Josh Barrie visits On the Sauce, the new wine bar adjoining the long-standing De Beauvoir Deli on Southgate Road, N1. The bar offers a soothing escape for a light Sunday or a Tuesday evening, with small plates, natural wines, and a focus on quality produce.
A Deli's Logical Next Chapter
The deli has been a local staple for years, known for Dusty Knuckle bread, famous olives, and even more famous anchovies. The wine bar is a natural extension, offering a curated selection of wines and small plates in a relaxed setting.
Barrie notes the brunch looks pleasant but light on eggs, and suggests the kitchen should reconsider whipping the feta, given the summer trend of Greek island holidays. The evening menu features salads and small plates, with a tantalising selection of charcuterie and cheeses, plus Guinness and Marmite butter to accompany spongy bread.
Wine Highlights and Atmosphere
During his visit, Barrie tried a disastrous orange wine from Alsace before settling on a sprightly rosé from the Languedoc, which he describes as assured, light, and refreshing. The bar also offers a selection of natural wines and Guinness on tap.
The atmosphere is described as soothing rather than riotous, a place where you can share a bottle and some small plates and everything will be completely fine, even if you don't really know where you are in the upmarket tract of London between Islington and Dalston.
