In a city like Mumbai, where dining establishments often come and go, this luxury restaurant’s longevity and continued excellence are testaments to its commitment to quality and tradition. As it celebrates 18 years of culinary excellence, it remains a cherished destination for those seeking an authentic taste of the Mediterranean in Mumbai.
Mabruk at Hotel Sahara Star in Mumbai has been a
beacon of Mediterranean luxury dining since its inception in 2007. Celebrating
its 18th anniversary this year, the restaurant continues to captivate guests
with its unwavering commitment to authenticity, originality, and consistency.
Over the years, Mabruk has steadfastly preserved the rich flavors and traditions
of Mediterranean cuisine, never succumbing to fleeting culinary trends. This
dedication has earned it the prestigious awards for Best Middle Eastern Premium
Dining for many consecutive years.
At the helm of Mabruk is Chef Jihad El Shami, a
Lebanese native whose culinary expertise has been instrumental in shaping the
restaurant's success. Since joining Sahara Star in 2007, Chef Jihad has
meticulously crafted a menu that showcases traditional Lebanese dishes, using
spices and ingredients sourced directly from Lebanon. His dedication to
authenticity and his passion for sharing the rich culinary heritage of his
homeland have been pivotal in Mabruk's enduring popularity and acclaim.
The
Mezze Platter is a vibrant and inviting introduction to the meal, offering a
beautifully arranged tasting of traditional Middle Eastern favorites. Each
element had its own distinctive personality—the creamy hummus was rich and
comforting, the baba ghanouj carried a delightful smokiness, while the
muhammara brought a subtle sweetness and spice. The freshness of the fattoush
and tabbouleh added a welcome crunch and zest, perfectly balanced by the tangy
smoothness of the labneh. It was a harmonious symphony of textures and flavors,
ideal for sharing.
The
Falafel crisp and golden, with an audible crunch that gave way to a soft,
herbaceous interior bursting with the nutty richness of chickpeas. Paired with
a velvety tahini sauce, it struck a perfect balance between earthiness and
creaminess.
The Meshwi Mishakkal offered a carnivore’s dream—a robust platter of perfectly grilled lamb and chicken kebabs. The meats were tender and well-seasoned, each bite infused with the smoky essence of the grill. The lamb had a deep, savory flavor, while the chicken was juicy and subtly spiced. This dish was both rustic and refined, showcasing the art of charcoal grilling at its best.
The
Meshwi Bahry was a celebration of the sea, served sizzling and aromatic with a
generous spread of lobster, prawns, hammour, and calamari. Each piece was
char-grilled to perfection, retaining its natural sweetness while acquiring a
delightful char. The fish is flakey and mild, and the other meats are tender
with just the right bite. It was a seafood lover’s dream come true.
The
Baklawa rounded off the meal with a touch of sweetness and indulgence. It was
rich without being overpowering, offering a perfect contrast of crunch and
syrupy sweetness in each bite. A delightful finale to a sumptuous feast.
So,
if you're in search of an authentic and unforgettable Mediterranean feast, step
into the world of Mabruk.
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