Like the Phoenician traders who set out from Lebanese ports in ancient times, the Barakat family has voyaged far and wide, spreading culinary excellence across three continents since the 1930s. Founded in 2008 by Pierre Barakat, Mandaloun Mediterranean Cuisine is the latest outpost of a dynasty that includes UK restaurants run by Pierre's nephews and his father John's original eatery back in Lebanon. Family tradition finds expression in recipes honed over decades, guiding chefs as they transform fresh ingredients into Mediterranean classics from veg-friendly falafel to meaty shawarma and kebabs. Sunlight glints off outdoor tables in front during the day, and belly dancers maze between white-linen-topped tables inside on some weekend nights.