Banaadiri Restaurant — Restaurant in London

Unexpectedly unbelievable You wouldn't even think of walking into this shabby looking cafe which reminds you of a ghetto cafe in Mogadishu that you may have seen on the National Geographic channel. Looks are most certainly deceiving and I couldn't believe the quality, quantity and taste of the freshly cooked food served up in this restaurant.

Ask for Briz and Hillib (rice and meat) and they'll serve you a starter soup (on the house) a deliciously aromatic plate of perfectly cooked rice (that you can eat on it's own) and a roasted tender chunk of meat (I get a full lamb shank) with sauteed spinach sides and a banana (on the house) all under £10!

I have since been there a number of times, and usually I do take away because I prefer the ambience of my dining room!!

Other dishes to try: Suqaar (small pieces of lamb cooked with traditional spices and onions), spaghetti (yes, the one you know!!), samboosa etc.

You will have to go right to the back of the restaurant and feast your eyes on the food first...and then take a bite and only then you'll know what I am...

Don't be daunted by the fact that there's no written menu: this hole-in-the-wall joint, packed with locals, has some of the best Somali food in London. Not exactly created with an outsider in mind, there are neither menus nor english-language signs, but get speaking to the staff and they're both engaging, friendly and welcoming.

After a brief discussion with the owner, I soon had in front of me a marvellous leg of lamb, slow-cooked with peppers and onions to just-on-the-bone perfection. Next to it, a plate of rice with a selection of vegetable stews on the side – spinach, finely chopped fried cabbage, tomato sauce. A condiment bottle, offered by the staff with a thorough and friendly explanation, contained truly delectable green-chili-and-coriander sauce. All an utter steal at £6.50 – including a soft drink, soup, and a charming complimentary banana. I would have happily paid twice as much.

Much recommended! There are considerably fewer Somali restuarants in London than those of their Eritrean and Ethiopian neighbours, and Banaadiri really makes...

Great food, great service, great value. Would recommend if you're looking for a big meaty cheap eat somewhere low-key. Clearly a popular spot for Somalians too which I took as a good sign. I went for the lamb which came with an enormous plate of rice, veggies and sauce - plus a salad and three bananas on the side ;) all of which (plus a drink) came to 10 quid. Everything came more or less immediately. The lamb joint was very tender and the rice and veggies were delicious and well-seasoned. Somewhat spicy on its own and comes with more chilli sauce on the side if you're a spice fiend like me. The waiter was an absolute legend - he offered to put my leftover rice in a takeaway box, then added a load of rice and veg for me to have the next day! I'll definitely...