Berber & Q in Hoxton has carved out a reputation as one of London’s most exciting spots for Middle Eastern and North African barbecue dining. Founded by head chef Josh Katz, who trained in some of London’s leading kitchens, including Ottolenghi, the restaurant specialises in bold flavours, live-fire cooking and convivial sharing plates that bring people together around the table.
The setting under a converted railway arch near Haggerston pairs industrial character with warmth and atmosphere. Exposed brick walls, low lighting and dark wooden furniture create a moody yet welcoming environment, while the open grill ensures diners are enveloped in the theatre of smoke and spice. The buzz of conversation, paired with plates arriving from the grill, makes it a lively space for dates, group dining or special celebrations.
Menus focus on vibrant mezze, smoky small plates and larger sharing dishes. The mezze board showcases house favourites, including mashwiya, mouttabal, labneh, tahini and mixed pickles. While other options include grilled Roscoff onion salad with pomegranate and mixed herbs, alongside beef kefta served with tahini and sumac-pickled red onions. Small plates bring earthy, charred flavours in the form of beetroot salad with whipped feta and roasted hazelnuts, roasted cauliflower and corn ribs. Sharing plates shine from the grill, with harissa hot wings topped with whipped feta, grilled vegetable skewers, slow-grilled saffron and turmeric chicken, or a whole sea bream glazed with Moroccan chilli honey, saffron and aioli lemon.
Sides such as spicy condiments, steamed couscous and Berber salad are perfect accompaniments, while desserts like lime and mango sorbet or chocolate delice round things off with flair. For groups of 10 or more, Berber & Q offers set menus showcasing the best of the kitchen, with vegetarian options available. A carefully chosen list of cocktails, wines and hot drinks completes the picture, ensuring every meal is both vibrant and memorable.