Middle Eastern Restaurants in Covent Garden
Middle Eastern Restaurants in Covent Garden
Covent Garden, with its bustling piazza, world-class theatres, and an intoxicating blend of street performers and high-end boutiques, is a destination that captures the essence of London. Amidst the historical charm and contemporary buzz, a vibrant and increasingly popular culinary scene has taken root. Among the myriad of international flavors, a particular star is rising: the rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying cuisine of the Middle East. From the fragrant spices of the Levant to the smoky delights of a Persian grill, Middle Eastern restaurants in Covent Garden offer a delicious escape from the city’s hustle and a journey for the senses.
The appeal of Middle Eastern food lies in its emphasis on fresh ingredients, shared plates, and a philosophy of hospitality and generosity. It’s a cuisine built for communal dining, where friends and family gather to dip, scoop, and savour a tapestry of flavours. In Covent Garden, this tradition has found a new home, with a number of restaurants putting their own modern and inventive spin on classic dishes.
One of the most notable names in this space is Le Bab. Situated on Mercer Walk, Le Bab is not your typical kebab shop. It’s a gourmet kebab restaurant that has elevated the humble street food staple to an art form. The chefs here take a “fine dining” approach, using high-quality, free-range meats and seasonal ingredients. Their menu is a creative fusion of Levantine cuisine with global influences. The lamb shawarma, for example, is a popular choice, served with harissa mayo and pickled onions, showcasing a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavours. For those seeking something different, their paneer shawarma is a fantastic vegetarian option, a testament to their innovative spirit.7The restaurant’s interior, with its industrial-chic aesthetic and charcoal-fired kitchen taking centre stage, adds to the lively and modern dining experience. It’s a perfect spot for a pre-theatre meal or a relaxed evening with friends, proving that kebabs can be both delicious and sophisticated.
Another standout is Delamina, which, while technically an Eastern Mediterranean restaurant, draws heavily from Middle Eastern culinary traditions.10 Its Covent Garden outpost, Delamina Townhouse, is a beautiful, light-filled space that feels like a chic, bohemian home. The menu is a personal reflection of co-founder Limor Chen’s upbringing in Tel Aviv and her diverse heritage, blending Iranian, Russian, and Ukrainian influences. The focus is on healthy, grilled, and roasted dishes that celebrate the natural flavour of the ingredients. Diners can expect a feast of small plates, perfect for sharing, such as the creamy hummus with inventive toppings and the beautifully charred roasted cauliflower with pomegranate molasses. The larger plates, from the grilled chicken with ras el hanout to the succulent venison and lamb koftas, are a testament to the kitchen’s skill with spices and fire. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and intimate, making it an ideal choice for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
For a broader, all-day Middle Eastern dining experience, Brother Marcus on Slingsby Place offers a laid-back, vibrant atmosphere. Known for its all-day Eastern Mediterranean menu, it serves up everything from a hearty brunch to a satisfying dinner. The menu is a delightful exploration of Levantine flavours, with mezze platters, delicious shakshuka, and a range of dishes perfect for sharing. Brother Marcus has a reputation for its lively energy and excellent cocktails, making it a great place to start a day of exploring Covent Garden or to unwind after a show.
While not exclusively a Middle Eastern restaurant, Sarastro on Drury Lane offers a unique and theatrical dining experience with a Mediterranean menu that has a strong Turkish influence. Named after a character in Mozart’s “Magic Flute,” the restaurant is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Its flamboyant decor, complete with opera boxes and glittering displays, creates an unforgettable setting. The food, a mix of Mediterranean and Turkish dishes, provides a delicious backdrop to the lively atmosphere and musical events that the restaurant is known for. It’s a fun and dramatic option for those looking for dinner and a show, all in one place.
The rise of these restaurants reflects a broader trend in London’s food scene—a growing appreciation for the diversity and depth of Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s a cuisine that is naturally vegetarian and vegan-friendly, with many dishes centred around fresh vegetables, legumes, and grains. This makes it an appealing choice for a wide range of diners. The focus on communal feasting and sharing plates also aligns perfectly with the social, bustling energy of Covent Garden, a place where people gather to connect and celebrate.
Whether you’re craving a gourmet kebab, a platter of mezze, or a theatrical dining experience with a Turkish twist, Covent Garden has a Middle Eastern restaurant to suit every mood and occasion. These establishments are more than just places to eat; they are cultural hubs that bring the warmth, generosity, and vibrant flavours of the Middle East to the heart of London’s West End. In a city that prides itself on its diversity, these restaurants are not just a trend but a testament to the enduring power of food to tell stories and bring people together. The next time you find yourself in Covent Garden, take a moment to step away from the crowd and into one of these culinary oases—you won’t be disappointed.