Gilgamesh

It’s Babylon by the canal

CAMDEN must be proud to welcome this new restaurant to the area. It is spectacular in design and the food of the highest quality.
In the centre of this well-known part of north London, right in the middle of what used to be the ‘Arches’, an imposing new four story glass building is the home to Gilgamseh. At present they are open only for dinner during the week and lunch and dinner on week-ends. However, soon their opening hours will be seven days a week from 11am until late.
One of the main entrances in Chalk Farm Road has a red carpet and doorman leading to an escalator. The other is an impressive staircase to the front lobby. The third one is from the back of Camden Lock market past the exhibition kitchen.
The Salmon Sashimi (£3.50) is highly recommended. Prepared at the end of the bar by Japanese chefs it is particularly attractive in presentation and taste. Chef Ian Pengelley delights you with his creation of Garlic Chive Mushroom Dumpling (£4), Pomello and Betel Leaf (£6), Egg White Soup Dumpling (£5), Black Bean Ribs (£4), Tiger Prawn, Pea Aubergine and Thai Basil Green Curry (£11), Jasmine Rice (£1.50) and Vegetable Pad Thai (£7).
The Exotic Fruit Bowl (£7) has more than ten varieties of fruit beautifully presented on crushed ice in a lovely bowl. We tried the Pinot Griogio Rose Ca’Lunghetta Ronato, Italy 2005 (£15) which was excellent. It is also sold by the glass at £3.75. The managers Anthony Yee and Jenny head a friendly team who are eager to explain their concept. The decor is ancient Babylon with hand-crafted wood interior walls and furniture. Lavish decorations of hand- carved stone and copper murals and sculptures are everywhere. The impressive Lapis stone bar – perhaps the largest in London – in the shape of a U serves both the large bar and the restaurant.
A second smaller bar is situated in the VIP area where large glass windows overlook the construction work taking place next door.
I found it interesting to watch and regulars will be able to follow the progress protected from dust and noise whilst sipping exotic cocktails and a large variety of drinks.
The restaurant floor is cleverly arranged to create different levels and the enormous roof is designed to open, weather permitting. Named after an ancient Babylonian king, Gilgamesh brings the myth to the 21st century and revives The Epic of Gilgamesh where “every day is a festival with people singing and dancing… chatting and laughing”.
With specially recorded music from Babylonian to modern times, life music shows and delicious food and beverages, this remarkable restaurant offers a memorable evening.

Gilgamesh
Camden View,
Stables Market, Chalk Farm Road
NW1
Tel. 020 7482 5757

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