When one thinks of Glastonbury, they picture muddy fields as far as the eye can see, incoherent festival goers cheersing plastic cups, and some of the best names in music giving their performance of a lifetime. But the truth is, other than the one weekend when chaos transcends upon the town, Glastonbury is a quaint spot full of foodie destinations. Queen of Cups sits in the heart of the town serving up Middle Eastern food, using the best seasonal and local produce as a base for each dish.
Bringing options for meat eaters, veggies and vegans alike, all dietary requirements are catered for with a varied range of dishes. Expect classic mezze plates like hummus and labneh, as well as large meals with a twist, like baharat chicken yakitori or celeriac with a tamarind and harissa marinade. For those with a sweet tooth, desserts will look a little something like vegan rice pudding with dates, orange blossom, tahini and pistachio brittle, bringing together all of the flavours of the Middle East that the world has grown to love.
Cocktails come with their own Middle Eastern twist, like the rum and date martinez which uses spiced rum, date molasses, cider and peychauds bitters. The wine list is short but considered, with a classic Chateau Musar topping the reds available, as well as some cult favourites such as Whispering Angel available in 750ml and Jeroboam sized bottles.
Chef Ayesha Kalaji, of Jordanian descent, runs the kitchen and comes to the pass with a wealth of experience via her CV which runs from classical training at a culinary school in West London through to working in multiple kitchens across the capital. This sees the menu find the perfect balance between rustic traditional fare and plates with modern finesse, where gutsy flavours are paramount but brought to guests in a contemporary way.