Floyd’s is the definition of the ‘hidden gem’ – partly because it’s tucked away on Shacklewell lane -far enough away from the party party atmosphere of the Kingsland Road, and partly because it’s a pretty small (but perfectly formed) space.
Floyd’s isn’t a new opening, no, it’s been quietly buzzing for three years now, often fully booked with locals – but now it’s time to let everyone else in on the secret. It’s nice to share.
The back story can’t really get more hipster – The place is not so much managed as curated by three creative forces with wildly different backgrounds that unite to make a culinary cultural melting pot. Konrad Lindholm’s a Swedish former model, who’s forsaken for food the covers of the likes of GQ and Esquire magazines, Laurence Raine is a British refugee from the publishing business who’s rediscovering his first love, while Italian photographer Antonio Curcetti is also front-of-house host and mixologist supreme. It sounds like the start of a sexy novel.
Speaking of that mixologist, he makes a mean Rose got Married. Featuring Rosemary Gin & rhubarb, it’s a complex, grown up cocktail that really stands out from the crowd. In fact, we can’t stop thinking about it.
The menu at Floyd’s changes daily – expect a truly seasonal offer – which is probably why they’ve managed to retain a steady flow of locals over the years – you just don’t get time to get bored.
To start expect the likes of pulled pork croquettes or stilton with pickled mushrooms in an almond salad with parmesan & black pepper biscotti.
“Straight from the fisherman’s net” – we ordered the generous cod fillet, served in a tarragon broth with a deliciously salty side of kale. Pheasant breast was served with cauliflower puree, grilled ceps, cavolo nero in a smoked bacon jus and was HEAVEN with the Rioja (sourced from Les Caves de Pyrène and Aleksic & Mortimer, the wine merchant next-door).
To finish, quince & raisin crumble felt like a cuddle from your mum – just what we needed while hiding out from Storm Imogen.
Grab a pre-dinner drink at Brewer’s Bar next door. Be sure to book as we saw people being turned away, and we don’t want that!
