Seemor
Akub RestaurantA-Worth Trying
27 Uxbridge St, London W8 7TQ
· Palestinian restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (1128 reviews)
Reservations
Creative Palestinian cooking in a stylish Notting Hill townhouse with standout small plates and warm hospitality, but tight seating, premium pricing, and polarized views on authenticity and service pacing.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Akub delivers A-grade performance through exceptional food quality—particularly standout breads, grilled Nabulsi cheese, and short rib fatteh—paired with warm, attentive service and distinctive ceramic-forward design. However, inconsistent execution on temperature and pacing and tight seating prevent grade A territory. The Michelin-listed Palestinian restaurant excels in creativity and hospitality but falls short of flawless execution.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked on a Notting Hill side street, Akub feels warm and elegant rather than flashy. Plates arrive on beautiful ceramics, service skews genuinely friendly, and the room hums without shouting. One diner summed it up: "The staff guided us through sharing plates and the cheese stole the show," though a few found the space a bit cramped at peak times. The cooking leans Palestinian with modern, seasonal twists—think rich short rib fatteh, plush breads, and bright salads that balance tangy tahini and herbs. Some classics are reinterpreted, which most praise as thoughtful while a vocal minority calls less traditional. If you enjoy produce-forward plates and subtle spice rather than heavy-handed heat, this approach will suit you beautifully. Families can make it work thanks to breads, labaneh, grilled cheese, and eggs at brunch. There is no dedicated kids menu, and flavors are gently spiced. Based on multiple reviews and the current menu, halal meat is not available, and allergy handling has mixed feedback—parents of sensitive eaters should confirm details in advance.
At a Glance
- Stylish room with distinctive ceramics and polished presentation
- Standout breads, grilled Nabulsi cheese, and short rib fatteh
- Warm, knowledgeable service on most visits; good for celebrations
- Tight seating and occasional pacing or temperature issues
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- modern_palestinian_twist
- ceramic_tableware_focus
- strong_bread_program
- michelin_guide_listed
What People Love
- Bread and dip spread that feels essential
- Grilled Nabulsi cheese with bold, savory depth
- Rich short rib fatteh perfect for sharing
- A room that feels thoughtful and transportive
Points of Concern
- Space can feel cramped; some tables too close for comfort
- Reports of dish temperature and pacing issues on busy nights
- Allergy inquiries handled inconsistently per multiple reviewers
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (£19-31 mains) which may surprise casual diners
- Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (some generic 5-star language) which may not reflect typical diner experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£42-60 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Spiced Focaccia and Labaneh, add Aubergine Fatteh, then share Short Rib Fatteh; finish with Meghli Cheesecake.
- For lighter dining, build around Maftool or Batikh salads plus grilled cheese and bread.
- ALERT: Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
- CONCERN: Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Perfect For
- Date night with sharing plates
- Brunch with friends who like to sample
- Celebrating a birthday or milestone
- Curious diners exploring modern Middle Eastern flavors
Location Insights
Area: Leafy, affluent Notting Hill side street attracting destination diners, date nights, and brunch seekers.
Safety: Generally safe and well-lit with steady foot traffic; typical central London vigilance applies.
Nearby: Near Portobello and boutique-lined streets; mix of residents, shoppers, and visitors.
Kensington High StreetThe Kensington High Street area is characterized by a mix of luxury retail, boutique shops, and a diverse range of restaurants from casual cafes to fine dining. The social atmosphere is polished and cosmopolitan, attracting well-heeled locals and visitors seeking quality dining experiences in a safe and accessible environment.
South KensingtonSouth Kensington, just a short walk from Uxbridge Street, is known for its concentration of museums and academic institutions, which brings a slightly younger and international crowd. The dining scene here includes trendy cafes and international cuisine catering to both tourists and locals.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday12:00–15:00, 18:00–23:00
Wednesday12:00–15:00, 18:00–23:00
Thursday12:00–15:00, 18:00–23:00
Friday12:00–15:00, 18:00–23:30
Saturday11:00–15:00, 18:00–23:30
Sunday11:00–15:00
Available: Reservations
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