There's no doubt that Islington's nightlife is in a bit of a slump right now, but the problem is every time a new place opens up the expectant and hopeful gaze of North London falls on it and few places manage to live up to the hype.

So no pressure on Barrio North then. This latest addition to Essex Road is billing itself as the Latin-infused savior of N1, and so far the signals don't' look too bad. As well as the admirable dedication to alcoholic concoctions (they've started a 'perfect caipirinha' discussion on their Facebook page and have some tequila tasting sessions lined up), there's a global approach to the food on offer and an equally internationalist music policy with mid-week electronic tango nights and a Mr Bongos retrospective organised for the opening weekend.

They haven't cut any corners with the design of the place either. There's foldaway tables and benches to accommodate any spontaneous Mediterranean-style ass shaking, a graffiti wall of fame for anyone to tag, and even a renovated caravan permanently parked in the bar.