THE LOWDOWN: After two months of false starts and delays, Shaka Zulu has finally opened its doors at the Stables Market in Camden. The £5.5m project includes a Cape Town inspired seafood and oyster bar, a huge African themed dining room and a cocktail lounge-bar. It has been blessed by King Goodwill Zwelithini, ruler of the Zulu nation, and promises to put its neighbour – Gilgamesh – in the shade for quite some time. If the bling interior feels a bit decadent, you might be pleased to know that the 750-seater restaurant has pledged £1 from every meal to Education Africa – a charity that helps to provide schooling and healthcare.
THE LOOK: Spread over two floors and covering 27,000 square feet, this is a monster of a restaurant. In a similar style to Gilgamesh, there are 60ft carved wooden murals covering every inch of the walls and ceiling, alongside curved banquettes, patterned fabrics and tribal artworks. A 30ft bronze statue stands guard at the entrance and in the restaurant there are Swarovski crystal leopards, open flame grills and live floor shows scheduled throughout the evening. It might not be subtle but it is visually impressive.
THE FOOD: At the seafood bar, diners can stick to classics like oysters and dressed crab or try the more interesting options like Rooibos tea smoked salmon and seared ostrich carpaccio. From the braai – a traditional Saffa grill – carnivores can tuck into game meats such as kudu and Springbok from Namibia, as well as authentic South African specialties like bobotie, sosaties and Boerewors. One of executive chef Barry Vera’s signature dishes will be the 7-hour spit roast dorper lamb with cumin salt, new season garlic and chakalaka – a fiery vegetable relish that originated in the townships of Johannesburg. There are no prices on the online menus at this stage but we’re willing to bet that dinner at Shaka Zulu won’t come cheap.
THE DRINKS: The Saffa theme extends to the bar offerings with an impressive list of zulu-themed cocktails and the UK’s largest South African wine list. ‘Drinking’ tables can be reserved but priority is given to diners and King’s Club members (lifetime membership £300). We like the sound of the £9 ‘Sufrica’ – a blend of Absolut Citron vodka, kumquats, natural honey and lemon, served long over crushed ice. There are shared cocktails too but at £25 for two and £50 for four people, these are strictly for high rollers only.
THE VERDICT: Time will tell. The full-on décor, pricey drinks and meaty menu might not be to everyone’s taste but there is definitely room in Camden for something a little different. We’ll be paying a visit soon but until then, keep your eye on London’s food bloggers who will be attending the launch party for a sneak preview. Don’t forget to write a review if you get there before we do!
Stables Market in Camden, a great location???? Are you kidding me? I'm still wondering why this posh restaurant chose this brutal location. Imagine Jamie Oliver opening up his posh restaurant right next to a KFC in Tottenham?
This guy's food looks amazing, so am perplexed as to why this place's food is getting bad reviews. I mean, people are complaining about it's lack of flavour.
Posted by: Anon | September 10, 2010 at 01:15 AM