Ouzeri — Restaurant in City Centre

I’m going to keep the review short and sweet.

The food was absolutely amazing, from the green tomatoes to the eliopita, the line fish and the lamb belly, the food far exceeded our expectations.

The atmosphere was perfect, quiet enough to be able to hear the person opposite you, yet still vibrant enough that there was no need for music to fill the air as the restaurant was alive without it.

I had put on our reservation that it was our Anniversary and they brought us a complimentary drink which was a lovely and much appreciated touch.

If I had to highlight areas for improvement it would be the service which was at times slow, not because it was busy but because our server was a tad forgetful, for instance our eliopita was meant to come along side our starters but came after we had finished our mains and I had to follow up twice on its whereabouts (without a significant apology or regret expressed), what I can say is once it eventually came, it was well worth the wait!

The non alcoholic cocktail list was almost non existent, I ordered a grapefruit mocktail and was given pure grapefruit juice sans sugar or syrup, upon giving feedback to a waiter we were informed that the drink should have had a (cherry I think) syrup in it, and they got it from the bar immediately. As a non drinker I am often left underwhelmed by beverage selections but this felt borderline insulting to be given sour and bitter grapefruit without care being taken to insure it could actually be consumed.

The dessert menu …just remove it all together, it’s 2 options both as bad as the other. The food is soo good here that dessert isn’t needed.

If the service and attention to detail is worked on, I can see Ouzeri being easily Michelin star worthy.

This review is definitely not short, but 5/5...

STEP INTO GREECE WITH A TOUCH OF CYPRUS ✨ We were so excited to book for Ouzeri and it did not disappoint. Booking, however, is absolutely critical - if you’re worried about time slots, don’t. The kitchen is mindful about this and have your dishes ready to serve before you’re ready to order! We wanted to make the most of the menu and squeezed every little bit of it. The cocktails are out worldly, but prepare yourselves, they don’t mess around with the ouzo. 2. The chickpea fries will get you going with the combination of flavours. Still processing over here… 3. The pork loin - had to triple check it was pork it was so good. 4. The donuts with soft cheese were most probably my favourite dish. Don’t be put off by the anchovy. 5. The leeks were highly recommended and we totally get why! Do not skimp on the basil though, it was carefully and strategically developed part of the dish and the hazelnuts just finish it off. 6. Dolmades aren’t my favourite thing - don’t @ me - but I can appreciate why they’re a popular dish. 7. I’m not a sausage fan and the greens were too acidic for me but that FAVA - no words! 8. Lastly, finished off with the head chefs favourite dessert and I would 120% back him in a fight if it ever had to go down. The best rice pudding i’ve ever had. I enjoyed the crunchy, toasted bits with the flavours really coming through. The dessert wasn’t very sweet and was therefore perfect, in every way. It was a great experience in every way, and we’re excited to try some new things on...

Oh, BUT OUZERI!

'A contemporary celebration of Cypriot Greek food' - who would've thought this little (almost hidden) Wale Street eatery holds such marvels. Everything about this restaurant just feels right - it's clear that chef & owner Nic Charalambous has put many thought and intention to this passion project of his.

It's simple yet exquisite. The food - in it's simplicity - presents an exciting yet semi-familiar experience. It's damn tasty - worth every cent. And good-looking too. It hits you right in the spot - the spot that makes you want to close your eyes and savour the sensation forever. Not to talk about the wine - a finely curated selection of unique wines, all local from farms with an interest in more sustainable agricultural practices.

As if the food & wine's not enough - the interior is just wow, a feast for the eyes! Clean, curated, aesthetically pleasing, welcoming and comforting with a sense of nostalgia - a dreamy home.

The service - very welcoming and finely tuned. The waiters are well trained with a sincere and kind attitude. They're quick to answer your questions, clean your table and pour your wine.

The music - just lovely! An exciting, romantic and relaxed mix of the classics, jazz, disco and many more.

This is the type of restaurant that not only makes you feel good, but also makes you feel good about the world and your tiny...