After three pandemic-induced lockdowns, London’s restaurant scene is finally getting back on its feet, with a glut of new restaurants opening their doors this month – one of which will be familiar to fans of The Barbary in Covent Garden. Five years after the critically-acclaimed restaurant’s debut, the owners have taken the success of its delivery service that launched in November 2020 (aka lockdown 2.0) and turned it into a IRL restaurant – The Barbary Next Door. Given the name, it’s no surprise that it’s directly adjacent to the original Barbary in Neal’s Yard and, like its big brother, it’s counter dining only.
“For such a small space – it only seats 10, although there is a narrow sliver of standing room for those in want of a drink and a snack – with an open kitchen barely big enough to swing a newborn kitten, The Barbary Next Door punches well above its weight,” says Stylist Loves editor Gemma Crisp. “Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the menu traverses Morocco, Tunisia and the eastern Mediterranean, with a smattering of Spain, France and Portugal on the wine list. Like its neighbour, the bread and dips are exceptional – I can’t recommend the zaalouk’s blend of super-smoky aubergine, tomato, garlic, green chili and coriander enough – but I would happily eat the sea bass chermoullah and orange, grapefruit, fennel, black olive and tarragon salad every day of the week. Whether you’re after a small plate degustation or a snack break while Christmas shopping, The Barbary Next Door won’t disappoint.” 16a Neal’s Yard, London, WC2H