Lebanese cuisine has always been a favorite of the masses. It’s fresh, delicious, refreshing, and light. Nothing is overpowering, everything flawlessly compliments the other. With music from the region playing softly in the background and the view of the Arabian Gulf surrounding you, inviting you stay a little longer. The seats are comfortable, laid back and reminiscent of authentic Arabic gatherings. Everything about the Burj Al Hamam is elegant and relaxed; aqua blue, brown, and white for the color scheme capture the beauty of the sunset against the towers and the sea. The luring scent of shisha pipes all around pleading with you to stay and enjoy the atmosphere for longer. With a smile on their faces, you’re greeted with warmth and friendliness, welcoming you in and helping you to your table.
Their juices are freshly squeezed and their drinks are refreshing and delicious. You are then presented with two menus; the house menu and one with the daily specials. Every day of the week presents its own main ‘specialty’ dish guaranteeing freshness and excellence – New day, new choice, new spectacular flavor! So before going through the menu, make sure to pay the specialties of the day a visit since you might find something to your fancy. From their regular menu, there are cold mezzas, hot mezzas, mixed grills, and more. Be sure not to make my mistake of filling up on their freshly-baked, steaming hot bread along with their assortment of dips.
From their light yet creamy hummus to their tangy, smooth-textured baba ghannouj; the perfect amount of spices and smokiness to tantalize the taste buds. Of course, let’s not forget the faultless finishing touch to all the dips, the fresh olive oil. The appreciation and understanding of the different olive oils available is a talent many have not mastered. For not every kind of olive oil complements any dish; it takes knowledge and a deep understanding of the pressing process to create the perfect harmony of flavors – and Burj Al Hamam know their olive oil. Nothing was too oily or greasy, no flavor or texture overpowered the other, everything was just right. The day was Monday, the special: Lebanese Style couscous. Moroccan infused with Lebanese flavors creating a beautiful fusion of mixed flavors and ingredients. The dish arrived billowing in steam, leaving behind a trail for the senses. A healthy portion of perfectly cooked couscous, covered in a layer of tender chick peas topped with a juicy chicken breast. Accompanying the dish is a meat-based maraq of which you can drizzle on your dish for that extra flavor that makes you go “hmmmm”. Their mixed grills were just as delicious. Marinated to perfection; the flavors and juices were fully infused into the tender meats, and grilled in such a way to enhance the flavors and that unmistakably delicious smokiness of the grill; brilliant. Do make sure to indulge in the bowl of fruit at the end for a dessert fix and end the meal ideally with a cup of tea with fresh mint.
For a delicious gastronomical Lebanese experience call them at 2252 9095, or visit Burj Al Hamam located on the Gulf Road near Green Island.