Weekend Dining, North London Style | Saltine’s Pintxos Hour

Photography - Raphaelle Orphelin

If you’re spending your weekend in North London and looking for a spot that strikes the balance between laid-back and refined, Saltine should already be on your radar. The restaurant and bar from the team behind Fink’s has quietly become one of the capital’s most reliable neighbourhood hangouts — grown-up in feel, but relaxed enough to stop by for a quick drink and a bite.

Now, the team is leaning further into that spirit with the launch of Weekend Pintxos — free small bites served with any drink between 3pm and 5pm every Saturday (and soon Sundays, too). Think Devils on Horseback, Tomato Gildas or Rollmops: a nod to Basque snacking culture, designed to complement your glass of wine, pint or cocktail. It’s an effortless way to spend an afternoon — perched at the bar, chatting, grazing, and maybe staying longer than you planned.

Beyond the pintxos, Saltine’s bar menu is made for easy weekends — Marcona almonds, olives, and homemade pies in combinations like spinach and ricotta or potato and onion, alongside the cult favourite sausage roll. For something heartier, the full lunch and dinner menus change daily, led by Head Chef Phil Wood (formerly of Spring and St John Marylebone). Expect an ever-evolving lineup of vibrant, seasonal dishes rooted in provenance and simplicity — with weekend specials that could include a steak sharing plate or coq au vin.

Saltine’s charm lies in its rhythm. Whether it’s a late lunch that turns into dinner or a Saturday drink that turns into three, it has that unforced neighbourhood energy that’s hard to fake — all served in a space that’s stylish without being self-conscious. In a city that’s spoiled for choice, that’s exactly what makes it stand out.

Book a table at Saltine.