Hidden away in a small alley just off Wigmore Street in London, Levant, a Middle Eastern eatery, was an opulent experience.
As I walked down a dark stairway and through a heavy door, striking reds and deep maroons, sensuous fabrics, Oriental lanterns and Aladdin-inspired decoration provided a feast for the eyes, and coupled with the traditional yet exotic music in the background, transported me to an almost mystical world.
Alluringly cosy
The attractive and cosy bar area, featuring Indian mirror-work and low tables, looked enticing.
Yet, as I followed the waitress inside, I realised the restaurant was even more so. I arrived at my table for three — tucked away in a warm corner — and looked forward to a tasty meal.
The only problem was that I had just completed a detox and needed to continue dieting. I certainly did not wish to overindulge today.
Since we wanted a good variety of mezzeh, our friendly waiter, Joan, recommended the Levant feast, which included an assortment of starters, a dish of our choice for the main meal and a selection of desserts with mint tea.
We decided to order a Levant feast and a vegetarian feast for the three of us. It turned out to be plentiful.
I tried to resist the warm breads, which arrived with the mezzeh — I knew wheat would be too heavy — and instead gorged on the carrot and cucumber sticks dipped in deliciously creamy tahini, humous and smoked aubergine sauces.
The vine leaves filled with rice and herbs were tasty and the falafels were so soft that despite its being fried, I found myself craving for more than one helping.
Feeling rather full after finishing the salads and sauces (and pita bread, I admit), as well as a rich variety of yoghurt and cinnamon cocktail, I only tasted the main course.
My friends, however, enjoyed the lamb kofta — minced lamb grilled on a skewer along with onions and spices — and aubergine moussaka cooked with tomato and chickpeas.
As we were picking on the sweet baklavas and pouring cup after cup of mint tea, the entry of three belly dancers added pizzazz to the Friday-evening experience, livening up the ambience with music notching up in volume and an expert performance.
One of the belly dancers stretched out her hand towards me, inviting me to join her.
“Sorry, I really don't feel like dancing right now,'' I replied, signalling to the other two, who were, however, quite happy just watching the show.
After a vibrant and entertaining evening, I walked out of the Levant, promising myself another visit for the ambience and overall experience.
However, I must admit that I found the food slightly overpriced and the lighting so dim I could hardly see what I was eating.
For more information, visit www.levant.co.uk
— Meera Manek is a UK-based freelance writer
