Forget the late-night kebab you think represents Middle Eastern cuisine; Francis is a modern, heartwarming take on the region’s favourite dishes. The manti dumplings will give your favourite XLB a run for its money—the skins are delicate, the beef within tender and flavoursome, and the accompanying mix of yogurt and chilli sauce proves the perfect foil. Halloumi is served baked—almost to the point of being charred—while the addition of oregano and pomegranate molasses combined add just enough sweetness to temper any bitterness. The burnt eggplant is simply an explosion of joy. The only dish that needs improvement is the hummus: we prefer the zing of lemon juice, pepperiness of olive oil and hint of garlic to sing more vibrantly than the mild, tahini-forward rendition served here.

Signature Dishes

• Lamb ribs, orange, yogurt, coriander
• Smoked carrots, spiced honey, almond

Tatler Tip

Avoid weekends—you can’t book a table, and the place is very, very popular. A weeknight dinner means you’re more likely to snag a seat by the window.