An Iftar that reminds one of 'home flavours

Previously known as Tecom, Barsha Heights is a vibrant community that offers umpteen choices when it comes to eating out. And one of the new joints to try out in this neighbourhood is Alfeniq, a Levantine restaurant that successfully blends popular dishes from Syria and Lebanon. And this Ramadan, the no-frills place has come up with an interesting three-course Iftar offering.  And what you get in this deal is hot soup, grilled meats, Arabic desserts and literally a smorgasbord of mezzas. But believe us, going through this 'humble' three-course was more filling than a lavish multi-course meal - the sheer variety left little room on our table, besides our bellies.
The flavours that Alfeniq's dishes offer is sure to remind one of dinners at home, says Aiham Shaheen, founder and owner of Alfeniq Lebanese Cuisine. The Ramadan menu, he stresses, is reminiscent of the happy Iftars of his young days with his family in Syria. So, simplicity with a splash of home flavour was the highlight of this Iftar.
On the cards was a choice of traditional Arabic delicacies - lentil soup, crunchy Fattoush, crispy and spicy potatoes, grilled meats, pastas, Lebanese sausages, sweets and traditional beverages.
We started with Tamr Hendi, a tamarind refresher followed by the lentil soup which was accompanied by fried fattoush (to be sprinkled on the soup like croutons).
Next up was a spread of cold and hot mezza. The sheer quantity was overwhelming, to a point that there was no more room left on the table to place the dishes; we had to shuffle bowls and plates, like pawns on a chess board .
Popular Levantine specialities such as Fattoush, Hummus, Raheb, Moutabel, Baba Ganoush, Sambousek, Kibbeh, Arabic pastries, mini pizzas, spicy potatoes and Makanek packed our table as everything was served at one go. With sauces accompanying the delicacies it was a sight to see, leave tasting alone! The portion sizes too were generous and it was not easy to do justice to one dish in particular. So, it was a bit of this and a bit of that! But if you like small bites in enormous variations, then this Levantine mezza is definitely for you.
However, special mention must be made of Makanek. This popular Lebanese sausage, made with lamb or beef, or a combo, and deliciously spiced, was outstanding. The finger-size sausages dipped in pomegranate sauce made for a satisfying treat.
Our main course featured Pilav with pine nuts and vermicelli, meat and spinach stew; grilled meat platter featuring bite size beef steak, Sheesh Tawook, Kabab Khech Khach, lamb chops and Tikkas. The chargrilled meat was fresh and juicy. The meats went well with the Pita bread, rocket leaves and Hummus.
We concluded our Iftar with the ultimate savoury and sweet Arabic pancakes called Kataif. Stuffed with cheese and nuts, sealed and fried, the Kataifs are drizzled with sugar syrup. But its the saltiness in the cheese that offsets the taste giving it a unique flavour.
Alfeniq's big-hearted servings, at affordable prices, is a deal for anyone, whether you have a large appetite or not. Go for their Iftar before the Holy Month ends!
Price: Dhs53 for singles and Dhs99 for two.
Where: Two Towers, Barsha Heights outlet.
Timing: From 07:00pm until 4:00am
Call 04 513 9926 for information
michael@khaleejtimes.com
 

• Food and Dining