Jawhara Mediterranean

In Arabic, Jawhara means 'gem', which is a fitting translation for such a restaurant. Specialists in authentic Moroccan eats that give us a peek into southern Mediterranean traditions, Jawahara never fails to impress.

A pristine palace that immerses diners in the richness of Moroccan culture, Jawhara is a vision. Delicious shades of blue and turquoise form the backdrop to a bar exquisitely tiled with geometric patterns. The first thing to catch your eye, however, is the trellis and structured bower that overlooks a corner of the restaurant. An almost fairytale-like addition, this trellis is home to a multitude of lush creepers and fairy lights, making it a vision come the evening.

Bold and beautiful, this menu doesn't hold back any punches and serenades diners with eggplant compote, cumin-crusted squid, homemade falafel and vine leaves stuffed with a pungent mixture of rice, tomatoes and fresh spices. If you're worried about ruining your appetite, a fresh tabbouleh or couscous salad forms a light baseline for what is to come.

Welcome even bolder flavours to your table, some of which have been slow-cooked and braised for hours on end for the ultimate depth of flavour. Most notable are the traditional tagines which feature chicken slow-cooked with crispy potatoes, lemon and cilantro; meatballs cooked in a Moroccan tomato sauce; and marinated prawns cooked in a special chermoula sauce. And if this meat has got you excited, just wait until you see the charcoal grill that's working its magic on lamb skewers, porterhouse steak and more.

When it comes to Jawhara, the word 'gem' hardly covers it.