Tucked away in an iconically Iranian stretch of High Street Kensington is a culinary gem that promises to transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Tehran. Chef Javad, is the latest venture by the acclaimed Chef Sayed Javad Mirlohi, who has crafted a menu that is both a celebration of Persian culture and a poetic ode to his extraordinary culinary journey.

As soon as my wife and I stepped inside the restaurant, we were captivated by the elegant décor. The interior is a sophisticated blend of modern chic and traditional Iranian aesthetics. Dark turquoise walls create a chic, intimate ambiance, beautifully contrasted by traditional Iranian artwork that adorns the space. The elegant bar, a centerpiece in its own right, invites you to sit and enjoy one of their signature cocktails while you soak in the atmosphere. Scattered throughout the restaurant are poetry books by the famous Persian poet Hafez, adding a literary charm that enhances the cultural experience.

But the star of the evening was undoubtedly the food. As someone who has had the pleasure of tasting authentic Persian cuisine in Iran, I can confidently say that the dishes at Chef Javad are some of the best I have ever had in the UK. Each bite was a nostalgic journey back to the lively bazaars and aromatic food stalls of Tehran.

We began our meal with an array of starters, each more delightful than the last. The Olovieh, a traditional Persian salad made with diced chicken, potato, egg, and gherkins, was a refreshing start. It was creamy yet light, with the perfect balance of flavours and textures. The Mirza Ghasemi was a standout for both of us—smoked Japanese aubergine with tomatoes, garlic, and egg, creating a smoky, rich dish that was full of depth. The Kashk Bademjan, a roasted aubergine puree with walnuts and a tangy kashk (liquid whey) sauce, was another highlight. It was velvety smooth with an earthy tang that kept us coming back for more.

We also enjoyed a Shirazi salad,  a refreshing mix of finely chopped cucumber, tomato, onion, and dried mint, dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. This light, zesty salad was the perfect palate cleanser before we gorged merrily on the succulent meat feast to come…

For the mains, we opted for the Shashlik, a skewer of perfectly grilled lamb chops, and the Makhsos, a combination of koobideh (minced lamb kebab) and marinated chicken breast kebab. The Shashlik was cooked to perfection, with the lamb chops tender and juicy, subtly flavoured with a hint of saffron. The Makhsos was equally impressive—the koobideh was flavorful and moist, and the chicken breast was succulent, marinated to perfection with a delicate balance of spices that enhanced, rather than overpowered, the natural flavours of the meat. Iranian cooking for me is about the quality of the meat and expert cooking technique used, rather than a barrage of heavy spices.

The evening concluded with a delightful dessert that we shared—a traditional Persian ice cream called Bastani Zaferani. Traditionally served on the bustling streets of Tehran, this creamy treat is made with saffron, rose water, double cream, and pistachios. This heavenly dessert was a true revelation. The saffron added a luxurious golden hue and a rich, earthy depth, while the rose water provided a floral note that perfectly complemented the creamy texture of the ice cream. The crunch of pistachios added a wonderful contrast, making this dessert the perfect end to an exquisite meal.

Throughout our dining experience, we were impressed not only by the food but also by the exceptional service. Chef Javad himself, recognizable by his long, distinctive beard and the drawing of his face that graces the restaurant’s entrance and website, was a welcoming presence. He moved through the dining room with warmth and genuine interest in his guests, sharing stories of his culinary journey from Iran to kitchens in Budapest and Dubai. His passion for his craft and dedication to his glorious heritage were evident in every dish that emerged from his kitchen.

The staff were equally attentive, offering knowledgeable recommendations and ensuring that every aspect of our meal was perfect. One delightful staff member even offered to help me improve my Farsi, which was much appreciated as a half English, Half Iranian person keen to improve my Farsi language skills. Their friendly, unobtrusive service added to the overall experience, making us feel both pampered with divine culinary offerings and at home.

Chef Javad’s restaurant is more than just a place to eat—it’s a culinary journey that transports you to Iran with every bite. The combination of exquisite food, elegant décor, and exceptional service makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the rich flavours of Persian cuisine in the heart of London. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Iranian food or a curious newcomer, a meal at Chef Javad is sure to leave you longing for your next visit…or next Deliveroo if you live in within a certain radius of Kensington…