Perfect Persian - Gilak restaurant, Archway

If you think that Persian food begins and ends with doner kebabs, Gilak Restaurant at 663 Holloway Road (just around the corner from Archway Station) will make you think again. The restaurant, named after a region in Northern Iran, has simple decor but a delicious abundance of unusual Gilaki dishes.

For starters, try the Mirza Ghasemi, a dish of smoked aubergines with eggs and garlic, The taste is rich without being heavy - the smoke brings out the flavour of the aubergine but isn't overpowering. Marinated olives, pickled garlic and fresh green vegetables with panir cheese are also good ways to start.

Gilak has a number of Persian stews, an interestingly different way to continue to the main course. Aromatic lamb, chicken and vegetarian lima bean stews are all served with rice, and can be mopped up with flat bread. Vegetarians are well catered for, with three of the stews being meat-free. As Gilan province is on the Iranian coast, fish dishes are also well-represented on the menu.

If you absolutely insist on a kebab, there's also a wide choice of Persian grills - minced or diced lamb, chicken on the bone and fillets are all available on the skewer, served with rice and tomato. Mypartner recommends the Chellow Joojeh Kabab.

Gilak is not yet licensed but allows BYOB with no corkage charge, making a meal here an unexpected bargain. For non-drinkers, try a pot of Persian tea or a refreshing glass of Doogh, made with yoghurt and mint. An all-round perfect choice for entertaining family and friends, Gilak also offers free local home delivery on orders over £15 - give them a call on 0207 272 1692 and surprise your tastebuds!