Nestled in the heart of Kensington, Samad Al Iraqi offers a warm and welcoming window into authentic Mesopotamian cuisine. Tucked between Holland Park and the Design Museum, it’s easy to reach by car or via nearby High Street Kensington and Kensington Olympia Tube stations.
Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a beautifully designed space that nods to centuries of Iraqi culture. Dark wooden furnishings, patterned tiles and rich, soft lighting recreate an atmosphere that feels both elegant and homely. An extension of their warm hospitality, the complimentary lentil soup arrives as soon as you sit, and there’s a cosy yet sociable vibe, especially if you snag a window seat and watch Kensington High Street’s parade of stroll-bys.
The menu is a treasure trove of authentic Iraqi dishes, starting with a selection of cold and hot mezze - hummus, moutabal, baba ghanoush, stuffed vine leaves, cheese and meat pastries - as well as heartier starters like falafel, grilled halloumi and chicken liver. Their breakfast menu includes Iraqi classics like Bagela Bil Dehen (broad beans with eggs and ghee), makhlama, pastrami-and-eggs and other hearty egg dishes. Main courses are the star attraction: expect fragrant lamb quzi and meat biryani, rich tashrib dishes served over hot tannour bread, mixed grills and a famous ‘Masgouf corner’ featuring wonderfully smoky grilled fish using traditional Mesopotamian methods. Vegetarians can indulge in tepsi baytinijan (baked aubergine with kofta and rice) and dolma. Don’t miss their sweet finish - classic baklava, kunafeh and mixed dates, paired with a robust Turkish coffee.
Whether you're dropping in for a refined weekend breakfast, gathering for a leisurely lunch, or savouring an evening feast, Samad Al Iraqi offers a genuine taste of Iraq in a casual-elegant setting. Friendly staff, generous portions and an immersive dining experience - what’s not to love?