Nutshell, run by husband and wife team Mohammad Paknejad and Marwa Alkhalaf, is inspired by Mohammed’s childhood in Tehran, and it’s even named after the pistachio orchards his family has had for over a century. The decor – lots of pale pinks and greens – nods to this, as does the food. The menu is a modern take on Iranian food and is designed for sharing; it’s not that big a selection so you can get through a fair bit of it in one visit. If you want a break from booze, Nutshell has you well covered with their Iranian soft drinks, featuring homemade cordials and syrups. The bazaar bread, with its salt and sesame seed topped crust; the lamb shank with saffron rice; the duck fesejun; and tahdig chips are all winners. Nutshell is great place to have up your sleeve, especially amidst the madness of the West End.
