For this month’s date night — and to celebrate my partner’s birthday — I booked Kebab Queen, a unique speakeasy-style chef’s table experience I discovered on TikTok. The twist? You eat everything without cutlery or traditional china, allowing you to savour the full intensity of each beautifully crafted dish.
The journey began at Le Bab in Covent Garden, where we checked in and were discreetly confirmed on their “secret guest list.” From there, we were led downstairs, through what appeared to be a typical restaurant kitchen — until we passed through a hidden door and entered an intimate ten-seat chef’s table dining room.
The concept features a 9-course tasting menu, with optional wine pairings (which we definitely opted for). Each course was served directly onto a custom heated chef’s table made from a unique surface — no plates required. Our chef for the evening, Pam, created each dish with precision and passion, sharing the story and intended technique for enjoying it — always with your hands. The experience was both playful and deeply immersive, perfectly enhanced by the accompanying drink pairings.
One standout for me was the tomato and watermelon gazpacho, a nostalgic dish inspired by Pam’s childhood and his grandmother’s recipe — something he grew up eating daily. It was refreshing, vibrant, and heartfelt. The dish was accompanied by a savoury doughnut with a goats curd foam which we were told to bite and then drink the gazpacho – bringing all the flavours to their fullest.
Between each course, the table was theatrically cleaned with a vodka and lemon spray, resetting the stage for the next creation. Visually, the entire evening was stunning — a polished, multi-sensory experience unlike anything we’ve done before.
This hidden gem is an unforgettable treat, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for something out of the ordinary.
THE MENU
Apple & Fennel Remoulade
Hambledon Classic Cuvee, NV
Tomato & Watermelon Gazpacho
Valdespino Contrabandista, Amontillado
Zucchini Flower Dolma
Gewurztraminer Classic Famille Hugel, 2022
Prawn Sarma
Cantine Matrone, ‘E Magliole, 2021
Monkfish Kebab
Pascal Jolivet Sancerre, 2023
Palate Cleanser – Cherry sorbet with toasted pistachio crumb
Iskender Kebab
Bodegas Atalaque, Garnacha de la Peraleda, 2021
Strawberry Noon Khameii
Strawberry & Rum Sour
Handmade Turkish Delight with Hibiscus Tea
