Yalla Yalla — Restaurant in Dacorum

Can’t believe it’s taken us this long to try Yalla Yalla! We were after something tasty but healthy last night and, after seeing so many recommendations, finally gave this little gem a go.

If you’re visiting on a weekend, definitely book ahead – the place was packed, which is always a good sign. People were still streaming through the door the entire time we were there. Despite being so busy, the staff were fantastic – friendly, welcoming, and incredibly efficient. Drinks and food arrived quickly, and empty plates were cleared in no time. Huge credit to the whole team, who were clearly working flat out but with a smile.

For starters we had baba ganuj and sujuk. The baba ganuj was hands down the best I’ve ever had – smoky, creamy, and absolutely delicious. I don’t know magic they put in there. For mains we shared the mixed grill platter, which was generous enough to feed two with plenty left over to take home. The rice was fragrant and full of flavour, while the meats were perfectly cooked over charcoal – beautifully seasoned without being too salty, and packed with flavour.

We missed out on the chicken shawarma, which had sold out by the evening, but we were told it’s freshly prepared each morning and once it’s gone, it’s gone. Top tip: if you want to try it, arrive early! You could tell all the food was freshly prepared.

Everything about Yalla Yalla impressed us – the food, the service, the atmosphere, and the warm, family-run feel. The owner, who had just got married, even came over to take our payment and have a chat at the end, which was such a lovely touch.

Honestly, this is a solid 10/10 for us. We’ve already recommended it to family and can’t wait to go back. A real hidden gem that we wish we’d...

I reviewed in September when we had our booking declined. Since then Yalla Yalla have contacted us to apologise and were keen for us to come back and experience their restaurant at its best. We visited for a late lunch and were not disappointed.

We loved the Mediterranean vibe that the decor and music creates and the food was simple but really tasty. The meze was lovely with plenty of variety and the grilled main was delicious. The service was spot on.

** Old review ...for me, the power of a review , particularly a negative one is where the business has made an effort to rectify an issue and turn round a poor customer experience. Yalla Yalla certainly did this.

**(Rubbish! Food looked ok but when we turned up for our 19.30 booking we were told there were no tables. The first guy said they had no booking for us but I showed them the call on my mobile made earlier in the day. The second guy said they did have the booking but had no tables. We were there as a couple and there was a table for four free but we were told it was reserved for a booking!!! It was our first visit and we were sounding it out for a booking with a bigger party later this month…so that won’t happen! We left and were treated royally at the Chiang Mai which never...

Absolutely phenomenal! Yalla Yalla is not just a restaurant – it’s an experience that stays with you long after the last bite.

From the moment you walk through the door, you’re made to feel like family. The owners are truly special people – warm, welcoming, and genuinely passionate about what they do. Their energy sets the tone for everything, and it shows in every detail. You can feel how much they care, not just about the food, but about every single customer who walks through their doors.

The staff are exceptional – attentive without being overbearing, friendly without being forced. They know the menu inside out and are always happy to make recommendations. You can tell they love where they work – there’s a real sense of pride and camaraderie, and it makes the whole atmosphere electric.

And the food? Out of this world. Every dish bursts with authentic flavours, beautifully presented, and clearly made with love. Even the hummus feels like a work of art – silky smooth and packed with flavour.

Yalla Yalla is the kind of place you want to tell everyone about – but also keep as your own little secret. A true gem. Can’t wait to...