The Jolene Bakery and Restaurant in Newington Green is adorable with delicious breakfast, lunch, dinner and takeaway options. I often stop off for a bite to eat when I’m passing through on my way to the beauticians in Finsbury Park. Last week Homeboy and I walked from London Bridge to Jolene for an alfresco lunch. Yes, I know it’s January, but the sun was shining, and it was a warm day for the time of year. If you’re looking for the best lunch places in Newington Green, restaurants in N16 or bakeries in North London, you’ll enjoy Jolene.
“Enjoy rustic small plates and a taste of Italy, Spain and other influences at Jolene in the heart of Stoke Newington,” Homegirl London.
Jolene Bakery and Restaurant Menu
The restaurant menu features small plates that change daily, so please check the Instagram page before visiting. Homeboy and I shared a few vegetarian dishes, including fabulous Focaccia that was light and fluffy with a drizzle of olive oil. It melted in my mouth.
The Bitter Leaves Salad with Orange and Salted Ricotta was a delight. It was so simple, and I loved every mouthful. I’d try to recreate this at home, or maybe I’ll go back to Jolene again instead! Another stunner was the Jerusalem Artichokes with Watercress and Hazelnuts. The Jerusalem artichokes were roasted; I think, whatever they did, the result was terrific.
We enjoyed the hearty, rustic Cavatelli Pasta, Cime di Rapa, Chilli and Pangrattato, broccoli rabe or rapini with chilli and crispy flavoured breadcrumbs. Homeboy also tried a plate of Boquerones, which is similar to anchovies but less salty.
Of course, we saved room for dessert, which was a homely Sticky Ginger Cake with Crème Fraiche. We also asked for the Tiramisu Cake from the takeaway list.
Also on the menu was Marinated Olives, Coppa (charcuterie from the shoulder of a pig), Salsiccia Secca (thin salami similar to pepperoni), Ham and Mushroom Croquette, Chicken Liver Parfait and Panettone and a few other things.
The bakery and takeaway food include cakes, pastries and a couple of sandwich options. Everything is super tasty whether you eat in or take your food away.
Jolene Newington Green Information
To find out more, visit the Jolene Website. The address is 21 Newington Green, London N16 9PU, with the nearest station being Dalston Kingsland on the Overground. Current opening times are 9 am until 4 pm on Monday to Sunday for breakfast and takeaway. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner from 12 noon until 3 pm and 6 pm until 10 pm on Tuesday through Sunday. The interiors are industrial with concrete floors, exposed air conditioning pipes, bare plaster and brick walls. The open kitchen is towards the back, while the main dining area overlooks the green with outside seating. If you want to explore the neighbourhood further, please read my Newington Green North London Guide and take a look at the Newington Green Pinterest Board.
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. I only write about restaurants where I had a good experience. I recommend that you undertake further research as restaurant standards fluctuate, as do opinions. Please check if the restaurant is still in business and the opening times before you go. If you discover that this restaurant has closed, contact me to remove it from my blog.