Discover the best of shopping and eating in Knightsbridge with this roundup of Middle Eastern businesses that we think are all worth adding to your list of must-visits
The Middle Eastern hotspots in Knightsbridge that should be on your radar
We’ve all experienced the thrill of wanderlust at one time or another, but finding time in our busy schedules to satisfy our taste for refined cultural delights is not always easy. Head to Knightsbridge, though, and there are plenty of opportunities to be whisked away to the Middle East with a visit to one of many restaurants and stores peppered around SW1X that expertly channel the essence of its rich and diverse culture. Here, we cherry-pick the best of the best so you can scratch the travel itch until your next trip.
Al Basha restaurant
Fulfil your craving for Middle Eastern cuisine at the very popular Al Basha. Tastes from the Levant and Egypt can be experienced through its traditional-meets-visionary menu, including a mixed mezze platter, Egyptian koshary and there’s even the chance to gather some friends and tuck into a whole lamb, which can be made to order – perfect for big group celebrations.
Al Basha, 48 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7JN
Dr Rasha Clinic
Kuwait-born businesswoman Dr Rasha Rakhshani is renowned for adding a touch of glamour to her cosmetic surgery, which has earned her quite the social media following. Offering the latest in cosmetic procedures and dedicating her time to helping her clients achieve their beauty goals, Dr Rakhshani has clients flying from all over the world to visit her practice. Book an appointment for hair, face and body procedures, and leave feeling rejuvenated. Need somewhere to stay while you’re visiting? Check out the best hotels in Knightsbridge here.
Dr Rasha Clinic London, 161 Brompton Road, SW3 1EX
Freej Swalieh restaurant
Located directly opposite the majestic heart of Knightsbridge, Harrods, Freej Swalieh restaurant welcomes visitors to try the traditional tastes of Kuwait. Work your way through the delicious menu of signature East Arabian dishes, from tashreeb to murabyan and more. On crisp evenings, guests can enjoy a customary pot of tea on the terrace as the iconic illuminations on Harrods’ terracotta façade provide the romantic lighting to accompany the experience – it doesn’t get more west London than that.
Freej Swalieh, 86 Brompton Road, SW3 1ER
Samer Halimeh
Proving that dreams really do come true, Samer Halimeh took his aspirations to become a diamond trader from his birthplace of war-torn Lebanon to the global market. The self-made entrepreneur’s most notable career highlights include unearthing one of the rarest diamonds in the world: the Ocean Blue Diamond. This has led to his worldwide clientele visiting his prestigious Knightsbridge store to find their next love-forever gem – and regularly, too. This is the spot for the ultimate Christmas gift for your most treasured love.
Samer Halimeh, 161 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7PA
Adâmo
Menswear, womenswear and signature accessories keep the Adâmo fanbase loyal and returning with every change of the season. Beautifully presented window displays offer just a glimpse of what awaits behind the glass doors; here, expert craftsmanship, luxury materials and handmade details combine to create a special place that must be experienced – whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or a stylish Christmas Day outfit.
Adâmo, 20-22 Brompton Road, SW1X 7QN
Atyab Al Marshoud
Proudly the first fragrance company established in the Gulf, Atyab Al Marshoud dates back to 1925, where this century-old establishment was founded in Kuwait by Sulaiman Al Marshoud. Now headed by his sons, whose unique collection of fragrances has led to the opening of their first store in Knightsbridge, this is the spot to find a totally unique fragrance for your friends and family.
Atyab Al Marshoud, 187 Brompton Road, SW3 1NE
Words: Suzie Bakos