Meet Aladino’s, the latest addition to the Kensington restaurant scene

Aladino’s arrived just eight months ago, bringing with it a divine array of Alexandrian dishes. Looking forward to celebrating its first Christmas in business, Aladino’s invited Seen in the City to sample its new Festive Menu.

As newbies to Alexandrian cuisine, we decided to be adventurous with our starters, opting for Moules à l’égyptienne and Butternut Squash with toasted hazelnuts, Gongonzola Dolce and poached figs. I have to say, the Mussels were to die for. The source alone is a treat for the senses, composed of a rich selection of secret ingredients.

The main courses at Aladino’s are everything a foodie could wish for and more: confit leg of duck for traditionalists, authentic oven-baked okra (Bamia) for vegetarians or a roasted fillet of hake with white beans, clams and Jerusalem artichoke crisps. However, the crown of the menu has to be the slow-roasted lamb shank, which we found utterly irresistible. Infused with aromatic Egyptian spices, the meat is melt-in-the-mouth good.

For dessert we ordered a slender, but indulgent, slice of chocolate tart topped with redcurrant compote together with the more traditional “Om Ali”. The Om Ali has not one, but two, legends surrounding its origin; both involving an Egyptian sultan for whom the dish was first created. Consisting of a filo pastry baked in rich vanilla cream and topped with almond flakes, it is a meal in and of itself. Our delightful host Lucien warned that he had never seen anyone manage a whole Om Ali. We certainly didn’t!

The most surprising thing about Aladino’s is the expertise captured by the team. The small but dedicated staff possesses a wealth of talent; hospitality is managed superbly by the witty and attentive Lucien, while the sommelier and bar tender are eager to please and keen to inform or make suggestions without coming across as snobbish or overbearing. I was actually pleasantly surprised to find a resident sommelier at such an intimate establishment, but this is exemplary of restaurateur Aladin Barakat’s commitment to quality and service.

After our meal we were entertained in the private bar downstairs by Aladin himself – an effort he made with all his visitors. As we took in the crisp interiors, Aladin recounted his gastronomic success in Egypt, where Aladino’s Alexandria was once so popular that no one could reserve a table without Aladin’s personal mobile number. (Thank goodness he slipped us his business card before we left!)

Aladino’s offers an affordable fine dining experience in a setting characterised by warmth, charm and exceptional taste. Fusing contemporary décor with delectable dishes, it’s the perfect place to indulge this Christmas.

Aladino’s
38C Kensington Church Street
London
W8 4BX
RESERVATIONS: 0207 937 2244 http://www.aladinos.co.uk/