Executive Chef Or Golan (ex-Ottolenghi Belgravia) does a bang up job serving a mix of full flavoured Middle Eastern dishes with ingenuity and flair at Delicatessen in Hampstead.
I savoured more bites than I usually would expect for a midweek excursion during my recent Delicatessen dinner and found the range of dishes to be well rounded and extra tasty. Here are some highlights from my browse through the menu.
Pescatarian, vegetarian, and vegan palates ought to be pleased with Delicatessen’s offering (and – just so you know – everything’s kosher, including all the wines). Small plates such as aubergine with tahini, figs, and mixed nuts (£8.50); golden cauliflower with tahini and smoked chilli (£7.50) and sea bream carpaccio with tomato seeds, green chilli, pine nuts and black truffle seemed designed to wow whatever one’s dietary preference.
But there was plenty of meat to go round as well. Seared duck with celeriac pureé and heritage carrots (£27) was especially hearty. And the mixed grilled for two (with chicken thighs, kebab, lamb chops, merguez and rib eye, £70) was as epic in presentation as it was juicy and delicious. Desserts were good too. I liked the vegan coconut ice cream – a lot!
I think the team at Delicatessen try to keep the menu fresh and seasonal. So don’t be surprised if there are somewhat similar and slightly similar dishes when you go.
Israeli wines paired with my meal were all a treat as well. I had a taste of three reds: Galil Yiron (£38), Dalton Canaan (£6.50/£22) and Gamla Cabarnet Sauvignon (£26). Thumbs up to each but maybe the rich and aromatic Yiron – a 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot with Syrah and Petit Verdot rounding it off – from Upper Galilee was my fave.
During my visit, service was swift. The atmosphere was convivial and buzzing. Prices made clear I was in lofty and leafy Hampstead.
Delicatessen is located at 46 Rosslyn Hill, NW3 1NH. Find out more at delicatessen.company.
