If you have not visited the development just north of Kings Cross recently, I urge you to do so…read more It's really impressive, albeit mostly focused around housing and a lot of reasonably high-end retail. There are lots of places to eat (both restaurants and coffee) and there's quite a student vibe, thanks to the Central St Martins art and fashion college being located there.
However, if you're looking for an antidote, just cross the canal and then you will find the Camley Street Natural Park. It's a delightful semi-wilderness, with lots of wild planting, trees and ponds, with paths and seating.
The drawer for me is their café. They serve teas, coffees, a limited range of alcoholic drinks, fresh organic juices, and cakes and light snacks. These include a soup of the day, sandwiches, toasted sandwiches and paninis. Most of the options are vegan or vegetarian, although there are a few meaty options as well. They have only outdoor seating (albeit under cover), so it is a good option if it is warm (or you are well wrapped up).
The quality is really good, but do be prepared for a bit of a wait, especially if they busy, as everything is prepared to order. To be fair, the friendly staff warned us of this, but we were happy to wait and watch the world go by.
A bit of a find, and worth knowing about.