Ceru South Kensington

Serial restaurateur Barry Hilton is behind this mid-range, all-day celebration of Levantine cuisine. It's a casual, vibrant option borne out of a series of pop ups around London, set in a colourful and cosy space. You can go for a casual bite on a stool alongside the open kitchen, or grab a booth and make a meal of grilled meat, seafood, salad and veggie options, served sharing-style in small portions. With the feel of a chain-in-waiting, Ceru presents the odd quirk (there's afternoon tea with Middle-Eastern ingredients) but predominantly plays it safe with flavours and ideas. Having said that, the signature lamb shoulder steak arrives doused in a punchy, 12-spice sauce which arrests the taste buds, while the pancar (roasted beetroot dip with pistachio crumbs) provides a delicious tangy alternative to the omnipresence of hummus in Middle-Eastern restaurants. Keen pricing, generous portions and a kids’ menu ensure Ceru's likeability, while Greek, Turkish and Lebanese wines by the glass invite experimentation. 

Ceru, South Kensington is an award winning Mediterranean restaurant open daily from 12 noon with an all day menu, platter menu and weekend brunch. The restaurant is light and modern with an open kitchen, there is also a small outdoor dining area. 

There is a main menu and a platters menu, plus brunch is served on the weekends. If you’re visiting Ceru for dinner perhaps you will begin with some dips to start such as their classic hummus made with chickpeas and green chilli, or the Fadi made with roasted zucchini, garlic, tahini and yoghurt. Main dishes include a good selection of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes including a spiced warm cauliflower served with walnut, and a fillet of sea bream served with a spiced tomato chutney and fried garlic. Other dishes on the menu may include zucchini and feta fritters served with a mint and dill yoghurt, and beef fillet served with zhug dressing and crushed hazelnuts. 

Ceru also serves a lunch menu which includes lunch platters. Choose between the street platter which is made up of chicken skewers, dips, roasted veg and warm pitta, or the market platter which is made of cheese and vegetable fritters, spiced cauliflower and warm pittas. 

There are plenty of sides on the menu including spiced polenta and feta fries, spice roasted potatoes and pan fried broccoli served with toasted almonds and tahini. If you’re looking for dessert you will find a number of tempting sounding dishes such as baklava ice cream, chocolate mousse and coconut profiteroles. 

Ceru is a short distance from the District Line tube stop, and is close to many popular attractions in the city such as The V&A Museum and The Royal Albert Hall. You are also close to many popular shops, bars and cafes in both Chelsea and Knightsbridge.