We'd heard recently about the sad news of the closure of Islington's Rok - but things move fast on Upper Street and there's already a replacement.

Taking over is plant-based restaurant Slaw. They had a series of successful supperclubs and now they're going to the next level - with a residency in the old Rok space. They say "Our ethos is to produce deliciously healthy food in a sustainable and

A new restaurant that's specialising in just the one thing is opening in Islington. X-Upper is all about gourmet sausages and they've rustled up some impressive chefs to create them. 

Expect Irish food, drink and hospitality at this Islington bar which is serving up everything from cocktails featuring Barry's Tea to curry chips and Tayto crisps.

One of Islington's most popular cafés is Maison d'Etre, just on the opposite side of Highbury Corner from the station (right next to another Islington fave, Black Axe Mangal). They've been doing storming business there for the past few years in a tiny space and now they've expanded with a second cafe, Maison Bleue.

The second spot is a mere 5 minutes walk away, so if you've ever

Plant-based menus and vegan pizzas will feature at this new Islington outpost

You've seen him on the Great British Menu, you've heard about his travails over the use of his name, now try James Cochran's food at his wonderful new Islington restaurant. 

The masters of fried chicken are back with their "third album". This time they're on Islington's Upper Street with new dishes, an outside space and all the fried favourites from the original (yes, the Szechuan Aubergine). All that and their signature sour cocktails too. 

Tucked down a residential side street in Angel is a canalside pub turning out Cajun and Creole food. We along for a taste of the Deep South.

The pub that inspired George Orwell's famous Moon Under Water essay has been taken over by the landlord who runs The Gun in Hackney and he's brought in help to serve up some interesting bar food too.

The London Jukebox runs world music concerts in London and now they're settling on Upper Street. Expect small music events paired with Indian sharing plates. 

A commitment to sourcing well and cooking everything - even the condiments - from scratch makes this new Islington kebab restaurant stand out from the crowd.

Michelin-starred James Cochran is going back to his roots with 1251, his new Islington spot where he'll be serving sharing menus, tasting menus and snacks, featuring modern British food, made with Kentish produce (and several nods to his West Indian heritage).

Tucked away in the heart of Canonbury, Vins is a neighbourhood wine bar with an interesting, ever-evolving menu. We pop by for a look.

Looking for decent places to meet and eat before a game at The Emirates? Here are our suggestions

Islington has a HUGE amount of restaurants, with the majority of them along Upper Street. But which are the ones you should be paying attention to - here's our list of the top...