Berenjak

Just prior to Christmas, I visited the much-lauded Berenjak, for a Persian-feast in Soho. Berenjak is a place that is seemingly always full, so booking ahead was essential for a close-to-Christmas visit. We took a seat at the back of the restaurant, through an alcove where bare brick walls have been covered in creeping vines. Despite the chill from outside, Berenjak does an apt job of conjuring a sense of place.

We went for the feasting menu, which was no joke.

Taftoon and Sangak breads were offered beside four mezze: a black chickpea hummus (so creamy), mast o khiar (yoghurt, cucumber, mint and green raisins), black truffle oliviah (a corn fed chicken mayo salad), and Mirza ghasemi (aubergine, tomato and garlic). There was not a bad dip among the bunch, but the star was really the hummus; exactly how it should be.

Then came our mains: Jujeh (chicken) kabab along with shirazi, torshi phel phel, and house rice. The chicken was some of the best chicken I have ever tasted; juicy and nicely charred from the grill, the kabab was absolute perfection. 

We didn't go for any desserts as we were much too full, but this was not due to any lack of enjoyment in the meal. On the contrary, Berenjak was one of the best meals I've had this year, and would strongly recommend.

Value for money? C. £60 pp including drinks and service charge. Yes, for it is a very good meal.

Would I return? Absolutely. Berenjak does amazing Persian cuisine.