Whether it’s Persian, Arab, Turkish or Syrian food you’re after, there’s bound to be at least one decent Middle Eastern restaurant in your neighbourhood or close to it. Here are some of my picks.
This Syrian restaurant in Subang Jaya has been attracting a crowd of loyal diners since its inception. It has consistently good food and friendly service. I enjoy the Mandy Rice with Lamb. It’s so smoky! You can literally taste and smell the fragrant smoke in the rice, which is simply exquisite. It’s best paired with sweet ice blended Vimto. This UK drink is a Ramadan favourite in Middle Eastern countries. Also, I usually order a serving of assorted baklava whenever I dine in.
This hole-in-the-wall establishment is often bypassed in favour for its much larger and better-decorated neighbour. But don’t be fooled because it is this restaurant that serves better Middle Eastern fare. That was the tip my Moroccan friend told me, and having tried both, I’m inclined to agree. I am partial to its Lamb Tagine — a slow-cooked hearty stew of lamb chunks and vegetables served with flatbread. Delicious!
I’ve always marvelled at the long queue in front of Halap during weekend nights. People from different countries and all walks of life congregate here to order some shawarma to munch down on the spot. More promisingly, you’ll see lots of Middle Eastern types with flatbread in hand so that says something about their authenticity. The owners are Syrian and they make the flatbread themselves every day. This place has arguably the best shawarma in Bukit Bintang.
This place is a few doors down from Shawarma Halap and has an equal number of people waiting in line. They both serve pretty much the same thing but this place is run by Egyptians. I like the falafel sandwich, a deep fried ball of seasoned chickpeas inside a wrapped flatbread. Best of all, it only costs RM4. It makes for a perfect midnight snack.
LRT/MRT : SS 15
Distance: 500 metres
Operating hours: 10am-11.30pmLRT/MRT : SS 15
Distance: 200 metres
Operating hours: 11am-2am
