El Marsem

was a bit disappointed with my visit to this restaurant, especially compared to the photos and comments on their website. Staff & Service: The staff’s welcome felt a bit cold and uninviting. However, the service itself was quick and efficient, which was appreciated. Atmosphere & Cleanliness: The seating area was not well maintained — the tables were dirty and the floor was messy. It gave off a neglected feel that made it hard to enjoy the meal. Customers & Environment: The environment felt uncomfortable. The other customers gave off a strange vibe, and as a woman, I didn’t feel welcome — it seemed like a place primarily for men. This made the experience even more unpleasant. Food: Unfortunately, the food was very disappointing. I’d rate it a 2 out of 10. It didn’t live up to expectations in taste or presentation. Overall: Not a place I would recommend based on my experience. The website gave a much better impression than what I actually encountered.

Algerian bakery with wide variety of Algerian street food, definitely recommend paying a visit.

Incredible eatery ! Funny and friendly staff, delicious and well priced food, and in a fab location ! I grabbed some food for lunch and had to immediately write this review because of how welcoming the staff were ! The cafe is also ridiculously crowded which definitely proves that it is worth trying. Can recommend the Barek - which is stuffed bread. And the freshly made sandwich - with egg and fries ! LOVED IT ! WILL BE BACK FOR MORE

I think calling this place a sandwich bar is a serious understatement. This is a bakery proper with a variety of products ranging from baklava, pastries, tarts, quiches to various forms of Arabic bread. I come here each weekend now for the most amazing flaky flarbread. No idea what it is called, but who cares when it disappears of my family's plates as warp speed. I have not tried any of the more substantial dishes (yet) but the baked goods are a super treat.

Brilliant cafe selling authentic Algerian food. Would recommend to anyone nearby. They have one pastry I particularly love. I’m not sure of the name but it has prawns inside and is to die for. Staff are very friendly. Most importantly, the price is not something you’ll find elsewhere in the Zone 1 area. I got a breakfast for 2 for £7.50 including hot drinks!

Very satisfied with the food and it's affordable. The staff is very friendly and there's a great variety of different things you can have, definitely coming back soon!

Oh my god!!! Amazing pastries from Algeria. Made fresh every day. There's a huge selection of them. Unfortunately I don't know the name of each of them but I'll be back to try more of them and learn about the food. Do not miss the pistachio ones that look like an Italian canoli

One is so lucky to live at the intersection of Old Kent Road and Bermondsey Street to see both worlds at their door - Old Kent Road - hundred years immigrant communities and the true restaurant stories that upper/middle class mostly White (or those who share their signifiers) PR industry don’t share. El Marsem is one of those gems. Not just for the historical and cultural significance but the breads, coffee, meats! Aah! The smell of eggs and breads sizzling in the hot pans, dozens playing cards or conversations in North African, Arabic and various related dialects - Farouk Izouaouene himself is cooking and greeting you, a good £8-9 for a nice sandwich and cold drink!