A window into the legacy of authentic Kuwaiti cuisine, a breakfast experience at Amiti Noura has definitely been on our list of must-trys for a while now. Easily accessible from Grand Avenue at The Avenues, the spot is perfect for catch ups and family get togethers, tucked away in the Souk for a cozy and quiet atmosphere.
Upon reaching Amiti Noura, we instantly felt a flashback of old Kuwait meeting modern Kuwait. Decorated with traditional colors, the overall vibe was heartwarming and welcoming.
Inspired by the cooking of everyone’s favorite Aunt, the restaurant is known to bring together families and friends over dishes defined by distinct flavors and spices. As we walked in and were seated at our table, we couldn’t help but notice the bright natural light spilling into the place giving it an airy feel. The sadu lounge inspired seating area exhibited a touch of modern tradition.
We were hungry and ready to eat, so, the waiter suggested the second available breakfast special called the “Riyoug Platter”, which means breakfast in Kuwaiti. Without hesitation, we knew that was the order we were placing. We were an indecisive crowd when it came to deciding what we wanted to eat for breakfast, Riyoug Platters are a great way to satisfy people who want to try different things.
While waiting for our food to be prepared, we were served traditional Arabic coffee and dates. This tradition is a sign of Kuwaiti generosity and hospitality. The rich Arabic coffee infused with cardamom came in an ornate coffee pot from which was poured into the traditional small finjan serving cups for us.
The Riyoug platter arrived at our table with a selection of classics such as balaleet which has a distinct taste of saffron, mixed cheese platter with olives and veggies, eggplant hamssah, fried eggs, labneh and hummus. For our manakeesh lovers, we ordered the halloumi and cheese with zaatar. The cheese platter excited us more than usual.
The twisted cheese reminded us of our childhood years and the fun in eating it. The tannour bread is made fresh daily, all day long, in-house which works great for dipping into the labneh, hummus and hamssah. It’s also smaller than normal leaving your bread hot and fresh without getting stale at the table. People love it so much that they always want to take a portion home!
Another notable mention and a Riyoug option on the Amiti Noura menu is the one which includes nakhi, bajella (which are chickpeas and broad beans, a common staple in Kuwait), eggs with tomato, eggplant hamssah, mixed cheese platter with fresh vegetables. For dessert, there is a superb selection of sweets ranging from darabeel, which are crispy rolled biscuits, rahash, a tahini-based halwa and baksam, a type of rusk.
If you are someone who has not tried Kuwaiti food in the past, let alone classic breakfasts, then Amiti Noura is a wonderful introduction to traditional food.
To finish off the breakfast experience, piping hot karak tea was served in a gorgeous kettle and placed on our table. Now we all know that karak tea is much more delightful than ordinary black tea.
For us personally, watching the tea get poured from a distance (the traditional way) was entertaining. Karak tea, which originates from South Asia is made with black loose tea leaves, crushed cardamom saffron and sugar. Although sugar is sometimes omitted depending on preference, evaporated milk may be used instead.
Overall, the Arabian hospitality truly shines during any meal at Amiti Noura and we were so glad to start off our day there! This grand breakfast is definitely not one to miss. If you’re looking for delicious, Kuwaiti traditional meals that recreate the experience of dining in at your aunt’s house then this is the place to be!
You can find Amiti Noura in The Souk – The Avenues. To stay up to date with their news follow them on Instagram @AmitiNoura.
