Few restaurateurs have influenced the nation’s dining habits as Alan Yau. Dismissing preconceptions of Cantonese dining in Britain with Hakkasan and Thai with Busaba Eathai, he has now turned his gaze to the underappreciated cuisine of Turkey with Babaji, his latest venture. Located in London’s West End, the restaurant’s design comes courtesy of Istanbul-based studio Autoban and makes deft use of the space within a 19th century historic brick building. Referencing traditional Turkish design, the interior is dominated by vivid ceramic tiles, arranged in a striking tapestry of ink blue and gold. Traditional Iznik patterns add texture and detail to the soft furnishings, while the main dining area is enveloped by large glass windows that look out onto the frenetic energy of the street outside. Taking centre stage is a large stone oven which, housing a roaring fire, turns out perfect ‘pide’ (Turkish pizzas made with leavened dough), the restaurant’s primary raison d'être.
ADDRESS
53 Shaftesbury Avenue
London
W1D 6LB
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