PUB: Lord Southampton NW5
The big question is: will this backstreet Gospel Oak boozer – once the haunt of none other than Karl Marx (read that story here) finally be restored to its Victorian splendour? For many years we lived nearby and always hoped it would be, especially when it was run by Camden’s longest running publican Martha Mcgrath (read our interview with her here). But its most recent incarnation, as part of a hostel, was an abomination. Happily, since it was sold at auction last year, the new owners plan to reopen the ground-floor as a boozer. Cross everything. Opening date TBC. 2 Southampton Rd, London NW5 4HX
RESTAURANT: Lime Bistro NW5
The former Lure Fish Kitchen (a much-loved institution in its day) on Chetwynd Road reopened in November as Lime Bistro (main pic, above), and focus on indulgent eggy brunches, smashed burgers, schniztels, pastas and, naturally, cocktails and cosy dinners at night. Worth a diversion of a weekend, for sure. While you’re at at, pop into Dartmouth Park’s lovely Truffles or the Dartmouth Arms too. Follow @limebistrocafe, 56 Chetwynd Road NW5
LGBTQ BAR: The Black Cap NW1
Last November City Hall night czar Amy Lamé said Camden’s legendary LGBTQ venue – which goes back decades as a haven for the queer community – is ‘closer to getting reopened’. The famous haunt has been shut since 2015 – and we’ve reported every step of its long journey. Fortunately, it’s protected in planning law and thus must reopen as an LGBTQ+ space. This week things moved a step nearer with impressive plans for an LGBTQ bar, performance venue and B&B lodged at the Town Hall. So things are looking up. Opening date TBC, 171 Camden High Street NW1
CAFE: Lunar, Highgate Road NW5
The once-grubby stretch alongside one of Kentish Town’s finest boozers, the Southampton Arms, continues to blossom: latest arrival is this tiny artisan cafe boasting a window-full of sweet treats and bakes, and decent coffee to take on your matinal stroll up to the Heath. There are also salads too, if you work nearby or are having a lazy-lunch day. 151 Highgate Rd NW5
PUB: Lady Hamilton NW5
It’s fantastic news that this historic pub is, apparently, set to return this year. Less certain is what the place will look like – or even what it will be called under its new American owners. Fingers crossed it stays a democratic neighbourhood boozer. Or will it mutate into a sports bar? Time will tell. Opening date TBC. 289-291 Kentish Town Rd, NW5
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