The warming atmosphere of Polpo Smithfield makes it hard for us to resist if we’re on the border of Old Street and Farringdon. Chocolate Salami, six different types of meatball, and “Escaped Birds” skewers tempt you to try something new from the self-proclaimed simple Venetian bàcaro menu. Lunchtimes get busy quickly, so arrive early to avoid disappointment – they don’t take bookings. This small chain doesn’t want your experience to stop there – they also have the extraordinary Polpo cookbook (which you can get 20% off online – thank us later).