Saltine in Highbury Park

RESTAURATEURS who transformed a run-down chicken shop into an upmarket bistro have shut down the business after only two years.

Saltine, near Highbury Corner, was loved by the “eating out” critics and north London foodies alike for a menu which included pickled pear with gorgonzola and grilled rabbit with burnt chilli sauce.

It was run by Mat Appleton and Jess Blackstone, the founders of the Fink’s chain. But customers were told last month that Saltine would not continue in 2026 and the final service was lunch on December 21.

“After two beautiful years, we’re sad to announce we’re closing Saltine,” a farewell message posted online said.

“It hasn’t been an easy decision but it’s the right time for us and the team. We’re so proud of what we’ve built in that former chicken shop, and we hope you’ve loved it as much as we’ve loved making it. What a wild ride.”

The goodbye post came with a warning about how difficult current trading conditions are for the industry as people eat out less.

“The climate for small restaurants is a tough one – tougher than Covid – and though we would love for the Saltine story to be a longer one, this was not our time,” it said.

“We’ll be keeping the space open for events and parties for the time being, while getting stuck into some other exciting projects within the business. However, Saltine as we know it, is coming to an end.”