Usually, we’re all about the best dining spots in Cyprus. But how does that take into account the thousands with an interest in Cyprus across the globe?
After all, the number of Cypriots in London rivals the population of Nicosia! And, whether you’ve emigrated, relocated, or simply share a deep love of the island, you, too, enjoy a bloody good meal!
So, this week, we’re heading overseas, crossing 2,000 miles for a restaurant review with a difference; from one of my favourite Victorian pubs with excellent food in England: The Queen’s Head and Artichoke in central London.
Firstly, and in the interests of transparency, I’ll let you in on a secret: the owner, Michael Kittos, is a good friend; to me, his food is as special as my yiayia’s koupepia! However, even if he were my worst enemy, I’d still find a way to sneak into the Queen’s Head and Artichoke whenever possible. Because, and trust me on this, it’s certainly not your average gastropub…
This is the place that’s my home away from home when I’m not in Cyprus: a slice of Mediterranean warmth right in the heart of London. And it’s not just the charming Victorian interior (a sanctuary when the weather’s drizzling).
It’s also not merely about the menu – a combination of international cuisine that begins with homemade bread served with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic reduction, and expands into everything from tender lamb skewers to hearty fish chowder; succulent tapas; and the perfect Sunday roast (complete with succulent beef, Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, and honey-glazed carrots.)
Nor is it simply the location (for me, anywhere that’s just a couple of minutes from Regents Park, and 10 minutes from Oxford Street is always a boon when I’m out discovering London!) or its historic charm, the pub dates back to the 16th century, when it was a royal hunting lodge!).
Instead, it’s everything that makes The Queen’s Head and Artichoke feel exactly like a hug from an old friend. This, for me, is a place with great service, excellent food and an extensive wine list, and all at very affordable prices!
Apart from its comprehensive wine list, Michael always selects his ‘house wine’ meticulously. Always reasonably priced (especially by London standards), he is currently offering a refreshingly crisp Pinot Grigio and a dark rich in colour Spanish Monastrell that alone are worth the trip; especially if you’re having the modern Mediterranean mezze (tapas), complete with babaganoush, grilled goat cheese and meatballs with fetta cheese, black olives and parmesan – my personal favourite!
And I always enjoy the atmosphere: here, every visit feels like coming home, every meal a shared experience – a gathering spot where the essence of Cyprus meets the heart of England.
I know I won’t have convinced everyone,; and that’s okay. To me, The Queen’s Head and Artichoke will always be my home away from home – the restaurant I most look forward to visiting when I’m abroad.
Perhaps you, too, can give it a go? With any luck, I’ll see you there!
VITAL STATISTICS
SPECIALITY: Tapas
WHERE: 30-32 Albany Street, Euston, London NW1 4EA
CONTACT: EMAIL – info@theartichoke.net TEL – +442079166206
