Frequently Asked Questions
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RESTAURANT
How do I book?
Bookings are managed exclusively online for up to 18 guests at Arabica Borough Market, and Arabica King’s. You can book for up to 2 months in advance, via the link here.
Due to card details being required to secure your booking, we cannot accept reservations over the phone or via email.
I can't find availability for my preferred date?
Both of our locations reserve a few tables for walk-ins and offer counter seating on a first-come, first-served basis. Once all spaces are occupied, we operate a virtual waitlist, allowing you to enjoy a drink while we seat you as soon as possible. Please note that we are usually unable to accommodate large walk-in groups, and during peak times, the wait may be up to two hours.
How can I book a private or semi-private event?
If you’re interested in hosting a semi-private or private event, please fill out our Event Enquiry Form, and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
EXISTING BOOKINGS
Can I change/cancel my reservation?
You are able to modify or cancel your booking via the “Manage Reservation” & “Cancel Reservation” links in your confirmation email, subject to the cancellation terms.
What happens if I’m late for my reservation?
We’ll hold your table for up to 15 minutes. If you’re running later than that, we’ll do our best to accommodate you, but your dining time may be limited. If you received a reservation reminder via SMS, you can reply directly to let our team know you’re on your way.
ABOUT YOUR VISIT
We are a card-only restaurant and do not accept cash payments. We accept all major credit and debit cards, as well as contactless payments.
Do you have step-free access?
Yes, both Arabica King’s Cross and Arabica Borough Market offer step-free access. Borough Market has a small entrance step, but we provide a DDA-compliant ramp for accessibility.
Are children welcome?
Children of all ages are welcome, however, please note that we’re unable to accommodate children under the age of 7yrs after 7pm.
Are dogs welcome?
Yes, dogs are welcome on the terrace at both of our restaurants. However, only guide dogs and assistance dogs are allowed inside.
I have a food allergy. Can I dine at Arabica?
We can accommodate most food allergies. Simply scan the QR code on the menu to access our full allergen matrix and inform your server upon arrival. However, please be aware that due to our open kitchen environment we cannot guarantee the complete absence of allergens.
Do you serve halal meat?
Yes, we serve halal lamb, chicken, beef, veal, and duck at all our restaurants. Please inform your server of any dietary requirements when you visit.
Do you cater for vegans?
Yes! Our menu naturally includes a variety of vegan options, and many vegetarian dishes can be modified to be vegan. Just let your server know upon arrival.
Can we bring our own cake?
We usually do not allow food from outside to be brought to the restaurant. However, we understand that guests do like to bring in their own cake from time to time. Therefore, we are happy for you to bring your own cake with a cakeage charge of £4 per person.
ARABICA AT HOME
WORK WITH US
How can I apply for a career at Arabica?
We’re always on the lookout for passionate, fun, and enthusiastic team members who embody the Arabica culture. Check out our Careers Page to view current openings or email your CV and cover letter to careers@arabicalondon.com, and we’ll be in touch soon.
ANYTHING ELSE
I really need to speak to someone!
If your query isn’t covered in this guide, you can contact the relevant team directly via email:
Borough Market – BoroughMkt@arabicalondon.com
King’s Cross – kingsx@arabicalondon.com
Please note that while we do have telephones on-site, our AI reservations assistant can assist with some tasks. Due to the busy nature of our restaurants, we may not always be able to answer calls during peak times.
COOKING & REHEATING
Where can I find the cooking instructions?
You can download the instructions for our finish-at-home meal kits directly from the product webpage. View example
How much cooking is involved?
All the food in your box arrives ready to enjoy with minimal preparation– just heat, garnish, and serve! We’ve done the hard work, so you don’t have to.
For cooking instructions, refer to the downloadable booklet available on the product webpage.
Do I need a microwave?
No microwave? No problem!
All of our meal kits are designed to be heated using an oven or hob, no microwave required. You’ll find full heating instructions in the menu booklet, which you can download from the product webpage.
Can I reheat leftovers?
We do not recommend reheating any of our food once it has already been cooked according to our instructions.
PLACING ORDERS
When do I need to order by?
Order cut-off Monday at midnight for Friday.
Order cut off Thursday at midnight for Tuesday.
Can I order via phone or email?
Unfortunately, we cannot accept orders via email or telephone. Ordering online is simple, it should only take a few minutes!
How do I apply a discount code?
Please apply your discount code during the checkout process.
On mobile you will find the discount box above the payment fields. On a desktop computer you will find the discount code box on the same page where you enter your personal details.
Who can I contact regarding an order?
Please email shop@arabicalondon.com
PRODUCTS & PACKAGING
How will my products be packaged?
