• Added: 11th of July 2008
• Area: South Kensington
• Category: Restaurants

London SW7 3LD
020 7584 2919

nate said
Rainy early evening bliss
An early Friday evening lunch was on the cards as I had to get a train out of London at 8pm.

We arrived at CousCous Darna at around 5:30pm and chose to sit outside as although the clouds were blackening the promised rain had not yet shown its face.

We were seated and given the usual wine list and menus. We ordered drinks, a smooth beer brewed in Tangiers, perhaps not quite appropriately named Casablanca and a house red, introduced to us as a Moroccan blend. Thumbs up from the both of us on each.

After a few moments deliberation we settled from the wide selection of Brochettes, Tagines and Couscous on a Brochette bal houte (Marinated skewered trout) and Couscous Djaje (Stew of chicken with Couscous).

The rain fell after our food was ordered and I had to take cover under the awning which was just the right length to prevent any precipitation from soaking me while I sipped my beer.

The food arrived, clearly freshly prepared and presented to a very high standard on colourful plates with Arabic writing around the rims, the translation of which I could not tell you and completely forgot to ask, a request which would probably not have been revered by our very friendly server (possibly the manager, judging by his attire of black trousers, blue shirt and smart tie).

The trout was delectable, the rice had a hint of sweet melted butter in the middle which gave it an amazing texture moist, yet not wet, taste in the mouth.

My dining partner, my girlfriend, who is quite particular when it comes to eating out, was impressed by the chicken which came with sultanas, chickpeas and enough Couscous to fill a small quarry.

I must go on at this point to bring up a point that I would not normally when talking about food and that is my 10 out of 10 marks for the decor in the bathroom. Although located down a set of perilous stairs, they are done out in traditional Moroccan earthy colours, with a big bowl sink and given a nice touch with the slowly burning incense.

Overally, a very good experience which set us up for our journey back to the home country very well. If you're on Old Brompton Road, give it a try.