Oui Madame – A Chic Modern European Gem in the Heart of Islington
If you love discovering new restaurants before they become everyone’s favourite, Oui Madame on St Paul’s Road is one to book now. Stylish yet relaxed, this modern European restaurant in Islington brings together French flair, Asian-inspired flavour, and genuine neighbourhood warmth — all under one moody, candlelit roof.
A New Chapter in Islington Dining
Oui Madame is the latest project from the team behind the much-loved Salut! on Essex Road, known for their dedication to detail and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant opened its doors in autumn 2025 as a one-year residency inside the Sawyer & Gray site — but make no mistake, this feels like a permanent part of Islington’s dining scene.
Open Tuesday to Saturday, 6pm to 11pm, Oui Madame is intentionally intimate. There’s no lunch rush here — just carefully crafted evening dining, perfect for date nights, gatherings with friends, or quiet solo dinners with a good glass of wine.
The Menu: Where French Technique Meets Global Imagination
Oui Madame’s menu is beautifully curated — snacks, small plates, large plates, and desserts, each one bursting with character.
- Chicken heart skewers glazed in gochujang with a red pepper cheese sauce — smoky, spicy, and surprisingly addictive.
- Tuna tataki with crispy onions, shimeji mushrooms, and yuzu-soy — light, zingy, and a must-try starter.
- Seafood orzotto loaded with octopus, mussels, and clams — comfort food with a sophisticated edge.
- Ox cheek with burnt kale and pommes purée — rich, silky, and deeply satisfying.
- And to finish, the chocolate crémeux with passion fruit granita — pure indulgence with a refreshing twist.
The menu changes seasonally, but everything reflects a love of quality ingredients and clean, bold flavours. The wine list deserves a special mention too — an expertly chosen range of European bottles (including natural and orange wines), all served by knowledgeable staff who love to guide you.
Atmosphere & Design
Step inside and you’ll find Oui Madame has nailed that perfect balance between casual and elegant. Warm lighting, earthy tones, and subtle details make it instantly welcoming. The open kitchen adds theatre to the evening, while the soundtrack hums softly beneath the buzz of conversation.
It’s the kind of space that feels effortlessly European — a touch of Paris in North London.
Local Buzz & Early Reviews
Though still new, Oui Madame has already made waves among locals and reviewers alike.
- SquareMeal calls it “fine dining but fun” — elegant without the stiffness.
- TripAdvisor’s first guests praised its “pleasant and relaxed atmosphere” and “friendly service.”
- Food lovers on social media are raving about the tuna tataki and seafood orzotto — two dishes fast becoming house favourites.
With the pedigree of the Salut! team behind it, expectations were high — and Oui Madame delivers.
My Experience
On my visit, I started with the tuna tataki, followed by the ox cheek and a glass of Rhône red. Each course arrived in a relaxed rhythm — no rush, no pretension. The balance of textures and flavours stood out: tender meats, crisp garnishes, and sauces that elevated rather than overpowered.
The service was warm and confident, with staff who clearly care about the details — from explaining wine pairings to checking in at just the right moments.
The only downside? The menu is small — which means you’ll want to return quickly to try what you missed.
Final Thoughts
Oui Madame is everything a great Islington restaurant should be — modern, ambitious, yet completely unpretentious. It’s intimate, flavour-driven, and quietly confident, the kind of place locals will want to keep to themselves.
Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a foodie night out, or a relaxed dinner with friends, Oui Madame is a standout addition to Islington’s ever-evolving dining scene.
Visit Oui Madame
Address: 290 St Paul’s Road, Islington, London N1
Website: OUI MADAME
Opening Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 6pm–11pm
Cuisine: Modern European with French and Asian influences
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