So far, the hit rate at Islington pub The Compton Arms for picking extremely interesting chef residencies is out of the park. They started with Schmaltz by Chris D'Sylva who went on to open Dorian. Then it was Four Legs who now run The Plimsoll and Tollington's. Most recently it was Tiella which has been universally loved by all the critics.
That means we sat up and paid attention when we found out who was taking over from Tiella (which finishes on 20 December).
Rake is run by three chefs who have a lot of key experience: Jay Claus (ex-Peckham Cellars and Quo Vadis), Syrus Pickhaver (ex-Zebra Riding Club and Acme Fire Cult) and Peter Ward (ex-The Shard and Acme Fire Cult) Their menu focuses on whole beast butchery and sustainable Cornish fish and they're keen on looking at classic British recipes through a modern lens.
On their launch menu you might find dishes like:
- Beer-battered cockles and clams
- Oysters Kilpatrick with lardo, spiced tomato, horseradish and Worcestershire sauce
- Braised squid and ale pie topped with whipped potato
Their sharing dish of ribeye with homemade onion rings looks good as well, and we're eyeing up those chips which look as though they'd give Tollingtons' chips bravas a run for its money. And yes, there will be Sunday roasts.
If you're popping in on a match day they'll be instead serving up their hot dog take with Cumberland sausage in a potato roll with a French dip gravy and English mustard for dunking.
More about Rake
Where is it? The Compton Arms, 4 Compton Ave, London N1 2XD
When does it open? 9 January 2025
Find out more: Visit their website or follow them on Instagram @rakelondon
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