Best for chicken

Following the success of their original Chicken Shop in Kentish Town, the guys from the Soho House Group have launched another one-trick pony celebrating the delights of roast chicken. Expect a similar vintage ‘general store’ look with red chequered floors, diner-style tables, red stools and a long wooden counter, plus a menu chalked up on the wall. The basic offer revolves around free-range Norfolk chickens – marinated, steamed, then crisped-up on the rotisserie. As before, back-up comes from generously portioned sides served in blue-rimmed enamel dishes (crinkle-cut chips, coleslaw, corn-on-the-cob), with chilli kicks provided by the house ‘hot' sauce. Finally, ‘say when’ and choose the ‘size of your slice’ when it comes to sweets such as deep-filled apple pie or lemon cheesecake. Takeaways and picnics, too.

Right between buzzing Columbia Road and happening wine bar Sager & Wilde in Hackney, Clutch has hopped onto the dude food trend with a clear conscience, serving ethically sourced, free-range fried chicken to a widely varied demographic. Set in a freshly painted former pub that’s attached to a well-maintained ex-council estate, the slick interior design cues hint at a dining experience that’s aiming far higher than your usual bucket of KFC, with brass-topped tables and monochrome zigzag floors demanding guests’ attention. The menu offers half or whole buckets of chicken, ‘Love Me Tender’ goujons and ‘Put a Wing On It’ chicken wings – with each option offered in two different marinades. Stand-outs are the fresh-flavoured lemon and parmesan goujons served with a rich truffle aioli, and the signature sweet soy and garlic chicken bucket - the rich, sticky, tangy marinade is incredibly moreish. Inventive dips and sauces such as whipped feta add a fun twist, while side options include an earthy beetroot salad. There’s a short cocktail menu to boot – spice fans should try the chilli chicklet, a refreshing mix of tequila, lemon juice and red chilli that cuts through the richness of the food brilliantly.