Taste Of Yemen

The first thing we noticed as we stepped into this narrow spot is the chef rolling out mulawah—a layered, Yemeni flatbread—in the long kitchen that takes up the length of the tight restaurant. Warm, welcoming smiles come from over the counter, as regulars stroll in asking if the motabak, a folded paratha filled with minced meat or vegetables and cheese, is ready (chances are if you come early, it’s not). Although there are tables for two lined up against the wall, Taste Of Yemen feels more like a waiting room, with glaring spotlights and a view of cars zooming past.

photo credit: Aleksandra Boruch

photo credit: Aleksandra Boruch

photo credit: Aleksandra Boruch

If you’re looking for more of a sit-down situation, you’re better off walking through to their garden at the back. There, TV screens play football while groups tuck into the limited menu of lamb and chicken mandi. It’s not the best Yemeni food in London, but the chicken is tender and the raisin-topped, fried onion-filled mandi rice is packed with flavour, so it’ll do for a casual weeknight dinner if you’re in the area.