7 GATES DAMASCUS CAFE

Walk into 7 Gates and you're immediately transported—the smell of charcoal and spiced meat hits you before you've even sat down. This is the kind of place where regulars have their own tables and the owner actually cares whether you're enjoying yourself. The mezze spreads are genuinely excellent (hummus that's properly silky, muhammara with proper kick), but come for the grilled meats—the lamb shish and chicken are cooked with the kind of attention that makes you realise how often you've had mediocre versions elsewhere. Service is warm and unpretentious, the sort that makes Cowley Road feel like it's got real neighbourhood soul rather than just being a student drag.