Do you remember London before Brother Marcus? A decade ago, it was no more than an idea; now it's a seven-strong mini-empire, built on trademark foundations of neutral interiors, warm hospitality and easy-going East Med small plates. Set within the pedestrianised St Martin’s Courtyard, Brother Marcus’ Covent Garden outpost lures theatregoers and tourists alike, offering the kind of relaxed dining that works just as well for a breezy brunch as it does for an intimate evening meal.
Split across two levels, the space is light-filled and leafy, with terracotta walls, terrazzo-style flooring, and a natural palette of pale woods. Greenery cascades from overhead beams, whilst woven lampshades scatter a soft glow across the room. Add in a sizeable terrace for a spot of al fresco dining, and Brother Marcus feels like a little pocket of the Med in the heart of the capital.
The menu is compact - a greatest hits of East Mediterranean dips, grills and salads. We begin with the rip and dip platter, a trio of spreads alongside fluffy, charred pittas. Tzatziki is pumped up with fennel and aleppo chilli, whilst taramasalata is luxuriously creamy, its salinity cut through by sharp pickled onions. We devour them, only stopping for long enough to ask for more bread.
A selection of mezze follows, quickly filling our tiny table. A skewer of deep-fried aubergine folds back on itself in ribbons, crisp batter giving way to soft innards. Smoky Greek sausage oozes with feta, with respite provided by a gentle salad of louvi beans, tomatoes, and herbs. Elsewhere, caramelised halloumi steals the show, almost drowning in a bed of honey, offset with a refreshing mix of watermelon chunks and bursts of mint - though an enthusiastic scattering of seeds feels a tad heavy handed.
Service is as much part of the package as the food. Staff are quick with recommendations and just as happy to guide you through the mezze as they are to take control with the Marcus’ Choice menu, offering a surprise line-up of plates. With its flavour-packed mezze, relaxed interiors and fair pricing, there’s a reason that Brother Marcus is slowly taking over the city.