best middle eastern restaurants in london
If you love Middle Eastern food, then London is the perfect city to explore and satisfy your cravings! The melting pot of cultures in the city has led to a diverse range of Middle Eastern eateries. From Lebanese to Turkish and Persian cuisines, there's something for everyone. In this article, we'll take you on a culinary journey of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in London.
Exploring London's Middle Eastern Cuisine Scene
It's not surprising to see why Middle Eastern food has been rapidly growing in popularity in London. The flavorful spices, fresh herbs, and grilled meats make it a must-try cuisine. Moreover, London has no shortage of restaurants ranging from luxury fine dining to casual street food spots.
The rise of Middle Eastern cuisine in London
London's multiculturalism and the growth of food culture have played a significant role in making Middle Eastern food a staple cuisine. Many Middle Eastern chefs and entrepreneurs have brought their traditional recipes, authentic techniques, and fusion dishes to the city, attracting food enthusiasts from all over the world.
One of the most popular Middle Eastern restaurants in London is Ottolenghi, which was founded by Israeli chef Yotam Ottolenghi. The restaurant offers a modern take on Middle Eastern cuisine, with dishes such as roasted aubergine with turmeric yogurt and pomegranate seeds, and lamb and pistachio koftas with sour cherry sauce.
Another notable Middle Eastern restaurant in London is Arabica Bar & Kitchen, which offers a fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant is known for its mezze platters, which include a variety of dips, salads, and grilled meats.
The diversity of Middle Eastern flavors and dishes
Middle Eastern cuisine is not only about shish kebab and hummus. It presents a diverse range of flavors and dishes that are unique to each culture. From fragrant biryanis to succulent lamb chops and fresh seafood dishes, Middle Eastern cuisine has something for everyone.
One of the most popular Middle Eastern dishes in London is falafel, which is a deep-fried ball made from ground chickpeas and spices. It is typically served in a pita bread with salad and tahini sauce. Another popular Middle Eastern dish is shakshuka, which is a breakfast dish made from eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce.
London also has a vibrant street food scene, with many Middle Eastern food trucks and stalls offering delicious and affordable dishes. Some of the most popular Middle Eastern street food in London includes lamb shawarma, chicken kebab, and halloumi wraps.
In conclusion, London's Middle Eastern cuisine scene is thriving, with a diverse range of restaurants and dishes to try. Whether you're a food enthusiast or just looking for a delicious meal, Middle Eastern cuisine in London is definitely worth exploring.
Top Middle Eastern Restaurants in Central London
Now that we've set the scene let's move on to the real deal. When visiting London, you wouldn't want to miss these top Middle Eastern restaurants in central London.
London is a melting pot of different cultures and cuisines, and Middle Eastern food is no exception. From fine dining to street food, there's something for everyone in the heart of the city.
Fine dining options
If you're looking for a luxurious dining experience, then head to Abd el Wahab or Nopi. Abd el Wahab is located in Belgravia and offers an upscale take on Lebanese cuisine. Their refined menu features classic dishes such as hummus, falafel, and tabbouleh, as well as more elaborate options like lamb chops and sea bass. The elegant interior and romantic ambiance make it the perfect spot for a special occasion.
Nopi, on the other hand, is a Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant in Soho, owned by renowned chef Yotam Ottolenghi. The restaurant's menu is a fusion of Middle Eastern and European flavors, with dishes like roasted aubergine with black garlic and tahini, and sea bass with za'atar and fennel. The restaurant's chic decor and relaxed atmosphere make it a popular spot for lunch or dinner.
Casual eateries and street food
If casual dining is your vibe, then you'll enjoy the Middle Eastern street food scene in London. Head to Berber & Q in Hackney for delicious shawarmas and falafels on the go. The restaurant's menu is a fusion of Middle Eastern and North African flavors, with dishes like lamb shawarma with green tahini and harissa chicken.
Yalla Yalla is another popular spot for Middle Eastern street food, with locations in Soho and Fitzrovia. The restaurant's menu features Lebanese and Palestinian dishes, like falafel wraps, shawarma plates, and mezze platters. The casual atmosphere and affordable prices make it a great spot for a quick lunch or a late-night bite.
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly spots
Vegetarians and vegans, don't worry, we've got your back. With veganism on the rise, many Middle Eastern restaurants in London now offer plant-based dishes. Visit Mildreds in Camden for vegan kebabs and mezze plates. The restaurant's menu is a fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors, with dishes like beetroot falafel and vegan moussaka.
The Gate is another popular spot for vegetarian and vegan-friendly Middle Eastern cuisine. The restaurant has locations in Hammersmith and Islington and offers dishes like vegan mezze platters, sweet potato falafel, and aubergine schnitzel. The restaurant's chic decor and relaxed atmosphere make it a great spot for a date night or a night out with friends.
