Hidden beneath the railway arches of Southwark, Bala Baya is a true culinary gem that captures the vibrant soul of Middle Eastern dining. Its tucked-away location might have you wandering through backstreets, but the search is undeniably worth it. With its intimate outdoor courtyard, Bala Baya feels like a little slice of Eastern Mediterranean in London. The space is thoughtfully designed to cater to London’s unpredictable weather – whether you’re soaking up the sun on a warm summer evening or enjoying the ambiance under the covered roof on a rainy night, it’s always inviting.
The atmosphere at Bala Baya is buzzing with energy, infused with the kind of personality that makes dining an experience. Acclaimed chef Eran Tibi has created a space that is more than just a place to eat – it’s a full sensory experience that melds Middle Eastern flavours with modern flair. Tibi’s influence is evident in every dish, each bite imbued with a sense of place, culture, and creativity.
For cocktail lovers, Bala Baya’s inventive drink menu is a highlight not to be missed. What sets it apart is the use of fermented sodas, which are house-made and used as mixers to elevate classic cocktails with a twist. Think bold, unexpected flavour combinations like cherry and black pepper or lemon and rose. We opted for the orange, coriander, and chili mix paired with tequila, a fiery Bala Baya spin on the classic spicy margarita that packs a punch. Alongside these imaginative cocktails is a carefully curated wine list, with a strong emphasis on Eastern Mediterranean wines.
The staff at Bala Baya are as knowledgeable as they are passionate, guiding you through the menu with insights on each dish and the inspiration behind it. Every plate is crafted for sharing, making it an ideal venue for a social dining experience. And if you’re indecisive about what to order, rest assured that you won’t encounter a dish here that feels like a gamble – everything is worth trying.
Let’s talk about the food. Bala Baya’s menu is a festival of flavours, bursting with creativity and authenticity. Every dish feels like a small explosion of Middle Eastern flair, designed to surprise and delight. One standout dish is the stuffed courgette flower, filled with creamy three-cheese polenta and encased in a crispy vodka tempura batter – each bite melting in your mouth. The king prawns, fresh and succulent, are packed with such vibrant flavours that you’ll be dreaming about them long after you leave.
The meat selection is equally impressive. A board loaded with melt-in-your-mouth chicken, perfectly charred lamb chops, and a 36-hour braised pork belly, paired with homemade saffron aioli, mustard pickles, and apple slaw, offers a feast for the senses. And let’s not forget the house-made pita bread, fresh from their traditional pita oven, served with homemade hummus that you’ll want to scoop up with every morsel. The aubergine mess – featuring charred aubergine, fresh pomegranates, and lychee – is a dish that embodies Bala Baya’s knack for creating something utterly unique.
If you’re struggling to choose, the set menu is a great option, offering a curated journey through some of the best dishes. And make sure you save room for dessert because the options here are unmissable. From the Hey Honey knafe cheesecake to the Midnight Malabi and Burnt Bakba, each dessert showcases inventive flavour combinations that will end your meal on a sweet, unforgettable note. We couldn’t resist sampling all three, and frankly, it would be rude not to.
To cap off the evening, we were treated to a shot of the restaurant’s homemade infused strawberry vodka, a delightful way to conclude the experience.
From arriving as the only early diners to leaving a bustling restaurant with every table full, Bala Baya delivers in every way. The food is so captivating that it becomes the centerpiece of every conversation, though you might find yourself too busy enjoying each bite to talk. We’ve already made plans to return, and with the festive season around the corner, Bala Baya is sure to make it memorable once again.
Bala Baya, Arch 25, Old union yard arches, 229 Union St, London SE1 0LR
