious to those of heartier appetites. For the former, there’s a yogurt and granola bowl and that modern classic, avocado on toast, here given a vibrant twist with minted goats cheese. For the latter, well, it has to be Smokey Bacon Sloppy Joes or Salt Beef Benedict, served on a croissant, topped with hollandaise and sliced gherkin. And for those somewhere in between, perhaps sourdough toast with homemade mango jam, or ricotta, pear, honey and thyme on toast? Oh, and at weekends, there’s a full English breakfast inside a crispy Yorkshire pudding. Yes. Exactly. Coffee comes from the Gentleman Baristas, teas come from Chash, The Fine Tea Co. “Wherever possible,” says Chris, “we’re working with entrepreneurial young businesses, because we want to grow together.” There is also a range of rich, decadent hot chocolates made with real chocolate, never powdered. Those looking to detox are well served by freshly squeezed juices…while those looking to retox can add a splash of prosecco.