Address: Normah’s, 23, 25 Queensway, London W2 4QJ
Website: normahs.co.uk
Meetbros, Paddington
Although the name might confuse you at first, Meetbros is like walking into Pandora’s box in central London. Hidden in a basement with a modern mediaeval meets southeast Asia interiors, this Malaysian halal steakhouse will exceed your expectations. The name actually is literally behind the meeting of creatives who wanted to bring Malaysian-inspired dishes with the finest halal steakhouse in town. Special dishes such as lychee duck salad, beef rendang, and traditional Malay desserts make it one of the best places to eat iftar in London.
Address: Meet Bros Steakhouse, 29-31 Craven Road, London W2 3BX
Website: meetbros.co.uk
Villa Mama’s London, Chelsea
Having family from Oman means that when I find a spot that speaks to my home, I will be there. Villa Mama’s is a gorgeous place by Chef Roaya Saleh, who first opened up a Villa Mama in Bahrain in 2012. She describes it as an extension of her kitchen. In 2017, she expanded and brought Gulf food, specifically Bahraini food, to London. The menu takes you on a journey of the region’s rich history, combining influences from Iran, India and Europe. While there is a special set menu for Ramadan, which includes dishes such as butter chicken dumplings, saffron ice cream and shish barak, I personally recommend adding tandoor bread with mehyawa a fermented fish sauce. The flavour profile isn’t what you expect – a rich vinegar mixed with aniseed. It’s something significant to Bahrain, north Oman and Iran, yet very rare to find outside of the region.
Address: Villa Mamas London, 25 Elystan Street, London SW3 3NT
Website: villamamas.uk
Berenjak, Soho and London Bridge
An evening at Berenjak is always a great idea. Their mouthwatering koobideh kebab paired with a sour cherry sharbat is my love language. The menu is simple, and the team really focusses on the core of great Iranian dishes and flavours. The cosy venues keep you elbow to elbow with each other, giving you that crowded family-home experience. While this place is always booked far in advance, this Ramadan they have special opening hours and guests can arrive up to 10.30pm. They will also serve dates from Zaytoun, which sources ethical Palestinian produce.
Address: Berenjak Soho, 27 Romilly Street, London W1D 5AL; Berenjak Borough, 1 Bedale Street, London SE1 9AL
Website: berenjaklondon.com
Watan, Tooting
Another family-run spot that has made a name for itself over the years since opening its first branch in Southall. The menu plays on Afghani cuisine meets Pakistan. This place is a real Tooting gem – an extravagant restaurant for a bustling neighbourhood with memorable dishes.
Address: Watan Restaurant Tooting, 180 Upper Tooting Road, London SW17 7EW
Website: watanrestaurant.co.uk