A menu promising 'the best of the Mediterranean' is as suited to drinks and nibbles as a multi-course feast, with the emphasis on sharing. And there's a Mediterranean atmosphere too, as the leisurely buzz of diners, breezy interiors and big glass doors opening out to the pavement bring holiday vibes to this quiet corner of Pimlico.
The cocktail list is succinct enough to take in without stalling conversation, but broad enough to suit all tastes. A Pimlico Bellini may feel like an obvious choice – but there's a memorable kick of rhurbarb and limoncello. And the terrace area outside feels like somewhere you could while away a whole evening drinking beer and picking on a ham and cheese platter.
Food is a mixture of hot and cold tapas, mains and sides, which draw inspiration from 20 different countries on the promise of collating the best bits from across the Mediterranean. Together head chef Vicente Fortea and owner Omar Shabaan cover a lot of culinary ground, from Spanish jamon to Middle Eastern hummus.
We relied upon the helpful staff to navigate this broad terrain and talk us through the best dishes. Presentation compliments the stylish interiors, with plenty of Instagram marble serving platters and stylish stoneware.
Highlights included the dainty flaked beetroot straws filled with hummus and rich egg parcels are rich, with silky yolk oozing out of crisp pastry shells. The lamb and filo cake recommended to us by the waitress is a decadently flaky creation, balancing the meatiness with a sprinkle of sweet cinnamon. Mains of quail and pork belly were satisfying but less standout, so it's worth going bigger on tapas and maybe sharing mains.
While the food and aesthetics are memorable, it's the convivial feel of Omar's Place that will have people returning. When we went to review, Omar was milling around, chatting to diners, some of whom already seem to be regulars.
Though with higher than average prices and portions on the dainty side, you'll fork out a fair bit for the pleasure of making this your local.
| What | Omar's Place restaurant review |
| Where | Omar's Place, 13 Cambridge Street, London, SW1V 4PR | MAP |
| Price | £££ |
| Website | Book |
