how to do north africa in london
Our residency with El Fenn celebrates the creativity, culture and craftsmanship of Morocco. Beyond Flute, London is home to a thriving community of North African artists, chefs, musicians and independent makers who continue that story every day. Here are some of the places we think are well worth discovering.
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IMPALA | 14 DEAN ST, SOHO, W1D 3RS
One of London's most talked-about new restaurants, Impala draws inspiration from the charcoal grills and bold flavours of North Africa. Led by former Kiln head chef Meedu Saad, the menu celebrates cooking over fire, with smoky, spice-led dishes that showcase a fresh perspective on the region's cuisine.
TAGINE & GRILL | SUN & CANTONS, GREAT PULTNEY ST, W1F 9NG
Bringing a fresh perspective to Moroccan cooking, Tagine & Grill has taken over Soho pub The Sun & 13 Cantons with a menu inspired by charcoal grills and open-fire cooking. Led by Moroccan-born chef Yassir, the residency celebrates the bold flavours of his homeland while introducing London's diners to a modern take on Moroccan cuisine.
MSIMEN | 82C PORTOBELLO RD, NOTTINGHILL, W11 2QD
This tiny Portobello Road bakery specialises in one thing: freshly made Moroccan msemen. These traditional layered flatbreads are cooked to order and served with sweet or savoury fillings, making them the perfect stop while exploring Notting Hill.
MOROCCAN SOUP STAND | GOLBORNE ROAD, W10
A long-standing favourite on Golborne Road, this humble stall has become something of a London institution, even winning BBC Radio 4's Food Programme Best Street Food Award. Expect traditional harira, bissara and comforting Moroccan soups served exactly as they should be.
EXPLORE
GOLBORNE RD | NORTH KENSINGTON W10
Just beyond Portobello, Golborne Road is home to one of London's most vibrant North African communities. Independent cafés, spice shops, grocers, butchers and market stalls line the street, offering a taste of Morocco and its neighbouring countries without leaving the capital.
HIVE | SELFRIDGES, 3RD FLOOR, W1A 1AB
Perched on the rooftop of Selfridges, Hive offers far more than lunch. Alongside panoramic views across London, discover an experience centred around honey, including celebrated Moroccan varieties, with dishes inspired by the ingredient and the rooftop's own working beehives.
SOUNDS OF UNIVERSE | 7 BROADWICK ST, SOHO, W1F 0DA
Just around the corner on Broadwick Street, Sounds of the Universe is one of London's most celebrated independent record shops. Browse shelves filled with Moroccan funk, Gnawa, Algerian Raï and North African sounds alongside reggae, jazz and soul. Whether you're a collector or simply curious, it's easy to lose an hour here.
BERWICK ST MARKET | SOHO, W1F 8ST
A Soho institution since the 18th century, Berwick Street Market is best known for its fresh produce and street food, but look a little closer and you'll also find traders selling North African textiles. It's not a dedicated Moroccan market, yet the fabrics, colours and atmosphere make it well worth an early morning wander.
DISCOVER
LIBERTY LONDON | 4TH FLOOR, CARNABY, W1B 5AH
Liberty's latest curation celebrates contemporary makers inspired by Marrakech, bringing together handcrafted homeware, textiles and interiors rooted in Moroccan design. From exclusive collaborations to beautifully crafted pieces, it's a thoughtful celebration of the city's enduring creative influence.
DAR AL TAQWA | 7A MELCOMBE ST, NW1 6AE
Tucked away near Marylebone, Dar Al Taqwa is an independent bookshop specialising in Arab and Islamic literature, philosophy, history and culture. Whether you're searching for contemporary fiction or beautifully produced classics, it's a fascinating place to browse.
1:54 CONTEMPORARY AFRICAN ART FAIR | SOMERSET HOUSE, STRAND, WC2R 1LA
Returning to Somerset House each October, 1:54 is the only art fair in the world dedicated entirely to contemporary African art. Bringing together galleries and artists from across Africa and its diaspora, it's one of London's most important cultural events.
LARACHE | 30-32 CALVERT AVENUE, SHOREDITCH, E2 7JP
The Shoreditch gallery of celebrated Moroccan artist Hassan Hajjaj is a vibrant celebration of photography, fashion and North African street culture. Bold, colourful and unmistakably his, it's a must-visit for anyone inspired by contemporary Moroccan art.
CRAFT & DESIGN
LARUSI RUGS | THE DOVE CENTRE, 109 BARTHOLOMEW RD, KENTISH TOWN, NW5 2BJ
For those looking to bring a piece of Morocco home, Larusi Rugs is one of London's finest destinations. Available by appointment, the collection focuses on authentic vintage and antique Berber rugs sourced directly from the Atlas Mountains.
MOUSSEM RUGS | KINGSLAND RD, HOXTON, E2
Founded by Sarah Alaoui, Moussem works directly with women weavers across Morocco to source authentic Amazigh rugs. Every piece is handcrafted, one of a kind and traceable back to the village where it was woven. By appointment only.