A new restaurant is bringing a touch of Caribbean sunshine to N4. Karmenz, in Stroud Green Road, has only been open for nine weeks but word is spreading quickly about the fantastic food it serves in colourful surroundings.

The split-level restaurant is actually deceptively large but it retains a cosy, intimate feel with lots of bright cushions and comfy seating. However, it is the aroma of West Indian cooking that really captures the imagination.

As you might expect, the menu features Caribbean specialities such as salt fish and fried plantain, as well as the delicious jerk chicken. But there are also some house specialities, including Karmenz Jerk Lamb and the homely sounding Mama's Cookin'.

For our starters we tried the plantain wraps, long strips of fried plantain stuffed with peppers and salt fish. It was a great combination, with the fish balancing the rich, slightly sweet flavour of the plantain. We also tried some deliciously crisp vegetable spring rolls which were served with a soy dipping sauce.

For our main courses, I decided to dive in and try Mama's Cookin', and it was a good choice. The dish consisted of a large chicken breast, seasoned with Caribbean spices and served with a sweet sauce, and although the portions are generous, I couldn't help but finish it all.

My partner chose the enigmatically named Return to Eden, a huge selection of vegetables, served with a fragrant, spicy sauce. We also shared a bowl of rice and peas and some fried dumplings which were served with a tiny bowl of ferociously hot pepper dipping sauce.

The restaurant also serves a great range of very reasonably priced cocktails to help your evening to go with a swing. Karmenz is a great place to eat and relax, whether you want to have a party with friends or just an intimate dinner for two. The friendly staff make you feel welcome the moment you walk through the door and you will definitely leave with a smile on your face.

Karmenz
192 Stroud Green Road
London
N4 3RN
Telephone: 020 7263 6161