Delightful Arabic cuisine at Hazari’s! 

Thimbirigasyaya is fast becoming THE place for varied food outlets from coffee shops and pastry shops to Chinese, Italian, Vietnamese and even Arabic food outlets/restaurants. This week we feature the latter and the restaurant Hazari’s. Situated on the bend that meets Fife Road and Thimbirigasyaya Road, the restaurant has been in existence for almost four years. Speaking to Mr Hazari, who owns the restaurant, he said it was the vacuum for good Arabic food that made him open Hazari’s, while also noticing that Sri Lankans are more open to trying out different types of cuisines.

Taste and value for money – 5 stars 

I was blown away by the simple, sometimes complex and delicious food served at this quaint little restaurant. For me, the beauty of Arabic food is the subtle yet rich flavours along with a number of delicious starters – Just a few nibbles can fill you up while also being a fun experience.

 

Their creamy Hummus, Baba Ghanoush, fresh Tabbouleh and Falafel (Rs 320 each) topped on some of the softest flat bread or Khubz (Rs 65) you will find, is a meal in itself. Among the other delectable starters are Flame Grilled Drumlets served with a fresh garlic dip (Rs 395). You can ask for your chicken to be normal or spicy.

The mains were as fantastic as the starters. Mr Hazari explained that while the starters are more authentic in taste the meats are made more palatable to the Sri Lankan taste buds. Our tasting included Kabsa Rice with Grilled Chicken, Roasted Potatoes, Aubergines and a Green Salad served with a dip (Rs 920). The chicken was soft and juicy and just a dream, while the rice was light, fluffy and so full of flavour. We also had their Char Grilled Beef Chop and Khubz with Roasted Potatoes and Aubergines served with a Green Salad and a dip (Rs 1,030). The Beef chop was so succulent and juicy and my mouth waters at the thought of it. Among the delicious meat dishes at Hazari’s is Shish Taouk (Rs 1,200). Similar to a kebab it has tender and chunky cubes of chicken, onion and capsicum.

If you are a fan of Cous Cous like I am, a must try on their menu is the Cous Cous with Cinnamon Beef (Rs 920). This delectable dish is topped with herbs, caramelised onions and nuts. Another must try if you visit Hazari’s is the Chicken Fatteh (Rs 490). Served in a bowl consisting layers of creamy Hummus, toasted Khubz and grains topped and then topped with grilled chicken and caramelised onions – what a delicious dish it was. A dish unique to the restaurant is the Chicken and Cheese Fatayer (Rs 360). Shaped like a banana boat and made with soft flat bread it is stuffed with chicken, cheese and cilantro. These dishes can be complimented with their delicious drinks notably their refreshing Mint Lime Soda (Rs 170) or Watermelon Juice with a hint of Ginger (Rs 240).

The restaurant also has a few interesting desserts out of which the Chocolate Drip (Rs 245) comes highly recommended.

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Friendly staff – 4 stars 

The staff are very courteous and friendly but a little on the shy side.

Parking – 3 stars 

Parking can be a bit tough during the day but tends to be easier towards evening as you may be able to park on the street. There are three slots available just outside the restaurant.

Hours of operation: Tuesday to Sunday: 11.30am – 3pm and 5.30 – 11pm. (Prayer break: Fridays 12 – 1.30pm)
Address: 166, Thimbirigasyaya Road, Colombo 5
Tel: 077-336-3600 or 011-736-3600
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hazaris.restaurant

By Natasha Fernandopulle
Photographs by Kanishke Ganewatte