Shaka Zulu, the gourmet megalopolis, is a cultural homage to Southern Africa. Every inch of the 27,000 sq. ft. space is decorated with hand-carved panels, statues and beaded regalia to create a unique restaurant offering in the heart of Camden Town. With an open-plan kitchen on the second level, a stunning bar on the third level, and cosy nook-dining on the first, there’s something for everyone at Shaka Zulu.
There are a number of different menus available to choose from, and you can expect to find South African favourites on all of them. Their stellar ‘Braai Menu’ (barbecued, or flame grilled) features culinary greats such as Malay-spiced Springbok loin, Grilled Boerewors Sausage (a traditional South African sausage made with a unique blend of spices) and the Shaka Zulu Sample Board which offers diners 900g of carnivorous decadence with cuts of springbok, ostrich, kudu and boerewors.
There are also finer dishes on offer such as Bobotie and Steamed Rice served in a miniature potjie pot, and the Truffled Ostrich Egg served with toasted brioche. For dessert you can sample some of the best melktert this side of the equator, as well as traditional koeksisters and chilled rice pudding served with African Banana Jam.
I had the lentil and plantain salad starter which was particularly delicious, and sat downstairs on the lowest level next to the kitchen. The dishes were prepared quickly and delivered with a short history lesson on their South African connections, making for a rather entertaining dining experience. I also tried the Sirloin Steak with peri peri fries – which was good and delivered on taste – but I was later disappointed that I hadn’t gone for something more adventurous. I finished off a caipirinha and koeksisters which were rich and citrusy.
If you’re after a cosy sundowner or drink with friends then head down to the main bar on the mezzanine level or the lounge bar downstairs and sample one of their 40-strong cocktail combinations. Their cocktails are priced around £10.50 each, a sample board from the bar will set you back a mere £15.00, and the mains start around £14.00.
With a menu to please with new taste combinations, a venue that will delight your senses (and your imagination!) and a location that is enviable in the heart of Camden, this is a fantastic restaurant that is worth the visit.