UJ on Instagram
UJ's MixCloud
Facebook Twitter Pinterest Soundcloud Mixcloud Instagram

Urban Junkies is a free newsletter delivering the very latest London launches, trends and events.

SUBSCRIBE NOW

Eat & Drink

Originally published on Thursday, 21st June 2012

Reseved Header

MEATmarket

SHRIMPY'S

Pineapples and petrol stations in King’s Cross

The King’s Cross Filling Station, Goods Way, N1C 4UR
www.shrimpys.co.uk

Location
King’s Cross is on the up. The station is finally taking shape, eat.st is buzzing and cool new eateries are popping up in the most unlikely of places. Shrimpy’s is no exception: converted from a disused petrol station (yes, really), it hugs the canal and sits forlornly in a desolate landscape of abandoned buildings and construction sites. But that just makes it all the more fun…

Vibe
This is the restaurant to be seen at right now. The latest project from the guys behind Bistrotheque, it’s fun with a pinch of irony. The room is small (it’s basically the old petrol station shop) so big groups might struggle – two is the magic number.

Flavours
The menu is decidedly American (North and South) so expect plantain with your dips, and chimichurri with your steak. The soft-shell crab burger has already become a signature dish, but the fried chicken with sweetcorn and red pepper polenta is also a UJ fave. Ask for dessert specials: the sundaes are divine and perfectly portioned.

Décor
Despite such humble beginnings, there’s not a hint of forecourt or whiff of petrol. Carmody Groarke have transformed this small slice of land into a thing of beauty: scalloped, translucent fibreglass surrounds the restaurant, a neon sign sits boldly atop, and the interior is a mix of lavish white linen and crystal glass combined with quirky, bright illustrations on the walls. Oh, and pineapple lamps, obviously.

Upshot
You can book (hurray!), there’s space at the bar for walk-ins, and it’s fun! And who could resist a restaurant with a pineapple as its totem. 

by MY

Urban Junkies is a free newsletter delivering the very latest London launches, trends and events.

SUBSCRIBE NOW

UJ on Instagram