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Faiza Siddiqui 16 months ago
Midhat Pasha - named after the famous Ottoman democrat, is a famous coffee shop in Dubai that has widely gained popularity in a span of 2 years and is quickly expanding within the city
I was recently invited to review the second branch located in Al Barsha, South. Though this cafe is fairly new (as it opened in March 2022), yet it was bustling with customers and by the end of the evening it was house full!
The Turkish/Syrian cafe offers a variety of beverages, shisha, and food from their restaurant Sah El Nom Express. Whenever you spot a Midhat Pasha cafe in Dubai, you will surely see Sah El Nom Express as well nearby. A third branch will be opening soon in Marina.
I loved the restaurant's aesthetics, which was beautifully decorated and depicted the Turkish/Syrian tradition noticeable from the installation of bahrah shamia, which can be found in every home in both the countries. Traditionally, family and friends sit along the decagonal water fountain (ideally located in a courtyard) and enjoy a cup of tea.
We started off by ordering shisha - one each for me and my plus one. The flavors were peach + mint and blueberry + mint. Honestly, it was one of the best shishas i have ever smoked. The drag was smooth, with perfect amount of flavor and coal.
We then placed our food order, which comprised of the following:
- Mixed grilled meal: comprising of skewer kabab (lamb), shekaf (lamb) and tawook), served with pita bread, fries, pickled cucumber and hummus. Both meat and chicken were juicy and perfectly cooked
- Half rotisserie chicken: This is a popular dish in Syria. It's served with broasted potatoes (seasoned with their secret spice), saj, 2 types of salad and fries, garlic sauce and spicy sauce. The chicken was succulent and mildly spiced, retaining the tenderness and flavors. Also, i couldn't get enough of the broasted potatoes ????. Both roasted and broasted chicken are popular in Syria
- Pistachio kunafa: Just the way I like it; crispy on the outside, generously topped with slivered pistachios and center filled with loads of cheese
- Cheese maa'moul: They guarantee that this is the best one served in UAE. A butter cookie with cheese filling, this is a traditional dessert with just the perfect amount of sweetness. It was a unique dessert that I've tried
- Milkshakes: Both blueberry & oreo milkshakes were perfect in texture and flavor
- Shahi khamir tea: We ended our meal with this traditional-magical 2 layered tea with a dominating flavor of cinnamon and honey
You could also play games with your friends, i had noticed many customers indulge in a game of backgammon.
Since the cafe is usually full, it is recommended that you reserve a table prior visiting.