De Roya

Barking isn’t exactly known for its fine dining, so when De Roya opened its doors, I was sceptical. But let me tell you, this place is a revelation. It’s like stepping into a different world, with stunning interior design that transports you far away from the bustling borough.

I’ve lived in Barking for what feels like forever, and I’ve always been a bit wary of these fancy new restaurants. The food often disappoints. But not here. The menu is a tantalising mix of Mediterranean and Turkish flavours, and every dish I tried was a winner.

 

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Let’s talk food.

• Starters: The Rock Prawns (£14) were a standout, with a spicy Bang Bang sauce and a refreshing red onion salad. The Calamari (£11) was crispy and tasty, and the Cheese Roll (£8) and Halloumi (£8.5) were solid choices. The Wagyu Slider (£14) was a delightful little treat, and the Sucuk with Humus (£8.5) offered a delicious contrast of flavours.

• Mains: The Rib Eye Steak (£38) was the star of the show. Cooked to perfection, it was tender, juicy, and packed with flavour. The accompanying mushroom sauce and sweet potato fries were the perfect complements. I’d highly recommend giving the Mixed Shish (£23) a go too. The lamb neck is incredibly tender and has a unique taste. For seafood lovers, the Half Lobster (£39) is a luxurious option.

• Sides: The Mac and Cheese (£8) was a comforting classic, and the perfect accompaniment to any main.

The service was friendly, although there was a bit of a wait for food, which I put down to it being a soft launch. The desserts weren’t quite up to the standard of the rest of the meal, unfortunately. I’m not usually a mocktail drinker, but I tried a few and they were all refreshing.

One thing that really impressed me was the lunch deal. For just £15.95, you can enjoy a two-course meal between 12pm and 4pm. It’s an absolute steal.

A quick tip: if you’re driving, you can park for free for up to three hours at the nearby Asda if you spend £5 in-store.

De Roya is a fantastic addition to Barking’s culinary scene. It’s a place where you can enjoy delicious food in stylish surroundings without breaking the bank.

De Roya is Halal and serves alcohol. My meal was complimentary.