There is much more to Lebanese cuisine than merely a döner, and proof of that are the exceptional Lebanese restaurants in London. There was an inaccurate portrayal of Lebanese and Middle Eastern food in London for years. For many years it consisted of late-night kebabs consumed at two in the morning. However, there’s a large selection of Lebanese restaurants located all over the city where you will experience dishes that will certainly make you change your mind. We’ve selected our favourite restaurants in London that are renowned for their mixed grills, mezze, barbecue dishes and other mouthwatering Lebanese dishes.
1. Ishbilia
Belgravia is one of the most emblematic neighborhoods in London and very much worth visiting. But its remarkable beauty is not the only reason why you’ll want to stroll around. Belgravia is home to Ishbilia, a warm and inviting establishment with an enormous outdoor patio and a menu consisting of Lebanese traditional dishes.
Whether you just want to share some Lebanese mezze, or you’re after a hearty meal, Ishbilia’s wide range of dishes will certainly meet your expectactions. From hummus to moutabal, all the dips they offer are worth your while. If you’re into meat don’t miss the mixed grill or all the variations of kafta you can think of.
📍You’ll find Ishbilia at 9 William Street, London, SW1X 9HL.
🚇 Nearest station is Knightsbridge.
2. Sohalia
Created by Fat Macy’s, Sohalia is a social enterprise that specialises in tackling the homelessness crisis in London. A restaurant and natural wine bar, they serve Lebanese inspired small and sharing plates. So expect an array of small mezze dishes such as hummus, labneh and chilli butter, taramaslata with radishes and chickpea crackers. The highlights are the friggitelli peppers with za’atar, deep fried mussels with zhoug and lemon. For larger plates, the lamb dishes are stunning and highly recommended. All of that with a stunning collection of natural wine to choose from!
📍You’ll find Sohalia at 232 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6PJ.
🚇 Nearest station is Shoreditch High Street.
3. Beit et Zaytoun
Considered to be one of the best restaurants in Park Royal, they offer cold mezze and hot mezze dishes alongside three set menus. The menus include a full Lebanese breakfast for two people which includes fried eggs, balila, ful, cheeses and jams. They are also currently offering a Ramadan Iftar menu and Suhoor buffet which are set at reasonable prices! While you’re there, definitely try the falafel, babaganoush and hummus. For mains, try the chicken shawarma, a selection of grills, or explore the home-cooking section of the menu where you can choose mousakaa with rice or kabse lamhe which is a slow-cooked lamb shoulder served with rice.
📍You’ll find Beit et Zaytoun at 15 Barretts Green St, London, NW10 7AE.
🚇 Nearest station is Harlesden.
4. Massis
Massis is located in Paddington Bassin, which is definitely a plus for its relaxing waterside vibes. Someone once said that ‘sharing is caring‘, and they pride themselves of being the place to go to break bread with your loved ones. This restaurant is well-renowned for its hospitality and flavours that transport you to the bustling streets of Beirut. At Massis you will find old recipes with a modern twist, which will have you come back for more.
The only challenge you’ll face is the endless menu of hot and cold mezze, as you’ll struggle to decide what to try first. There’s a huge variety of hot, cold and on grill mezze, and they’re all for sharing. Make sure you try their different versions of sambousek while enjoying a glass of Lebanese wine. You won’t regret it.
📍You’ll find Massis at 9 Sheldon Square, London, W2 6HY.
🚇 Nearest station is Paddington.
5. Orjowan
Orjowan is not your typical Middle Eastern restaurant. Its breakfast has set the bar high in terms of what to expect when going to a Lebanese restaurant looking for flavoursome, traditional food. Every single item on the menu is well-crafted and served with care. From hummus to labneh, you won’t lack options to start the day with.
If you’re not that into breakfast, Orjowan offers a wide assortment of warm dishes ideal to share over a lunch break or dinner date. They’re well-renowned for their freshly baked bread and shish taouk. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on the rice pudding. It’s absolutely scrumptious and its rose water flavour is worth the few extra calories at the end of your meal.
📍You’ll find Orjowan at 6 Kenway Road, Earls Court, London, SW5 0RR.
🚇 Nearest station is Earls Court.
6. Eat Beirut
Eat Beirut defines its conceptual cuisine as simple, but for many that is far from reality. Its elegance and relaxed atmosphere are well-known among lovers of Middle Eastern cuisine. The wide assortment of options featured on their menu will allow you to embark on a trip of flavours.
Whether you are a vegetarian or a meat-lover, Eat Beirut has options for everyone that will certainly not disappoint. From exquisite salads, to meat grilled to perfection, whichever dish you choose will leave you satisfied. No wonder then that Eat Beirut is considered one of the best Lebanese restaurants in London.
