SOUK BAZAAR

http://www.soukrestaurant.net/index.asp

As I walked in through the dimly lit entrance and followed a sign pointing downstairs to the restaurant, I was slightly concerned. However, after entering the curtain cloaked dining area and being shown to our own private room for two, aptly named the cave, I was reassured. Granted I almost fell down the steps because my eyes had not yet adjusted to the candle light, but as soon as I sat down, I started to feel excited.

Our little cave was rustic and charming. The walls were draped in fabric, we were sat together on a cushioned bench, the room was lit by one flickering candle, and we could see out into the main dining area, but we were separated at the same time.

We opted to try some of the SOUK's own cocktails, a Thirsty Camel which was a deliciously sweet mango infusion, and a Juicy Marrakesh, a slightly more tart mix of lime and raspberry. Both were refreshing and sinfully alcoholic.

As we hadn't tried Moroccan food before we went for the set menu so we could taste a little bit of everything. This turned out to be a great choice, we were served multiple dishes for each course, and were well and truly satisfied by the end of our meal. The highlights for me were the stuffed vine leaves, the spinach, and the fresh mint tea which finished off the meal beautifully. The only thing we weren't keen on was the lamb tangine with prunes, the meat was sickly sweet and didn't compliment the rest of the meal.

Whilst we were drinking our tea, we were treated to a belly dance which took place in the main restaurant. We looked out through our curtained entrance and were mesmerised by the sensual movements and rhythm.

This is definitely a place to visit for a romantic evening and I would say that the ambiance is unparalleled.