A Little Slice of Sun on Blandford Street
Tucked along Blandford Street in Marylebone, just a short stroll from Baker Street station, Bellazul is one of those restaurants that feels like a little escape from the everyday. Opened in February 2024, it’s a Mediterranean restaurant and bar that brings together the laid-back charm of southern Europe with London’s appetite for polished, flavour-packed food.
The name Bellazul is a blend of bella, meaning beautiful, and azul, the Spanish word for blue, a colour symbolising clarity, purity, and sun-drenched skies. Think Greece, Italy and Morocco all under one roof, with seasonal, freshly prepared dishes that are made for sharing.
I visited on a sunny Saturday afternoon with my boyfriend, expecting something relaxed but memorable. The place was buzzing, filled with couples, small groups and locals settling in for a leisurely lunch.
A First Glance
From the moment we walked in, Bellazul felt warm and welcoming. The space is stylish without feeling too fancy, with soft colours, textured walls, and Mediterranean touches that make it feel relaxed but thoughtful. Big windows let in loads of natural light, and the whole place has an easy, calm energy. It was busy but not overcrowded, with a nice buzz that made it feel lively without being loud. It’s the kind of spot where you feel instantly comfortable, somewhere you could easily lose track of time over a long lunch or dinner.
Plates Worth Passing
Our lunch started with a cocktail each, and it was a strong opening. I went for the Picante Verde, a fiery and herbaceous mix of Reposado Tequila, Cointreau, and a citrusy shrub that was fresh and spicy. It felt like the kind of cocktail you sip on holiday, under a parasol, somewhere far from central London. My boyfriend opted for the Spiced Rum-Groni, a more autumnal, warming blend of Las Olas Spiced Rum, fig, ginger, and sweet vermouth. Together, the drinks were a good sign of what was to come.
We started with the Classic Tzatziki and Spicy Feta Dip, both served with warm, house-made pita that was soft, just-charred, and perfect for scooping. The tzatziki was everything it should be — cool, creamy, with the right kick of garlic and cucumber. The feta dip was punchier, slightly whipped, with a gentle heat that crept up in the best way.
From the mezze section, the Sea Bream Ceviche stood out first. It was fresh and bright, swimming in a zingy tiger’s milk that was lifted by the sweetness of diced mango and the buttery richness of avocado. Every bite felt like a palate cleanser, making you hungrier for the next. The Octopus Carpaccio came thinly sliced, delicately tender, and paired with chimichurri and bulgur pearls. It was a subtle dish, but beautifully balanced.
Then came the Moussaka Bites, which I was told are the most popular. Picture little parcels of spiced aubergine and béchamel, golden and crisp on the outside, soft and comforting on the inside. They had a comforting, home-style feel with familiar flavours, but elevated in all the right ways.
We also tried the Zucchini Koftedes, which were herb-packed and light, fried just enough to give a golden crust without feeling greasy. Dipped back into the tzatziki, they became one of those “we didn’t expect to love this so much” dishes.
Moving into the larger plates, we couldn’t resist the Heritage Lamb Roast, designed to be shared. The lamb, marinated for 12 hours and slow cooked in parchment, fell apart at the touch of a fork. Wrapped in Mornay sauce and Gruyère, and served with Charlotte potatoes and vegetables, it was rich and decadent, with fresh vegetables. It felt like a long, lazy family lunch in the Mediterranean.
We also tried two of the wood-fired flatbreads: the Aubergine and Chickpea with a drizzle of tahini, which was smoky and earthy, and the Pulled Lamb with mint-yoghurt and pomegranate, which was lush, slightly sweet, and incredibly moreish.
To pair with the mains, we shared a bottle of 2023 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Gran Sasso, which was medium-bodied, juicy, and enough to handle the richness of the lamb without overpowering the lighter starters. The wine list at Bellazul leans into Mediterranean terroir, with bottles from Portugal, France, Italy, and other lesser-known coastal vineyards. It’s a lovely touch and makes you feel like you’re actually tasting the region.
For dessert, we chose two to share (obviously). The Pistachio Buttercream Torte, paired with a sweet glass of Classique Sauternes, was elegant and satisfying. Then came the Custard Cream Bella Bougatsa, Bellazul’s take on the Greek pastry, served with a White Chocolate Espresso Martini. It was all buttery pastry, warm custard, and that hit of coffee and cocoa from the cocktail. Pure comfort.
A Neighbourhood Favourite in the Making
Bellazul is one of those rare restaurants that pulls off casual elegance without being try-hard. It doesn’t scream for attention, but once you’re there, it doesn’t let go either. Every dish felt intentional and honest with flavours you’d expect from a sun-drenched coastline.
The team behind it clearly know what they’re doing with a menu that’s rooted in tradition but confident enough to play. With halal, vegan, and vegetarian options available, and a focus on local produce, it’s a restaurant that wants to be welcoming as much as it wants to be delicious.
Whether you’re looking for a long weekend lunch, a special date night, or a Mediterranean escape without boarding a plane, Bellazul hits the spot. We’ll definitely be back. Probably with friends. Definitely hungry.
To discover more, visit Bellazul
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All Image Courtesy of Bellazul Marylebone.