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The Step
★ 4.0(1 review)Restaurant
communitylocalfriendly
About the Vibe
The Step was a beloved community hub in Bowes Park that operated as a cafe, bar, and gallery from 2012 until its closure in 2020. After a successful four-year campaign to save the building from being converted into flats, it reopened in 2024 as Hillbilly Social 101, a community-run pub operated by Muswell Hillbilly Brewers. While the name has changed, the spirit of the original venue lives on with its focus on local food, drink, events, and community gatherings.
Known For
- •community events
- •locally sourced food and drink
- •live music
- •quiz nights
Best For
community gatheringslocal drinkslive music nights
1 review
City InsidersEditorialApril 2, 2026
A Community Hub Reborn
The Step was a unique addition to Bowes Park when it opened in 2012, bringing a cafe, bar, and gallery to a somewhat forgotten stretch of Myddleton Road. Run by locals Nell and Mat, it quickly became a community hub, offering locally sourced food and drinks from London-based suppliers like Celtic Bakers and Meantime Brewing. The space hosted everything from quiz nights and comedy shows to craft sessions and art exhibitions, creating a vibrant atmosphere that locals genuinely loved.
Unfortunately, The Step closed in March 2020 and faced the threat of conversion into flats. However, a determined community campaign led to the building being saved and renovated, reopening in 2024 as Hillbilly Social 101. While the name has changed, the mission remains the same: a community-run venue serving food and drink, hosting live music, quizzes, and providing a meeting space for local groups. It's a testament to what happens when locals rally together to preserve something they care about.