Samad Al Iraqi

Kensington High Street is one of our favourite places for people-watching. The dogs get their hair cut more often than us, everyone strolls like they’ve got nowhere to be in particular, and a window seat at Iraqi spot Samad Al Iraqi is the perfect place to take it all in. Complimentary lentil soup is set in front of you as soon as you sit down, setting the tone that this is a place for warm hospitality and great Iraqi food. It’s a popular spot for those reasons—on any given weekday you’ll find families having a masgouf lunch (traditional Iraqi grilled fish) in the dark, wood-filled dining room. The curtains are heavy, the chairs are heavy, and so will your stomach once you leave. Lamb-topped hummus and the six different types of minced meat-stuffed kubbah are highlights of the menu. But if you’re looking for something that’ll have you too full for dessert, the quzi al sham, a pastry bowl with rice and tender lamb, is a great option.