Shawarmas are the quintessential Middle Eastern snack. Over the years UAE has adapted multi cuisines and cultures but the queue for Shawarmas in any Arabic restaurant endures. The up and coming Shawarma-only restaurants are a testimony to the growing love for Shawarmas.
Hunting for the best Shawarma joints in town, is no mean task, but here are a few good ones:
1. Beyt Al Khetyar, Al Najda Street, Abu Dhabi
What: Chicken Shawarma
Build: Chicken shavings wrapped in ‘khuboos’ with garlic sauce, hummous, French fries and pickles.
Comment: Beyt Al Khetyar serves Shawarma in the generous “half-moon” pouches with lots of filling. The Shawarma comes to you piping hot, and when you bite into the pouches you find the right amount of sauce and crispy French fries. Perfect as a meal rather than a quick bite.
Recommendation: Great value for money as it costs the same as a standard roll-Shawarma, but is double the size.
Rating: 4 stars
2. Sanine Palace Restaurant, Salam Street, Abu Dhabi
What: Chicken Shawarma
Build: Chicken shavings wrapped in ‘khuboos’ with garlic sauce, hummous, French fries and pickles.
Comment: Sanine brings Shawarma with the same old-school flavor and aroma that has been associated with Shawarmas for centuries. The Shawarmas here are not subjected to any modern twists and do not intend to be pretentious. If it is the classic Shawarma you are looking for, then Sanine is the place to be.
Recommendation: Sanine has quite a good selection of fresh juices, and every die hard Shawarma fan knows the value of a thick and satisfying cocktail juice.
Rating: 4 ½ stars
3. Maroosh, Tourist Club Area
What: Meat Shawarma
Build: Meat shavings wrapped in ‘khuboos’ with garlic sauce, hummous, French fries and pickles.
Comment: Maroosh has built their entire reputation for decades, around their famous Shawarmas. The build of their Shawarma might have changed over the years but the taste and aroma remains the same. The Shawarmas here are mostly soaked in an irresistible sauce that keeps you coming back for more.
Recommendation: Maroosh is known for serving food in large family-friendly quantities.
Rating: 3 ½ stars
By: Diji Shujahi
