Restaurants

A ‘Mediterranean restaurant' based on Turkish cuisine with a largely Turkish staff, Mem & Laz feels no great pressure from its heritage. Turkish dishes are offered, bizarrely, alongside Italian fare – but the decor is all Anatolian. Dark wood and clusters of lamps dominate. While we were ordering, sun-dried tomato bread and olive bread arrived: a nice touch, even if it marked another break from the traditional. Two large grilled sardines made an excellent starter. We also enjoyed an obviously freshly-made pepper dolma, with sweet rice and raisins stuffed in a green pepper. To follow, a sizeable portion of grilled halibut was served with boiled potatoes and a heavy salad. Köfte meatballs were well spiced (though arguably undercooked), and came with thick yoghurt and a salad. A separate menu offers daily changing specials. Service was friendly, if a little over-attentive at times.

Time Out Cheap Eats in London Guide 2007