Dotori

Dotori is a legendary Korean and Japanese restaurant right next to Finsbury Park station, a cash-only, walk-in neighbourhood gem that has been packing in locals every evening for over 15 years. Hardens 2025 calls it a "tiny, unbookable but excellent" stalwart: "great home-cooked Korean and Japanese food," "good value," and "a little crowded." The Infatuation describes it as "a busy, cash-only neighbourhood restaurant in Finsbury Park serving excellent and inexpensive Korean food" and rates it 7/10. Time Out lists it as one of the best restaurants in Finsbury Park. OpenTable rates it 4.6 stars from 30 diners. There is "somebody waiting outside at 4:58pm every day" -- that kind of place.

The menu is a comprehensive tour of Korean and Japanese cuisine. Korean highlights include kimchi pancakes (pajeon), dolsot bibimbap in a sizzling stone pot, yukgejang beef stew, beef bulgogi lettuce wraps, kkangpungi crispy chicken and a full range of banchan side dishes. Japanese dishes include bento boxes, sushi, sashimi, gyoza, tempura and noodles. Set menus for two or more offer excellent value. Takeaway also available. Cash only -- there is an ATM nearby at the station. Closed Monday. Website: dotori.co.uk.