Down a quiet side street near the highly touristy Leicester Square, Souk Bazaar will transport you to the sultry desert of North Africa without breaking the bank. Have an open mind and a taste for adventure.

The Venue
An unpretentious facade with a small table and chairs greets you as you enter. Once inside, you are taken to a faraway and exotic place. The lighting is dim and dark fabrics accompany low wood tables and chairs. If you’re up for something different, there are cushions on the floor you can sit on. Narrow hallways, steep steps and low ceilings are charming and authentic. Looking for the full experience? Book a small, cave-like alcove for two which is ideal for a romantic dinner. Tall people beware, these areas are a bit cramped, but once you settle in and have a few drinks they become quite cosy.

The Atmosphere
A perfect spot to have a chatty night out with the girls, celebrate a birthday with friends or snuggle up with your partner for some exotic fare. There is a very unrushed, laid back aura about Souk Bazaar that makes you leave your worries at the door. The service is polite and not too imposing, especially if you’re seated in one of the alcoves. The staff are attentive, knowledgeable about the items on the menu, and are in no hurry to escort you to the door. You have no choice but to eat, drink and relax.

The Food
Choose from a la carte, set menu or group menu. Starters range from about £4 to £9, with mains priced between about £10 and £14. The food isn’t overly fancy but the traditional clay dishes and tangines used add to the authenticity of the restaurant and draw your attention towards the table.

Moussaka (£9.95) is different than the traditional recipe but filled with grilled smokey aubergines and chickpeas in a rich tomato sauce and served with rice. Falafel (£4.95) are mildly spiced, fried to perfection and not greasy at all, with an accompanying warm pita bread. Tahini, served alongside the falafel, seems to taste a bit like hummus though. Fries (£2.95) served with mayonnaise and fiery harissa are crispy and thick. The harrisa and mayonnaise dips are a fantastic departure from the usual ketchup or salt and vinegar. Kefta (£10.95) (minced lamb balls) are full of spice, garlic, onion and parsley with just the right amount of heat served a top a refreshing salad. They are bursting with flavour, yet not too filling or overly fried. Desserts have a Moroccan twist, incorporating rosewater cream and orange blossoms, and all cost £3.95.

The Drink
There is a wide variety of tantalizing and original cocktails to choose from as well as an extensive wine list including wines from Italy, South Africa, Morocco and Spain to name a few. Prices range from about £4 to £7 per glass, whilst bottles will cost you about £14 and up. Cocktails (about £6) are alluring with names like the Thirsty Camel and the Juicy Marrakech.

The Last Word
Souk Bazaar’s mystical atmosphere and festive decor will make a simple dining experience feel like an extravagant holiday.

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