Stepping into the first authentic Syrian resto in the country, one immediately notices the cheery mural on one wall, beside a wide counter of an open kitchen and its copper-plated oven and shawarma. You look around and see photos of Lebanese celebrities on an opposite wall, and a row of shishas on another—you know you’re in for a new experience in Mana-ish. To start off, the Meza Platter (P155) will give you a taste of four of their appetizers, be sure to try the tasty Baba Ghanouj (grilled eggplant, fresh garlic tomato, lemon, parsley and olive oil) and the mildly spicy Muhamara (chili pepper, tomato and walnuts), served with freshly- made pita bread. Their specialty is the Mana-ish, the Middle Eastern version of pizza. For those looking for a spicy kick, try the Dajaj (P155) mana-ish, chicken topped with minced tomato, chili paste and bell pepper and garlic sauce.
For a complete meal, the Baked Chicken (P345) is marinated in special condiments and served with French fries, on a plate made of saj (bread)! Their new dish Bulalo Fatteh, has the softest meat with a mild flavor on top of boiled chickpeas, served with toasted pita. If you’re trying to avoid meat, try the zesty Fuu and Lemon (P175), beans with lemon, tomato, onion, parsley and olive oil, served with pita bread. For dessert, the interesting Kunafe Nablsieh (P150) is a soft cake of white cheese made from cow’s milk. If you’re up for something new, you’ll find the Syrian gesture of hospitality and love for eating refreshing. With its colorful interiors and casual ambience, just like the typical Syrian eateries, a meal may just take three to four hours.