Whether you're in the mood for fine dining or street food, London has a diverse range of Middle Eastern restaurants to choose from. So next time you're in the city, be sure to check out one of these top spots for a taste of the Middle East.
Discovering Middle Eastern Cuisine in East London
East London is a melting pot of cultures, and with that comes a diverse range of cuisines. One of the most popular cuisines in the area is Middle Eastern, with an abundance of restaurants serving up traditional dishes and modern twists on classic recipes. Let's explore the top spots to discover Middle Eastern cuisine in East London.
Trendy and modern restaurants
If you're looking for a trendy and modern spot to enjoy Middle Eastern cuisine, then look no further than Dishoom and Bubala. Dishoom is a Bombay-inspired eatery with quirky interiors and a lively atmosphere. Their menu boasts a range of innovative Middle Eastern dishes, including their famous bacon naan roll. Bubala is another trendy spot, serving up vegetarian Middle Eastern dishes with a modern twist. Their small plates are perfect for sharing with friends, and their cocktails are not to be missed.
Traditional and family-owned establishments
For an authentic Middle Eastern experience, head to Tayyabs or Hazar Jug. Tayyabs is a family-owned establishment that has been serving up traditional Punjabi cuisine for over 40 years. Their menu includes a range of Middle Eastern dishes, including their famous lamb chops and seekh kebabs. Hazar Jug is another family-owned restaurant, serving up authentic Kurdish cuisine. Their menu includes traditional dishes passed down through generations, such as their slow-cooked lamb and chicken shawarma.
Budget-friendly options
If you're on a budget, East London has plenty of affordable Middle Eastern eats. Al-Amin is a popular spot for delicious curries and biryanis. Their menu includes a range of vegetarian and meat options, all at an affordable price. Defterdar is another budget-friendly option, serving up cheap and cheerful mezze plates. Their menu includes a range of hot and cold mezze dishes, perfect for sharing with friends.
Whether you're looking for a trendy spot to enjoy Middle Eastern cuisine with friends, an authentic family-owned establishment, or a budget-friendly option, East London has it all. So why not explore the diverse range of Middle Eastern eateries in the area and discover your new favourite spot.
West London's Middle Eastern Food Gems
West London is famous for its opulent dining experiences. Now let's explore the top Middle Eastern food gems.
Upscale dining experiences
If you're looking to splurge, then head to Fattoush or Dar Marrakech for a Middle Eastern fine dining experience. From Moroccan tagines to Lebanese mezzes, the food is not only tasty but also beautifully presented.
At Fattoush, you can indulge in their signature dish, the Fattoush Salad, which is a refreshing mix of lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, radish, and crispy pita bread, dressed with a zesty lemon and sumac dressing. For the main course, try their succulent lamb shank, slow-cooked for hours with Middle Eastern spices and served with a side of fluffy couscous.
At Dar Marrakech, you can enjoy a traditional Moroccan feast, complete with belly dancers and live music. Start with their harira soup, a hearty tomato-based soup with lentils, chickpeas, and fragrant spices. For the main course, try their chicken tagine, a tender chicken stew with preserved lemons, olives, and saffron, served with fluffy couscous.
Cozy cafes and takeaway spots
For a casual lunch or coffee break, head to Nakhon Thai or Cafe Helen for wraps and paninis served with a Middle Eastern twist. Nakhon Thai offers a unique blend of Thai and Middle Eastern flavors, with dishes like their chicken shawarma wrap with Thai basil and sweet chili sauce. At Cafe Helen, try their falafel panini with hummus and tahini sauce, or their halloumi and za'atar wrap.
If you're in the mood for a cozy night in, grab some takeaway from Alounak or Gogos for a delicious Middle Eastern feast at home. Alounak offers a wide range of Persian dishes, from their tender lamb kebabs to their aromatic saffron rice. Gogos, on the other hand, specializes in Greek and Middle Eastern cuisine, with dishes like their juicy souvlaki wraps and crispy falafel balls.
Fusion and innovative Middle Eastern dishes
Some restaurants in West London offer a fusion of Middle Eastern flavors with other cuisines. Head to Comptoir Libanais for Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fusion dishes or Maroush for a mix of Lebanese and Japanese flavors.
At Comptoir Libanais, try their halloumi and za'atar pizza, a Middle Eastern take on the classic Italian pizza. Or, indulge in their lamb kofta tagine, a North African-inspired dish with spiced lamb meatballs, chickpeas, and apricots. At Maroush, try their sushi rolls with a Middle Eastern twist, like their salmon and avocado roll with a touch of tahini sauce.
With London being a bustling city, it's easy to miss out on hidden dining gems. We hope this list helps you in discovering the best Middle Eastern restaurants London has to offer. Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering culinary journey!
