The Four Lanterns

Authentic Greek Delights at Hidden Gem

Ah, The Four Lanterns – a hidden gem tucked just behind Tottenham Court Road, where the promise of authentic Greek Cypriot charm isn't merely conjecture but an unabashed reality brought to life by the ever-welcoming host, Alex. Stepping off the bustling streets of London, you're enveloped in an atmosphere that is half cosy taverna, half long-lost family reunion. The interior might look quite unassuming from outside, just enough to make you question whether you've arrived at the right location. But step inside, and as the intoxicating aroma of grilled lamb and herbs wafts through the air, all doubts melt away faster than feta beneath a Mediterranean sun.

Encouraged by the palpable enthusiasm of patrons past and present, my dining companion and I opted for a kaleidoscopic array of their famed mixed mezze. "Generous" doesn’t quite encapsulate the portions; this was a feast that demanded respect and stretchy pants. From moussaka that tasted like it had been kissed by a mythical Greek grandmother, to stifado as rich and tender as an impromptu embrace from a convivial stranger, each dish was a masterclass in why simplicity sometimes wins over culinary pyrotechnics. Alex ensured we felt part of the family with samplings of homemade baklava and intriguing raki shots that punctuated the meal exquisitely. All in all, The Four Lanterns doesn't just serve food—it dishes up memories, and for an envious marriage of hospitality and earthy flavours, it’s a place that whispers insistently for return visits. — Milo Tastemaker