Bonne Route, a compact and candlelit wine bar tucked away on a pedestrian walkway near Harringay station, has been crowned Time Out's best wine bar for 2026. The venue, which opened in late 2024 on Quernmore Road in N4, has earned acclaim for its welcoming, unpretentious vibe and its carefully curated menu of natural wines and inventive bar snacks.
A Cozy Addition to Harringay's Drinking Scene
Time Out's newly updated guide to London's top 50 bars highlights venues that are fun, friendly, and inclusive, each with its own distinct character. From dive bars in Deptford to artsy listening bars in Islington, the list covers a wide spectrum of drinking experiences. Bonne Route stands out for its intimate setting, described by Time Out writer Liv Kelly as having 'an atmosphere that's more cosy than snooty'.
The bar offers a few small outdoor tables, but the full experience is best enjoyed after sundown, when guests can pull up a stool at one of the twinkling tables inside. The interior is lit by candlelight, creating a warm and inviting ambiance that encourages lingering over a glass of wine.
Drinks and Food Highlights
The menu at Bonne Route focuses on natural wines, complemented by a selection of timeless cocktails and house specials. Notable creations include the pickle martini and the 'Caught in the Rain', a cocktail made with fig leaf gin, pineapple, sherry, and lime. Kelly suggests that guests order 'whatever French orange wine is on the menu' to get the best of what the bar has to offer.
Food options are equally appealing, featuring dishes such as burrata with hazelnut dukkah, grilled salmon with mayo and candied jalapenos, a cheese plate, and an ice cream sandwich for dessert. Kelly highly recommends the pickled olives, which have become a standout item among the bar snacks.
Other Notable Wine Bars in the Ranking
Bonne Route is not the only wine bar to earn a spot on Time Out's list. Other entries include the Parisian-style Lower Wine Bar in Waterloo, the romantic Godet in Canonbury, and the compact Half Cut Market in Holloway. Each brings its own unique character to London's diverse drinking scene.
Time Out's top 50 list was updated to reflect the current best places to drink in the capital, and the guide emphasizes that every bar on the list offers delicious drinks, appealing interiors, and a convivial atmosphere. The full list is available on Time Out's website, providing readers with a comprehensive resource for exploring London's bar culture.
Broader Context: London's Evolving Bar Scene
The recognition of Bonne Route comes amid ongoing developments in London's nightlife. Time Out recently added three new clubs to its list of the greatest nightclubs in the city, and there has been speculation about potential changes to pub regulations in Soho, including the possibility of banning standing pints and requiring table service. These updates reflect a dynamic and evolving hospitality landscape in the capital.
For those looking to stay informed about the latest news, reviews, and events in London, Time Out offers a free newsletter and a WhatsApp channel, providing regular updates on the best the city has to offer.
