The Bib Gourmand award is our way of recognising restaurants that offer good food at a great price. While all Bib Gourmands are unique in style and approach, they share the same spirit of generosity and a commitment to quality cooking. That’s why, in this series, we’re highlighting the MICHELIN Guide Inspectors' Bib of the Month. These restaurants are the bedrock of our selection, providing an affordable dining option that doesn’t skimp on precision, skill or flavour. From cosy pubs to buzzing counters, we’ve got a Bib for you.
Our final Bib of the Month for 2024 is the loveable Imad’s Syrian Kitchen. Located on the top-floor of the foodie haven that is Kingly Court – just off Carnaby Street in the middle of Soho – its great value cooking and warm hospitality have gained it many followers.
We asked one of our MICHELIN Guide Inspectors for their thoughts:
“When success allowed Imad’s Syrian Kitchen to move to its current, larger premises from its original abode, the relocation was richly deserved. The place is bigger and brighter, allowing more diners to come and enjoy the exceptionally good value cooking. What makes the food at Imad’s so enjoyable is that the chefs here do the basics so well. Many of us have eaten pita, hummus and falafel a thousand times before, but to see them executed with such care and precision here is wonderful – all of them are uncomplicatedly delicious, as is everything on the menu. Like many Bib Gourmand restaurants, there’s no faff here – just quality food at a sensible price.”
We also caught up with Imad himself for more information on what makes his restaurant special.
How did Imad’s Syrian Kitchen come about?
Since I lost my restaurants in Damascus during suppression of protests, my continued dream was to get back to the kitchen again. Then, when I arrived in the UK, I wanted to introduce my Syrian cuisine to the Londoners.
How would you describe your approach to food and cooking? Sharing seems to be a big part of your concept.
In Syria, sharing is the only way we know, and it’s part of who I am.
What price range can customers expect and how are you able to keep your prices affordable?
It’s very important to me to keep our prices affordable and by having enough customers, we will be able to keep it that way
For customers who have never been before, what is the dish to order at Imad’s Syrian Kitchen?
Fattah for breakfast
Express lunch with lamb
Saruja for dinner
How big a part do atmosphere and hospitality play in your restaurant? Is it about more than just the food for you?
I think it’s equal, both parts complete each other.
How is Imad’s Syrian Kitchen different from other restaurants in London?
I think the key part of any success is love. I love my customers and love cooking for them: love, love, love.
Hero Image: © Imad's Syrian Kitchen/Tonic Studio
