Jeru: An Exploration of Mediterranean Cuisine in the Heart of Mayfair

Located at 11 Berkeley Street, Jeru offers a unique blend of chic Mediterranean charm and modern luxury. Upon entering, you’re immediately greeted with a warm welcome and enveloped in an intimate, inviting ambiance with dim lighting, elegant furnishings and a palpable air of exclusivity. The decor is refined, blending traditional Mediterranean motifs with sleek contemporary touches that set the mood for a memorable dining experience.

We arrived for early dinner service and was promptly shown to our table, placed alongside the main wall and opposite an open kitchen where a number of chefs busily prepared for the evening ahead and where smells of fresh charcoal and grilled delights hung tantalisingly in the air. The staff were attentive (without being intrusive) and well-versed in the menu - a plus, given some of the unfamiliar ingredients! Helped by some recommendations and with excitement for what was to come, the evening was set for a gastronomic experience.

Starters: The meal started the chilli tuna ceviche - a refreshingly light and vibrant dish bathed in citrus and with just the right kick of heat from the chilli to balance out the acidity of the ceviche and to keep every bite exciting.

The wood-fired potato bread (served with chickpea miso butter and truffle honey) brought comfort food to gourmet levels! The bread was warm and smoky, with a soft, pillowy centre (perfect for spreading that irresistible butter on) and the indulgent truffle honey added a subtle sweetness that elevated the dish.

Another standout was the grilled octopus, which is often a tricky dish to perfect but Jeru nailed it effortlessly! The octopus was tender, slightly charred on the outside, with a subtle smokiness that worked in harmony with the spiced langoustine and chickpea ragu. Beautifully seasoned, the medley of flavours was definitely something to remember.

Mains: Cooked to perfection, the 400-day grain-fed wagyu beef ribeye is nothing short of sensational! The marbling and tenderness was impeccable, allowing the richness of the meat to melt in my mouth and the subtle seasoning allowed the flavour to take centre stage, showcasing the quality of the cut and the skill of the kitchen. 

In addition to the beef, I’d also recommend the slow-cooked Welsh lamb shoulder as a ‘must-try’; the lamb was incredibly succulent, falling apart with the slightest touch and the pairing of delicate puffed pearl barley and pickled turnip was just delicious.

Other worthy mentions are the sides: we ordered the grilled asparagus (fresh, crisp and topped with edible petals) and the batata harra, which brought spice to the humble potato.

Cocktails: The menu offered a varied selection, with creative twists on classic favourites like Espresso Martini and some unique concoctions that aligned with the restaurant's culinary style. The drinks looked the part, adorned with fresh garnishes and served in elegant glassware, but for Mayfair (known for impressive cocktails and bars), Jeru's drinks felt very average and passable... which I ended up doing.

Dessert: To end the meal, we had Jeru’s rendition of the classic Baked Alaska, which was a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The meringue was perfectly torched, creating a crispy exterior whilst encasing the cool, creamy ice cream within. Visually stunning and indulgent, the dessert provided the perfect sweet ending to an evening of vibrant flavours and textures.

In summary, Jeru brings an innovative approach to Mediterranean cuisine - whether you're craving succulent Wagyu or seeking fresh seafood, each dish is thoughtfully composed, blending inspired flavours with modern techniques and top-tier ingredients. The diverse menu is reflective of award-winning Executive Chef Roy Ner’s creativity in transforming traditional ingredients into something with contemporary flair, thus making it an ideal spot for a special evening or for anyone seeking a unique blend of tradition and trendiness. 

While the ambiance and service enhance the evening, the cocktails (though visually appealing) may not fully meet the high expectations set by Mayfair's renowned mixology standards. However, for an elevated casual dining experience that offers a delicious journey through modern pan-Mediterranean fare, Jeru is well worth a visit.