While mezze is our favourite part of the meal at most other Lebanese restaurants, at this laid-back spot in Paddington we’re torn between imaginative things like the “massguettes”—a fresh baguette filled with tender pulled beef, or roasted lamb shawarma. Or classics turned exciting like the tahini smoked cauliflower that comes in a tangy, nutty sesame sauce that we’d like on all future vegetable dishes. Massis is a spacious, dark wood and hanging lights-filled spot, where you could easily rock up with a group for a low-key birthday dinner, or a post-work date when you’re ready to eat your bodyweight in spinach fatayer.

photo credit: Aleksandra Boruch