Alounak

curlynewf

Don't get *too* comfortable... 13th November 2008

1 found this helpful

As soon as we sat down, the waitress was on us, pad in hand.

"You know what you want?"

"Sorry, can we just have a minute?" I asked.

"OK, no problem." (Fake smile)

2 minutes later...

"You ready now?"

"Sorry, just a few more minutes."

(Big sigh, turn on heal, complain to fellow waitress, cold stare)

I knew they had a 2 hr table limit but I didn't realize the clock started ticking as soon as our bums were on seats! (Interestingly though, once we *were* ready, she avoided our gaze and wouldn't take our order right away and when she finally did come back we got the silent treatment. That'll teach us!)

We had the mixed starter for two, bread and a tzatziki-style yoghurt and cucumber dip that was really divine. We split the lamb and chicken skewer main with rice - plenty for two people. The meat was really flavorsome and the texture was pretty perfect.

It is as busy as everyone says, and the food was tasty and filling but they forgot one or two things and we had to ask for more bread a few times before it eventually came.

I'd give it 4 stars if it wasn't for the pushy, forgetful service and the shooing us out the door afterwards. It felt rushed and unrelaxed, which is a shame, but the food itself was a nice treat.

draegermk

Authentic Persian Cuisine 15th January 2008

4 found this helpful

We dined at Alounak last Friday evening. The traditional Iranian kebabs and the bread were very good, and we also enjoyed two of the day's special dishes (Gormeh Sabzee and Bamyeh), which are rotated on a daily basis.

There were three waitresses circling the tables, so the service was attentive, friendly and prompt.

By the time we were ready to leave there was a queue at the door (always a good indication), so I would recommend arriving early on a Friday night.

Amel

Best Persian Restaurant in Town 1st August 2007

6 found this helpful

By far the favourite Persian restaurant in town and conveniently located in central London. Great meat (all of it is great, chicken or lamb, diced, sliced or minced!). Lovely saffron rice. Again great Naan bread - a must for a persian restaurant in my view! The best of all is the Mast-o-khiar (like Tzaziki) cucumbers, thick yoghurt, garlic and mint. And the Torshi (pickles). For a persian restaurant the starters are delicious, as Persian food tends to focus more on the main course. Also try the herb salad with feta cheese and walnuts (Paneer Sabzi).

A meal will cost you about £20 double a meal in Behesht but its worth it. Food never disappoints, service is great, location is much more accessible and there's plenty to do after dinner in the area.

Downside? Always busy and restaurant doesn't accept reservations. Difficult to accommodate big groups but great for a date or a small group 2-6. Sometimes you have to wait outside until a table is free. Also no alcohol served :(

Also if anyone is interested there's a great book shop nearby next to the Kufa Gallery called Al Saqi which has a variety of Arabic and English books centered around Middle Eastern culture, politics, poetry etc.. :)

Adisa75

Persian delight 3rd November 2006

5 found this helpful

Traditional Iranian food at its best! Reasonably priced and served in an authentic atmosphere(rusticated brickwork, hanging bauble lights)! A must starter to try is mirza ghazemi (char-grilled aubergine with fried onion and garlic) with a fresh bread made on premises! grilled meat and kebabs menu would leave a vegetarian a bit hungry;)