Written by: Sadaf Shahzad
Posted on: November 30, 2020 | 
| 中文
The Shish Tawook
Sometimes, one wishes to experience new and interesting flavors from the comforts of one’s home. Middle Eastern food enthusiasts in Lahore, should look no further than Al-Beirut. The restaurant began in Islamabad in 1999, and has since expanded to three cities, committed to serving affordable but delicious food. Located in H-Block of the Defence Area of Lahore, Al-Beirut is one of the few places in Lahore that does justice to Lebanese or Middle Eastern cuisine. However, Al-Beirut is just as effective as a delivery place, especially given the need to stay at home during the current COVID pandemic.
The Wrap Being Grilled on Coal
The menu remains on par with those of Al-Beirut’s other franchises. It is simple, but focused on Arab flavors, with its selection of hot and cold Mezzeh (Middle-Eastern appetisers), grilled meats served with traditional Kabsa rice (cooked in meat juice and spices), and an array of sandwiches for the perfect takeaway. On a chilly winter night, we ordered the Hummus, Mutabil for the Mezzeh, Shish Tawook and a falafel sandwich.
Al-Beirut’s creamy hummus, served with their fresh pita bread was a great way to start our meal. Hummus is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, made by mashing chickpeas and blending them with Tahini (a paste made from grounded sesame seeds), lemon, garlic and spices with a drizzle of olive oil on top. Not only is Al-Beirut’s hummus extremely filling, but it has a rich texture that does not sit too heavy on one’s stomach. For those who like a little bit of spice, the hummus is also served with their house-made pickled cucumbers and green chilies. The portion size is quite generous, and each half-portion is served with one pita bread, which is enough for one person.
The Hummus
The second appetizer was the Mutabil, made from roasted eggplants and tahini, mixed with salt, pepper, topped with olive oil. The portion was as generous as that of the Hummus, and this dish was also served with pita bread and pickles. Eggplants are not usually given priority in a culinary scene that is so focused on meat, but this dish proved to be quite surprising. While the consistency may have been a bit lacking and uneven, the Mutabil was very well-seasoned, with the roasted flavor coming through.
For our main options, the Shish Tawook and Falafel sandwich were both served with potato wedges, pickles and a house-made special sauce. The Shish Tawook is chicken that is marinated in spices, yogurt, lemon juice and garlic, and then grilled to juicy perfection. Al-Beirut serves its meat in a large wrap with special sauces. This is not an easy dish to eat or particularly healthy to have, with its juices overflowing out of the wrap. The excess sauce somewhat diminishes the taste of the otherwise tender and flavorful meat. But the wedges were deliciously grilled and seasoned, complimenting well with the spicy and herb-infused sauce. My only complaint was that the portion should have been bigger.
In contrast, the falafel version was a healthier option, with the juicy meat being replaced by crispy deep-fried balls of chickpea. The falafels were a little disappointing because, although they were cooked well, they were not as crispy and light as we would have liked. The falafels too were drowned in sauces, but they worked better with them than did the meat.
The Falafel Wrap
In terms of prices, Al-Beirut is quite economical. Our appetizers, main dishes and drinks totaled to a little over Rs. 2000. The takeaway option does not compare to sitting at the restaurant and experiencing this food fresh from the kitchen. However, the service is quick and efficient, as they deliver within half an hour in Defence, with nominal delivery charges. It also suits younger people living on their own, who want a delicious and healthier alternative to fast food takeaways. However, those who are also simply curious about Middle Eastern food, they can opt for Al-Beirut as a delicious and safe place to try new flavors. We will definitely return to Al-Beirut, ready to try more authentic and adventurous Middle Eastern dishes.
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