Al Nakheel looks like a kebab shop in the front, but do not let initial appearances put you off. Venture further in, and you will find a smart restaurant decked out like a tent, striped materials on the wall, beaded lamp covers, tin lamp shades and big tables.
I had the mixed mezze to start, which was preceded by a plate of mixed salad (olives, lettuce, chillis, tomatoes, onions, parsley). The mezze was delicious - freshly fried falafel which were the best I've had (and I've been to a lot of middle eastern places in London), juicy dolmades, homemade homous drizzled with olive oil, lots more olives, and lavash bread.
For my main I had lamb shawarma with rice - a simple dish that when done right is divine. And this was divine. Nicely seasoned rice and delicious shawarma meat slightly crisped at the edges, no frills, and exactly how I love it.
I had a fresh fruit cocktail to drink, and it went down well on the hot day that it was.
The service was efficient and kindly, not what some might expect from the external appearance.
The menu has plenty to tempt, and the scents from the real charcoal oven at the front kept our mouths watering. I will be back. In fact, I can't wait until I go back. An easy five stars. read more