We go check Alexandra Palace’s latest neighbourhood restaurant, which has recently updated its menu to include dinner until 9pm.
The Ambience
Situated in a residential, green part of Alexandra Palace, and with a new menu from lunchtime to dinner, Korto certainly meets the demand for a local late-opening haunt. Its rough wooden tables, exposed brickwork and neutral brown accents exude rustic charm, while the botanical artworks complement the earthy decor. A semi-open kitchen gives diners a preview of all the action, which adds energy to the otherwise relaxed ambience.
The Food
Korto’s menu is largely made up of small plates, ideal for sharing. Anchovies come first. Mildly pickled and gently drizzled with olive oil, these are really enjoyable, lifted by a fresh spinach pesto, while a scattering of ruby pomegrate gives a juiciness to the bite. Patta negra is sliced nice and thin, mild in flavour and perfect to graze on.
Cod fritters are light and well-seasoned with a side of wasabi mayo but the ratio of cod to batter on this occasion is somewhat inconsistent.
This is also the case with the pistachio lamb kofta; uneven cooking, leaving some moist and some dry and salty let these down, although they look very pretty on the plate. They could do with cooking in the sauce, to soak up the juices more thoroughly.
A highlight is a generous vermillion coil of octopus, which languishes among a rich slather of hummus and an accopmanying smoked aubergine. Meaty, with a spice rub that is nuanced and moreish, this dish works well – the small garnish of coriander, and a drizzle of pomegranate molasses gives a spark to the earthy flavours of chickpea and aubergine. Accompanying broccoli has good flavour but is overcooked, so texturally lacks crunch.
The Verdict
Korto is bound to stay popular with locals and is a good option for those passing through Alexandra Palace; its in-house roastery accounts for great coffee and the breakfasts and brunches offering is strong. Dinner has potential, with great flavours and nice presentation some small plates are sure to fly out of the kitchen. With some hit and miss items, however, at the prices they are being served, it would be good to see more consistency in execution moving forward.
The Details
126 Alexandra Park Rd, Muswell Hill, London N10 2AH