Bacchus Greek Taverna

Not many restaurants manage to survive in the same location, under the same ownership, for three decades.

Bacchus, at 37 Heath Street, just yards from Hampstead tube station and a next door neighbour to the famous Everyman Cinema Club, has undeniably stood the test of time.

After sampling the excellent, unfussy but highly traditional Greek fare on offer, it is no surprise to discover that ever-present owner, who likes to be known simply as 'Tula', puts her enduring success down to the delights of delicious home cooking.

“When I opened 40 years ago, my philosophy was to provide the kind of food my mother would be proud to serve.

“They say the sign of a good restaurant is repeat custom and many of my custom-ers have been coming here every week, virtually from the day we opened.

Now they bring their grandchildren'' says Tula.

Tula sources her ingredients as close to home as possible.

“I want everything to be as fresh as possible,'' she says.

“I've never liked anything artificial.'' The atmosphere is as homely as the cooking, with Grecian artefacts on every wall and a faux thatched roof helping to transport dinners to an atmosphere associated with sunnier climes.

Bacchus is named after the God of wine, and there is an excellent choice on offer to go alongside an extensive and moderately-priced menu of classic Mediterranean fare like mousakka, souvlaki, kleftiko, halloumi and hummus.

Increasingly popular is the meze selection of starters and small main courses, a real bargain at around £20 a head and tasty enough to convert you to the Cypriot style of eating - if for some inexplicable reason you are not already an enthusiast.

Signature dishes:

• Mezze, which includes dips, grilled fish, meats and salad £20 per person
• Moussakka, vegetarian or meat £9.50
• Kleftiko - tender lamb on the bone with rice salad and roast potatoes £11
• Tavas - lamb casserole with tomato sauce £10
• Baklava £3.50

Opening Times:

• Lunch: Thursday-Saturday: 11.30am-2.30pm
• Dinner: Monday-Sunday: 5.30pm-11.30pm
• Sunday: Noon-10.00pm