Barrio North (ex The Warwick Bar), Islington  

There's something slightly grating about the concept of using "street culture from the 'Ghetto Archipelago'" as a theme for a bar. It's essentially a rose-tinted interpretation of life in a Mexican or Havana slum, from the comfort of Essex Road - that being they omit the poor sanitation, gang warfare or cheap prices. Still, lets look beyond the self-publicity of this 'neighbourhood DJ bar' and what its like to spend time here. Having taken over from Warwick Bar in late 2007, the interior is certainly - for want of a better adjective - 'funky'. A preponderance of orange lightens the space, which would, due to the lack of windows, otherwise be rather dull. You can't help but notice the modded caravan in the corner; available for groups to rent, we can see it being a most sought after spot. An unusual selection of beers is coupled with their interpretation of 'street food' (nachos, wraps etc) and DJs at the soul, latin and funk end of the spectrum. Weekends finds it pretty busy here (helped by the 3am late licence), so if you prefer it a little less crazy, best to visit during the week.

reviewed:
12/01/2008

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