May 14, 2014 - Written by: Ilona-Jade Errington

Restaurant Review: Tagine Tuesdays at Ayoush

London’s Hidden Gems

The last thing I think of when someone says ‘North African cuisine’ is ‘one of the best Cosmopolitans I’ve had in ages’. At least that was the case, until I discovered Ayoush.

Set on the corner of St. Christopher’s Place, a conglomerate of restaurants and shops just off of Oxford street, Ayoush surprised and delighted me with its authentic and stylish menu and well-executed cocktails.

In a city as cosmopolitan as London I always think it’s a good sign when a restaurant is frequented by people from that culinary region – to me that signals the food must actually be pretty on the mark. And whether you’re looking for some succulent squid, tender meat skewers or a tasty tagine (only £9.95 on Tagine Tuesdays with rice/couscous – bonus!) Ayoush has it all wrapped up in one neat unassuming package that I would happily recommend. Especially the calamari. And the mixed grill. They were pretty damn good.

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The service is fast and unpretentious, with staff striking a good balance between chatting about the weather and leaving you to your intended companions. The venue is a little small perhaps for the number of covers, but boasts an outdoor area to have a little shisha as you’re sampling the mezzo selection – which could almost trick you out of the country to a realm of North African delights. Until you get brought back down to earth by a drizzly gust of rain, that is.

Overall this is one of London’s hidden gems that I would recommend whether you fancy a peckish for a platter or are looking for a full and hearty meal with a cocktail to wash it down.

Useful Note: For non-city dwellers there is also an Eton branch, so go get involved!

Happy eating!

If you enjoyed this article, why not check out ‘Restaurant Review: French Fancy‘?