Say open sesame to an Aladdin’s cave that lies in store in the heart of Hampstead as authentic Magrehbi cuisine is served up to hungry locals.

The Venue
Al Casbah is located on Hampstead High Street within touching distance of the tube station on the Northern Line. Inside is a real taste of paradise with a classic North African feel. Low chairs and tables coupled with mosaic tiles, awnings, plush sofas and various fabrics ensures a sumptuous and indulgent feel to this restaurant. The decor is so authentic that it has been specially flown in from Algeirs and Morocco. There’s also an additional Bedouin Lounge on the lower floor where you can entertain in the middle of a private haven.

The Atmosphere
It’s as if you have landed in the middle of Marrakech. Lots of hip and young North West Londonites blend into the background. The service is as laid back and relaxed as the ambiance as trendy twenty and thirty somethings collide to enhance a real treasure trove.

The Food
With all food undergoing strict Halal guidelines the combination of cuisine at Al Casbah has several North African influences. For starters try the Sarira which is a traditional Moroccan soup made with chick peas, lentils, rice and finished with fresh tomatoes. This is a rich and wholesome soup that slightly too starchy on the palate but overall is healthy and packed with flavour. The Dolma Sardines are freshly marinated sardines with parsley, coriander and garlic cooked in a tomato sauce. The sardines are perfectly seasoned and the mixture of garlic and coriander works well to enhance the flavours of the fish.

For mains the grilled lamb cutlets are well cooked but are slightly gristly and come with coriander, parsley and fresh mint. This dish is accompanied by home made potatoes that are crispy but lack any imagination. Meanwhile one of the house favourites of kebabs of chicken breast are quite juicy and the marinade of saffron mint infuses well into the moist flesh of the meat. This comes with a simple green salad and home made fries that are as standard. Another alternative to get your paws on is the vegetarian tagine kernoon which is a combination of artichoke hearts and peas done in a traditional Sahara style. The overall dish lacks seasoning but is a well put together dish.

Desserts include an array of Asian cakes and a traditional helping of baklava. This traditional sweet made of filo pastry almonds and honey is extremely rich and as heavy as the rainfall in Manchester.

The Drink
An array of classic treats is yours to choose from including fresh mint tea and a solid choice of wines from Europe that is certain to tickle your fancy.

The Last Word
The cuisine is certainly North African in its selection of tagines and couscous dishes but this is not Al Casbah’s unique selling point as the decor and environment will take you on an authentic journey.

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