When you find yourselves in the theatre district of London and you need an escape from the marauding gangs of coach trippers that have descended on the capital to take in a musical, Babaji is the place to go. This laid-back Turkish restaurant on Shaftesbury Avenue is the perfect place to watch the Soho wildlife from behind the safety of protective glass while enjoying a small-plates style repast. The downstairs feels right among the action with its many large street-level windows, while the first floor is a little more secluded.
Istanbul design studio Autoban did the business at Babaji, and the contemporary interior is a rich and sumptuous tribute to the traditional design characteristics of the country. Iznik patterns are seen in the soft furnishings, and the tiling also takes its cue from the Turkish province, adding to the decadent feel in the dining area. The walls and ceiling are adorned with an Autoban bespoke design inspired by the veins of Carrara marble, with the ceramics handmade for the venue by an Istanbul atelier in a vibrant blue and warm gold. Brass inserts also contribute to the richness, and crop up in bold fashion behind the counter area and again more subtly in the table dots. Babaji is an Alan Yau (Wagamama; Hakkasan; Yauatcha…) restaurant, and his specialty here is “pide” (pee-day), which is a type of Turkish pizza with pitta-style bread as a base and spiced meat, seafood and vegetable toppings. Yes please.
Photography, Ed Reeve
