An original Jamaican-Turkish fusion residency has opened up in a Peckham pub, and it already feels like it was always meant to be here, writes Myfanwy Fleming-Jones…
Jurkish, created by Peckham-born Nazli Ramadan, brings a vibe as full of life and as diverse as the community surrounding it — complete with honey-infused cocktails brewed to complement every plate. A proud South Londoner Nazli attended Sydenham School in Lewisham and launched Jurkish at John the Unicorn on Rye Lane after the success of her pop-up JUMBI in nearby Copeland Par
Tom Gosnell (founder) and Cameron McKenzie-Wilde (Sales & Marketing Director) at John the Unicorn. She’s been putting a creative spin on Jamaican and Turkish cuisine for over a decade, and this new home feels like the moment it all clicks into place.
John The Unicorn on Rye Lane was acquired by Peckham-based brewers Gosnells and re-open last November. The pub is housed in what was once a decorator’s shop and has become a favourite for its laid-back vibes, neon cocktails, craft beers and stone-baked pizzas.
“I am always going to be the biggest champion of how overlooked the little pockets of South London are,” she said.
“The culture that South London has brought to London and the whole world — the art, food and energy. We are bold, brazen and honest people.”
The menu reflects exactly that spirit. Steaming plates of curry goat manti sit alongside hot and cold mezze, Jurkish grill, cornmeal crème brûlée and pistachio brownies. Nazli has also partnered with Gosnells to create the Jurkish ‘nectars’ — naturally brewed honey beers ranging from £6 to £13 with the raspberry hibiscus and honey and ginger varieties pairing particularly well with the manti.
Small plates start at £4, mains around £15, and there’s a £5 jerk wrap lunch deal worth catching this April. Jurkish is open weekdays 12–9 and weekends 12–10, with festival appearances lined up at On the Rise, Crystal Palace events and Meatopia.
A brunch menu could also be on the way – so keep your eyes on their Instagram stories to stay up to date. For Nazli, staying local was never really a question. “Being from Peckham, there’s such a strong sense of community.
“From the guy running the car park to the woman selling seamoss under the bridge. Where else would I be?”
