Zizo

From the sandy camel-lined deserts of Middle East, Lebanese cuisine originated in the households of nomads and silk-robed aristocrats. Crossing thousands of miles it reached India decades ago and created a nook for itself in our community by its rich exotic food. Soon shawaramas, falafels, baklava, tabbouleh became known to every foodie while every market place or mall started hosting at least one shawarama counter. Lebanese cuisine has many takers in India today and Delhi has formed a special fondness for the fare, evident in a string of popular Lebanese restaurants dotted all over the city. ?Zizo? is a name that stands out whenever we talk about Lebanese food in Delhi NCR. One outlet of Zizo finds a spot on the third floor of DLF Mall Of India at Sector 18, Noida.

Zizo is quite popular with the shoppers, as many pop in to sample the exotic fare of Middle East when they have a chance. What used to be curiosity earlier has now turned into devotion for Lebanese food for the patrons. Zizo keeps a varied menu however encompassing Lebanese, Mediterranean and Arabian cuisines. You may find the restaurant a little expensive but food is as authentic as it can get. Its best to start with, mutton kibbi, breaded shrimps with harissa sauce, lamb kebab, kafta arayess, man?oushe b-jebneh, kafta & cheese pizza, batata harra, crispy cheese cigars and falafel basket. Travel further into the Middle East with the mains like, spaghetti ragout, Moroccan tagine, chicken escalope, grilled lamb kebabs, grilled chicken piccata, Arabic fish pilau, penne primavera, oriental leg of lamb and grilled chicken kebabs. Use of traditional Middle Eastern spices, harissa and sumac, really brings out the flavours.

Wash it all down with a refreshing Lebanese-inspired mocktail or wait for a cup of authentic Turkish coffee in the end. No trip to Middle East is complete without some traditional Middle-Eastern desserts. Gorge on, chocolate pit-za, cheese knefeh, lazy cake, lady?s arm, basbousa, cheese kunafa and baked halawa cheese cake. If you are expecting thick draperies, carpets and lanterns, then you are in for a disappointment. The interiors at Zizo are completely modern, comprising of pale wooden room enlivened by clever use of colours and edgy geometric lamps. What could have been a dull looking eatery is now a casual, creatively decorated space meant for friends and family.