Goda London

If you're craving bold Middle Eastern flavours with a dramatic flair, Goda London on Ballards Lane is where tradition meets feast-mode in the most unapologetic way. This place isn’t just a restaurant-it’s a full-blown experience for your senses. Whether you’re solo-dining or arriving with a hungry crew, Goda knows how to put on a spread that turns heads.

Step through the wheelchair-accessible entrance and you’ll find a vibe that’s warm and energetic, casual yet polished. The staff has a friendly no-fuss approach, and the aromas from the open kitchen are guaranteed to make you do a double take before you even sit down. From slow-roasted meats to earthy spices wafting through the air, there’s a clear signal: you’re in for something hearty and handmade.

Start off with the full-flavoured All Starters Platter, which comes with Yagmur’s ezme, cacik, and warm bread-a triple-threat combination of freshness, creaminess, and spice. Then, let your inner carnivore roam wild. The Grandpa Platter is no joke-it’s built for four to five people but comes off like a celebration on a platter. Think rotisserie chicken, lamb ribs, maybe a half lamb if you're feeling gladiator-level hunger. It’s rustic, shareable, and deeply satisfying.

Meat lovers will appreciate the Lamb Shank-weighing in at a satisfying 800g, slow-cooked to fall-off-the-bone perfection. And if you're feeling adventurous? The Lamb Head (Whole Kelle) is not just a dish, it’s a statement. Rare to find and expertly prepared, it’s a nod to culinary heritage that only the truly curious get to brag about.

But it’s not all meat and fire. Vegetarians, you’re not forgotten-falafel, roasted beggar’s potatoes, and warm pita bread are handled with just as much care. The focus here is clearly on balancing depth of flavour with generous portions, whether you’re going plant-based or full-throttle lamb mode.

Drinks? Goda’s got you. You can sip on a cold beer, go bold with a Martini, or settle into dinner with one of their cocktails or curated wines. There’s even a great tea selection for a mellow finish or a refreshing break between bites. And don’t skip dessert-the sweet offerings here are well worth saving room for, with rich, satisfying textures that pair beautifully with their coffee options.

One of the low-key best features of Goda London? They serve late into the night. That’s right-if you're rolling in post-theatre or wrapping up a long workday, this place is still going strong, with hot plates and warm vibes. It’s also got no-contact delivery and kerbside pickup if you’d rather feast at home. Not many spots manage to nail dine-in ambience and takeaway convenience so well.

And yes, this spot ticks the boxes for halal food, organic dishes, vegetarian options, free water refills, and even happy hour treats. It's rare to find a restaurant that blends hospitality, heritage, and heat the way Goda London does-and that’s exactly why locals and visitors alike keep coming back.