Taste of Arabia in Bengaluru
There are dining places
which is good and then there are places which are exceptional in every sense,
which makes you feel special by their hospitality, gives you a wow feeling with
the lip-smacking food and leaves you with good memories. Here, I am talking
about Ritz Carlton where my dining experience has always been different.
But this time the occasion
was grand. I was invited to taste the finest of Arabian food, especially
crafted by the Master Chef Rami Almaket. Ahh! I must say, you don’t get to see
such lavish spread of Middle Eastern cuisine every day and when you do, it has
to be at Ritz Carlton. This gastronomical idea has been supported by Air Arabia.
When I say, Ritz Carlton
makes you feel special, I really mean it. The first thing I received when I
made myself comfortable on the “Arabian” couch was a personalised menu. When
the start is so amazing, you can only wonder how brilliant the evening could be
with all the fellow bloggers.
And right after
that a man with a brilliant sense of humour and warm personality, Chef Rami
Almaket took over The Market’s kitchen, ready to lead us for the gastronomical
journey to Arabia.
Chef Rami Almaket
First serving on
the table was Syrian Spice Tea with Nuts. I am a person who just can’t do
without a tea and this my friend is just what I needed after a tiring day at
office. A sip in and a strong taste of cinnamon and walnuts hits your throats
and refreshes your mind. A must try for the people who loves it strong.
Syrian Spice Tea with Nuts
Next up was, Lamb Harira Soup originated from Morocco. I have tried end number of restaurants offering soup but not many give attention to the detailing of flavour and spices
that goes in the soup. This was different, if not the best, certainly one of
the best soups I have had in a long time. It is a very rich, filing and
nutritious. When you take the spoon to fill your mouth the aroma that hits the
nose is gives the sense of spices used. The chunks of lamb in the soup were very
soft and really complemented the spices used.
Lamb Harira Soup
Next on the table
was, Arabic Mix Mezze Sampler originated from Lebanon. Just as the name
suggests, a mix of four different dips, namely: Hummus, Beetroot, Green Olives and
Babaghanosh which made the plate looked very colourful. It was served
along with warm Pita breads.
Arabic Mix Mezze Sampler
Falafel & Fatta Chicken was served next. This is originated from the Levant countries. Falafel
was very crispy just the way it should be and just the way I like. But Fatta
Chicken is one particular item on the menu which did not suit my taste buds, a
rare thing which I would say about a food at Ritz. But as the saying goes, even
the beautiful moon has spots.
Falafel
Fatta Chicken
Next up was Syrian Dal Makhani. That sounds interesting, doesn’t it? This took everyone present on the table by surprise and certainly the best I had this evening. The highlight
of this dish was a sweet tinge of pomegranate amidst of serious strong spices.
Ahh! This is a must try.
Syrian Dal Makhani
Next we moved over
to the main course which included with a mix of vegetarian, chicken and meat
delicacies and rice with Vermicilli.
Also, we were
served the Syrian selection of Arabic Mixed Grill. I could only try the Traditional Afghani Kebabs and Grilled Lamb Chops.
Traditional Afghani Kebabs
Grilled Lamb Chops
I believe that no
matter how full you are, there is always a small space to accommodate the
desserts. Here, the chef had something special stored for us. He had prepared Umm Ali for us, the Egyptian way. This is a sheer masterpiece from the Arabian
kitchen of Chef Rami Almaket and another must try when you visit here. I couldn’t
hold myself but ask Chef about how he made tis heavenly dose of sweetness. He
said that all you need is a croissant which should be soaked in milk and rose
water, which is then topped with heavy cream and then baked.
Umm Ali
Taste of Arabia features signature tastes that have evolved from the silk and spice routes that were once travelled by the men of dessert. Highlighting speciality dishes, from the Middle East, with interactive cooking stations the festival is the ideal for people looking to indulge their inner connoisseur while sharing quality time with friends and family.
We couldn't hold yourselves but take one selfie before we head back to home.
LtoR: Prateek, Suman (Me), Mudra, Chef Rami Almaket and Riya
And then I just can't go home without a picture of mine with the Chef
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