While we are spoilt for choice in the capital for Arabic eateries, many places seem to be hit or miss. We regularly spotted this venue in the evenings, and noticed a healthy client base. Upon being assured by many Levant citizens that they serve spectacular fare, we headed out to try the experience for ourselves.
The venue’s décor is rather basic, but it is spotless. We sat by the large windows overlooking the street and were immediately attended by a jovial waiter. Soon after we placed our order, we were presented with a large tray of fresh vegetables, hot bread from the oven, olives, zaatar and olive oil. We proceeded to munch on these while waiting for our food to come. We tore off bits of warm Arabic bread and dipped it in olive oil, then the zaatar and each bite was superb.
Within minutes, our starters arrived. We opted for the tabbouleh and beetroot salads and a portion of shanklish. Both salads were rather large, each one could have sufficed as a meal on its own. The tabbouleh was great. The seasoning and dressing were balanced without being too acidic. The beetroot salad was exceptionally good, with large chunks of beetroot, onions, tomatoes and parsley. With so many fresh and healthy ingredients, this is a must try for anyone looking for a satisfying and low calorie meal in the city. We had to consciously save space for the rest of our order.
The shanklish was excellent. We ordered it spicy and it had just enough fresh chilli in the mix to give each bite a little kick without causing us to shed any tears. The mix was filled with fresh onions and tomatoes and we drizzled some olive oil on it and scooped up bites with Arabic bread.
Soon after, our table was filled with fried kibbeh, hummus, and shish taouk. Everything smelled great and we began by smearing the kibbeh with hummus and devouring it. Although fried, the kibbeh didn’t taste greasy and the minced meat inside was fantastic. The hummus we ordered ‘Beiruty’ style, which consists of using fresh parsley leaves in the mix. The shish taouk quickly proved to be our favourite in the city. Each bite was large and grilled to perfection, marinated in just enough lemon and garlic. The dish was served with a side of garlic dipping sauce, and was entirely satisfying and filling.
Having enjoyed a fantastic meal, we soon understood why this venue has such a loyal following and has been operating with success for nearly a decade. The food was fresh and as close to home as can be, and the bill was extremely low considering the quality and amount we enjoyed. While the setting might not be glamorous or funky, this is one eatery that warrants a visit for any Arabic food lover. The restaurant also does catering, so you can enjoy their treats at your next home event.
The bill (for two)
Tabbouleh Dhs21
Beetroot salad Dhs16
Hummus Beiruty Dhs18
Shanklish Dhs19
Kibbeh Dhs24
Shish taouk Dhs38
Total (excluding service) Dhs136
