Ransacked Black Oven

Eclectic Persian street food-inspired restaurant which aims to cater for everyone.

The 2019/20 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

Classroom-style décor, softened with scatter cushions, creates a familiar and comfortable (if unconventional) setting for Persian street food. Specials are displayed on a blackboard which, along with the menu, is clearly marked for allergies and dietary requirements. The space is great for groups, with a central table large enough to cope with all of your friends, family and their food foibles. The menu is divided into sections such as soul bowls, steak boards and wraps. Freshly prepared salads are available by generously sized scoop, allowing you to choose one as a starter or a side, or all of them to share. A special of lentil and vegetable stew is warming, filling and accompanied by freshly baked sourdough, while chargrilled aubergine is enlivened with za'atar seasoning which contrasts with the smoky soft flesh. Vegan cheese is available for Lebanese-style pizzas which feature cross-continental toppings: sauerkraut, halloumi, shawarma chicken, haggis, artichoke and even chocolate (for dessert). The chef here has an obvious flair for flavour – case in point: the edamame beans are not to be missed.