📍You’ll find Eat Beirut, Parsons Green at 177 New Kings Road, London, SW6 4SW.
🚇 Nearest station is Parsons Green.
7. Al-Jabal Bakery
The aroma of freshly-baked manakeesh emanating from Al-Jabal, every day from 8am to 4pm, has their customers coming back for more. This Lebanese bakery has been in business for over 20 years, and it’s longevity is easy to understand. From pastries to mezze, everything they make is worth trying. Pick up a couple of manakeesh, some sambousek and you’re all set for your next dinner party.
If you’re on the lookout for warm baked goodies to impress friends and family, Al Jabal is the place for you. As a plus, they cater for all your special occasions.
📍You’ll find Al-Jabal Bakery at F01, Acton Business Centre, School Road, London, NW10 6TD.
🚇 Nearest station is Willesden Junction.
8. Maroush Restaurant
This Edgware Road restaurante ia a must-add to any compilation featuring the best Lebanese restaurants in town. For many years, Maroush Restaurant has been the undisputed king of the Levantine cuisine scene in London. Customers came for the traditional dishes, such as freshly produced lamb shawarma or shish taouk (skewers of marinated chicken barbecued over charcoal), but stayed for the belly dancing and live singing. When the weekend arrives, the atmosphere at this Lebanese restaurant in London is reminiscent of a packed bar in Beirut.
Nowadays, you can indulge in their delectable dishes in several locations around town. All offering the same quality and remarkable service, however the charm of the original spot on Edgware Road is still hard to beat.
📍You’ll find Maroush Restaurant at 21 Edgware Road, London, W2 2JE.
🚇 Nearest station is Marble Arch.
9. Al Waha Restaurant
Imagine homemade Lebanese food, expertly served in an elegant setting where Arabic caligraphy sets the mood. It is not hard to understand why Al Waha is an award-winning restaurant.
Their signature dish, Samke Harra – baked fish with a spicy tahini sauce and other seasonings, is in itself a pretty strong reason to include Al Waha on this list. And if you want to give a try and replicate this dish at home, don’t be shy, just ask for the recipe. The very hepful staff will be more than happy to share the inside information with you.
📍You’ll find Al Waha Restaurant at 75 Westbourne Grove, London, W2 4UL.
🚇 Nearest stations are Bayswater and Royal Oak.
10. Meza
Meza is a restaurant specializing in mezze, Middle Eastern appetisers meant to be shared. In this Tooting-based establishment, you can gorge on cold dishes such as labneh, tabbouleh, and hummus, in addition to hot dishes such as calamari, sautéed prawns, and pastry parcels filled with cheese.
The restaurant’s founder, Hikmat Antippa, started his culinary journey at the illustrious seafood spot J Sheekey in Covent Garden. He brought home the quality and savoir faire of his past experience, and you’ll experience it in every bite you take. The authenticity and wide range of vegetarian options are some of the reasons customers keep on making their way back.
📍You’ll find Meza at 70 Mitcham Road, London, SW17 9NA.
🚇 Nearest station is Tooting Broadway.
11. Kenza
This alluring hideaway close to Devonshire Square is home to one of the city’s most exquisite Lebanese dining spots, and there aren’t many others like it. On the weekends, live music and belly dance add to the always festive mood in Kenza. The decoration will please everyone who is into Arabic architecture.
Their set menus have been designed to please all taste buds, but if you are keen on choosing from a wide variety of dishes, their à la carte menu also offers a great selection of delicacies. From your ever traditional falafel, to more adventurous options like Sojouk Armenian Sausages, every single item you order is carefully planned by the chefs in conjunction with Tony Kitous, Kenza’s founder.
📍You’ll find Kenza at 10 Devonshire Square, London, EC2M 4YP.
🚇 Nearest station is Liverpool Street.
12. Aline Lebanese Kitchen
Inspired by his mother’s passion for cooking and sharing, Tarek Farah founded Aline Lebanese Kitchen – one of the best Lebanese restaurants in London. Combining traditional recipes and giving them a modern twist has led to a menu that impresses. All the ingredients used are responsibly sourced and authenticity is key.
Food is not the only jewel in the crown when it comes to Aline Lebanese Kitchen. Start your experience by sipping on one of their inviting cocktails. Their Mulberry Arak combines flavours from East to West in a very harmonious combination.
You should definitely give their set-menu a try as it compiles all their signature dishes. End your meal with mouhalabieh, a milk pudding served all around the Middle East, which is an all-time favourite among both kids and grown-ups.
📍You’ll find Aline Lebanese Kitchen at 14 Maddox Street, London, W1S 1PQ.
🚇 Nearest station is Oxford Circus.
So there you have it – a roundup of the best Lebanese restaurants in London. So if you’re craving some Lebanese food then hopefully this list has got you sorted!