Berber & Q

Set under an refurbished railway arch by Haggerston station, the 'too cool to take bookings' Berber & Q is a hipster's dream dining venue.  

The cavernous space feels surprisingly intimate, with warm lighting scattering out from the fret-cut copper pendant lamps. Larger groups can share rustic wooden benches by the open kitchen whilst the banquette seating lining the exposed brick walls provides a more secluded setting for couples.  

The seasonally changing food is inspired by Middle Eastern dishes and plates are packed full of interesting ingredients. The famous Cauliflower shawarma is a must-order, and the Beets, whipped feta and saffron candied orange is a colourful plate of flavour. But it is their meats - served on trays with cumin salt, harissa & grilled pitas - that are the highlight.  Marinated and basted in its own juices before being finished on the open grill, the Smoked short-rib with date syrup glaze was stunning. 

The central bar serves Berber and Q's own craft beer as well as Middle Eastern style cocktails, and an adventurous wine list including some Turkish delights no-one in London has ever served before.