At Arabica, we carefully select packaging that ensures both product integrity and environmental sustainability. For fresh or frozen items, we use thermally insulated, easily recyclable cardboard boxes paired with food-safe gel ice packs to keep your order cool and ensure it arrives in perfect condition. While we strive to use natural, renewable materials, certain products require tamper-evident plastic packaging to maintain safety and quality during transit. In these cases, we encourage you to reuse or recycle the plastic components whenever possible.
For more detailed information on our packaging and recycling guidelines, please visit our Recycling Instructions page.
Is your meat and poultry halal?
Yes, all our meat and poultry are halal and sourced from trusted British farms.
Is your fish sustainably sourced?
Absolutely. We are committed to sustainable sourcing and take responsibility for preserving the health of our oceans. We support responsible aquaculture to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy high-quality fish and seafood.
Where do you get your vegetables from?
We source locally and seasonally where we can and where it makes sense.
How long will my fresh food last?
Fresh meze should be consumed within 3 days.
DELIVERY
IMPORTANT: CHECK YOUR DELIVERY ADDRESS
Please double-check your address details in your order confirmation email. Address errors are the most common cause of failed deliveries, and we cannot offer a refund if your parcel is undeliverable due to an incorrect address. For your convenience, our website may suggest an address, but it is essential to review and update it if necessary.
If you use Apple Pay, PayPal, Google Pay, or other fast payment options, these apps automatically use the delivery address registered to your account, which may differ from your intended shipping address.
Once your order has been dispatched from our depot, we are unable to change the delivery address or reroute parcels. If you notice an error in your order confirmation, please contact us immediately to correct it before dispatch.
We recommend downloading the free DPD delivery app for a smoother and more convenient delivery experience. It provides real-time tracking, delivery updates, and allows you to manage all your deliveries in one place. You can also upload a photo of your house or your what3words location—especially useful if you live in a rural area or your address is difficult to find. Download the app here.
Where do you deliver?
We deliver across mainland United Kingdom (excluding Jersey, the Scottish Highlands, and Islands) through our trusted delivery partner, DPD.
When do you deliver?
We deliver twice a week, on Tuesdays and Fridays. Our schedule may vary around public holidays, but you can view a delivery calendar and select your preferred delivery date during checkout.
How much is the delivery charge?
Our delivery charges vary depending on the contents of your shopping basket. If you have chosen any fresh or frozen items our minimum order value is £30 with a £9 delivery charge which helps to contribute towards the cost of the packaging. The delivery charge is £6.50 for all other orders.
All orders over £75 qualify for FREE delivery.
Can I choose the time of delivery?
We don’t currently offer the option of selecting a delivery slot/time.
You will however receive an email on the day of your delivery with a 1-hour delivery window. We recommend you are home within your delivery window, but you can provide delivery instructions on checkout.
When will my delivery arrive?
Deliveries will usually be made between 8am & 7pm
We dispatch orders twice a week for delivery on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Order cut-off is Monday at midnight for delivery on Fridays and Thursday at midnight for delivery on Tuesdays.
How will I know my delivery is on the way?
On the day of delivery, you will receive an email to let you know your 1-hour delivery via DPD. Any concerns, you can contact us below or email at shop@arabicalondon.com
What if I'm not in when my order is delivered?
When placing your order, you can provide specific delivery instructions in the designated box at checkout, which is found on the first page of the checkout process.
If you’re not home when your order arrives, the courier may leave it in a safe place (preferably out of direct sunlight), but this is at your own risk, and we cannot take responsibility for any issues that may arise. Alternatively, you can request DPD to leave your parcel with a neighbour, which we recommend if you won’t be available at the time of delivery.
Once your parcel has been delivered and a proof-of-delivery photo is provided, its security becomes your responsibility. We are unable to offer replacements or refunds for parcels that go missing after delivery.
Will the driver knock or ring the doorbell when delivering my parcel?
We would prefer all drivers to knock or ring the doorbell, but many no longer do, and we are unable to change this. Instead, you will receive a text or email when your parcel is delivered, so please keep an eye out for it. If you live in a building with a communal entrance, your parcel may be left there, so it’s important to collect it as soon as possible.
What if my delivery is delayed?
On rare occasions, your parcel may be delayed by 24 hours. Our insulated boxes keep products in perfect condition for up to 48 hours from dispatch (orders are dispatched around 16:30 the day before your delivery date). However, various factors can affect this.
We cannot provide refunds or replacements for delayed orders unless the product quality has been compromised. If you have any concerns after your delivery arrives, please contact customer services.
If your parcel arrives damaged, please report it within 24 hours of delivery via email, including a photo, to shop@arabicalondon.com
What is there is something missing from my order?
Please check through all the packaging thoroughly as some food pouches often get mistaken for extra padding and some small or fragile items may be wrapped in shred fill. If you are certain something has been missed, get in touch with customer services and we will check our packing room cameras to see what went wrong. We will be happy to arrange a redelivery or refund for any missing items.
REFUNDS, RETURNS, AMENDMENTS & CANCELLATIONS
Can I amend or cancel my order?
