Culinary expert and cookbook author, Bethany Kehdy, shares with U her favourite Middle Eastern eateries in London...

Middle-Eastern inspired restaurants are a healthy sprout in London at the moment with the capital serving up an exciting and delicious array of flavours that go beyond traditional Lebanese and Persian food, with plenty more modern and inspired options, catering to all appetites. Take a vicarious trip to the region via these London hotspots.

Ishbilia

The authentic Middle Eastern food scene in London needs a little bit of a makeover in my opinion both in terms of feel, ambiance but also care for ingredients. That said, there remains a handful of authentic restaurants that are focusing and maintaining the make or break factor for any memorable Middle Eastern feast: quality and freshness of the produce used. Ishbila offers delicious traditional Lebanese (or Levantine) fare in a vibrant and chic space. The place feels somewhat luxurious though comfortable but never mind any of that as the food will surely whisk you away to the breezy mountains of Lebanon. Here, you can get raw kebbeh, Lebanon’s national dish, a sort of steak tartare but better! Try the foul or broad beans in garlic and coriander drizzled in olive oil typical of a housewife’s table, along with the hummus awarmah (preserved meat).

Palomar

Here, we’re talking about inspired Middle Eastern food- a mix pot of flavours bringing together a touch of Jerusalem, nouveau Israeli, Southern Spain and a touch of North Africa, the Gulf and the Levant. This is by far one of my favourite places to satiate my appetite when in the mood for inspired "Middle Eastern"- I have never left disappointed. It’s very small and cozy and I always opt for a seat at the bar which you have to queue for but well worth as you’re let in on the kitchen action. The kubaneh- a yemeni pot baked bread served with a silky tahini and tomatoes is a wonderful thing to start with. Must try’s also are the ironed chicken thighs and the Octo-Hummus.

Kateh

Unlike their Levantine counterparts, excellent authentic Persian restaurants abound in London. Kateh takes it one notch up and brings a modern, refined touch to this ancient cuisine without jeopardising on taste or authenticity. So, it’s a little fancy and more expensive then what you’d expect to pay for Persian in London but the fare is excellent. The atmosphere is cozy and communal, in fact, it makes for a great gathering space. Try the Borani Spinach, Kabab Torsh, and of course, Persian rice aka Persian gold.

Le Bab 

Not exactly Middle Eastern but if we’re craving the quintessential Middle Eastern sweetheart-the kebab- then this place is doing some delicious inspired gourmet versions. Make it a pilgrimage for the pig head kebab but also try the lobster kebab and all the trimmings and they’ve always got lovely specials and surprises popping up. The dishes are simple, rustic and packed with flavour.

Oklava

For a taste of Turkey, I love this little understated restaurant in Shoreditch. The menu is inspired but still feels connected to the traditions of the cuisine. Highlights include the whipped feta, candied pumpkin & chili crostini, Fasulye - slow cooked beans and the crisp pomegranate glazed lamb breast.

Having grown up in Beirut, Lebanon, Bethany now resides between Beirut and London, where she runs culinary tours (Taste Lebanon) of her home country and hosts London-based Middle Eastern themed supper clubs. You can find out more by following her online. Her next London pop-up takes place at Jago Restaurant in East London from November 7th to 11th. You can purchase tickets here... 

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