It is relatively rare to find Middle East cuisine in Penang, except in Georgetown and Batu Ferringhi area. Al Shami at Plaza Ivory, located just opposite USM serves exquisite Arabic cuisine at pocket friendly price tag. The menu here is comprehensive from appetizer to main dish, came in huge portion which ideal for sharing. Sit down and enjoy their signature Arabic Tea while patiently waiting for the chef carefully crafted your meal.
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| Their signature Arabic Tea Pot (RM 6) with refreshing mint leaf, available for refill. |
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| Shih Tawook Sandwich (RM 7) |
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| Saltah Lamb with flatbread (RM 16) |
Shih Tawook is one of the traditional dish in Middle East, with chicken marinated with yogurt, spices and herb that served in skewer form which then sent to grilled. With the help of yogurt and lemon, the chicken is made tenderer. Lebanese usually make Shih Tawook into pita sandwich form. While there are many different recipe for Shih Tawook, the Al Shami's way is just right for my taste bug. Crispy thin pita bread, sandwiched with succulent marinated chicken mince, accompanied by the dipping sauce made of garlic and mayonnaise, simply lips smacking.
Saltah Lamb on the other hand is Yemen's traditional dish, a unique "curry" that play a tricks with my Malaysian's tongue because the taste is nothing close with anything I used to have. The lamb carefully stewed and broke into pieces, play along with sliced yukon gold potato, carrot and onion. The broth was more on the sour side but compliment well with saltiness. For best savoury, break the flatbread into small pieces and use them to scope the lamb.
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| Shop photo snapshoot from Google street view. |
Al Shami Arabic Restaurant
Lot 2-1-9, Plaza Ivory, Halaman Bukit Gambir, 11700 Glugor, Penang
Operation hour: 12 pm - 12 am
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