Laid-back Lunches at Korto, Muswell Hill

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Laid-back Lunches at Korto, Muswell Hill

In a quaint area of Muswell Hill, you’ll find a cute cafe perfect for easy-breezy brunches and laid back lunches. Just moments away from the iconic Ally Pally (Alexandra Palace), Korto is busy with regulars whose names and orders are remembered, including local families and couples with furry friends. The brainchild of Paul Tocher (ex-chef and restaurateur) and Russell Stinson (finance and systems professional) who came together to explore their shared passion for fuss-free delicious food in opening Korto and launching their speciality coffee in the form of Fireheart Coffee.

Explore their shared passion for fuss-free delicious food in opening Korto and launching their speciality coffee in the form of Fireheart Coffee.

Coffee at Korto

We kicked things off with a chai latte with oat milk for me and a traditional breakfast tea for my guest. My chai was warm and creamy, beautifully presented with a latte art heart and the breakfast tea was served in a teapot with a side of milk to add to taste.

Breakfast options (9-3 pm) include poached eggs, avocado on toast, waffles and lunch options (12-3 pm) include Dahl, mushroom croquettes and a steak sandwich, you can opt for something light or more filling, something to suit all tastes.

Chai was warm and creamy, beautifully presented with a latte art heart and the breakfast tea was served in a teapot with a side of milk to add to taste.

Lunch Menu

I ordered the shakshuka which was served in a griddle pan, accompanied with slices of rustic bread. Soft baked eggs submerged in a tomato tagine sauce with a sweet and slightly tangy flavour. Topped with crumbly clouds of feta and garnished with fresh leaves of oregano. This meal is both vegan and gluten-free (£9.50).

My guest opted for the Korto buttermilk chicken, the chicken was tender with a crispy fried well-seasoned coating and a generous drizzle of tomato and chilli jam sauce. This dish is served with squash caponata which my guest says was very flavoursome and the highlight of her meal, the house Korto slaw jewelled with pomegranate seeds and a healthy leafy side salad. A filling portion bursting with flavour and a hint of spice.

We also shared the oven-roasted pita bread with chargrilled vegetables, delivering a signature charred sweetness you’d expect. It’s topped with aubergine, peppers, olive tapenade and feta and is a light option, perfect for sharing. Cut into even slices, it’s similar to a pizza but softer in texture.

Soft baked eggs submerged in a tomato tagine sauce with a sweet and slightly tangy flavour.

Expert Conclusion:

With such warm customer service and offering a taste of the Southern Mediterranean in this cosy North London spot, it’s no surprise Korto has become a hit with loyal locals where all are welcome for speciality coffee to go or a chilled weekend brunch like I experienced. Sign up for their newsletter on their website and follow them on Instagram to stay up to date with all things Korto!