Just Falafel is part of a chain which started in Abu Dubai back in 2007 and now forms part of a 36 store strong group across 19 countries and is looking to expand very big, very quickly. I headed down to one of their stores on Baker Street to see just what all the fuss is about.
This specific store has no option to sit down, but a tiny bar to stand up and eat, though some of their other stores do have the option to sit in. Just Falafel’s website looks rather colorful and inviting – sadly their new Baker Street store does not reciprocate that look and are rather dull and plain. Inside it doesn’t fair much better. There are a lot of falafel choices on offer on the menu, the original of course being the biggest seller, which includes pickles, parsley, mint and tahini. I’d highly recommend a cup of their leek and potato soup as well which was very tasty and especially good in this cold weather.
We couldn’t help for trying some of their more exotic choices. The Mexican, with a choice of either white or brown tortilla (or a bun if you really want to go against a tradition). Inside you’ll find falafel pieces (which are rolled and freshly cooked to every order), grated cheddar cheese, salsa sauce, lettuce, tomatoes and pickles. The falafel itself is lovely and moist inside with a nice crust, though they could have done with a few extra second in the hot oil. All of the toppings worked really well with the falafel and made for a nice change.
There’s a japanese alternative with some wasabi mayonnaise and ginger. Italian variation sporting a spread of pesto and mozzarella. But i wanted to see what Just Falafel’s take was on the Indian. It’s a simple Indian quick fix adding an Indian spice sauce which is heavy of curry powder but does give the wrap a nice flavour and works very well, especially considering falafel loves a bit of spice.
Apart from all the wraps Just Falafel offers salads, various hummus variation and a delicious toasted halloumi sandwich for breakfast. The biggest surprise i got here were the chips – for 99p you’ll get a bag full of skin on, well seasoned and extremely crunchy cuts of potato. I would happily stop past one of the stores if only just for these. If you’re near any of their branches then for a quick, filling and nutritious lunch i can highly recommend them. They may not be quite as good as Hoxton Beach’s but they certainly come very close with only a tiny margin making the difference.
7/10
