02 May,2011 08:01 AM IST | | Surekha S
Chembur's foodies, who prefer their Lebanese fix closer home, can try the Shawarma Joint. But while you're at it, stay away from the Chinese
A restaurant that serves Shawarmas and Falafels in South Indian-dominated Chembur? We were piqued. The Shwarma Joint is a Lebanese eating-place, located in the heart of Chembur. The joint seemed like the perfect example of optimum utilisation of very little space. Inside, we spotted a television, music system and a few chairs and tables; it also had a seating area outside.
Chicken Shawarma
When we entered, most of the crowd was glued to the TV screen; courtesy an IPL game that was underway, the buzz silenced the strains of popular Hindi songs playing in the background. We were welcomed by a smiling staff, who led us to our table. From the menu, we chose Hummus and Pita Bread (Rs 70) as starters and among the Shawarmas and Falafels, the Chicken Shawarma (Rs 75) and Chicken Falafel Plate (Rs 140) caught our fancy.
Our eyes shifted quickly from the television to the dishes that arrived in less than 15 minutes of placing our order. The dishes were inviting. Without delaying our feast, we dug into our fare. The Shawarma and Falafel were delicious and tasted authentic. The chicken pieces in the Shwarma were succulent and though we felt the food could ahve been presented better, it was a commendable effort to recreate this Lebanese specialty. The Falafel tasted great; likewise with the Hummus and Pita Bread.
Happy and satisfied, we took a risk by attempting a dish from the Chinese section on the menu. The Schezwan Fried Rice (Rs 90) was strictly okay; the food colouring overkill didn't help win extra marks. Next up, we could not resist attempting the offer that was displayed on its wallu00a0-- Chicken Burger plus Fries plus a drink (Rs 75). Despite being practically filled to the brim, we enjoyed the burger-fry combination.
At Shop 2, Priyanka Apts, Sion-Trombay Road, Next to Maitri PArk, Chembur. Call 25209506 / 9833300497
The Shawarma Joint didn't know we were there. Theu00a0Guide reviews anonymously and pays for meals.