Yes, we’re happy to make amendments or cancellations up to 4 days before your nominated delivery date. After this point, production of your order will have begun, and we will be unable to make any further changes or cancellations.
To request an amendment or cancellation, please email shop@arabicalondon.com with your order number and details of the changes you’d like to make.
What is your returns policy?
Due to health and safety regulations, we are unable to accept returns of perishable goods once they have been delivered. If you experience any issues with your order, please contact our customer service team, and we will be happy to assist you.
Please note that gift cards are also non-refundable.
What about refunds?
If there is an issue with your order or a cancellation, we will process a refund to your original payment method. Please note that it may take 3-5 working days for your bank or credit card provider to complete the refund process.
COMPLAINTS
What is there is something missing from my order?
Please check through all the packaging thoroughly as some food pouches often get mistaken for extra padding and some small or fragile items may be wrapped in shred fill. If you are certain something has been missed, get in touch with customer services and we will check our packing room cameras to see what went wrong. We will be happy to arrange a redelivery or refund for any missing items.
What should I do if I have a complaint about my order?
If you’re unhappy with any aspect of your order, please contact our customer service team within 24 hours. You can reach us via email at shop@arabicalondon.com, or by phone at 020 7708 5577 (Monday – Friday, 9 am – 4 pm).
To help us resolve the issue efficiently, please provide photos and/or temperature readings (where applicable) to document any damage or concerns. We aim to acknowledge your complaint within two working days and provide a proposed resolution within five working days.
RECYCLING GUIDE FOR YOUR ARABICA AT HOME DELIVERY
RECYCLING GUIDE FOR YOUR ARABICA AT HOME DELIVERY
At Arabica, we prioritise both product integrity and environmental sustainability in our packaging choices for our fresh meze and finish-at-home meal kits. While we strive to use natural, renewable materials, certain products require tamper-evident plastic packaging to ensure safety and quality during transit. In these instances, we encourage you to reuse or recycle the plastic components whenever possible.
By following these re-use and recycling guidelines, you play a vital role in minimising waste and supporting a more sustainable future. Thank you for being a part of our commitment to environmental stewardship!
OUTER BOX
Our double-walled cardboard delivery boxes are made from recycled materials and meet FSC standards, ensuring durability and environmental responsibility. They can be easily recycled through household cardboard recycling or at local authority waste depots.
CARDBOARD SHRED FILL
To reduce our carbon footprint and minimize waste, we shred the boxes and cartons from our produce deliveries to create our own cardboard fill. This eco-friendly practice not only repurposes materials but also provides sustainable packaging. The shredded cardboard can be recycled with your household cardboard waste.
WOOLCOOL LINERS
Woolcool liners are versatile and eco-friendly. They can be reused, returned for reprocessing into new liners, recycled, or composted. Wool is a remarkable smart fibre: natural, sustainable, and a superior insulator. As a by-product of sheep farming, it is abundant and fully compostable, releasing valuable nutrients back into the soil. Utilizing Woolcool liners also reduces the need for additional ice packs.
For more information on reusing or recycling Woolcool liners, please visit Woolcool’s recycling ideas page.
ICE PACKS
Hydropac ice packs are highly durable, capable of withstanding over 200kg of weight without bursting. They are fully recyclable and certified food-safe, ensuring your items remain frozen during delivery.
Re-use Instructions
Our gel ice packs are completely reusable. Simply wipe them clean and refreeze them for future use. They are perfect for:
- Keeping food and drinks cool during picnics or camping trips
- Soothing injuries as an ice pack
- Maintaining freshness in lunchboxes or grocery transport
Recycling Instructions
Hydropac’s ice packs are made from Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), which is fully recyclable through standard household recycling collections.
Before recycling, empty the gel contents down the drain or use the purified water to hydrate your plants. The non-toxic cooling gel is FSA & FDA approved and completely food-safe.
The gel is produced using six-stage filtration, including UV sterilisation, softening, and chlorination, ensuring the highest level of purity.
STICKERS
Our paper stickers are recyclable and can be disposed of with your household paper recycling.
PLASTIC POTS & LIDS
Our tamper-evident polypropylene (PP) containers are certified food-safe, airtight, and leakproof, ensuring your items remain protected during transit.
Re-use Instructions
We encourage you to wash and reuse these containers around your home. They are ideal for:
- Storing leftovers
- Batch cooking and freezing portions
- Organizing small household items like needles and buttons
- Arts and crafts projects
Recycling Instructions
Polypropylene (PP) is recyclable; however, acceptance varies by local authority. To determine if PP plastics are accepted in your area, please check with your local council or use online resources like the Recycling Locator.
Common PP items that may be accepted include:
- Packing tape
- Plastic straws
- Takeaway containers
- Ketchup bottles
- Plastic picnic ware
- Plastic bags
Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? Email info@arabicalondon.com for further help