Review: Experience The Authentic Palestinian Hospitality At Mama'esh In The UAE

Palestine is known for not just its olive trees and resilience but also for one of the most delicious spreads in the world. Palestinian food is not just hearty and warm but is also served with exquisite heart and soul. One such place that embodies this very spirit in the UAE is the restaurant Mama'esh.

Located in two prime locations in the UAE, the branch of Mama'esh in Business Bay kickstarted in September 2015 to roaring success, soon to be followed by the branch in Al Wasl Road. Now, there are several branches across the UAE.

Ambience and Setting

One of the biggest selling points of this restaurant is its ambience. True to its promise of serving the most authentic and delectable street food from Palestine, the setting of this restaurant takes it entirely to heart. Nestled within the warmth, wood, and multiple pictures of smiling Palestinians, the ambience is one that you will carry with you to your house. It is informal, extremely cozy, and casual. One wall is stacked to the brim with authentic Palestinian olive oil that you can purchase yourself.

When you enter, the sight of an old-fashioned brick oven takes you back to the past when food was more than a nourishment; it was a language of communication, of warmth, and solidarity. The staff, too, is welcoming and polite.

Culinary Experience

Upon the first glance at the menu, the prices might surprise you–in a good way! Considering the impeccable service, setting, and the quality of the food, Mama'esh is a relatively affordable spot in the city. Here are some of my favorite items on the menu:

- Mama'esh Breakfast Platter: Comes with 2 baked eggs, Palestinian hummus, baked Nabulsi cheese, Maqdous, pickles and vegetables, served with tea.

- Potato and Chicken Tray: A classic potato and chicken tray, 2 pieces of chicken with green capsicum, tomato and onion, served with bread. Creamy and warm, like a hug on a tray.

- Lamb Sajjeyeh: If you're in the mood for a meat-dense dish that also has lots of veggies, this is the dish to go. It is Lamb Sajjeyeh, with green and red capsicums, onion, tomato and green chili. Also served with bread.

- Chicken Shawarma Platter: Chicken Shawarma cuts, comes with French fries, pickles, and garlic or tahina sauce, served with bread or without.

- Nabulsi Knafeh: Perhaps my favorite dish of the lot, the Nabulsi Knafeh is unlike any other Knafeh that you might have tried. It is filled with gooey cheese and is the perfect dessert to finish off the meal.

Service

As mentioned, Palestinians are historically known for their hospitable nature and this is entirely personified by the staff. They are extremely obliging and happy to serve you. Service timings are competent and a bonus for the restaurant: water is on the house!

The place is also compatible with those who use the wheelchair and the staff is always happy to oblige with a high chair for your little ones!

Final Verdict

Overall rating: 4.5/5

If you're a fan of dishes that revolve around well-cooked chicken/meat and incorporate a lot of bread, Mama'esh is your definition of heaven. The food is consistently delicious and the portion sizes are decent. The people are lively and polite and the setting allows for large gatherings of friends and family, Definitely make this your next spot to frequent in the city!

Quick Deets:

What: Mama'esh

When: 7:00 AM till 12:30 AM

Price: Dh105 for two

Reservations: Call: +971 4 453 8166