Bône

Tucked away on Orsman Road in Hoxton, Bône feels less like a restaurant and more like stumbling into the best dinner party you’ve ever been invited to. The lighting is deliberately dim—so dim that the small chrome lamp on your table becomes essential reading equipment—creating an atmosphere that’s equal parts mysterious and intimate. This is the kind of place where strangers become friends over shared bottles of wine pulled from tote bags, thanks to the BYOB policy that makes the whole experience feel wonderfully casual.

The £40 set menu is the star of the show here, and the beef short rib is the undisputed champion of the table. The meat practically falls apart at the mere suggestion of a fork, swimming in a peppery, tangy entrecôte sauce so good that the kitchen will happily send out a gravy boat of extra if you ask. Skip the bread basket (it’s nothing special) and save your appetite for this main event. For those seeking halal options in London, this is a rare find that doesn’t compromise on quality.

What sets Bône apart is the genuine warmth that runs through every aspect of the experience. Run by three brothers who work day jobs before transforming into gracious hosts each evening, there’s an authenticity here that money can’t buy. A guitarist strums familiar tunes in the corner while couples lean in over candlelight and friend groups settle in for the long haul. With two sittings nightly at 7pm and 9pm, both perpetually booked, you’ll want to plan ahead.

Come hungry and leave satisfied—the portions are generous, the fries technically unlimited, and the desserts (try the French toast if it’s available) arrive at exactly the moment you’re convinced you can’t eat another bite. For date nights or BYOB gatherings with friends who appreciate good food without pretense, Bône delivers an evening that feels special without trying too hard.