Le Ziz Restaurant, London Review
Le Ziz Restaurant
London
Reviewed by Christine Charlesworth
It was a cold, rainy day on 14 August when we made our way to Dalston Junction to visit the new Le Ziz restaurant that we had heard so much about. Turning right out of the station we were only a few steps away from Dalston Square, where we found Le Ziz nestling behind deep troughs of tumbling flowers, with two large bay trees in terracotta pots either side of the entrance. It is a great location overlooking the modern square, which has trees, seating, fountains of water shooting from the ground and even a built-in table tennis table.
Entering the restaurant we were impressed by the light and airy space. Tables are set around the main floor and also up beside the bar area. Decor is modern with the emphasis on natural wood. The whole ceiling is covered in open-work wooden slats and the lighting has been designed to echo this theme. A mix of antique style Turkish tiles fill the far wall between banks of shelving filled with bottles of wine and the same tiles cover the floor area in front of the large open-plan kitchen. Large windows give excellent views over the main square and there are a number of tables outside for use in more pleasant weather conditions.
We were greeted by Ebru, from Ancara, who took us up to a large table set beside the bar, overlooking the square. Menus were brought immediately and also a dish of assorted olives, some warm Turkish flat-bread and a delicious dip. We were impressed to see that everyone is offered this tasty snack as soon as they are seated.
Sahin, who came across to introduce himself, is the owner/manager of Le Ziz. He told us that the restaurant has been open for just 4 months but it is quickly getting well known in the area with many customers visiting regularly. I was pleased to note that all the food is cooked fresh in the kitchen, including the bread, and there is an extremely well-stocked bar together with a well-priced selection of wines. Sahin showed us the menu and recommended a variety of dishes for us to try, including a bottle of the Terra Narince white Turkish wine, said to be lively and refreshing with lingering flavours of pear and grapefruit. It was excellent.
Our first course was Meze Meze, a selection of hot and cold Mezes. This included Kisir, Tabouleh, Humus, Sukuk, Zeytin Yagli Patlican, Borek, Hellim, Haydari and Falafel. The Meze is a great way to sample different dishes. I particularly enjoyed the Kisir (Bulgar wheat mixed with nuts and onion in a special sauce) and the Humus was certainly the best I have ever tasted.
A large jug of iced water was brought to us, together with the wine, as soon as we had ordered and our bread basket was replenished regularly throughout the meal.
Second course was a selection to share. Sahin recommended that we try the Leziz Special Mix Grill (Lamb, chicken, kofte and lamb chops) the Kuzu Ciger (Grilled lamb liver) and, from the fish, selected the Cupra Fileto (Fillets of sea bream). The food was extremely good. Excellent quality, good portions and amazing flavours. The lamb was superb as was the fish.
Finally we shared a ‘Muhallebeli Kadafy’ (shredded pastry in honey syrup and cream with pistachio and walnuts) as our pudding and a Turkish coffee, served in a little cup set into a silver holder with a cube of Turkish Delight on the side.
Staff were extremely friendly and helpful, plates were cleared promptly, wine was poured regularly and the music was not too loud and was in keeping with the surroundings. There was even music playing in the toilet areas, which were bright and clean.
Le Ziz not only have their standard menu, with a la carte and two set menus, they also have a lunch and early evening special menu, which is shown on a board outside the restaurant. This is £8.95 for two courses or the wonderful Meze Meze selection of 8 items for only £7.95.
A delightful place to eat, time and again, where you will not be disappointed.
Rating: 5/5 
Opening hours: Mon – Sat 12:00 – 23:00 | Sun 12:00 – 22:30
For more information, to view menus or to make a reservation visit www.lezizrestaurants.co.uk.
Le Ziz Restaurant, Unit A, Dunbar Tower, Dalston Square, London, E8 3DT
0207 249 1077 | contact@lezizrestaurants.co.uk | www.lezizrestaurants.co.uk
