We found Le Mercury Deuxieme in Upper Street, Islington a few yards further along from its sister restaurant Le Mercury. Cheerful French music was playing and we had an equally cheerful greeting from Tariq and Abdul who quickly produced menus, water and two glasses of warming red wine before explaining the bill of fare to us.
Large bowls of the lunch time salads were on display, but with the wind chill factor outside taking the temperature to about 0˚ we decided go straight for the hot main course and have salad on the side.
Normally when we are out we choose different dishes so we can swap and taste. But the idea of duck breast appealed to both of us, but we did differ slightly on the salad bar choices, plus one opted for creamed potato the other for French fries. The duck was beautifully cooked with a lovely crispy skin whilst the golden straw French fries were all too moreish. We liked our salad selections especially the goat cheese and artichoke combination. Starter/salads at £3.95; main dishes £8.95, French fries/veg £1.95. An excellent value meal.
We were fascinated by the wildly eclectic rustic decor where watering cans were hanging next to shelves, pictures, lights, mirrors, garden tools and lampshades.
At lunchtime it was quiet but come the evening we were told, it is buzzy, lively and busy – ‘better to book’ Abdul said. C.G./M.B.
Le Mercury Deuxieme , 154 – 155 Upper Street, Islington, London, N1 1QY. Tel: 020 7704 851