food was just mouth watering and appetising that i was getting take outs everyday for the past week. best!!!!

A trip to the Middle East is not a walk in the park. It entails loads of planning, which includes time and money. There are tons of research involved, too, given the countless destinations and the mysteries surrounding each country.

But if you just want to experience Mediterranean cuisine, you can have it anytime without the need to fly.

Hossein’s is Manila’s premier destination for authentic Persian, Arabic, Indian, and Eastern Mediterranean food. The ingredients they use are mostly imported and has been consistent with quality since 1985.

It was a late afternoon rendezvous for our team, and we went right into feast mode with Hossein’s staff, preparing only their best selling products to us.

So what was really good? And what should you have if you visit? What mesmerized my tastebuds the most was the Mixed Kebab platter. It had tender, grilled cuts of beef, shish (beef cello), and chicken, with the usual side of tomatoes and onions. No need for a sauce as all three were juicy and marinated well.

There’s also a seafood variety in Shrimp Kebabs, in a pool of Hossein’s own blend of yogurt sauce.

Another favorite was the Ghormeh Sabzi. It’s not precisely picture-worthy, but it’s going to satisfy most tummies. This bowl of tangy and savory meat stew has various herbs and spices, mostly parsley, leeks or scallions, cilantro, as well as dried fenugreek leaves.

There’s also the Chicken Dopiaza, a curry based entree with strong notes of onion. This one is best paired with dry, Saffron, and Biryani Rice.

While waiting for the mains to arrive, go for Chef’s Starter of colorful appetizers in Hummus, Moutubal, Kibbeh, Dolmeh, Falafel, and Tabbouleh Salad. Have it as soon as it is served with warm pieces of pita bread. You can alternate it with other carbs here like the Indian Naan and Roti Channai.

This restaurant handed out a number of drinks as well. But I only got to settle the popular Mango Lassi, an enchanting sweet and sour cup of fresh mango, milk, and yogurt.

Hossein’s Makati Avenue branch is the original location, but they do have other spots in Greenbelt and Serendra, BGC.