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Hiba has established itself as an outpost of Lebanese cuisine in the previously uncharted territory of Borough. Its location – nowhere near the usual Lebanese stomping grounds – and its warm retro decor of dark wood jazzed up with splashes of orange and olive, set it apart. Subtle, low lighting adds to an atmosphere of warmth and merriment, and the feel-good vibe carries on late into the evening, with dinner served until midnight at weekends to an appreciative and lively crowd.
The food is classic Lebanese cooking and very good too. We’ve seldom had a duff dish here, from perfect falafel – crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy within – to a houmous beiruty that was dense, luscious and spiced with dashes of chilli. We’ve also enjoyed bright, fresh bitinjan rahib (aubergine mashed with garlic and tomato), and perfectly grilled slices of halloumi that added bite to a great range of flavours. Grills excel too; farrouj meshwi (garlic chicken) was beautifully tender, with garlicky mayonnaise a perfect accompaniment. Complimentary baklava makes a great finish.