Last week, we had a memorable lunch at Berenjak Borough, London SE1. A visit to either the Borough or Soho branches of Berenjak promises to immerse you in the rich cultural history of Iran. Founder Kian Samyani aims to recreate the warm feelings associated with his Persian family’s home-cooked meals while incorporating seasonal British ingredients into signature dishes. The menu features flatbreads, hummus, many lamb dishes, an aubergine stew for non-meat eaters and a couple of cute desserts. If you’re looking for the best Persian cuisine in London or places for lunch near London Bridge or dinner near Borough, Berenjak is the place to be.
“Savour home-cooked Persian dishes at Berenjak in cosy, homely surroundings in bustling Borough Market,” Homegirl London.
Berenjak Menu
We opted for the main menu for our meal rather than the lunch deal. We started with the exceptional Sangak whole wheat flatbread, baked with sesame seeds, but you can also choose Barbari clay-baked flatbread; both cost £4.
Pair your flatbread with delectable dips like Hummus E Khanefi, which has a silky-smooth texture resembling creamy chocolate mousse. It was so good that I’m craving it now! Alternatively, a yoghurt, cucumber and mint dip might entice or coal-cooked aubergine, whey, walnuts and onion. These cost £7.50-9.50.
We also enjoyed the Panir Sabzi with Bulgarian feta, radish, nuts and fresh herbs for £8.
While the main courses mainly feature lamb options, we enjoyed the only vegan and vegetarian dish, Ghaimeh Bademjoon, an aubergine stew with black lime, yellow split peas and tomato, served with rice, making it both hearty and filling. It cost £18.
Lamb eaters will be happy with lamb stew filled with kidney beans, black lime and dried herbs. Or lamb rump chunks marinated in chilli, tarragon and yoghurt. Other options are a Rotisserie Witney lamb shoulder or Herdwick lamb fillet kabab. Otherwise, it’s a poussin dish or a Persian-style whole rotisserie Norfolk chicken. Prices range from £23-75.
They had some exciting sides. We tried the pickled assortment and the grilled potato with salted butter, chives and golpar, which was our favourite. Sides cost £3-6.50.
Leaving room for dessert, we shared the delightful creme caramel and almond sponge with preserved cherries and yoghurt. Additionally, they offer date and walnut cookies with brown butter, dates and walnuts. These cost £3-9.
The drinks marry together the food and social spirit of the restaurant – expect traditional sharbats, wines from the Middle East, and Berenjak house-made cocktails.
Watch My Berenjak Video
Helpful Information About Berejak Borough
To learn more, visit the Berenjak website. We dined at Berenjak Borough at 1 Bedale Street, London, SE1 9AL, just a short walk from London Bridge or Borough Stations. Their opening hours are Monday 5.30 pm – 10.30 pm, Tuesday to Friday 12.00 pm – 2.30 pm and 5.30 pm – 10.30 pm, Saturday 12.00 pm – 3.30 pm and 5.30 pm – 10.30 pm.
The restaurant is set over two floors, with downstairs seating facing the open kitchen, window views, or a wall. You can also head upstairs via a steep winding staircase to the second floor, where you’ll find a communal table and seating for groups of four. The historic building is adorned with decorative objects, creating a homely and cosy ambience that perfectly complements the cuisine’s roots. It’s an intimate dining experience so go with your partner or best friend.
If you want to explore the area, you may find these articles of interest:
Ten Reasons To Visit Borough Yards
Ten Things To Try At Borough Market
Author: Homegirl London. Photographs: Homegirl London. I only write about eateries where I had a good experience. I recommend you do further research as standards fluctuate, as do opinions. Please check if the establishment is still in business and the opening times before you go. If you discover this restaurant has closed, contact me to remove it from my blog.
