Newsletter - 2nd October 2026
Soraya
When: Opened 15 July
Where: 96 George Street, Marylebone, W1U 8PB
Book: Soraya
Soraya is an all-day Persian restaurant in Marylebone with an open kitchen and a lively, unfussy feel. Watch the chefs prepare its signature kebabs and hot sides while you decide what to share. This is a place for a generous table and a long evening rather than a hushed fine-dining experience.
Start with the wood-fired flatbread and a few dips: Mast o Khiar with grape, mint, cucumber and Greek yoghurt; Spicy Whipped Feta with Palestinian chilli and roasted peppers; or Kashk Bedemjan, a smoked aubergine, whey and walnut dip. It would be easy to make a meal of the starters alone.
For something heartier, the mixed grill brings together Lamb Koobideh, Lamb Shashlik, Chicken Joujeh and Chicken Wings. If you’d rather have seafood, there is Butterflied Sea Bass or Grilled Prawn Ghalieh in tomato sauce. A Valpolicella Classico Superiore would suit the grilled meats, while a Grand Cru Chardonnay is a good choice alongside the creamier dishes.
Go with friends, order a little of everything and don’t worry about keeping things too tidy.
TheFork Festival 2026
This festival swaps tents and food stalls for restaurant tables. For a limited time, TheFork Festival is offering 50% off food at participating restaurants booked through its website. Among the names highlighted are Hakkasan in Mayfair, Whitcomb in the West End and The Bountiful Cow. Check the participating restaurants and booking terms before choosing your table. Explore TheFork Festival bookings.
Guided British Cheese Tasting with Ned Palmer
Cheesemonger and award-winning writer Ned Palmer, author of A Cheesemonger’s History of the British Isles, is leading a tasting as part of Fortnum & Mason’s Preservation season. The experience includes a welcome drink, eight British cheeses, a shared grazing board and another glass of wine. It is also a chance to discover the independent farmers behind the cheeses. If you’re free this Friday, find tickets for the cheese tasting.
SNCK Mezze Feast Supperclub
South Norwood Community Kitchen is hosting a Mediterranean mezze feast with regular chefs Anne and Alastair. At £40 per person, it promises a friendly evening around the table, with profits supporting the local Croydon community through SNCK. Book the SNCK Mezze Feast Supperclub.