Just a few steps from Old Street station, Lilienblum’s neon yellow signage immediately catches the eye. The building's external industrial charm, with brick facade, expansive windows and black fixtures, hints at a minimalist interior, but as soon as the doors swing open, you’re enveloped in a warm, home-like ambiance, courtesy of candlelit tables, soft ceiling spotlights and a friendly welcome from staff.
The room is spacious, but it manages to maintain an intimate atmosphere, with a mix of small and larger tables scattered around and furniture in soothing pastel shades. What adds to its sense of continuity are the many windows that open to an internal courtyard; a peaceful, secluded spot for an al fresco meal.
But the elegant marble counter is what immediately catches the eye, and this is where our journey to Israel begins. A seat at the counter is like being invited for dinner at a friend’s house; sipping on a white fruity wine from South of France as chefs reach for ingredients from the counter. Cherry tomatoes, aubergines and Amalfi lemons sit side-by-side on the counter, as if a Mediterranean vegetable garden has just blossomed.
Lilienblum's menu keeps things fun, with dishes described as if the chef is talking to a friend. When it comes to presentation, the colourful ingredients speak for themselves. A dish of smoked aubergine on glossy tomato gazpacho is a clear example of the freshness and visual appeal Lilienblum brings to the table.
Simple pleasures like swishing tomato and onion focaccia through a vibrant garlicky hummus are elevated by the ingredients and surroundings. A bowl of spelt, clams and dill was so invigorating you could almost feel a sea breeze through the restaurant.
A tray of dessert options presented us with tough choices, but in the end, it was a sweet, creamy chocolate mousse that stole our hearts. Despite the sometimes confusing, irreverent nature of the menu, Lilienblum’s recipe for success is incredibly simple - quality ingredients, great cooking, and genuine service.