A mysterious paradise of all things Moroccan and North African, Souk Medina delivers a wealth of North African cooking and once you step inside you will find it increasingly hard to leave.

The Venue
A perfect location for all theatregoers, the restaurant is based in the heart of Theatreland and close to Covent Garden. The venue is an oasis of calm from the moment you step inside, almost like you have walked into another dimension. Authentic Moroccan uniformed men with fez hats welcome you inside this tranquil setting of lanterns, low tables and wooden benches and chairs. The upstairs is used more as a tearoom which wouldn’t be out of place in the bustling streets of Marrakesh. Meanwhile, downstairs is a stunning setting for a meal. Dark with subtle lighting, North African artefacts on the walls coupled with intimate tables and plentiful cushions reflecting all the vibrant colours of the rainbow make Souk Medina a stand-out place in Covent Garden.

The Atmosphere
Sexy, intimate and cosy, this is a hot place to take someone who will definitely appreciate the environment. Close tables provide a buzz of low noise but at the same time this does not spoil the privacy you can have with your dining partner or partners.

The Food
There is a wonderful selection of mouth-watering snack and starters to whet your appetite before you tuck into what Morocco is famous for which is its authentic tagines. Choose from an aromatic Harrira soup, a mixture of chick peas, lentils, vegetables and vermicelli, falafel with tahini and a North African speciality of tabouleh, a fresh melange of parsley, mint and tomatoes. The mint really comes out in this dish.

A true North African culinary experience wouldn’t be the real deal without sampling one of the many tagines that Souk Medina has to offer. The clay pot which it served in really brings out the flavours. The lamb with chick peas and harissa sauce is spicy and the meat is extremely tender. The chicken tagine with potato and olives is set off by the olives and the meat is simple, tasty and very soft so that it simply falls off the bone. Other alternatives include typical North African chicken with dates and an unusual duck with an apple and cinnamon sauce. The sauce sets off the duck and the cinnamon gives it a nice lift. Other options include baked seabass with a simple combination of garlic and herbs and a red mullet tagine which is meat-like in texture and cooked perfectly. Share some fluffy couscous with dates and almonds or even some glazed carrots or some tender green beans.

Desserts range from a sweet and traditional baklava to different types of crepes. These are thin and light, unlike the indulgent fillings which include honey and roasted almonds, chocolate and rosewater cream or butter, lemon juice and cream. The cream and acidic lemon juice are a surprisingly good match.

The Drink
There are 10 reds and whites to pore over including a couple of Moroccan wines such as the dry and crisp Siroua Mayorquin that’s perfect with couscous dishes. Souk Medina also has some fabulous cocktails like the Thirsty Camel, vodka shaken with fresh mango, milk, raspberry syrup and mango nectar or Juicy Marrakech, gin muddled with passion fruit, raspberry and lime juice and topped off with lemonade. There are also a range of non alcoholic and champagne cocktails and teas and coffees including a fresh mint and a cinnamon tea.

The Last Word
If you want to experience a taste of true North African cuisine, Souk Medina really is the place where you can let your senses take control.

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