Restaurants in West London are a common enough sight, but it is likely that you have never seen a restaurant quite like Abu Zaad. Located on Uxbridge Road in Shepherd’s Bush, Abu Zaad appears to have been teleported straight out of a Damascus market; tile, trim, awnings and all.

Inside the illusion carries on, as you are surrounded by gilt mirrors, illuminated transparencies of Middle Eastern scenes, hanging lanterns and lots of Middle Eastern patrons. The last part bodes well for the quality of the offerings, because Middle Easterners know their food.

The atmosphere here is very friendly and laid back, and prices are very reasonable.

If you like Middle Eastern food, then Abu Zaad will be a bit of a Mecca for you. It is one of those neighbourhood eateries that you visit and then feel quite relieved that you don’t live nearby; you suspect that you would probably just give up cooking altogether and eat there instead.

For starters, the Tabbouleh is excellent with lots of parsley and mint. Even if you think you don’t care for eggplant, you should try the Moussaka or Baba Ghanouj. In the hands of a good Middle Eastern cook, eggplant becomes something special that quite transcends our rather bland Western ways of preparation.

For the main course there are various meat stews that are served with couscous, Kibbeh (meatballs) served with yogurt and coriander and several excellent lamb dishes.

If you are unfamiliar with Syrian or Middle Eastern food, don’t be shy about asking your server for translations or recommendations, they are very friendly and accommodating.

There are an assortment of barbecue dishes on the menu as well as fish and seafood options.

One of the nicest things about Middle Eastern restaurants is that they have many dishes that feature only vegetables or beans, so vegetarians will have plenty of choices when they are dining here.

Restaurants in West London like Abu Zaad are hard to find.

Visiting Abu Zaad

Address: Abu Zaad, 29 Uxbridge Road, W12 8LH

Telephone: 020 8749 5107

Photo courtesy: sashafatcat

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