THE PALOMAR

Location

On Rupert Street just off Shaftesbury Avenue, meaning, it’s smack bang in the middle of theatreland.

Vibe

It’s loud, bustling, and fun. The recipe of good food and good times, thanks to the three chef proprietors, from Jerusalem’s ‘It’ restaurant, Machneyuda, and the two owners (siblings DJ Layo Paskin, of club The End and its offshoot bar AKA, and his sister Zoe). Tunes blast, the ‘first-come, first-served’ kitchen counter remains constantly packed, and the staff like to party.

Flavours

The menu is a fusion of non-kosher Jewish, Arabic and Mediterranean flavours: think ‘New Jerusalem’ –creative, multicultural and modern. Here, it’s all about sharing. For those who don’t regularly ‘Ottolenghi’, the menu may seem difficult – Bourekas here and a Hamusta there – but the waiters will guide you. The Daily 6, an assorted mezze is a good starting point (Josper Aubergine, Beetroot and Goats Cheese, and Puy lentils with tzatziki were standouts). Next, the Raw Bar, for fans of steak tartare, the Kubenia mixed with bulgar, tahini, herbs and pinenuts is a must, so too the salmon tartare (mixed with lemon, pomegranate and ginger). For bigger plates, hit up the ‘Stove.Josper.Plancha’ menu. We went for the Shakshukit, a deconstructed kebab, swimming in lemon, tapenade, pesto, harissa and tahini. For those who want a richer experience try the Polenta “Jerusalem style”, a Machneyuda signature, and served in Kilner jars filled with asparagus, mushroom, parmesan and truffle oil. Finally, to drink: it’s summer, so try the fresh Hibis Kiss – gin, lime, hibiscus sherbet topped with tonic water, or namesake cocktail – tequila, grapefruit, lime juice, with soda water.

Décor

The décor is as fresh as the menu – not a brick wall or industrial light to be seen – it’s simple, chic and inviting. Washed pinks and turquoise hues dominate the restaurant, a nod to the art deco era but the zinc counter top, raw bar, and neon Palomar sign give it its modern touch – and it works.

Upshot

Finally, a restaurant that doubles as a destination in itself AND a pre-and post-theatre option.