You will find Massis on the pedestrianised Sheldon Square in Paddington. It has the Grand Union Canal (aka Paddington Arm) on one side, perfect for an afternoon amble.
On the other side, it is lorded over by high rise office buildings full of the bright sparks working for Microsoft, Visa and Vodafone. It’s very much a corporate location.
No doubt the mezze focussed menu is perfect for those quick and buzzy lunches, or perhaps for an easy eating evening with colleagues and friends.
Ambience
The decor has a contemporary flair with dark wood tables and floor to ceiling windows. There’s an outdoor terrace too for alfresco dining either at lunchtime or for dinner.
Food and Drink
Meze falafel, tabouleh, moussaka
The starters are the place to look for a mezze style meal. We ordered the falafel balls, tabouleh, moussaka and pulled beef to share between the two of us. All was as it should be for a meze of this sort and well-executed. The pulled beef was soft and spicy and the falafel balls light and crispy and came with a tahini dip.
The main dishes we chose were the lamb shawarma and chicken. We were expecting tender slices of marinated roast lamb but what arrived was a little dry. On the other hand, the chicken dish was well spiced and soft.
Lamb Shawarma and chicken
Probably the best way to enjoy this restaurant is to order several starters as these are well-known dishes done well and the meze share vibe is always an enjoyable one.
There is a choice of cocktails, some wines and some beers.
Verdict
Massis is suitable for simple lunchtime food or casual evening dining and offers a casual affair with the pleasant buzz of happy chatter in the ether. Go for the mezes and share with friends.
Per Head: £25-£35
More info: massis.co.uk