Momo Restaurant

A little crescent off Regents Street doesnt seem the obvious place for the little slice of Marrakech that is Momo. With its over the top interior design and big furniture the seats, for example, appear to be made of yak this is still one of the capitals in places. However, the reputation for glamour, celebs and trust fundsupported customers sadly detracts from what Momo deserves to be famous for: the really rather good food. Things didnt start well with the justokay bread but thats easily overlooked in favour of the punchy and juicy spiced olives, an indicator of things to come. Like many destination places, there are some design flourishes, which are either witty or frou frou depending on your point of view: a seared tuna and quails egg amuse bouche, for example, comes on an edible pastry spoon Unlike many destination places though, Momo isnt artificially polite. If the menu promises heat, you get heat. The Merguez Couscous is fine example. The couscous arrives dotted with cooked vegetables and you panic momentarily that they misheard your order. Then the Merguez arrive, a plate of dense meaty sausage, and the waiter throws it all together for you. The stock is mixed into the couscous, the chilli paste is added and the whole thing explodes in the mouth. Traditional pastries provide a sweet finish but are overshadowed by the delicious hot, sweet mint tea. A surprisingly good experience.