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A bright, sunny Saturday evening - just right for fantasising that we lived in a hot country and were heading for a hot night out. And as soon as we stepped inside Kazbar's evocative interior, we knew we were in the right place.
Despite turning up at what must be one of their busiest times, we never for a moment felt either neglected or rushed. Greeted by Tanya, the charming manageress, we were shown to the bar to await a table (you can only book in advance for parties of 8 or more) but we were more than happy to be served exotic cocktails by the friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgeable bartenders. Though there was an excellent and tempting array of sherries and Moroccan and Spanish beers on offer, the Fig and Vanilla Daquiri and a blistering Mojito went down very easily, leaving us time to remark on the fantastic attention to detail which Kazbar enjoys - high ceilings, fabulously wrought iron and dark wood and candles everywhere lend the restaurant a sultry air and an intimate ambience, with serrano hams and strings of garlic hanging from the ceiling to hint at what delicious delicacies await.
Seating is around low tables in cosy enclaves, perfect for sharing tapas and table talk. The idea behind the food is simple but satisfying, with an excellent selection of tapas for vegetarians and carnivores alike, averaging around £3 each. We particularly liked the more exotic offerings, such as Ibikha (braised butternut squash, chickpeas and harissa), Pimientos Piquillo con Alcachofas (warm salad of oak roasted peppers, chargrilled baby artichoke and goats cheese) and Gigantes (giant butterbeans with red onion and coriander in a rich tomato sauce), although old favourites such as Tortilla and Couscous were very well presented too.
“Dessertarians” are well catered for as well, with Tarta de Santiago (a lemon and almond tart from Galicia) and Potito de Chocolate (just what it sounds like!) on offer. My personal favourite, Turkish Delight, can divide opinion very rapidly, but I found Kazbar's to be perfect, lightly perfumed with lemon and rose and just the right side of gooey.
After all that, freshly brewed mint tea was our beverage of choice, though if we'd planned to party the night away then we would have gone for the Cafe Solo, a short black coffee infused with spices. All in all a perfect meal for a perfectly hot and sultry evening, though we're looking forward to returning in cooler times to enjoy what will undoubtedly be transformed into a warm and cosy retreat.
And so we found ourselves on our way home, planning our next visit to take in all the tempting tapas that we simply hadn't had time or room for and debating the finer points of Turkish Delight. But there was one thing on which we were in total agreement - Kazbar is most certainly Moorish and more-ish!.
Reviewed by Lucinda Whiteley.
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