5 Best Places in Mumbai to sample Middle Eastern food
Enjoy an array of flavours from this region across the city
23 Mar, 2019 by Mini Ribeiro
Doner Kebab, Hummus, Kofte, Pilaf, Dolma, Pide and Baklava, seem to have caught the fancy of Mumbaikars, as suddenly, Middle Eastern cuisine seems to be gaining popularity in the city. The variety and simplicity of the dishes in this cuisine rest on good quality authentic ingredients. Meat, chickpeas, pickles, leafy vegetables, are typically used and grilling is the most popular method of cooking. A plethora of restaurants offering Middle Eastern fare, are making their presence felt in Mumbai. My top 5 picks :
Bayroute, Powai, Central Mumbai
This restaurant with tasteful interiors, offers the best of Middle Eastern food. From tender-grilled meats to robust kebabs and shwarmas, to flavourful salads and aromatic rice preparations, there are options galore. The Bayroute Hummus with Pita boasts of a silky texture and smoky flavours, which simply melts-in-the-mouth. The Cumin Lamb Kebab, is hearty and redolent with flavours of this region. Vegetarians will relish the Pumpkin Kibbeh. The Mint Chocolate and Greek Yogurt Popsicles is the apt grand finale.
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Turkey Central, Juhu, Western Suburbs
Expect flavourful food with top-notch authentic ingredients, here. The ambience is classy, yet warm. The exhaustive menu showcases traditional dishes from the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern region, with several vegetarian choices. The Shawarma, Kunafa, Raan Biryani, Lamb Kofta Kebab, here, are among the highlights and are a must try. The food is hearty and the portions extremely generous.
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Mabruk, Sahara Star, Vile Parle
The stylish decor and low seating, coupled with the view of the lagoon, sets the mood for the perfect meal. Chef Jihad creates a repertoire of traditional mezze, complimented by carefully picked soups, main courses and desserts, creating an awe-inspiring array of flavours, textures and aromas. The Cold Mezze Platter with Hummus, Babaghanoush, Tabbouleh, Fatoush is a must try here. The Sambousek and Batata Harra are a delight for the palate. The subtly flavoured, Tagine Khodar will appease your taste buds. Round off that perfect meal with the sweet and crunchy Baklava or Umm Ali.
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Rue Du Liban, Fort, South Mumbai
The food here is primarily from the South East corner of the Mediterranean. Expect to enjoy cold and hot mezze and grills, salads and breads, mains and desserts. Abundant vegetarian options too. The fluffy, warm Pita bread with Hommos and Mouhamara, is something you cannot miss. The Tabbouleh is refreshing, tangy and crunchy. The Lamb Kibbeh with a crispy crust, is melt-in-the-mouth and well-spiced. Although this menu here is meat-centric, vegetarian dishes abound. The Baklava, made of phyllo pastry soaked in syrup and chopped nuts, sandwiched in a scoop of ice-cream, is pure ecstasy for the taste buds.
Maffy’s, Sea Palace Hotel, Mumbai
Named after a fictional character who travels across the globe, Maffy’s offers delectable fare from the Middle Eastern region, with chef’s own creative spin.
Signature Smokey Cauliflower Hummus
The ingredients and spices are authentic and the resultant flavours are comforting. The Smoked Hummus with spicy Shrimps is a must have. Moroccan Chermoula Paneer, Kabab Kash Kash and Turkish Bread or Pide, stand out among the offerings.
Bamia Bamia
The flavourful Chicken Machboos Rice is a rare treat and will delight any carnivore. Gorge on the Baklava Lollipops or Chocolate Hummus for dessert.
Written By
Food critic, features writer and columnist, Mini Ribeiro is a qualified Journalist, from IIMC New Delhi. She specialises in the Food & Beverage and Hospitality space. As an established food & beverage writer, Mini currently contributes to several leading English publications across the country – Asian Age, Hindustan Times, Sunday Financial Express, Hotelier India, Go Getter and Vistara inflight magazines and Rediff.com. She also has her own You Tube channel called Mini’s Food Fundas. Fond of cooking, Mini enjoys experimenting in the kitchen with various cuisines, with Indian regional food, being her favourite. She has recently started, a platform for home talent, called 'Flavours from Home', an initiative which aims to make women who are passionate about cooking, entrepreneurs.
