Last updated: November 04, 2024
Tucked away in the vibrant stretch of High Street Kensington, Chef Javad is a refined Iranian restaurant that feels like a culinary escape to Persia. Owned and operated by the acclaimed chef of the same name, this intimate gem is a showcase of Iran’s rich, storied cuisine with a refined twist. My wife and I recently dined there, our interest piqued by the promise of authentic flavours and the skill of Chef Javad himself. We left convinced that this was quite possibly the best Iranian food we’ve had in London for a long time.
Our evening began with an array of starters that were as beautifully presented as they were flavourful. The Mirza Ghasemi, a smoky blend of baked aubergine, garlic, egg, and tomato, was a revelation. Each mouthful was layered with deep, charred flavours from the aubergine, while the garlic added an earthy punch and the egg brought a silken richness. Paired with freshly baked Iranian flatbread from the clay oven, it was the perfect introduction to the culinary skills and craftsmanship that Chef Javad brings to each dish.
Next came the Kashk-e Bademjaan, another aubergine-based dish that was an entirely different experience. Here, the aubergine was mixed with walnuts, dried mint, garlic, and kashk (a fermented whey curd) that added a creamy, tangy layer. The dried mint and walnuts introduced an unexpected and delightful combination of earthy and nutty flavours, making each bite feel unique. My wife and I savoured this dish slowly, appreciating how every component complemented the other in surprising ways.
To freshen the palate, we also ordered a Halloumi Salad. Grilled to a golden brown, the halloumi was served with pine nuts, olives, cucumber, and tomatoes—a Mediterranean-inspired twist that gave the meal a light, refreshing note. The creamy halloumi, crisp cucumbers, and briny olives added a pleasant contrast to the robust depth of the previous dishes, setting the stage beautifully for what was to come.
For our main course, we opted for the Mixed Grill for Two, a dish designed to showcase the finest of Iran’s grill traditions. It arrived in all its glory: tender lamb chops, juicy diced chicken breast, a classic koobideh (lamb mince kebab), and another chicken breast kebab marinated in an enticing saffron, lemon and yogurt sauce. Each skewer was cooked to perfection (thanks to the restaurant’s authentic charcoal grill), with subtle spices enhancing the natural flavours without overpowering them.
No Iranian meal is complete without Doogh, a savoury yogurt drink infused with mint. Served delightfully ice cold, this refreshing drink was an ideal counterpoint to the heartymeats and robust starters. Its cool, minty tang cut through the richness of the kebabs, cleansing the palate and adding a traditional touch to the meal that felt both familiar and refreshing.
Dining at Chef Javad is more than just a meal, it’s an experience of Iranian hospitality and culinary artistry. Chef Javad’s personal touch is evident in every dish, from the thoughtful presentation to the complex layers of flavour of his wholesome, flavoursome dishes. Go with your favourite food-loving people and prepare yourselves for a night of true culinary magic.
