Of all the African restaurants in London, this is the only one that specializes in the spicy cuisine of the Sudan, among its other offerings. Located on the fringe of trendy Notting Hill, this bohemian hangout is small and intimate, and far from trendy itself. It doesn't have a liquor license, but you're free to BYOB. A Moorish archway and various photos and artifacts give the place a North African atmosphere.

The food is a blend of various cuisines. The chefs borrow ideas for their eclectic and inexpensive fare from the various kitchens of North Africa, Ethiopia, and even the Middle East. Begin with the classic soup of the region, made with meat and peanuts. Although the menu is limited, the dishes are well prepared from fresh ingredients. Opt for lamb, especially the tasty chops marinated in African spices. Ground red chiles add zest to any dish. Lentils with caramelized garlic are another treat, and there's a generous salad bar costing £10.50 ($17) for two persons. Typical Sudanese dishes include Nile perch (imported from Uganda) that's fried in a spicy butter sauce; aubergine (eggplant) salad that resembles the spicy eggplant salad of Turkey; and lamb or chicken Tawa, each of them spiced and fried with cumin, coriander, pepper, salt, and lime juice. Skip the desserts and ask for a traditional African coffee. This place is a dining oddity for London and a bit of a culinary adventure.