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2008-12-18
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Kebabs have had a long standing history here in the Hong Kong food scene. I was popular for a while, and somehow it diminished into 'just a few joints'. I find myself thinking about the Middle Eastern treat when, post-dinner-gathering, a friend decided that Beyrouth Cafe to be the last stop for the evening. With excessive excitement I finally set foot in the store. A rare blend of grease and zaatar greeted me first. There is a simple bench with several seats on one side, the other half of the st
The three of us, each ordering exactly the same quintessential LAMB KEBAB ($55). There are other choices, like the chicken kebab if you feel for the white meat instead. I am, however, skeptical about a "lasagna" here at Beyrouth...I wonder how good it can possibly be?! Back to the Kebab, thin slices of lamb were gathered once again at the hot plate to be warmed up. Among sizzling sounds of meat and oil splish-splashing against the glass came the smell of hot fried meat. On the other side of the counter the kitchen staff prepared the warmed pita, heavily loaded with slices of tomatoes, a handful of lettuce and a few rings of onions. It took me a little while to realize there is mint sauce, I went straight with mint and garlic.
A few minutes later, our order was served, loosely wrapped with foil with a twisted end. Unwrapping it released that whirlwind of aromas combining meat, vegetables and sauces, and the sweet smell of toasted bread as well. The meat was surprisingly well marinated and moist throughout, though I would prefer less salt in the marinade though. There is still a little residual gamey taste to the lamb, and the sauces accompany the meat well and offer adequate moisture for the entire sandwich. One bite after another and in no time a garlicky meaty sandwich disappeared into our stomachs. We paid our respective checks, filling fantastic and satisfied, headed out for a breath of fresh air in the nighttime Central District, contemplating how to make of a review for Beyrouth Cafe, and how did the rest of HK-ers miss out on the kebabs which fill up more than a hungry soul. It indeed is a scrumptious cure of blues.
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